Summarizes the findings of studies that indicate serious deficiencies in the reading, writing, and basic information skills of American students. Possible causes are discussed including the lack of effectiveness of teaching methods and instructional materials. It is argued that the school library offers the best hope for creating a culturally…

A survey of Arizona principals covered topics related to school media specialists: (1) the importance of specific librarian skills; (2) use of evaluation instruments to judge librarians; (3) communication between librarians and principals; (4) professional development opportunities; (5) how librarians should and do spend their time; and (6)…

Describes some academic and social behaviors typical of learning disabled students and suggests ideas for developing and modifying lessons appropriate to students' needs. The characteristics of folk and fairy tales that offer valuable literary opportunities for learning disabled students are discussed and methods for helping students deal with the…

Probes current children's literature which can be used to help students understand the responsibilities which have been thrust upon them by the changing U.S. family. Reports a lack of worthwhile materials for teacher use in dealing with these sensitive issues. (KO)

Library research skills instruction aids the development of critical, evaluative faculties in teacher trainees. This article describes a problem-solving simulation method (guided design simulation method) for teaching library skills, and discusses gains accruing to teachers and pupils from such instruction. (IAH)

Discusses the mission of Catholic librarianship in the context of the Catholic school and the Catholic Church. Topics covered include challenges facing Catholic education, the moral dimensions of librarianship and professional ethics, and the role of the library in Catholic education. (34 notes/references) (Author/CLB)

This annotated bibliography includes 32 works of fiction, 43 works of nonfiction, and 10 audiovisuals and teacher resources for middle school Mexican American audiences. Discussion includes interest level and reading level for each work, publishing issues, and Mexican American stereotypes. A sidebar article provides brief biographies of 21 Mexican…

Discusses technical advances that affect the delivery of electronic versions of world literature to libraries. Topics include the creation and dissemination of electronic text and the use of extended character codes and markup language to preserve the form and structure of printed text. (13 references) (KRN)

For libraries to succeed, a clear understanding of what services are in demand is necessary. The SWOT analysis technique for evaluating an organization's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats is examined, and barriers to effective diagnosis are discussed. (AEF)

Because the publication of census data on CD-ROM has expanded the capabilities of users, librarians need to consider issues involved in providing census and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) services, selecting GIS software, and providing user support. (JMV)

Discussion of multicultural workforces focuses on the need for reference librarians to increase their supervisory communication skills to effectively manage their departments. Topics addressed include cross-cultural communication; values of other cultures; listening skills; and speaking skills. (Contains seven references.) (LRW)

Describes a problem-solving exercise used to develop transferable skills through student exploration of university library materials. Maintains that the study was part of a research design course in human geography. Includes six tables and two figures illustrating and analyzing the approach. (CFR)

Considers the role of the library media specialist as information professional and educator as changes in the learning environment and curriculum take place. Topics include roles as information manager, curriculum consultant, teacher, and manager of an information center; leadership; change agent; staff development; and needed competencies. (LRW)

Presents a study of Archimedes as a HyperCard reference tool at the University of Michigan, and compares uses to similar projects. Results from studied points (i.e., system design and use statistics) support Archimedes: the system sees more use during reference hours when a librarian is unavailable, and user time is comparable to time spent with a…

Examines how electronic journals are increasing the demands on library collection development, access, and ownership of electronic information. Presents collection development scenarios that address the effects of technology on library processes, and raises some technical and social issues created by electronic information. Also discusses the…