Discussion of management of cataloging backlogs in academic libraries focuses on a backlog assessment project conducted at the Ohio State University libraries to facilitate the elimination of two backlogs, one of Slavic language materials and one of general materials. Evaluations of samples from these two collections are discussed in terms of…

Describes the development and administration of archives in Australian universities, and discusses problems relating to financial support, staffing, space allocation, placement, and management. The outlook for the future of archives in Australia is then examined, focusing on financial support and the role of the government in encouraging…

Describes a study that (1) compared the amount of professional input into the decision-making process between board administered and municipally integrated public libraries, and (2) examined the relationships between levels of centralization (participation in decision making and hierarchy of authority), complexity (occupational specialties,…

Six articles discuss library buildings and construction: (1) library buildings and their parts; (2) the North Campus Library of California State University at Long Beach in 1995; (3) new structures for teaching libraries; (4) construction standards for California public libraries; (5) Sick (Library) Building Syndrome; and (6) using focus-group…

Describes a study that examined the flow of information to and from small- and medium-sized public libraries. The findings reported concern the relationships between library size and perceptions of library directors with respect to the effectiveness of various information sources, communication channels, and feedback methods. (seven references)…

Highlights new legal theories and precedents applicable to employment practices used in the library setting. Illustrative case law and law review commentaries are provided for civil rights, discrimination on the basis of a handicap, wrongful discharge, privacy, age discrimination, equal pay, immigration control, retirement benefits, and…

Discusses a five-point approach for library media specialists about school-based management. The approach includes establishing priorities for the school library media program, developing strong community support and a public relations program, creating a support staff within the school, refining human relations, and using creative scheduling and…

Provides insights from experienced managers that may be useful for newly appointed library managers or directors, and details the issues they will face as supervisors. Highlights include decision making and change; motivation and delegation; general observations about management, such as coping with stresses; clarification of goals; and ethics.…

Provides answers to some commonly asked questions about furniture and interior space utilization in libraries. Examines the impact of increased computer usage on electrical, space, and reference desk requirements. Highlights specialized needs with regard to the Americans with Disabilities Act and air quality standards. Discusses shelving and chair…

Describes a study of 81 community college libraries or learning centers to determine the extent that organizational structures had changed as a result of implementing automated library systems and to explore the changing relationship between libraries and computer centers. Finds minimal changes in structures among participants. (11 citations) (MAB)

Outsourcing has been proposed as a method for improving effectiveness and productivity in Australian public library service. Developments, drawbacks, and potentials are discussed, and differences between contracting out whole services as opposed to selected activities are examined. (AEF)

The University of Washington (Seattle) developed an administrative process that integrates user needs assessment. The user-centered library is defined and assessment initiatives including policies, surveys, analysis of resource allocation, and professional development are discussed. (AEF)

Discusses the implementation of the OhioLINK (Ohio Library and Information Network) system, an integrated library system linking 23 public and private academic institutions and the Ohio State Library. Topics include a history of OhioLINK; organizational structure; decision-making procedures; public relations strategies; cooperative circulation;…

Academic libraries should focus on their users as customers and develop programs to meet expectations. Discusses gaps between expectations and management's perception of expectations and suggests strategies for enhancing satisfaction, communication, and management. (AEF)

Reports on an agreement signed by 15 leaders of large U.S. research libraries and archives to collaborate on the establishment of a National Digital Library Federation which will implement an open digital library consisting of digitized collections accessible via the Internet. Also lists the federation's mission, goals, and participant names and…