Discusses the popularity of prebound paperback books in secondary school libraries based on a survey of librarians in four states. Highlights include cost considerations, appeal, durability, selection, services, catalogs, and premiums. (EM)

Identifies two types of censors--individuals and representatives of organized groups or crusades--and examines factors that motivate their attempts at library censorship. Factors influencing librarians dealing with censorship are also discussed. Librarians are advised to prepare themselves to live with censorship by learning to understand…

Addresses importance of online databases as part of library reference collection and focuses on bibliographic databases (ready reference, print versus online migration, bibliographic utilities); selection/evaluation of online databases (vendor selection, individual databases); full-text databases; numeric databases; end-user searching; and use of…

Describes a young adult summer reading game which is offered in three age-level versions from grades 1 through 12 at Enoch Pratt Free Library (Maryland). Benefits of young adult reading games in public libraries, game rules and sample questions, and the game finale visit to Walters Art Gallery are highlighted. (EJS)

Description of Optical Disk Pilot Program (ODPP) at Library of Congress, a research and development excursion into laser-based information storage and retrieval, focuses on the Sony videodisk system and innovative use of microcomputers in the storage and retrieval of visual and audio materials. Future goals of ODPP are outlined. (MBR)

Reports on in-house use of online services at the Maine State Library for searches not specifically requested by client or initiated by staff member to advance job flow. Use of TALIMAINE service for interlibrary loan verification, document delivery, book selection, and staff development, and client breakdown for 1983-1984 are described. (EJS)

This article discusses criteria of a good computer software package to aid the public librarian in the building, weeding, and maintenance of a software collection for young adults. Highlights include manuals or documentation; bells, whistles, and color; and the true test of time. (EJS)

This report addresses issues concerning the electronic protection of library materials, i.e., effectiveness, cost, how they work, which is best. Discussion covers determination of need for electronic security, how current systems work, cost comparison for systems from three vendors (Checkpoint, Knogo, 3M), and future developments. Thirteen sources…

Examines statutory and legal remedies available to library administrators for the protection of their institutions, their employees, and their collections. Discussion covers law enforcement priorities and the library, museum, or archive and a comparison of state legislation concerning damage or failure to return library materials and library…

Describes framework for library networking which consists of six interdependent dimensions to be used for decision making by libraries: functions to be performed, type of access information, types of materials, products and services, networking configurations, and communications means. Use of a series of cost models describing activities within…

Utilizing 11 years of University of Saskatchewan circulation transactions, it is shown that P. M. Morse's Markov model of book use fits approximately 99 percent of data for whole collection and for three subject areas; contrary to his assumptions, one of the model's parameters is time dependent. Thirteen references are included. (EJS)

This review of young adult paperback publishing covers original paperback romances, romance series, standard series novels, sex in series fiction, and review media. Prominent publishers, popular titles, and sources for paperback reviews are mentioned, and selection of materials for the library collection is discussed. (EJS)

Addresses factors to be considered in selecting library audiovisual materials in a time of increasingly complex constraints and operations. Suggestions offered include learning how to dig out facts that count, using unorthodox resources for evaluation, updating selection policy, and employing statistical and other measures to analyze patrons and…

Discussion of rush library processing (rapid provision of books that are urgently needed) highlights speed versus cost, previous studies, and a study conducted at Clemson University Library to determine rush book turnaround time. Seven guidelines applicable primarily to academic libraries are suggested as aids to improve rush processing. (9…

Provides background philosophy and suggests professional resources and selected bibliographies to aid librarians in building or expanding multicultural collection for children. Selection criteria and books in both English and other languages are highlighted. A list of 10 institutional sources and 11 bibliographies is included. (EJS)