Summarizes the debate concerning use of desks versus counters in reference areas of academic libraries. Librarians argued whether patrons were more likely to approach a standing or a sitting librarian. In general, patrons preferred approaching a standing librarian; however, only small studies were conducted. In practice, libraries are designed in…

Discusses issues of censorship and intellectual freedom that affect library media specialists and librarians. An annotated list of relevant resource materials is included, and suggestions for further action are given, including examining the library's material selection policy statement and involving students and teachers. (LRW)

Discusses the findings of a national survey of public libraries that focused on service to older adults. Areas discussed include services most frequently provided, services to the institutionalized, the impact of ageism on library policies, and the extent of cooperation with other agencies. (18 references) (CLB)

Offers a detailed overview of accreditation standards, criteria, and procedures used by one specialized accreditor; and suggests ways to be prepared for site visits and reports. A directory of 73 specialized accreditors and a brief bibliography are appended. (18 references) (Author/SLW)

Discusses a five-point approach for library media specialists about school-based management. The approach includes establishing priorities for the school library media program, developing strong community support and a public relations program, creating a support staff within the school, refining human relations, and using creative scheduling and…

Presents text from the vision statement for family friendly libraries to help citizens who are experiencing difficulties with public library system policies of the American Library Association. Describes five articles from the statement: traditional family emphasis, parental library rights, respect for standards and laws, respect for minors, and…

Narrative text and 6 tables provide information about a survey of 105 libraries on materials spending: number of questionnaires sent and returned; number and percentage of libraries with a materials spending policy; how percentages were determined; average (mean) percentage spent for materials; change in percent spent for materials in recent…

The University of Washington (Seattle) developed an administrative process that integrates user needs assessment. The user-centered library is defined and assessment initiatives including policies, surveys, analysis of resource allocation, and professional development are discussed. (AEF)

Discusses ways to achieve peak performance in academic libraries by emphasizing staff development. Highlights include self-assessment; conflict of commitment; self-absorption; institutional loyalty; focusing on the future; and understanding the library's strategic plan, mission statement, and policies. (AEF)

Discussion of problems involved in maintaining branch library collections highlights a model of collection management for academic institutions supporting a branch library. Duplication of titles is discussed, developing a profile of subject parameters is described, and an example for a library in a graduate school of social work is given. (LRW)

Describes a 1988 survey of Canadian public libraries that was conducted to investigate intellectual freedom and censorship pressures and practices. Relevant institutional policies are examined, age restrictions are discussed, collection challenges are described, the libraries' responses to such pressures are studied, and further research is…

Discusses challenges to sexual materials in libraries and suggests ways to fight against censorship. Topics addressed include gay and lesbian materials; access by children and young adults; public relations programs; possible responses; selection and reconsideration policies; and the library's role in the democratic process. (LRW)

Discussion of online authority control in library catalogs highlights a system for shared authority work among libraries participating in the Illinois statewide online union catalog, ILLINET Online. Topics discussed include the design of the ILLINET Online database; staff training procedures; documentation in the form of manuals; communication;…

Describes the major components of electronic journal genre statement for the Albert R. Mann Library at Cornell University (New York). Discusses the guiding principles of collection development as they relate to electronic journals, selection criteria, the selection strategy for scientific electronic journals, and the present and future status of…

Examines guidelines for conducting quality Internet searches, highlighting subject catalogs, annotated directories, annotated directories with ratings or reviews, subject directories with ratings, subject guides, and information gateways. Discusses variable quality; evaluation criteria: metainformation, credibility, timeliness; quality assurance;…