Search

Based on an analysis of the direction of library development and changes in librarians' social functions, this paper presents some key measures in the reform of library and information science education. The first section discusses the developing direction of the library cause under the network environment. The second section covers librarians' social responsibilities under the network environment, including: (1) Internet navigation (providing source information); (2) Internet information organization (providing processed information); (3) Internet information development (providing desired information); and (4) Internet information consulting service. The third section addresses principles and measurement of library and information science (LIS) education reform, including putting more weight on the practical teaching of Internet information, taking the guidance and education of the idea of intellectual property rights seriously, strengthening the education of information literacy for LIS students, and reforming and designing a course system for LIS education. (MES)

This paper focuses on ethics for librarians and library science in the age of electronic information. First outlined is the "public relations nightmare" that the Internet is creating for the administrators and the library staff. It is suggested that libraries pick a common sense approach that involves the library staff and community and that an honest approach to problems is necessary. The paper then goes on to discuss librarians as information consultants whose service should be compared to service provided by other professionals where identification is used to establish the rapport needed to fully assist their clients, to be available for follow up information, and to be accountable for the information provided. Presumptions behind the model of librarians as educators are outlined and the role of social ethics is discussed. Discussion then moves to copyright law in the digital age. The paper suggests that the moral value of information can be realized only by bringing the standardized classification system into accord with library patrons' specific self-understanding, life situation, and personal needs. It concludes by outlining strategies librarians can use to achieve this objective of accord, focusing on reference service, local cataloging, and public service projects. (AEF)

The ERIC and LISA (Library and Information Science Abstracts) databases are compared through a literature review and the analysis of an online search on a topic in librarianship. ERIC emphasizes education and includes serials, monographs, collections, and research reports for their coverage of some aspect of education. LISA is dedicated to topics in the field of library science and such related areas as publishing and bookselling. In the final analysis, ERIC was a superior source for information even though its scope is broader than library issues. A comparative analysis of coverage that included acquisition policy, types of material, currency, duplication, recall and precision, price, and the use of authority controls (thesaurus terms versus subject headings, specificity, exhaustivity, searchable field, and special problems) rated ERIC as better than LISA overall for library information. For some very specific topics, however, LISA might be the better source. (Contains 6 references.) (SLD)

This report examines the problem of diminishing opportunities for professional library education in California. The first section examines topics related to the supply of and demand for librarians and library education programs, including U.S. and California demographics on librarianship and library education, librarianship and the information explosion, and the status of library education in California. Issues and constraints in expanding opportunities for library education are addressed in the second section, including accreditation, costs of establishing a new school, and an extension program at San Jose State. The third section presents approaches to meeting these needs and developing library education programs in the California State University (CSU), including systemwide and regional programs, dual degree programs, continuing education for librarians, recruitment of minorities to the library profession, and the role of the CSU libraries in library education. (Contains 10 references.) (MES)

Concerned with the many pressures to which library education is subject all over the world, this paper concentrates on the relationship between the subject of librarianship, the subject of information science, and the accommodation of information science in library education. The emergence and domain of information science is briefly reviewed, and the need for library education to take into account new theoretical frameworks and new professional services offered by information science is indicated. The contents of three areas of work in information are discussed: (1) professional, both applied and practical; (2) technological; and (3) scientific (basic). Programs and problems in information science education are briefly reviewed, particularly as treated in library schools. Recommendations are given for integration of library and information science curricula and work in general. (Author/FM)

Following an exposition of the differences between comparative librarianship and international librarianship, this paper advocates comparative studies for use by developing nations. The discussion emphasizes the necessity for adequately defining the historical and environmental context of library concerns as a prelude to an explanation of two approaches to comparative studies in librarianship: comparisons between non-industrialized countries, and comparisons between industrialized and non-industrialized countries. Seven references are listed. (RAA)

This report summarizes the results of a project undertaken to assist the Department of Education, Office of Libraries and Learning Technologies (OLLT), and the wider community it serves, to identify research priorities in the field of library and information science. The background of the project is briefly described and the prject design is reviewed, with emphasis upon the function of the 3-day Research Agenda Meeting which was the center-piece of the project. An outline of the Research Agenda and a classification of Research Agenda projects by research area are followed by comments on the interpretation and use of the Research Agenda. Appended to the report are descriptive summaries of the 20 projects which comprise the agenda and a set of brief summaries of non-agenda projects. (JL)

This paper, compiled for a class at St. Cloud State University, Minnesota, compares the job characteristics of traditional university library staff, who are most comfortable handling print material, with the job characteristics of university learning resource center staff, who handle all forms of instructional media including such nonprint materials as films, tapes, videotapes, records, videodiscs, and realia. Differences in service functions, education, duties, and competencies for the two types of librarian are discussed, with mention of a progression from one type of librarianship to the other. The development of learning resource center specialists from audiovisual librarianship is noted, and a list of seven competencies for school media specialists is provided. Acceptance or nonacceptance of new technologies in the field of librarianship, including computer technologies, is identified as the major area of contrast between traditional and learning resource center librarians. A 30-item bibliography concludes this paper. (Author/ESR)

The papers presented at the 18th Clinic on Library Applications of Data Processing discuss current developments and applications of new technologies for processing, transmitting, and storing information, as well as some issues raised by these new technologies. Ten papers are included: (1) a keynote speech on the changing roles of the information professional based on evolving information technology; (2) a tutorial on microcomputers; (3) a delineation of microcomputer applications in technical processing, public services, and management activities of libraries; (4) a description of the many applications of word processing at the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Technical Information Systems (TIS) unit; (5) a survey of currently available data entry and display devices; (6) a discussion of U.S. and international projects which are testing the market for videotex and teletext systems; (7) an examination of recent developments in telecommunications, including electronic mail, facsimile, two-way cable, and digital telephones; (8) an outline of the basic characteristics of videodiscs as a storage medium; (9) an analysis of copyright protection for computer software and databases; and (10) an exploration of the relationship between technological change and professional identity. Brief descriptions of contributors and a subject index are provided. (Author/ESR)

Arguing that traditional models are no longer effective in the information, age in which change will be a constant, this paper advocates the use of team-management to ensure two-way communication in an academic library. The need for both creative approaches to problem-solving and managing the library organization and a new organizational structure to address the changes brought about by new technologies are discussed, as well as the challenges currently faced by library managers as a result of these changes. The team approach to library management is then discussed with emphasis on the need for a high level of trust and respect in the working environment. A discussion of the roles of the team and its members highlights the importance of the members' commitment to the aims and purposes of the team and the need for good communication skills. A new model for the Cleveland State University Libraries is then described which features a new organizational structure that blends services and softens area demarcations to accommodate the automation of all services, including collection management, information, document delivery, bibliographic, and administrative services, with staff responsibility crossovers. The developmental stages through which the new organizational structure has progressed are described, and it is suggested that decision making, a climate of trust, and communication are crucial to the success of the organizational structure and team management. An organization chart for the Cleveland State University Libraries is attached. (24 references) (CGD)

This paper discusses the central role of effective communication in library leadership and how a leadership role in the library and information community can define and help establish an information infrastructure in our society. The opportunity for this leadership to exist in the convergence of libraries and computer centers is examined in a review of the report "Freedom and Equality of Access to Information" and documentation of the movement of computer centers and libraries toward each other within colleges. Particular attention is called to the Adler/Rodman communication model, the successful use of which would depend largely on effective communication between the two realms of libraries and computer centers. The discussion of this model demonstrates in detail the difficulty of communication in this interface situation and suggests that the librarian wishing to influence the computer center personnel must be sure that: (1) the message itself is clearly communicated without unnecessary information; (2) the message is coded in such a way that it will be decoded accurately; and (3) an appropriate channel is chosen. Additional viewpoints are presented on the challenge to library leadership posed by the merging of libraries and computer centers in the context of leadership toward an information infrastructure involving electronic publishing, communication, and leadership for the public good. (11 references) (CGD)

The approaching information age will encompass a different societal system in the 21st century due to the impact of the information revolution resulting from developments in computer and communications technology. In light of these changes, libraries need to evolve with the new technology by preparing now to become part of the electronic revolution. Librarians must become familiar with all aspects of the communication cycle and its relationship with the organizations and communities to be served; they need to educate themselves about future scenarios relating to employment, education, energy, leisure, communications, etc., and the impact of changes on the role of the library; and they need to know the changing human needs of the information society, and how these needs will effect changes in characteristics of the library system. In the future, emphasis on a customized approach to designing information delivery systems will be the norm. Finally, librarians may assume numerous roles, including: initiator of the transformation of the library system; promoter of the library system; personal guides, information consultants, and information synthesizers of the electronic services and sources; interpreters of information; facilitators or linkers of information networks; freelance specialists; and group practitioners. Libraries should act as centers where users can receive instruction in the uses of new communications technology, assistance in exploiting various databases, and important communication information services. (THC)

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has taken advantage of a unique and timely opportunity to build on core strengths in information studies and on complementary strengths elsewhere in the Graduate School of Education and Information Science (GSE&IS) and on campus to achieve an academic program that lies at the intellectual core of the information-centered university of the 21st century. This document represents a proposal to change the name of the Department of Library and Information Science to the Department of Information Studies. The proposal is divided into the following sections: statement of vision for the Department of Information Studies; introduction; transition from Library and Information Science to Information Studies; job market for Information Studies graduates with Master's and Ph.D. Degrees; research and development opportunities; Information Studies programs in other universities and at UCLA; and a summary. (AEF)

Two higher education professionals discuss cultural issues that separate librarians and information technology professionals, and inhibit enlightened leadership as their changing roles cause professional convergence. Guiding principles for the information professional are outlined: developing oneself and a new generation of leadership; recognizing multiple audiences and information uses; and accepting the integrity of each others' concerns and strengths. (MSE)

This contribution to "The Visible College" column considers the question of expanding the Master's in Library Science (MLS) program to better prepare students for future participation in the library profession. Benefits include exposure to core curriculum, opportunities for specialization, forming alliances with and taking classes in other university departments, and increasing starting salaries. (LRW)

Contends that an entrepreneurial model of librarianship contradicts traditional ideals of free and equal access to information and argues that such a model threatens the future of the library as a vital public sphere of democratic culture. Discusses broad trends of advanced capitalism to provide a context for the critical interpretation of issues within librarianship. (PEN)

In response to the changing information environment within African educational institutions, this article studies the need for strategic planning in the Department of Library and Information Studies at the University of Botswana. Highlights include an assessment of the department's past, current, and future strategic plans, and outlines recommendations for strategic changes. (JMV)

When library education was institutionalized at universities, it pursued a social scientific path of disciplinary growth; objectivity and neutrality became ideals of library education. A different conception of social science provides the basis for recent challenges to the library and information science profession's traditional perception of itself. (90 references) (Author/AEF)

Although the challenges faced by librarians and medical informaticians are sometimes different, the evolution of information technology and new forms of biomedical communication suggest an increasing convergence between the two disciplines. Both groups serve as information deliverers and curators, apply information technology to knowledge management problems, and educate colleagues in effective information use. (JDD)

Argues that the phrase "library science" is an oxymoron and that the term "librarianship" is correct. Suggests that library science and information science are now completely different fields. An information access model is proposed that can be used as a vehicle for unification and integration. (JMV)

Explores the reasons for incorporating trend analysis of librarianship into library planning and marketing. Key financial and technological issues are reviewed, and the techniques of environmental scanning and alternative scenario-building to incorporate future trends are discussed. (AEF)

This first of two articles on cultural diversity in the library profession includes comments from presidents of three of the American Library Association (ALA) ethnic caucuses: Spanish-Speaking, Asian and Pacific American, and Chinese American. Topics discussed include mentoring, education, networking, leadership, and activities of the Library Administration and Management Association. (LRW)

Discusses four major conflict areas in contemporary librarianship: service versus teaching, resource allocation, the extent of professional autonomy, and the allocation of duties and responsibilities between professionals and support staff. Topics addressed include conflict as a normal part of organizational life and creative responses to conflict. (LRW)

This section includes three articles that review library news from the past year. Highlights include public library budgets, examined by geographic regions; government programs; flood damage; library school closings; school library media programs; publishing industry concerns, including mergers, broadening markets, and on-demand printing; and media industry dealings. (LRW)

Discusses faculty status for librarians and criteria for achieving tenure based on experiences at the University of Colorado Libraries at Boulder. Highlights include factors affecting librarians' ability to achieve tenure; and characteristics of librarianship as they relate to the faculty model, including cooperative practices and the hierarchical organization of libraries. (Contains 12 references.) (LRW)

Discussion of ethics in librarianship focuses on a study of library schools accredited by the American Library Association that was conducted to provide factual information about how the study of ethics in librarianship is currently incorporated into the curriculum. Specific courses on ethics and courses that incorporate ethics are examined. (Contains six references.) (LRW)

Discusses the feminist perspective of librarianship, including following key issues: salaries, pay equity, and occupational segregation; faculty status, professional education, and recruitment; access to information; technology; and sociology of the workplace. A number of myths relating to this topic are addressed, and a bibliography of 18 recent examples of feminist thinking in librarianship is provided. (JLB)

Argues that management knowledge is not being successfully transferred through schools of library and information studies management courses. An analytical model of leadership should be implemented in the curriculum to emphasize creativity, risk-taking, innovation, and intuition. The model would include a discussion of these elements and their uses. (Contains 18 references.) (KRN)