If librarians from all areas of reference and information service understood their own roles better, then they might feel more capable of fruitful interchange transcending common institutional boundaries. (Author)

The history and development of the libraries in the academies of sciences are described. The focus is on the role of the network of these libraries in (1) the centralized acquisition and cataloging of scientific publications and (2) scientific bibliographic activities. (Author/JAB)

Believes librarians should cut themselves loose from the goals of school and set up alternative learning networks. (Editor)

Biomedical libraries are discussed as a distinct and specialized group of special libraries and their unique services and user interactions are described. The move toward professional standards, as evidenced by the Medical Library Association's new certification program, and the current state of development for a new section of IFLA established…

Describes a survey to assess the present status of libraries in primary, intermediate, high, and tribal schools. The information gathered through interviews, personal observation, and informal contact with students, is analyzed and evaluated; conclusions and recommendations are included. (VT)

This essay offers a step-by-step tool which librarians can use with appropriate data to determine the success of a branch library in reaching the potential user, or for indicating population needs not being satisfied. (Author/KP)

A total library service is discussed, with emphasis on the learning of skills through the use of "stations" and "games," stimulating the gifted and talented, and involving the very young. (Author)

Modern physical facilities and an enthusiastic library faculty that provide dedicated service to students and faculty are the picture of community college libraries in the mid-1970's. (Author/AP)

Twenty-five sets of "indirect" and "faculty information" questions were asked at two university library reference centers, one staffed by nonprofessionals and the other by professionals. The purpose was to determine relative success of professional and nonprofessional reference staff in (1) probing beyond "indirect" questions and (2) detecting and…

This essay lists elements of a public service microcomputer project--needs, clientele or population, skill level, type of service, type of equipment, site or location--and identifies a number of options under each heading. Examples illustrating how librarians can use the model in planning a service are noted. (EJS)

Reviews demographic and health data on older Americans and describes services at the Topeka Public Library that are targeted to serve adults aged 75 and older, including selection and delivery of books to shut-ins and nursing homes, materials and information for the visually handicapped, and special programing. (8 references) (MES)

Discusses several economic concepts and principles important for librarianship--opportunity cost, resources, assets, and investment--and notes the difficulty of placing a monetary value on patron benefits. The law of diminishing marginal returns is applied to the relationships between library services and collection size, and between investment in…

Presents standards for reference services developed by the Suburban Library System (Illinois) and discusses the effects of the standards on youth services. Standards for a written reference plan, reference staff, reference sources, and evaluation are included. (11 references) (MES)

Examines the implications for children's library services of changes in family life and structure over the past 10 years. Library clientele, materials, hours, location, interior design, and services offered are discussed. (MES)

Discusses the determinants of the quality of library services, the difficulties involved in attempting to measure quality, and the need for the profession to explore methods to improve library service quality. (CLB)