Considers the impact of services public libraries provide to union members, particularly access to computers, based on experiences with the SEIU (Service Employees International Union). Topics include training; resources for families; education; and Locals Online, a program that provides training and Web content to SEIU local unions. (LRW)

Describes an experiment that examined the relationship between successful searching of CD-ROM databases by undergraduate students and various types of instruction provided by the library staff. The findings indicate that the only level of instruction that resulted in a significant difference was a live demonstration of searches. (six references)…

Discussion of the integration of computing and library services focuses on the organization of information resources at the Michigan Business School. The Kresge Business Administration Library facilities and resources are described, computing services are explained, user needs and expectations are considered, and funding issues are discussed. (LRW)

This issue of "Illinois Libraries" is designed to serve as a general reference tool on services for special populations, with a focus on the blind and physically handicapped. It is organized in three sections: general articles; reports on three Library Services and Construction Act (LSCA) funded projects; and listings of resources to…

Provides fully developed library media activities which are designed to be used in connection with seven specific curriculum units for grades one through seven. Highlights include vocabulary of sports; Dewey Decimal classification; writing fables; using nonfiction books and encyclopedias for social studies topics; and political maps in atlases.…

Examines the effects of safety nets (government information transfer mechanisms that guarantee minimum access to government information) on the ability of U.S. industries to compete internationally. The need for research that explores methods of improving information dissemination and the role of libraries and information centers in fostering…

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)