In this article, I imagine a library that prioritizes teaching users how to find, evaluate, and use information over the traditional library public service activities of collection development, access to materials, and reference services. If I ran the library, all services would support end-user education. (Contains 1 graph and 1 note.)

Over the years, as new technology became available, the author always tried to use it to improve his interactions with patrons. He wanted to make librarians' services friendlier and more personalized. The author stresses that social software was never really about the software; the "social" part of it was always the most crucial. One of the best…

This essay argues that the reference librarian is an intellectual, peculiarly equipped to have technology work for the librarian rather than the librarian for technology. It is a conviction that all people, not just a celebrated few, must be served by reference librarians. Twenty-one references are included. (Author/EJS)

Describes what is happening concerning developmental information service guidelines published by the Reference and Adult Services Division (RASD) of the American Library Association (ALA) in 1976 and discusses evaluation guidelines for reference/information services of libraries. (Author/JD)

Defines and describes formal cooperative library reference services and discusses the major variables that produce differences in cooperative reference networks: size, composition, funding, services, delivery mechanisms, control methods, and resources. (Author/LLS)

Describes the nature of listening behavior and demonstrates how the technique of active listening can be an appropriate approach to enhancing communication between librarians and library patrons during the reference interview. Examples of active listening at the reference desk and suggestions on the effective use of this skill are provided.…

Describes an online microcomputer-based system called Reference Librarian Enhancement System (REFLES) which stores factual information. Examples of data in the system and uses of the service are presented, as well as considerations for the future. Twelve (12) references are included. (Author/BK)

Assesses the effect of the communications technology revolution on library and information specialists and the environment for the delivery of library services. Four functions affecting the library and information environment--management, communications, instruction, and publication--are noted. (EJS)

Describes the rise of information brokers, who package, validate, and evaluate data for clients on a cost-effective basis, and who use all forms of technology. It is suggested that librarians should familiarize themselves with these new trends, benefit from them through their use, and seek development of a national information policy. (Author/JD)

Identifies the advantages and limitations of online search services offered by libraries, cautioning the searcher and user to consider and evaluate all options before performing online search. The librarian's responsibility to solve the user's information problem in a desirable way is discussed. Five references are listed. (EJS)

Discusses problems of depository libraries such as volume of publications received, understaffing, subject and author/title access, currency of material, financing, and lack of theory and research. An "ideal" access system and an action program for its implementation are described. Four references are listed. (CHC)

Applies Timothy Gallwey's consciousness-altering techniques for physical activity (from his books on tennis and skiing) to the library reference situation, explaining methods that could help librarians overcome barriers in their activities while relying upon natural information-seeking abilities. (Author/JD)

This paper discusses the future effects of information technology on libraries and library services, emphasizing the roles of online retrieval systems and electronic processes involving published literature. The following aspects are examined: line charges and terminal costs, a comprehensive electronic journal system, interlibrary loans,…

Interpersonal relations as necessary part of information transfer process are considered with respect to online searching in reference setting. Major concerns discussed are processes and activities of online searching, role of searcher versus that of end-user, and future trends of reference service in increasingly online environment. Fifty-five…

Advocates replacing the traditional library card catalog with a more effective system. Technological developments such as machine-readable catalogs, automated authority control, and computer-output-microform make possible integration of nonbook media, government documents, journal literature, and local information into the main catalog. (SW)