Discussion of various alternatives for privatization of the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) being studied by the Department of Commerce highlights issues identified in the April 1986 notice in the Federal Register, representative users' comments, the range of NTIS services and products, and the implications of privatization for…

Ten articles describe genealogical collections of the National Archives and Library of Congress, state archives programs, academic research libraries, Allen County Public Library (Indiana), Newberry Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints genealogical library, and New England Historic Genealogical Society, and approaches to Black…

Throughout 1999 and 2000, 234 academic institutions in Canada--66 university libraries and 168 college libraries--were asked to respond to a survey of library services for off campus users. Previous surveys were conducted in 1984 and then again in 1988. It was felt that with the advent of the World Wide Web, increased levels of library automation,…

Presents the results of a survey of academic libraries belonging to the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) concerning the availability and accessibility of OCLC (via dedicated or dial access terminals) for use by reference personnel. The methodology of the survey is described and data are presented in five tables. (JL)

The University of Akron (OH), through its affiliation with OhioLINK, has implemented University Microfilms International's (UMI) PowerPages, a full-text electronic document delivery tool, throughout its library system. This article describes OhioLINK, PowerPages, and the University of Akron's experience with the service. Discusses the benefits and…

Ohio State University Library studied abilities of undergraduates to identify correct sources for answering reference questions when using the online catalog and the Sourcefinder database with its new Question Unit feature. Users located subjects and instructions at a greater percentage with Sourcefinder than with the online catalog. Topics…

Considers the changing nature of academic libraries in light of new technology and offers suggestions for libraries to keep patron use and interest. Highlights include metadata and MARC formats as opposed to commercial standards; OPAC marginalization; digitization; distance education; institutional allegiance; ethics and competition; and the need…

Discusses results of four surveys sent to members of the Association of Research Libraries to investigate changes in academic library reference services due to new and rapidly evolving technologies. Highlights include digital reference options; local databases; CD-ROMs; intermediary online searching; end-user online search services; and the…

Describes the components--hardware, software and applications, CD-ROM and online reference resources, and telecommunications links--of an electronic library workstation in use at Clarkson University (Potsdam, New York). Data manipulation, a hypothetical research scenario, and recommended workstation capabilities are also discussed. (MES)

Provides a brief survey of libraries and library services in Portugal. Topics discussed include background information on Portugal's political, economic, educational, and library history; a summary of current library services in different types of libraries; and observations on the future development of these services. (five references)…

Because the publication of census data on CD-ROM has expanded the capabilities of users, librarians need to consider issues involved in providing census and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) services, selecting GIS software, and providing user support. (JMV)

Discussion of the development of the discourse of diversity highlights a report from the Librarian's Association of the University of California that addressed cultural diversity in academic libraries. Topics discussed include developing culturally diverse collections; access; reference services; bibliographic instruction; and recruitment,…

Presents a study of Archimedes as a HyperCard reference tool at the University of Michigan, and compares uses to similar projects. Results from studied points (i.e., system design and use statistics) support Archimedes: the system sees more use during reference hours when a librarian is unavailable, and user time is comparable to time spent with a…

Three articles examine the effects technology is having on academic library reference services and bibliographic instruction. Highlights include discussions of current and future reference librarian roles, specifically the "human touch" aspect of reference; and examples of reference services undergoing technological advancement and those that have…

Three articles on evaluation cover the use of the Internet as a reference resource and raise network policy issues: "The Internet as a Reference and Research Tool" (Edmund F. Santa Vicca); "NREN Update, 1993: Washington Policy" (Carolyn S. Elliot); and "Evaluating Physical Science Reference Sources on the Internet"…