Considers the use of the phrase "customer service" with reference to libraries and their users' needs, expectations, and satisfaction. Librarians' perceptions of those being served, and the public's view of library workers, are discussed, and a sidebar examines the history of fee-based subscription libraries. (LRW)

Change Analysis; Discusses after-school homework programs in public libraries that help latchkey children and others who need extra support and encouragement. Considers changes in librarian's attitudes toward homework help; the history and need for community-based after-school programs; scholastic benefits for students; and library staff benefits,…

Outlines the arguments of the author's 1992 book, "Librarianship: The Erosion of a Woman's Profession," which explores the changes underway in librarianship. The importance of acknowledging the abilities of professional librarians, recommitting to direct service with clients, and advocating for the public's right to information are stressed. (EAM)

Compiles listserv responses from practicing library professionals on advice to give new librarians. Encourages newcomers to join library listservs and associations, practice continuous education, actively participate in organizations, develop a sense of humor, and maintain a service attitude. Other advice includes developing outside interests and…

Examines the attitudes of librarians in the 12 member countries of the European Community (EC) toward the removal of technical and economic barriers among EC members on January 1, 1993, and the impact of this development on libraries. Topics addressed include information technology development, librarian mobility, a pan-EC library association, and…

Explains libraries' roles in protecting intellectual freedom. Outlines these faulty impressions: librarians endorse the content of their collections; "everyone" agrees on controversial material; representation of all viewpoints means equal numbers; and denial of reconsideration requests indicates librarians don't take challenges seriously.…

Describes the changes that have taken place in librarianship in the former Soviet Union. The discussion covers the advantages and disadvantages of centralized planning, the reorganization of library systems in Russia and the Ukraine, the effects of democratization on organization and librarian attitudes, and the remnants of Russification in…

The Public Library Association's 1995 survey reported that while public librarians overwhelmingly support intellectual freedom, not all of them are absolutists. Librarians do take community censorship requests seriously and engage in practical self-censorship. Other topics include censorship demographics, the role of the library board, and…

Discusses policies and attitudes prevalent in public libraries that encourage female users and discourage male users. The lack of technical books that may appeal more to men is examined, the lack of appropriate reviews is described, subconscious classism is suggested, and differences in fiction preferences are discussed. (two references) (LRW)