Discusses problems with patron Internet access in academic libraries and describes a study conducted at Northwestern University (Illinois) that used Internet tracking software to assess user Internet behavior. Topics include Internet use policies; pornography; and loss of control over library services and information content that is provided. (LRW)

Describes results of two collection condition surveys conducted at the University of Kansas libraries, one of which examined materials returning from circulation and the other which examined the general collection. Paper condition, text block condition, binding, and mutilation are discussed, and the impact on long-term preservation planning is…

This paper discusses how the Creighton University Health Sciences Library Serial Department has updated their process of claiming and replacing missing journal issues. The paper is divided into two main parts. The first part discusses the changes in the claiming procedure. The second part discusses how the claims are reported to vendors. Future…

This SPEC (Systems and Procedures Exchange Center) Kit reports results of a survey of ARL (Association of Research Libraries) that examined post-tenure review of librarians throughout higher education in North America. The purpose of the survey was to identify which institutions apply post-tenure or post-continuing appointment review to library…

This SPEC (Systems and Procedures Exchange Center) Kit reports results of a survey that examined how many Association of Research Libraries (ARL) libraries offer fee-based services to their external users, the procedures and organizational structures of such services, and the factors that contribute to a successful fee-based service program. For…

Describes the development of a policy at the University of Colorado to catalog, package, house, and circulate books with accompanying electronic media. Highlights include a literature review, motivation, a processing flowchart, retrospective conversion of older materials, and an example of a MARC record. (Author/LRW)

In 1990, George Mason University (Virginia) proposed building a combined library/student center. Examines the processes, policies, and procedures used to develop a new library collection combining multiculturalism, diversity, and core texts. Discusses the collection development plan, strategies, and policy; faculty involvement; key series and sets…

This study measured the following performance factors at the Cleveland Health Science Library: user bibliographic information; collection development policy; acquisition policy; user catalog; circulation; library operation/functioning; and user search. Book availability rates were similar to rates for other academic libraries, and book…

Discusses the need for a value-based reference policy and suggests one based on John Rawls' system in "A Theory of Justice" that provides equitable service to all members of an academic community while permitting the librarian to uphold the ideal of freedom of access to information. (11 references) (LRW)

Explains the University of Georgia's project to scan rare maps and make the digitized images available on the Internet via World Wide Web. Topics discussed include microfilming procedures; equipment used to convert film images to digital images; the use of CD-ROM; and retention and access policies. (LRW)

Analyzes the problem of journal price escalation as one of equilibrium between two market segments--the library market and the market for individual subscriptions. Argues that high quality photocopying has encouraged individuals to rely on library subscriptions and proposes that the socially responsible solution is to increase photocopy costs and…

Discusses the role of academic libraries in the face of rising costs and suggests implications for library policymaking. The nature and value of information are considered; pricing issues for serials, CD-ROM products, and online searching are described; and possible solutions are offered. (26 references) (LRW)

These five articles are transcripts from a seminar sponsored by OCLC and the Research Libraries Group (RLG) that discussed returning bibliographic data from local systems to the bibliographic utilities. Highlights include problems facing academic research libraries; present and future methodologies of data exchange; workflow concerns; and policy…

Discussion of strategic planning in libraries focuses on a five-step process based on academic libraries. Highlights include a situational and environmental analysis; development of organizational direction, including vision, mission, and objectives; formulation of the strategic plan; implementation; and control, feedback, and evaluation. (LRW)

The Council of Australian University Librarians (CAUL) has extended its commitment to academic library performance measurement with the publication of the first three CAUL Performance Indicators, focusing on library/clientele congruence, document delivery quality, and the proportion of sought material obtained. All have been applied effectively in…