Examines the descriptive cataloging literature of 1992. Topics discussed include cataloging simplification and improved practices; artificial intelligence and expert systems; Anglo-American Cataloging Rules, MARC format, and cataloging standards; authority control and bibliographic maintenance; retrospective conversion; romanization and…

Discusses libraries and democracy, one of three major themes for the 1991 White House Conference on Library and Information Services. The roles of newspapers and journalists are considered and the censorship of textbooks, library materials, art, and movies is discussed. (LRW)

This first article in a three-part series on environmental databases focuses on sources for general multidisciplinary environmental information. Databases that provide access to periodical literature, news information, press releases, magazines, books, and environmental education literature are examined; and a suggested list of environmental terms…

Discussion of deteriorating library materials focuses on a study that investigated preservation activities at the Oberlin Group of college libraries of nineteenth-century American and British periodicals. Results from the study and from a review of the literature are used to help develop a model for preservation decision making. (12 references)…

Discusses the rising costs of library materials from a vendor's perspective. Effects of corporate takeovers of publishers are examined, resource sharing among libraries is discussed, the role of the library as a supplier of information resources and services is considered, and libraries' need for product development and marketing strategies is…

Reports findings of a 1988 study on intellectual freedom in media centers in Wisconsin. General status information and factors influencing challenge outcomes are discussed. Data on materials selection policy, media specialist characteristics, complaints, and roles of those involved in challenges are presented. The appendix describes the…

Focuses on the practical aspects of outsourcing cataloging in academic libraries. Factors examined include reasons for outsourcing, materials that are outsourced, and advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing. Concludes that although outsourcing is not a prevailing trend in the academic libraries, it is a viable option if carefully planned and…

Considers the changing roles of public libraries and challenges facing them in the future. Topics include core skills needed by library professionals, print and nonprint materials, the inclusion of new formats, blending traditional and electronic library resources, the expanded roles and responsibilities of librarians, meeting user needs, and…

Describes PATRON (Performing Arts Teaching Resources ON-line) at the University of Surrey (United Kingdom) that was designed to deliver digital audio, video, music scores, and dance notation across a high-speed network to the desktop. The principle aim is to improve access to reserve materials for staff and students. (Author/LRW)

Describes how to develop vertical file resources for school libraries. Discusses the importance of having primary sources that are not available in other formats; sources for obtaining materials, including the Internet and printed sources; how to organize the materials; providing access; and promoting the collection. (LRW)

Suggests that to reach those responsible for funding, librarians need to be more assertive in making the school library's role and services understood. Discusses maintaining visibility, using every opportunity to tout new materials and services, having credibility and knowing the collection, making libraries comfortable and accessible, and…

Examines Web sites that provide bibliographic information useful to librarians as well as to end users, some for free and some that charge fees. Highlights include the possibility of canceling database subscriptions; information quality on free Web databases; retrieval-based comparisons between free and fee-based databases; and document delivery…

Presents an alternative method of managing the purchase of volumes in monographic series. The purpose is to both ensure comprehensive review of all volumes in specified monographic series and to allow return of volumes not wanted for the library's collections. (Author/AEF)

Suggests resources for school librarians who need materials for visually impaired or blind students. Highlights include the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped; Louis Database of Accessible Materials for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired; Braille books; large print books, audio books; assistive technology; and…

Discusses booktalks as a method of promoting reading among middle school students and suggests titles in the areas of fantasies, mysteries, contemporary fiction, outdoor/adventure fiction, historical fiction, and humorous fiction. A Web site is given that includes complete bibliographic information and additional titles. (LRW)