bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing cataloguing skills with CAI tools
Authors: De Silva Sharon Manel , Zainab Awang Ngah
Published: March 2008

Reports results of a study, conducted with 27 third-year undergraduate students at the Faculty of Information Studies, MARA Institute of Technology, Shah Alam, Malaysia, to evaluate the effectiveness of CoPAS (Conference Proceeding Adviser System), an expert system adviser designed to train novice cataloguers in creating bibliographic descriptions for nine types of published conference proceedings. Two groups of students were involved: a control group, which was asked to provide bibliographic descriptions for nine types of conference proceedings using AACR2R; and an experimental group, which was asked to undertake similar tasks using CoPAS. Results indicated that the experimental group performed significantly better than the control group. Results also indicated that text knowledge can be reinforced with the use of a computer assisted system, allowing students to perform significantly better in specific cataloguing tasks. Students with longer experience in computer use found it easier to master the use of the system as well as to comprehend the content and flow of information presented.
The changing role of subject librarians in academic libraries
Authors: Pinfield Stephen
Published: March 2008

Discusses the roles that subject librarians (or ‘subject specialists’) play in contemporary UK academic libraries. Argues that subject librarians, who still form a significant grouping of senior staff in most UK academic libraries, continue to have a significant role to play in the delivery of library services and that applies to both traditional and electronic library services. Discusses the traditional role of subject librarians and analyzes the way in which this role is changing. Those areas where the changing responsibilities are extensions of traditional roles into new areas are pinpointed, together with examples of where subject librarians are performing new roles and adopting new ways of working. Areas where the changing role of subject librarians can be specifically identified include: greater emphasis on liaison with users; advocacy of the collections; adopting new roles; dealing with user enquiries in new ways; working with technical staff; selecting electronic library materials; carrying out more information skills training; having a greater involvement in the implementation of educational technology; team working and project working. Presents practical examples based on experiences at Nottingham University and other UK research libraries. The redesign and relaunch of Nottingham University Library Web site (http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/library) is described to illustrate many of these points.
Branching Out
Authors: Train Briony , Elkin Judith
Published: March 2008

Reports results of a study undertaken at the Centre for Information Research (CIRT), University of Central England in Birmingham (UCE) to investigate the applicability of theories and methods of experiential learning and methods to “Branching Out”, an ongoing reader development initiative of the Society of Chief Librarians. The project is funded by the Arts Council of England and focuses on both group-based and individual learning methods. Presents a chronology of the relevant theories of experiential learning and considers how theories of group learning and individual learning have been applied to course development at UCE and a practitioner-based initiative. Key theories incorporated into the training programme include: Kolb’s learning cycle; Honey and Mumford’s four learning styles; and Schon’s “reflective practitioner”. Concludes that these theories have proved valuable, both in supporting the group-based design of training exercises and in developing reflective techniques through which knowledge acquired can be assimilated and developed. The Branching Out training programme is valuable as a model of professional learning because it provides guidance to both the trainer and the trainee in supporting the application of theory to practice and its methodology combines elements which encourage both group interaction and individual reflection.
Ethics, strengths and values
Authors: Moran Gordon
Published: March 2008

Reviews three books that deal with the mission, values, and ethics of the library profession, focusing on the theme of the necessity for continuing discussion and rethinking about librarianship’s values and mission in the new, ‘Information Age’. In Alfino and Pierce’s book ‘Information ethics for librarians’, a series of complex philosophical problems are described in a clear manner. Their concise and effective philosophical and historical accounts help to understand how certain ethical dilemmas have arisen. Gorman’s book, ‘ Our singular strengths: meditations for librarians ’, comprises a series of short essays discussing numerous and varied topics covering many aspects of librarianship and the author’s own professional life within the field and commenting on the lives of persons who influenced and inspired him. Gorman’s book, ‘ Our enduring values ’ describes values in terms of stewardship, service, intellectual freedom, rationalism, literacy and learning, equity of access, privacy, and democracy. The defence of basic librarianship values is well-reasoned and fervent and serves to raise doubts about Gorman’s discussion of stewardship as a ‘unique’ librarianship value. Concludes from the three books that access is at the heart of all ethical problems relating to the library’s mission of service. All of the books under review are useful for trying to understand the ethical complexities of librarianship, but ‘Information ethics for librarians’ has the fullest discussion for a framework relating to the complex ethical problems involved.
Information Poverty or Overload?
Authors: Goulding Anne
Published: March 2008

Although the issue of the divide separating the information rich from the information poor tends to be thought of in terms of the distinction between developed and developing countries, there exists a comparable dichotomy within developed countries separating those with easy access to an abundance of information and those with little or no access. However, the enormous efforts being made to find solutions to this problem in the UK, at various levels of local and national government and particularly in the field of citizenship information, is tending to make available more information than citizens can easily assimilate. The serious nature of this information overload problem has led to the coining of the term ”information fatigue syndrome” (IFS), said to cause paralysis of the analytical capacity, constant searches for more information, increased anxiety and sleeplessness and self-doubt in decision making. It is concluded that those suffering from information overload or IFS are at risk of suffering the same fate as the information poor. The information poor are unable to take action because they do not have necessary information that would enable them to take control. The information rich are similarly paralyzed because of their inability to create order from all the information washing over them. It may be necessary to think in terms of the information rich, the information poor and information burdened.
Performance measurement and benchmarking for schools library services
Authors: Creaser Claire
Published: March 2008

Describes an approach to benchmarking for UK schools library services based on UK national data collected annually by the Library and Information Statistics Unit (LISU), Loughborough University. Outlines the wide range of provision, suggests a method by which suitable comparator services might be identified for both statistical and process benchmarking exercises and lists the four criteria emerging from the study as providing the most useful basis for benchmarking: funding and management arrangements; size of authority; range of services offered; and authority type and structure. Includes a discussion of issues relating to the setting of objective standards and concludes with suggestions for the contents of league tables.
‘A Place for Children’ Revisited
Authors: Mynott Glen , Denham Debbie , Elkin Judith
Published: March 2008

Reflects on the findings of the ‘A place for children’ project, a major collaborative research project which investigated the extent and value of support for children and young people’s reading provided by UK public libraries. Notes the four areas highlighted by the study in which provision could be improved: use of information and communications technologies (ICT) to support reading development; use of national and/or regional literacy initiatives; support for children with special needs; and support for the literacy of children from multicultural backgrounds. Discusses the developments that have taken place in these areas in the three years since the original research was conducted and provides an overview of the current state of provision. Reports results of a questionnaire survey involving 127 heads of children’s services at the 209 public library authorities (60.8 per cent response rate), and presents results of a survey of children’s Web sites in the UK. Concludes that, although the provision of ICT facilities and children’s Web sites has developed since 1997, there are still many public libraries that offer little or no provision. There is a lot of variation in the use that is made of children’s Web sites by those authorities that have them. Greater numbers of authorities are participating in national and regional initiatives, examples including: Bookstart; National Year of Reading; Building a Nation of Readers; Launchpad; National Children’s Book Week; Reading is Fundamental, UK. Little change was detected in the area of support for children with special needs and only limited progress was revealed to have occurred in the provision of support for the literacy of children from multi-cultural backgrounds.
Models of young people’s information seeking
Authors: Shenton Andrew K. , Dixon Pat
Published: March 2008

Although models form a typical outcome of modern research in library and information science, few have been constructed to represent the information behaviour of young people. This article reviews those models that have been developed and outlines several that have emerged from a recent research project undertaken in north-east England with four-to eighteen-year-olds. The first of the new models is devoted to general patterns in the informants’ information seeking, regardless of the type of source exploited. It begins with the development of an information need and concludes with the making of decisions with regard to the completion of a search. The remaining four models are smaller scale in nature, with each covering the use of one of the following - books, CD-ROM software, the Internet or other people. The article concludes by considering the value of the models that have been created to populations beyond the sampled youngsters.
Literacy, Libraries and Liberty
Authors: Carter Edward
Published: March 2008

The author argues that literacy and access to books are pre-conditions of liberty defined as the freedom of personal and social fulfilment, but historically political and social élites have feared the growth of literate populaces and have tried to direct education for literacy into channels where it would restrain rather than stimulate free thought. Generally there has been such neglect of education for literacy that today a third of the world population of 3,000 million is illiterate and the illiterates increase by 200 million every decade. Campaigns are not keeping pace with the population explosion. This is illustrated by literacy campaigns in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Britain in the churches, the artisan education movement, and the influence of Tom Paine, the Benthamites and eventually the School Boards. The second half of the paper discusses the present world problem, Unesco and national campaigns, the menacing scale of the problem, wastage of effort by failure to prevent relapse to illiteracy. Education for literacy is not a thing apart but with the literature that serves it must be related to each country's social and industrial structure and become functionally meaningful. Such restructuring cannot be achieved without a literate population nor can national literacy be achieved and maintained except as part of the total social, industrial and political development.
The Demand for the British National Bibliography
Authors: Lewis P.R.
Published: March 2008

The principal quantitative results are here presented, in tabular and textual form, of a research programme intended to provide basic data on the incidence and intensity of sub scription to BNB services in the United Kingdom as a whole, in the various regions of the U.K., and in the several categories of public, university and national, college and school and special libraries in the U.K. Estimates are made of the total potential demand for BNB services in each of these categories, and the basic operating characteristics of the categories of non-subscribers are discussed in the light of their ability to utilize central bibliographical services.
Information Services in University Libraries
Authors: Line Maurice B
Published: March 2008

Developments in university libraries in recent years in reader services, instruction in library use, and subject specialization go only a small way to meeting the problems created by the "information explosion". Reasons why more dynamic and personal information services for scientists and social scientists should be developed include the limitations in researchers' present use of libraries and information, the preference of users for informal channels of communication, increasing pressures on the time of university teachers, and problems associated with computer retrieval systems. Specialist posts of information officer should be created as part of the library services, but with functions distinct from those of the librarian; difficulties that may arise with their location and operation are discussed. The cost of information services in depth is heavy, but it may be possible to develop them within the existing budget by a realloeation of funds and staff duties.
The Information Service in Practice: An experiment at The City University Library
Authors: Corney Elizabeth
Published: March 2008

The establishment and development of the Information/Research Section at The City University Library is described. The value of providing a partial information service is discussed in the light of three years' practical experience. Particular features of The City's service are the emphasis on individual needs rather than the production of current awareness services of general interest, and the exploitation of special resources such as the British Computer Society Library and the press-cuttings collection. The future is seen in terms of a learning resource centre on the American pattern.
The Development of Library Services: the Basis of their Planning and Assessment
Authors: Sewell P.H.
Published: March 2008

The development of library services can most profitably be planned and assessed from the point of view of their contribution to the attainment of agreed national, community and institutional objectives. This contention ( which is being supported by Unesco) is illustrated by reference to the potential role of library services in contributing to the quality of education, particularly in developing countries. There is need for more systematic and informed dialogue between librarians and those professionally concerned with national educational, social, cultural, scientific and economic objectives. This can lead to greater priority being given to the development of appropriate library services. The likelihood that such develop ment will involve greater co-ordination between the services offered by libraries of various kinds is exemplified by reference to recent trends both in developing and in industrialized countries.
Public Library Services for Children in England and Wales, I9I5-I927
Authors: Ellis Alec
Published: March 2008

This article surveys the history of children's libraries in England and Wales during the economic difficulties of the First World War and the 1920s, between the reports of the Adams and Kenyon committees. It shows how increasingly children's librarians were appointed and open access facilities extended. The period was notable for a movement from lectures to storytelling and a debate regarding the age groups for which the public library should cater.
Assessment in Education for Librarianship: a teacher's view
Authors: Holroyd Gileon
Published: March 2008

Developments in education for librarianship are producing more diverse occasions for assessing students. Some studies in the literature of education may help to identify particular problems of assessment in which research could be valuable. Important techniques of assess ment—essays, objective tests, practical work and continuous assessment—all cause difficulties of some kind. The assessment of teaching is part of the assessment process, and is inevitably a responsibility of independent assessors. The purposes of assessment before, during, and at the end of courses reflect some changes in society today.
Public Libraries in Adult Education
Authors: Kelly Thomas
Published: March 2008

A historical survey reveals that public libraries collaborated very readily with educational authorities in the nineteenth century, but that in the twentieth century there has been a considerable division of opinion. Idealists both inside and outside the library profession have stressed the educational aspect of library work, but the majority of practising librarians, hard pressed by shortages of staff, accom modation, and funds, have felt obliged to concentrate on what they regard as their major task, i.e. book provision. The examination of current problems leads up to the conclusion that, as a result of reforms in local government now pending, we shall shortly be facing a quite new position, in which a solution of this long-standing demarcation problem may at last be within sight.
Japanese Language Collections in British Libraries: a general survey
Authors: Chibbett D.G.
Published: March 2008

Japan has always been one of the forgotten countries in the collections of British libraries and it is only since the war that any real progress has been made towards the building of collections in the modern Japanese language. In this article the author reviews the current position of British libraries with regard to book buying from Japan, evaluates the problems confronting the Japanese Librarian in Britain, and attempts to assess current and future cost factors in the purchase of modern Japanese books.
Systematic Library Use of British National Bibliography Services and Data
Authors: Lewis P.R.
Published: March 2008

A summary of the report of a final stage in a research programme studying the impact of the British National Bibliography on British library systems. An attempt by postal question naire to establish the extent to which BNB services and data are integrated in systems for the selection, acquisition and cataloguing of current British publications showed that, while such use of BNB was widespread and considerable, in current practices of most categories of libraries there was little indication that the ability to integrate acquisitions with cata loguing, such as is accepted as an advantage of MARC-based mechanized systems, would in itself provide sufficient inducement for acceptance of MARC by most BNB-using libraries at present.
Technical College Libraries and Librarians in England
Authors: Whitworth T.A.
Published: March 2008

The article sets out information relating to technical colleges in England and their libraries and librarians gathered as part of a survey conducted in 1969. Average national figures and regional variations in library provision are presented. The results are abstracted from an M.Sc. dissertation on The Role of the Technical College Librarian submitted to Bradford University (19 69).
The Role of Public Library Authorities in the Development of Hospital Library Services
Authors: Pemberton John E.
Published: March 2008

This paper reviews the contribution of public libraries to the development of hospital library services in Great Britain over the quarter century following promulgation of the 1946 National Health Service Act. It analyses the administrative and financial problems which arise when different types of authority negutiate and shows how various interest groups have sought to exert their influence on policy derisiotis. The effect of surveys and special studies is also shown. Local authority filrs and other unpublished sources have been used to provide first-hand examples of some of the administrative processes involved in providing joint services. The current move towards regionally-based integrated medical and patients' libraries will not diminish the need for public library participation.
Training the Cataloguer in Nigeria
Authors: Greaves Monica A
Published: March 2008

In the development of education and technology, the role of the librarian is a vital one. Against a background of rapid change, young Nigerians are being trained in the essential skills of information retrieval. With little opportunity for prior experience, the learning of sophisticated techniques, which have up to now only been employed in the dissemination of foreign knowledge, presents many problems. The values of individual tuition, practical exercises and demonstration techniques are discussed. For the newly trained specialist, the future holds prospects of a rewarding experience.
On the Sociology of Knowledge
Authors: Holroyd Gileon
Published: March 2008

Studies in this subject are relevant to librarianship. Two themes from early accounts are developed: knowledge and power, and the social foundations of knowledge. Some writers prefer the terms "thought" or "reality" to "knowledge". Merton's analysis provides an outline for classing aspects of the subjects. Studies in refereeing journal articles, academic evaluation and technological gatekeeping are briefly reviewed, as is the confrontation between the sociology of knowledge and epistemology.
Writing and Reading Aids for the Physically Disabled
Authors: Shaw Alison
Published: March 2008

This article is based on a report presented in May 1970 on Writing and Reading Aids for the Physically Disabled. The investigation was sponsored by the Writing and Reading Aids Committee (WRAP) of the National Fund for Research into Crippling Diseases and under taken on behalf of the Library Association by Alison Shaw. It considers some of the problems of disabled living in general terms and the particular problems of writing and reading aids. Present information and library services and equipment are reviewed. It con cludes that there are three main stages in providing aids—( a) the question of information about what aids and services are available, ( b) the problem of paying for them and ( c) the problem of ensuring that the services and aids provided are efficient.
The Short Loan Collection in a University Library
Authors: Peacock P.G.
Published: March 2008

This article discusses some of the problems likely to be experienced by university libraries over the next decade in the provision of books for undergraduate reading; it examines the reasons for having short loan collections and describes the administration of one such collection; finally it raises some questions that ought to be the subject of discussion between library and academic staff.
From Information Science to Informatics: a terminological investigation
Authors: Wellisch Hans
Published: March 2008

The evolution of the name Information Science (IS) is traced from the beginnings of "Library economy" up to the emergence of "Informatics". The terminology of 39 definitions of IS is compared in order to find the common concepts of this science and its central topic of investiga tion. The comparison shows that no consensus exists among the practitioners of IS about what it is or should do. The concept "information" has also been variously defined for the purposes of IS, but no generally acceptable definition has been formulated so far. The discipline called IS has not yet attained the status of a true science, lacking an agreed-upon central topic of investigation and an unambiguous terminology (as well as other attributes of a science). The name Informatics, which is already in wide use in other countries, should possibly be adopted for the discipline that might yet evolve into a true science.
Public Lending Right and the Working Party Report
Authors: Smith R.S.
Published: March 2008

The Working Party Report on Public Lending Right confines its attention to the ways in which an operational scheme might be administered. Librarians should not be diverted from the principle, for which no convincing case has been made out, and should oppose the introduction of any such scheme, which would be bound to affect adversely all types of libraries, and not least the book trade itself.
Moving an Academic Library: a case study
Authors: Lumb A.E.
Published: March 2008

Attempts to provide a practical guide, in summary form, covering all aspects of a library removal, with particular reference to a British academic library. The points considered are based on actual experience in moving the library of the University of Salford and include timing of the move, consideration of the methods to be adopted, selection of a contractor, preparations for the move, relations with contractors, preliminary work prior to the move and organization of the move itself.
Subject Specialisation in Academic Libraries: some preliminary observations on role conflict and organizational stress
Authors: Guttsman W.L.
Published: March 2008

The Library of the University of East Anglia has been organized on the basis of subject specialization, a system which the author believes to be applicable to small and medium-sized universities. A comparison of university structure and university library structure shows bow the system can bring about organizational strains and conflict situations in respect of career patterns of senior staff members. The need to recognize academic considerations for library promotions is stressed and a case made out for the fullest involvement of all senior library staff in policy-making.

A revised version of a talk originally given to a meeting of the Standing Conference of National and University Libraries at Cambridge in September 1972.
An Analysis of the Request and Reservation Service of Nottinghamshire County Library
Authors: Roberts Hywel E.
Published: March 2008

An analysis based on a statistical survey undertaken in 1971 of the request and reservation service provided by Nottinghamshire County Library. The survey method is described, results are tabulated and the most significant results and conclusions arising from the survey are discussed. The effects and implications of such a survey on the service are outlined in a footnote by the County Librarian.
A General Survey of Senior and Intermediate Staff Deployment in University Libraries
Authors: Smith G.C.K. , Schofield J.L.
Published: March 2008

The terms of reference of the Cambridge Library Management Research Unit included a proposal for research into the staffing of university libraries. Preliminary investigations based upon a literature survey revealed a shortage of adequate current data, and suggested a need for further information. It was therefore decided to carry out a survey of staff deploy ment; this took place in April 1971. The survey involved University Librarians, a sample of professionally qualified librarians who had held university library appointments, and as many graduate staff in university libraries without library qualifications as could be traced. The ressslts give the type of establishment, the numbers of appointments and resignations in recent years, the academic qualifications of librarians, their job expectations, reasons for movement, and professional development.

In each section of the investigation it is hoped that results have emerged which will usefully complement the findings of the DES survey of manpower requirements in libraries.
Books, Baths and Burials: notes on certain nineteenth century adoptive Acts
Authors: Whiteman Philip M.
Published: March 2008

Early legislation relating to street lighting, baths and washhouses, burial of the dead, public libraries and "public improvements" in England and Wales, reflected Parliament's suspicion of local democracy and distrust of local authorities. Powers granted were subject to local adoption of the legislation and Parliament imposed restrictions regarding both the adoption procedure and the exercise of powers after adoption, the extreme case being the Public Libraries Act, 1850. Removal of the restrictions and simplification of the adoption procedure occurred only gradually and the adoptive principle was not finally abandoned until 1972.
Information Science as an Emergent Discipline: educational implications
Authors: Foskett D.J.
Published: March 2008

The nature of "information science" as allied to the arts of librarianship, but entering a new phase, particularly because of the development of computers. But technology should not be allowed to dictate objectives and procedures; the study of users and their needs, and the social role of information transfer, should be given more emphasis in curricula in order to avoid over-emphasis on techniques at the expense of services. A paper read to the FID Seminar on Information Science as an Emergent Discipline at Vezprem, Hungary, in September 1972.
Problems and Prospects in Information Service for the Small Industry
Authors: Bhattacharyya K.
Published: March 2008

Underlines the difficulties in ensuring an efficient system of information transfer to the small industry. Describes the significant role of small industry in the national economy. Cites the findings of earlier and recent surveys to indicate the continuing, unsatisfactory state of information service for this sector. Critically evaluates the Government's current plans for the setting up of a Small Firms Information Centre Service. Suggests improvements in the scheme and pleads for developing an efficient information network. Urges OSTI to initiate research on problems concerning the small industry and specifies certain areas of research.
Local Government Information Services
Authors: Kennington D.
Published: March 2008

Outlines factors leading to an increase in the information requirements of local government managers. Current research into these needs and examples of existing services for local government officers are described, particularly that of the GLC Intelligence Unit's Research Library. Looks at future cooperative developments in information provision in London local government and comments on the role of the library profession as a whole in the field of local government information.
Public Library Services for Children in England and Wales, I960-I974
Authors: Ellis Alec
Published: March 2008

This article surveys the development of public library services for children and young people during the years between the Roberts Report of 1959 on The Structure of the Public Library Service in England and Wales and the reorganization of local government areas in 1974. It is the concluding article in a series of six, two of which appeared in the Library Association Record ( July 1967 and August 1969) and three in the Journal of Librarianship (April 1970, January 1971, and January 1972) . It describes the trends of library work with young people during a period, the early part of which was relatively prosperous, whilst the latter was marked by economic difficulties which contributed to restrict the intentions of the Public Libraries and Museums Act of 1964.
The Government of University Libraries in Britain
Authors: Guttsman W.L.
Published: March 2008

A functional analysis of the managerial, the innovatory and the policy-making processes in university libraries and an examination of how the views and interests of various groups affected by them might be best brought into play. Alongside the formal hierarchical managerial structure, a democratic structure should be developed to cover library operations and the mobilization of professional skills.
International Librarianship - a reconnaissance
Authors: Parker J. Stephen
Published: March 2008

The study of international librarianship has been neglected. A definition of the term is offered, and the main functional areas of international librarianship identified, together with characteristics of activity in the field, as a first step towards their possible application in a model of international librarianship. The comparative method is seen as an essential tool of international librarianship. Significant developments taking place in international organizations and programmes, including Unesco, UNISIST, IFLA and UBC, are considered, and an attempt is made to indicate some implications for the future of inter national librarianship of possible changes in world socicty.
Obsolescence of American and French Agronomic Literatures
Authors: Lawani S.M.
Published: March 2008

The obsolescence patterns of American and French agronomic literatures are studied for the two periods I952 and I972 using citation data from the major American and French agronomic journals. The following hypotheses are tested statistically: ( a) that the citations contained in the I952 journals were distributed by age in the same way as those in the I972 journals, and ( b) that the distribution by age of citations by American agronomists does not differ from the distribution of citations by French agronomists. The Annual Ageing Factor, the Median or Half-life, the Mean Life, and the Utility Factor are calculated for both the American and French literatures and for both periods. The results are discussed in terms of obsolescence as a general phenomenon of subject literatures.
Readability Tests for UK Professional Journals
Authors: Seaton Janet
Published: March 2008

The meaning of readability and its importance to librarians are disncssed. Flesch's formulae for measuring reading ease and human interest are examined and used to test the readability of fourteen library journals. Results show most to be rather dull and difficult. Readership could be increased by the application of the principles of more readable writing.
Survey of Information Services in British University Libraries
Authors: Hall John
Published: March 2008

The survey was undertaken to provide background information for a SCONUL exchange of experience seminar on information services in university libraries. It found considerable variation in the services provided within individual library systems but revealed that the principle of information provision is widely accepted in all types of library except those of the London colleges, with the highest level of service being provided by the technological universities. About a third of the libraries responding had staff devoting most or a significant part of their time to information work and between 50% and 60% offered literature searches, current awareness services and publicity for or assistance with computer-based information services, although in many cases any given service was only provided for a minority of users within the institution.
Local library co-operation in the service of higher education
Authors: Wilson T.D.
Published: March 2008

The chief findings and recommendations of the final report on the DES Local Library Cooperation Project are presented in relation to the key concept of existing "unplanned coordination". Developments that have taken place in Sheffield since the publication of the report are noted.
Teaching and Testing in Library and Information Studies: The Role of Assessed Course Work
Authors: Kaye David , Wood Anthony J.
Published: March 2008

Methods of assessment in higher education are outlined and discussed with special reference to courses in library and information studies. The role of assessed course work (ACW) is considered, relating its specific objectives to the ACW methods intended to achieve them. The teaching laboratories and other facilities available in Manchester Library School are described, together with an outline of the kinds of ACW carried out. The general problems of ACW are indicated. Certain assumptions about ACW were subjected to statistical tests and the results are presented. These show that (a) ACW marks tend to be slightly higher on average, and show a narrower range, than marks obtained in written examination; (b) there is a moderately positive correlation between students' performance in ACW and written examina tion; (c) a combination of marks obtained in the first year BA course written examination plus early pieces of ACW shows a strong positive correlation with a student's overall final result, lending support to the choice of this combination as a predictor of student performance.
Caribbean Recordings: notes on sources with a select discography
Authors: Bloomfield Valerie
Published: March 2008

This article investigates the range of sound recordings available for the study of the non- Hispanic Caribbean. Institutional collections are described, musical forms identified, record guides and other sources surveyed and a select discography provided.
The Administration of Local Studies Collections in Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Authors: Nichols Harold
Published: March 2008

This survey of local studies collections in public libraries after local government reorganization shows that there is a development towards a standard organizational structure, even though geographical considerations condition the pattern of provision, with a centralized research collection containing materials for the whole authority area, supported by duplicate and microform collections at branches for their locality. The centralized collections are currently stronger in urban areas, some becoming Local Studies Centres to include record office, museum and library functions. District collections are more developed in counties and often supply locality dossiers and school project packs.

Divisional management structures have led to Local Studies Panels consisting of repre sentatives responsible for local studies at Divisional and Central levels, and this appears to stimulate planned development mainly in cooperative acquisition, microfilm programmes, indexing and current awareness services.

The vital relationship between libraries and record offices has not often been improved by local government reorganization. In England and Wales in only 25% of Non- Metropolitan Counties are the library and the archives office responsible to the same com mittee, and in Metropolitan areas only the new County, not a library authority, is auto matically authorized to provide the archive service.
Caxton Prepares His Edition of the Morte Darthur
Authors: Blake N.F.
Published: March 2008

The article discusses why Caxton chose to publish Malory's Morte Darthur, how this copy was prepared for printing and what steps the publisher took to promote it. The manuscript itself was prepared fairly mechanically for printing with only book 5 being rewritten. Most of what Caxton tells us in his prologue, which was added after the rest of the book was in print, is fictitious and was designed to sell the book. The realization that this is so gives an important insight into Caxton's attitude towards Malory and to fifteenth-century literary taste, and these themes are discussed extensively in this article.
Planning a Programme of Library User Education
Authors: Fjällbrant Nancy
Published: March 2008

During recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the educational role of the academic library. Many libraries have developed coures of user education ( Mews 19721 ; Lubans 19742 ; Fjällbrant 19753). Librnrics and librarians have become increasingly aware that users need instruction in how to use the wealth of information stored within the library system. In order to cope with the ever-increasing volume of knowledge, students need to understand the patterns of communication and how to organize their methods of informa tion retrieval efficiently.
University Scientists as Seekers of Information: sources of references to periodical literature
Authors: Van Styvendaele B.J.H.
Published: March 2008

This article studies the pattern of users' interaction with information sources in science, technology and social sciences at the Antwerp State University Centre. The results showed, first, that the main sources of references to periodical literature were citations at the ends of articles in journals and books, second, the increasing role of the current awareness type of publication in assisting in the selection of relevant articles and, third, decreased use of conventional abstract journals. Computerized information services scored very low, but greater usage of machine-readable data bases is expected upon introduction of interactive on-line systems.
Benefit assessment for systems change (BASYC) in libraries and information services: a research project in the public libraries field
Authors: Morris W.E.M.
Published: March 2008

The BASYC approach to Benefit Assessment for Systems Change is described, requiring that groups of people likely to be affected by a policy change under consideration should be identified, that measurable goals relevant to the groups should be listed, and any change strategy should be evaluated in terms of its impact on the goal measures in comparison to those forecast for the existing policy. Two short cuts—MINIBASYC for training, and SEMIBASYC for small problems—were developed in the course of a two-year major project in Derbyshire, funded by the British Library Research and Development Department.
The public library and the acculturation of migrants: a personal view of the British experience
Authors: Simsova Sylva
Published: March 2008

Children who migrate with their parents are subjected to various stresses. Reading can help them by providing a bridge between their old and their new life. This paper, given to the international seminar "Kinder ausländischer Arbeitnehmer und ihre Literatur" in Frankfurt last October, attempts a bird's eye view of the library services to the children of the minority ethnic groups in Britain.
Towards a model of "library learning" in educational systems
Authors: Ford Nigel
Published: March 2008

A model of "library learning" is put forward, designed to help identify the distinctive contribution of libraries to learning. The model is based on an analysis of common elements which emerge from a selective review of recent research and practical developments in the field of librarianship and learning. The review deals with four areas-library stock, library use, how students learn and what students learn. Elements common to the four areas are then discussed, and combined to form a model of "library learning".
The Hungarian library system
Authors: Sargeant Peter
Published: March 2008

Libraries in Hungary developed into their present high standard only since the Second World War. There is a high degree of central control and assistance. The library law of 1976, replacing that of 1956, is resulting in many changes. The National Széchényi Library has many functions central to the country's library system, as well as having very fine collections itself. There are two basic types of public library: the council-run and the trade-union libraries. Much further development is planned for school libraries, and university and college libraries have developed in pace with the great expansion in higher education since 1945. Similarly, the special libraries have also developed to cater for the increased industrialization in the same period. Religious libraries retain many valuable collections and may in future develop closer contacts with the state-run libraries. Because of the importance given to library provision in Hungary, there are no temptations to cut back on their development.
Guest workers ... host librarians: public library provision for migrant workers in West Germany
Authors: Cronin Blaise
Published: March 2008

An informal study of library services to migrant workers in West Germany. Information on the growing awareness of the need for special provision for ethnic minorities and on current practices wasgathered during a study tour in the Federal Republic. To illustrate the gradual shift from local to national concern both independent and co-operative ventures are des cribed.
A survey of inquiries received at Newcastle upon Tyne Polytechnic Library
Authors: Marsterson W.A.J.
Published: March 2008

Results are reported of a survey of all inquiries received at Newcastle upon Tyne Polytechnic Library during one week. Analysis was designed to show whether enough—and appropriate— staff were available in relation to the population served. The rate of inquiry work was assessed and the type of inquiry was compared for different service points. Subject and general inquiry staff answered a proportion ( 20 per cent) of general and subject inquiries respectively. Some 10 per cent of inquiries took more than five minutes to answer. Comparison was made with a previous survey and showed a growth in volume and some change in the nature of inquiries.
A book relegation project in the Biological and Medical Sciences Division, Glasgow University Library
Authors: Best Sheila
Published: March 2008

A project for relegating bookstock of the Biological and Medical Sciences Division of Glasgow University Library. Possible criteria for relegation are examined and a formula involving publication date and circulation is selected. Procedures and information on cost are presented. Relegation is shown to be an expensive activity.
The staffing of public libraries at the outbreak of the First World War
Authors: Ellis Alec
Published: March 2008

This article is complementary to two earlier contributions to this journal on the finances, buildings and resources (Vol. 9, No. 2, April 1977) and the users and uses of public libraries (Vol. 11, No. 1, January 1979) in England and Wales at the outbreak of the First World War. It sets out to discuss the availability and conditions of service of staff in 1914, the last year of an era of relative stability which had existed for half a century or more.
Academic librarians in colleges of further and higher education
Authors: Revill D.H.
Published: March 2008

It is argued that, as a generalization, librarians who regard themselves as acting within an educational environment behave rather differently from those who stress their librarianship functions and that these differences are related to academic status. The award of academic status encourages the former by attracting and retaining people willing to adopt an extended educational role. Academic rank also elicits the internalization, or self- ascription, by the librarian of educational roles.
Subject indexing in the social sciences: a comparison of PRECIS and KWIC indexes to newspaper articles
Authors: Madelung Hans-Ole
Published: March 2008

Eighty-nine articles from a small, Danish left-wing newspaper were indexed by PRECIS and KWIC. The articles cover a wide range of social science subjects. Controlled test searches in both indexes were carried out by 20 students of library science. The results obtained from this small-scale retrieval test were evaluated by a chi-square test. The PRECIS index led to more correct answers and fewer wrong answers than the KWIC index, i.e. it had both better recall and greater precision. Furthermore, the students were more confident in their judgement of the relevance of retrieved articles in the PRECIS index than in the KWIC index: and they generally favoured the PRECIS index in the subjective judgement they were asked to make.