A study of 43 liberal arts colleges' library budgets for the first half of the 1970s is described. The combined effects of inflation and financial crunch have led to a materials v staff struggle which could result in an improper balance between these two items. (Author/MLW)

This study examined librarian/faculty interaction at nine small college libraries and explored librarian outreach activities: serving as experts, informing others, attending social functions, serving on committees, monitoring communication networks, knowing about campus activities, and providing library instruction. Found that quality of the…

Merrimack College (Massachusetts) has abandoned conservative strategies for investing its $16-million endowment, investing more in international stocks and bonds, real estate projects, and small companies to raise annual returns and increase endowment value. The small, Catholic college is heavily dependent on tuition. The diversification plan…

Presents a systematic approach for small colleges to plan effectively for the acquisition of information resources, i.e., computers and telecommunications, based on five recommendations: (1) assign task force to assess needs; (2) establish institutional goals; (3) identify the technology required to meet the goals; (4) determine financial…

Puts forward the thesis of convergence of community colleges and proprietary schools, which suggests that career and community colleges are becoming increasingly alike in providing a specialized form of education and training beyond secondary school. Compares aspects of the two institutions, and provides groundwork for informed discussion on the…

Reviews the history of proprietary schools in the United States, arguing that convergence with community colleges is a possible but not a necessary direction. Indicates that proprietary schools developed to fill a vacuum in the training sector, but that they made inroads in the postsecondary sector using federal money. (21 citations) (MAB)

Argues that the apparent convergence of community colleges and proprietary schools is in large part caused by changes in federal student aid policy. Suggests that the apparent convergence masks real and profound differences between these institutions in the areas of mission, governance, size, articulation with other sectors, costs, and market…

It is argued that while the restructuring of higher education may be necessary for the liberal arts college to thrive, it is imperative that in this process, the traditional values of the liberal arts experience be maintained and the teaching faculty continue to be recognized as the crucial cohort in the institution. (MSE)

Comparison of data from two national surveys of colleges and universities reveals that, although private, liberal arts colleges with small endowments are realizing returns comparable to those of larger, wealthier institutions, conservatism, lack of investment expertise, and inadequate long-range investment planning are limiting their earnings…

A university-educated art historian examines her transition to teaching at a small southern college. Challenges faced included a new clientele of students, the metamorphosis from graduate student to content expert, committee demands and overcommitment, and finding a personal niche. Significant benefits of small-college professional life are also…

Describes the effects of preparing for an accreditation visit on small colleges, focusing on best use of limited resources and appropriate responses to the review agency's report. Offers suggestions for college presidents on garnering collegiate and community good will during the accreditation process. Suggests that accreditation costs and…

Montclair State College (New Jersey) is typical of many smaller public campuses that must respond to state mandates for student outcomes assessment, particularly in a community with changing demographics. Montclair's experience suggests lessons for other to ensure fairness for minority students. (Author/MSE)

Small regional colleges are bracing for a battle to protect their profitable continuing-education programs from competition with distance-learning programs at research universities. Concern is particularly for part-time students who may choose distance programs that are less expensive, more convenient, and offer diplomas from better-known…

Describes a study that explored the backgrounds of small college library directors to determine the presence of doctorate degrees, considering gender and tenure in addition to size of the library, the college, and the library staff. Considers the value of the doctorate, particularly its future among female directors. (Author/LRW)

A former high school counselor and college basketball referee who has visited many colleges has transformed this experience into a career as consultant to high school guidance counselors. He often favors out-of-the-way liberal arts colleges, and is known for being student-oriented in his commentaries. College recruitment and admissions officers…