The large university library can be an intimidating place for entering students. Effective orientation through the use of "silent comedy" films can show students that the library has a human side and is easy to use. (Author/MK)

Some academic libraries have adopted the idea of the information commons, a central location providing computers, information resources in various formats, and staff assistance. An overview of several information commons in the United States and Canada is presented, and missions, features, strengths and weaknesses are explored. A table identifies…

Six articles discuss and illustrate new library facilities and furnishings. The winning libraries in the Library Buildings Awards Program, sponsored by American Institute of Architects (AIA) and American Library Association (ALA), are shown; two case studies of library renovation and design are presented; and the design for a new medical library…

Evaluates the Role Repertory Grid Procedure, a technique derived from personal construct theory, for its practicality and validity as a way of gathering patron perceptions about the effectiveness and efficiency of academic library space. Concludes that further research regarding validity and reliability is needed. (Author/LRW)

Presents planning strategies for academic libraries that integrate digital products and print collections based on patron needs. Highlights include paperless libraries; space planning; two models for design, one with electronic access and low reliance on print collections and the second with electronic access and high collection reliance; and…

Explores the planning, funding, engineering, designing, and construction of the Elmer L. Andersen Library at the University of Minnesota that combined eight archives and special collection units into a single building. Considers how internal library planning meshes with the architectural design process and how the political process can affect…

This manual outlines the procedures to be used for producing and placing signs within the libraries of the University of California, Riverside and presents examples of signs which conform to the library sign policy. The sign policy itself is described as well as procedures for requesting new or revised signs and for sign removal. Drawings of…

Successful completion of this self-paced library workbook is a course requirement of all second semester freshman English students at the University of Arkansas. The workbook contains 18 chapters. A brief introduction and instructions for using the workbook precede the library tour in Chapter 1, and the remaining 17 chapters discuss specific…

This book is a comprehensive survey of the scientific institutions and science information facilities of Latin America and the Caribbean. The organization of the book is by countries and by institutions within each country. The section on each country begins with a description of the country and its scientific organizations. A series of…

Library planning in Indian colleges and universities is reviewed with focus on location and size, layout, lighting and ventilation, furniture, special facilities such as photocopying machines, and library extension activities. (LBH)

Presents overview of common characteristics and problems of academic libraries in China which operate under rules issued from the central government in Beijing. Discussion covers building design, furniture and equipment, budgets and salaries, personnel management, collection development, library materials, use rate, effects of the Cultural…

Written from perspective of the president of a graduate research-oriented university, the author explores nature of the academic library, its size and structure, retrenchment as it affects acquisitions and services, and issue of who makes decisions concerning the library. Space and budgetary problems at the University of Oregon are discussed.…

This assessment of the library profession's response to technological innovation focuses on the handling of nonprint collections. Highlights include definition of nonprint materials; basic considerations in conservation and environmental concerns (temperature, dust, light exposure); the problem of security and storage procedures; and circulation…

Discusses participants' roles in the policy formulation, planning, design, and construction of the new library at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (Nigeria). The importance of input from librarians is emphasized; the library's objectives and their influence on the new library are explained; and planning for the move to the new building is…