bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Library co-operation in the United Kingdom
Authors: Sewell Philip H.
Published: March 2008

An outline of the findings of the author's 1978 survey, 'Library cooperation in the United Kindom: existing arrangements, gaps in provision and research which may be needed', of the 1980 seminar 'Local library cooperation: its current state and future development' and of the author's local library co-operation research project 1981. Special attention is given to the 'modular' approach to local library co-operation.
Citations in bibliography: characteristics of references in selected journals
Authors: Cauchi Simon , Cave Roderick
Published: March 2008

The article summarizes the results of a bibliometric exercise carried out by staff and students of the Department of Librananship, Victoria University of Wellington. References in 12 bibliographical journals published in the late 1970s were analysed by form, date and country of publication, in order to test various hypotheses. The group results showed a citation pattern similar to studies in the fields of English literature and history with considerable variation from Price's 'norm of scholarships' in citation practice. They also suggest that citation analysis alone gives an inadequate measure of the use made by biblio graphers of their sources.
The rare-book librarian and bibliographical scholarship
Authors: Feather John
Published: March 2008

For historical reasons the rare-book librarian is often seen as passive custodian of his books. and an associatron is seen between rare-book librarianship and historical bibliography. Yet the use of rare books is not confined to bibliographers. Other users require intellectual access to rare-book collections of the same kind as that provided to all other library materials. It is suggested that modern classification systems can be applied in the compilation of subject catalogues of older printed material. The compilation of union catalogues, essential for rare-books work, can also break away from the constraints of bibliography. Conventional modern cataloguing is adequate for most users of rare books, and, combined with proper subject access, will increase the utility of rare-book collections.
Technological developments in information transfer: some implications for academic libraries
Authors: Stirling John F.
Published: March 2008

Although academic libraries have accommodated themselves fairly readily to technological innovation in the past, they now face changes of a different order. The author reviews some of the trends which are observable in the publishing world and in the electronic storage and transmission of information. He attempts to assess the likely impact new techniques will have on university libraries in relation to their archival role, their provision for undergraduates and their function as information centres.
System Dynamics modelling and the management of an on-line information service
Authors: Heseltine R.G.
Published: March 2008

In a research project based at University College London. work has been done on the application of a particular computer-based modelling technique, known as System Dynamics, in the library and information field. This article is concerned with the use of System Dynamics modelling to highlight the basic management problems associated with the development of an on-line information service in a library. It lays particular emphasis on the need for long-term planning in the use of this and other new technologies. The article also provides a general introduction to System Dynamics modelling, and suggests that it has considerable potential in the study of information systems.
The evaluation of current awareness services in local government
Authors: Wilson T.D.
Published: March 2008

Project LOGI was funded by the British Library R&D Department to develop 'self-help' manuals for those wishmg to assess information needs in local government and to evaluate the effectiveness of current awareness services. The data obtamed in pilot tests of the research Instruments point to conclusions of relevance for the design of information systems. In particular, the data on the value of current awareness services, and on the uses to which information is put, help to define further the Idea of 'benefit' and to limit the scope of 'benefit measurement'.
Series authority files: the Glasgow University experience
Authors: Craig James D.
Published: March 2008

The problem of maintaining consistency in the treatment of series In author/title catalogues is examined in the context of Glasgow University Library's experience. The Impact of automation and co-operation is described and assessed. and the effects related to developments in other areas of library co-operation.
Standards of college library service in the UK — review article
Authors: Brewer J.G.
Published: March 2008

Two recently published documents giving recommended standards for college library service are reviewed and compared with special reference to their origins (one produced by the Library Association, one by a lecturers' trade union), and to the actual provision made in UK college libraries as revealed by recent statistics. The importance and function of such standards are briefly discussed.
Professional education and practice: a survey of past students (MA Information Studies (Social Sciences)) of the Postgraduate School of Librarianship and Information Science,1 University of Sheffield, 1973/4 to 1979/80
Authors: Roberts Norman , Bull Gillian
Published: March 2008

A survey was made of past students of the MA in Information Studies (Social Sciences) of the Postgraduate School of Librarianship and Information Studies. University of Sheffield, 1973/4 to 1979/80. Particular attention was paid to first and current posts. the duties involved and the demands made upon respondents. With a view to future curriculum development, res pondents were asked to assess the relevance of the course to their subsequent careers and to Identify new professional personal skills which they may have had to acquire. Differences and similari ties between the roles and experiences of librarians and informationists are tabulated and discussed.
Documents, information or knowledge? Choices for librarians
Authors: Davies Roy
Published: March 2008

Most existing information retrieval systems simply speed up the process of acquiring information about information. Full-text and non-bibliographic databases do have advantages but the real need is for systems which present information in the form the end-user requires. In a few narrow areas, this has been achieved through advances in artificial intelligence leading to the creation of expert systems which provide answers to appropriate questions. Along with developments in mathe matical software and, possibly, machine trans lation, expert systems could eventually bring about changes in information use, both in research and education, which have long been the subject of speculation. To avoid the danger of making access to information dependent on the form in which it is stored, librarians should take an interest in these developments.
Current developments in international rare-book librarianship and their relevance for the United Kingdom
Authors: Willison I.R.
Published: March 2008

This article is based on a paper delivered to SCONUL at the University of East Anglia on 30 March 1982. After a brief view of the history of international rare-book librarianship, the article discusses the relevance of the IFLA doctrines of UBC and UAP for the strategy and tactics of recording, preserving and developing the rare-book stock of the United Kingdom.
Subject specialization in African university libraries
Authors: Avafia Kwami E.
Published: March 2008

A survey of some African university libraries conducted in 1981 shows that, there, the concept of subject specialization is relatively new. However, three types of subject divisional arrangement are identified. The University of Jos library is studied as an example of subject divisional arrangement in its pure form. Arguments are put forward as to why African university libraries should adopt subject specialization, and solutions are suggested to problems which might arise.
Our recent past: a review article
Authors: Munford W.A.
Published: March 2008

British librarianship and information work, 1976-1980 is reviewed and its predecessors, published from 1928 onwards, are considered.
Librarianship worldwide: a review article
Authors: Parker J. Stephen
Published: March 2008

A review ofJackson, Miles M., ed., Contemporary developments in librarianship: an international handbook. London, Library Association. 1982. xxxii, 619pp. £55 (£44 to LA members). ISBN 0 85365 834 X First published Westport, Conn., Greenwood Press, 1981, as: International handbook of contemporary developments in librarianship.
Professional staff development in academic libraries
Authors: Elliott Lynn
Published: March 2008

Professional staff development is discussed in relation to the literature of 1975-82 and to current practice in two academic libraries. An outline of background factors is followed by a discussion of the drawbacks. benefits and current state of the art. Some indication is given of possible future trends. Finally, conclusions and recommendations are presented. Throughout. staff development is taken to exclude induction and on-the-job training.
The evaluation of library user education with reference to the programme at Dorset Institute of Higher Education (DIHE)
Authors: Hanson Janet R
Published: March 2008

In this study the author investigates the potential of two models of evaluation, the objectives model and the illuminative model, for use in the evaluation of the library user education programme at Dorset Institute of Higher Education. Examples of the evaluation instruments which are to be used during the 1983/4 session are included in the appendices to the report.
New contemporaries: a review article
Authors: Dudley Edward
Published: March 2008

Two new journals in the field of training and education are considered in the light of some general observations on professional publishing and the need for a 'forum'.
Journals at risk
Authors: Blake Monica , Meadows A.J.
Published: March 2008

Interviews and a questionnaire survey have been used to investigate the characteristics of journals which are most likely to be cancelled by British universities when faced with cuts. The number of journals which have been cancelled has also been looked at and the way in which cancellation exercises have been carried out. High prices, large price increases and foreign-language contents play a role in decisions on cancellations. Library and academic staff are in overall agreement on the types of journal to cancel. One difference is that library staff often prefer to weed cheaper journals first, whereas academic staff prefer to cancel fewer, but more expensive, journals.
Libraries and adult learners: future developments
Authors: Drodge Stephen
Published: March 2008

Report of a Delphi study on library provision for adult learning. Twenty-two librarians and adult educators participated in this study which predicts modestly increased provision. Libraries are expected to work more closely with adult education agencies in providing information about opportunities and back-up materials for study in all media. Some librarians will provide guidance and counselling. Access to academic library facilities will be easier for unregistered students. It is suggested that the predictions imply a structure of first contact through a public library with referral of learners to local academic libraries.
Library and information services in Bermuda: a profile
Authors: Harrison K.C.
Published: March 2008

After a brief description of the geo graphical, ethnic, political, economic, climatic and other factors influencing library and information work in Bermuda, public, academic and special libraries, as well as archives, are examined in some detail. The article ends with a suggestion that urgent consideration be given to establishing a national library and information network on the island, in addition to encouraging an expanded role for the newly formed Library Association of Bermuda.
Academic librarians and continuing education: a study of personal attitudes and opinions
Authors: Konn T. , Roberts N.
Published: March 2008

Attitudes towards continuing education of members of staff in seven university and polytechnic libraries in England are explored on the basis of structured interviews. The survey, carried out during the period June to August 1983, revealed significant differences of attitude, according to level of management, towards responsibility for, and methods of, continuing education. In the majority of cases attitudinal distinctions were associated with failures of communication.
Australian librarianship today or yesterday? A review article
Authors: Steele Colin
Published: March 2008

Two festschrifts of notable Australian University librarians provide the basis for an examination of Australian library and information provision in the 1970s and early 1980s.
BLAISE-LINE and the British National Bibliography: profiles of users and uses
Authors: Bishop Jane , Lewis Peter R.
Published: March 2008

This article contains a summary of the findings of a market survey of British National Bibliography and BLAISE-LINE users carried out by Industrial Market Research Ltd for the British Library Bibliographic Services Division as part of a development project to determine the future pattern of national bibliographic services. Telephone and personal inter views with a sample from the UK user communities revealed an overall satis faction with BNB, while the perceived lack of currency confirmed the necessity for the Division's new approach to record creation to be implemented in 1985. A widespread lack of awareness of the potential of BLAISE-LINE was identified, suggesting the need for a large and sustained educational effort in the library community, in order to realize the opportunities for better services offered by current technology.
Teaching information sources in business studies: an application of the theories of J Bruner and R M Gagné
Authors: Hanson Janet R
Published: March 2008

In this article the author maintains that the planning of library user education programmes can benefit from being based more soundly within educational theory. Of particular relevance are the theories of two educationalists, J Bruner and R M Gagné. The main points of each theory are examined and then applied to the teaching of information sources in business studies as taught in higher education.
Rural information provision in Leicestershire
Authors: Green Andrew
Published: March 2008

The writer describes the rural information service operating in Leicestershire, puts it in a national context, and suggests some solutions to alleviate rural information deprivation. Village information files were initiated by Leicestershire Rural Community Council with Development Commission funding and continued by Leicestershire Libraries. The article describes the implementation of the service in one area of Leicestershire and looks to the future monitoring, adaptation and continuation of the service. Although primarily about Leicestershire, the article directs attention to a wide variety of other initiatives operating in various parts of the UK.
The British Library Strategic Plan: a review article
Authors: Macartney Nigel
Published: March 2008

The British Library's Strategic Plan is reviewed with particular attention being paid to scientific and technical information and to non-book materials. After a brief discussion of BL and interlibrary co-operation, the three key strategies identified by the plan are examined. The most detailed study is on the proposals for improving services, where the market will expect high quality, particularly where premium income-earning services are concerned. The organizational changes outlined in the plan are also assessed before conclusions are drawn, notably that the income and staffing targets will be difficult to hit, and the library will need to monitor closely the implementation of the plan.
Charges for online searches in university libraries: follow-up to 1981 survey
Authors: Mowat Ian R.M. , Cannell Sheila E.
Published: March 2008

This survey repeats and enlarges on a survey of online searching in university libraries carried out in 1981. The results indicate that charging does affect the number of searches carried out in an institution; that libraries providing a 'free' service remain committed to this as a policy, while libraries which charge try to ameliorate the effects of charging; that more libraries use a 'fixed' tariff structure; that charging does little to alter the balance of use by academic staff and postgraduates within an institution. However, the evidence on how charging affects the quality of searching is conflicting.
The relationship between public libraries, other relevant agencies and self-help ethnic minority organizations
Authors: Elliott Pirkko
Published: March 2008

This article is based on research work by the author. Information was received from 175 London-based organizations. The following activities were offered by them: libraries, advice/information services, bookshops, publishing, mother- tongue classes, dance and drama, film/video shows, art exhibitions and festivals and carnivals. Libraries, advice/information services, bookshops and publishing were studied in detail.
Evaluation of technical services functions: towards a management information system
Authors: Lantz Brian
Published: March 2008

For a number of years Birmingham Polytechnic Library has been producing regular information on the effective ness of its Technical Services section. Until recently the data were collected and analysed manually, but now analyses are carried out using a combination of microcomputers and the Polytechnic's minicomputers. With the advent of automated systems, there is considerable demand for the development of management information systems to provide assistance in planning and decision making. This article examines a relatively sophisticated manual system, explores the deficiencies of the present system and makes suggestions for the future development of fully automated management information systems within libraries.
Networking in the North West of England
Authors: Rogerson Ian
Published: March 2008

Networking as defined by Meadows is surveyed with particular reference to the North West. The impact of pre- mechanical systems on book availability, from the creation of the Central Library for Students to the present-day operations of the North Western Regional Library Bureau and its commitment to VISCOUNT, is examined. Two local co-operative networks, the Leighton scheme and North East Lancashire Libraries, are dealt with in detail. Automated networking in the North West is still in its infancy, although some of the universities and polytechnics have had long-standing involvements with SWALCAP or BLCMP. The significance of JANET in offering possibilities for library networking is recognized.
The emerging employment market for librarians and information workers in the UK
Authors: Moore Nick
Published: March 2008

As the rate of growth in the established market for information specialists declines, increasing attention is focused on the emerging employment market. A survey based on job advertisements suggests that in the UK this emerging market offers between 3000 and 3500 jobs at any one time which potentially are open to librarians and information workers The characteristics of these jobs are described and discussed and the results are reported of a survey which set out to discover: what were the expectations of employers, what sort of people were getting the jobs, and what impact were librarians and information workers making on the emerging employment market The results suggest that, while the market as a whole may expand, librarians and information workers will face severe competition. The research was funded by the British Library.
Collection development in the British Library: the role of the RLG Conspectus
Authors: Hanger Stephen
Published: March 2008

Conspectus, developed in the USA by the Research Libraries Group, enables libraries to record and compare quantified data on the strength of their collections and collecting practices in particular subjects. It serves both as an information file and as a basis for collaborative collection development. The British Library adopted Con spectus as part of a collection development review initiated in 1983. As well as providing a coherent picture of the library's collections and selection policy, it is seen as the precursor of a more general adoption of the system by the UK research library community.
Agricultural information services in Kenya and Third World needs
Authors: Durrani Shiraz
Published: March 2008

The article examines the failure of agricultural information systems in the Third World to provide relevant information in support of food pro duction. In many independent African countries (Kenya is taken as an example) there has been little qualitative change in the information services since colonial times; new technologies have been introduced which are more suitable for industrialized countries. Present-day agricultural information services are examined and solutions are suggested. However, a real solution cannot emerge until the social, economic and political foundations of society undergo a transformation which will allow the emergence of a people- orientated information service.
A woman's place is in the—library?
Authors: Steele Colin , Henty Margaret
Published: March 2008

Women and librarianship is reviewed in the context of the issues and literature to date in Britain, America and Australia. The reviewers believe that the contribu tors take a too strident approach at times. The contributions are analysed in rela tion to wider developments in society, particularly the rise of the women's movement, affirmative action pro grammes and international trends. It is suggested that not only management needs to change, but also the attitudes and motivation of women, although what constitutes 'success' in libraries needs further discussion. Libraries are well suited to different job patterns which can aid women's progress.
Policies and criteria for the archiving of electronic publishing
Authors: Sturges Paul
Published: March 2008

The impermanence of magnetic media has led to a concern in the library and information community with the fate of the fast-increasing amount of information which is electronically published. Different approaches from libraries, digital mapping, video archiving, archives and data archives, office management, and the world of commercial publishing offer insights into the kinds of policy which might be adopted to deal with this problem. Such policies are likely to need to involve publishers and other institutions, as well as national library and archive institutions.
Library tuition programmes: a small-scale comparative study from an organizational perspective
Authors: Chandler Helen E.
Published: March 2008

This study is an evaluation of the design and implementation of a tape-slide presentation and self-help workbooks in a small college of further education library. It was undertaken in an attempt to overcome certain organizational problems and to improve, if possible, the educational effectiveness of the library tuition programme. Materials and methods were tested and evaluated in two formative stages before a final testing and summative evaluation. Results revealed a lack of a statistically significant difference between methods, making the inclusion of both methods educationally viable. Attitudinal responses were generally favourable and organizational advantages were without question.
Online public access catalogues in the UK and West Germany— present and future trends
Authors: Schnelling Heiner
Published: March 2008

Although West German librarians are increasingly interested in OPACs, at present there are only a few OPACs available in West Germany. Some of the difficulties impeding the introduction of OPACs are the result of the preference for closed stacks in old research libraries and the problems of retrospective cataloguing. The West German situation is compared with that in the UK, where quite numerous first (and second) generation OPACs are (or will soon become) available. The article describes the strengths and weaknesses of UK OPACs observed during a research visit in autumn 1986.
The English provincial evening newspaper and its library: a view from the wapentakes1
Authors: Gee Ralph
Published: March 2008

The scarce literature on news libraries has not done sufficient justice to the British provincial newspaper, of which there are many more than nationals, and wherein there are problems, solutions, and attitudes worthy of professional interest. The article presents differences between the national and the provincial press. It demonstrates how these are reflected by the provincial readers and their relationships with the newspaper and its library, and in turn how the library's cuttings files reflect the information interests of a local community. Some attention is paid to the legal implications of publicly accessible files.

The existence of two newly formed groups of newspaper librarians is noted.
The public library as an open learning centre
Authors: Van Der Zee Hendrik
Published: March 2008

Traditionally one of the basic functions of public libraries has been to facilitate learning. The question is how this function could be or ought to be interpreted. In this essay the concept of the open learning centre is used to probe the library's proper role in fostering the motivation for learning and in supporting learning efforts. The fruitfulness of the concept will be demonstrated and its implications explored
Is the librarian a distinct personality type?
Authors: Fisher David P.
Published: March 2008

A critical assessment is made of psychological investigations into the personality of the librarian conducted over the last 30 years. The influence of societal stereotypes upon psychological research is examined. Problematic methodologies and conflicting results preclude the emergence of any distinct personality profile common to librarians. The studies fail to demonstrate links between the individual and the organization. The efficacy of the whole psychological enterprise is brought into question
Gender equality in librarianship: a review article
Authors: Tilley Christine
Published: March 2008

Equal opportunities in librarianship? is reviewed in the context of similarities between the current status of women in librarianship in Britain and in Australia. It describes the strengths of Burrington's research, and how it has extended previous similar research, as well as suggesting further, future areas of relevant, related research.
The state of retroconversion in the United Kingdom: a review
Authors: Law Derek
Published: March 2008

This paper was commissioned in March 1987 by the Centre for Catalogue Research (now Centre for Bibliographic Management) at the University of Bath, for presentation to the LIBER Working Group on Library Automation. It discusses the background to retroconversion, the advantages and disadvantages of the various methods of tackling the work, project costs and the problems to be faced. There is a discussion of future trends and desirable areas of research both nationally and internationally.
Management information in the British Library Humanities and Social Sciences division
Authors: Sparrow Elizabeth
Published: March 2008

An effective library planning system should incorporate a set of clear objectives, a means of monitoring resources allocated to services and a system of measuring performance to assess how far the library is achieving its objectives. The British Library's prime objectives are given in its Strategic Plan, published in 1985. A detailed costing system provides information about resources allocated to services. Until recently, Humanities and Social Sciences had few corporate measures which could be used to assess how the division was performing. This article describes how performance indicators are being evolved and looks at some of the problems encountered.
Current awareness for local government
Authors: Duckett R.J.
Published: March 2008

Despite recent criticisms made of journal-based current awareness services, the continued growth of YADLOGIS (Yorkshire and District Local Government Indexing Service) testifies to the value of such services. YADLOGIS also provides a successful model for library cooperation, one which has flourished despite financial pressures and changes of membership. An outline of the system provided by the eleven cooperating libraries is given and comments are made on issues arising. These include the conflict between indexing for current awareness and for information retrieval, the lack of commercially produced alternatives, and the problems of leadership in cooperative ventures.
British Library microform publications and their bibliographic control
Authors: Warner Julian
Published: March 2008

British Library microform publications are omitted from the national bibliography and poorly controlled bibliographically There are prospects for improvement in the control of microfilm reissues but not of British Library publications in computer output microform, typically major bibliographies and catalogues Viewing these bibliographies and catalogues together suggests that there is no clear demarcation of the intended contribution of each work to bibliographic control. Neither is there evidence of overall regulation of British Library publishing activity The concept of bibliographic control would also seem to have diminished in practice Sources of information in an information-handling organization are not necessarily unified or coordinated.
Technology and the British National Bibliographic Service
Authors: Stephens Andy
Published: March 2008

The British National Bibliographic Service provided by the British Library is designed to support book selection and acquisition, information retrieval, cataloguing and other technical processes in libraries Throughout the four decades of its development, new production technologies have done much to determine the elements of the service, which currently include printed and microfiche bibliographies, and online and magnetic tape based machine- readable services This article reviews, from a technical perspective, the evolution of the service, and surveys the present environment in which it supports the library functions that it is intended to serve.
The teenage library in Bradford: an evaluation of Xchange
Authors: Nicholson Janet , Pain-Lewins Helen
Published: March 2008

A profile is presented of Bradford's Xchange library users, derived from an analysis of responses to interview questionnaires Respondents were invited to give their opinions of the existing facilities and staff and to suggest improvements to the service. These are reported here, as are the results of further surveys which examined the dissemination of information about Xchange among Bradford teenagers, and library staff attitudes to the innovative teenage library. Overall, it was shown that Xchange has succeeded in attracting teenagers and serving their needs, with beneficial effects for both teenagers and other Central Library users. Recommendations are made for further development.
Marketing a public sector business library: developing a strategy
Authors: Gallimore Alec
Published: March 2008

A model is described for the development of a marketing strategy in a public sector business library. A stage-by-stage analysis of the model is given, with reference to the strategy of Manchester Commercial Library, and with examples of how the strategy has been applied in practice. The model is proposed as a suitable basis for developing a marketing strategy for any library or information service.
Africana in LC and DD classification schemes: a need for an Africana scheme?
Authors: Iwuji H O M
Published: March 2008

The article examines in some detail the provisions made for African subjects in the Library of Congress and Dewey Decimal Classification schemes, two schemes in general use in Africa. It notes some gross inadequacies of these schemes in classing African subjects, especially in the social sciences and humanities. It suggests extensive modifications of existing schemes rather than attempting to devise an entirely different scheme for Africana, but such modifications should be concerted, and not left to the whims and caprices of individual classifiers.
Using management information in a polytechnic library
Authors: Payne Philip , Willers Jean Marie
Published: March 2008

The pressures on librarians to utilize management information are outlined. The practical applications made of management information based on data from the SWALCAP shared circulation system in a polytechnic library are then described. Difficulties and opportunities are rehearsed, with some suggestions for the better take-up of management information for policy and decision making.
Library cooperation in Kenya
Authors: Otike Japhet N
Published: March 2008

The article analyses current library cooperation in Kenya. In an attempt to understand the situation, a brief account of the country's information infrastructure is provided. Effort has been made to provide a detailed account of the cooperative programmes currently in existence, though it is noted that many of these programmes still remain informal. Problems hindering effective cooperation have been isolated. It is felt that many of these obstacles could be overcome with the formulation by the government of a national information policy.
Continuing education and training for academic library staff
Authors: Roberts N. , Konn T.
Published: March 2008

Some 52 university and 30 polytechnic librarians were questioned about forms of continuing education and training in their libraries. Induction and further education issues were explored, as well as attitudes to the idea of continuing education. The survey took place between November 1987 and January 1988. A response rate of 87 per cent was achieved. Marked differences in practices were revealed between polytechnic and university libraries. Responses indicated a growing interest in continuing education, often influenced by factors outside the direct control of librarians.
Confessions of an online searcher: a review article
Authors: Parker C.C.
Published: March 2008

This article ruminates on some of the problems that have still to be solved in online information retrieval, petitions for minor enhancements and dreams of revolution.
OPAC research in the UK
Authors: Greenwood Derek
Published: March 2008

The rapid pace of OPAC implementation in this country is providing a fruitful environment for research, with a wide range of projects currently being undertaken, including a number concerned with the application of advanced information retrieval techniques to OPAC systems This article reviews the current situation and describes some of the more important research projects being undertaken, particularly those funded by the British Library Research and Development Department A brief description of the British Library's own OPAC project is also provided The article concludes with an examination of the value of OPAC research and a look at where further research effort might best be concentrated.
Public library services as information networks: Nigeria in the twenty-first century
Authors: Chijioke Mary Ellen
Published: March 2008

Public libraries in Nigena have failed to meet the needs of the majority of the population. This article examines the reasons why, and sets out a programme for the development of community information centres, serving both the urban and rural populations and integrated into multi purpose community libraries. The central public library service needs to support community- based libraries with services and provide a link to the worldwide network of information Changes necessary to the curricula of library schools to train community information workers are outlined. This article is based on a paper given at the 25th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Library Association, Abeokuta, March 1987.
Academic library cooperation and document supply: possibilities and considerations of cost-effectiveness
Authors: MacDougall A.F. , Wheelhouse H. , Wilson J.M.
Published: March 2008

The article discusses options for cooperative document supply which formed part of a large research project in the East Midlands. Modelling was carried out, based on collected data, to establish the cost-effectiveness of various forms of document supply It was concluded that only if British Library Document Supply Centre (BLDSC) charges were to rise substantially would a local system become worthy of senous consideration as a potential cost saver figures were suggested at which it would be cost-effective to consider local schemes if BLDSC moved towards full cost recovery The possibility of contracting out was also considered.
Library and information science research: a review article
Authors: Bottle R.T.
Published: March 2008

A pyramidal model is put forward to explain why library and information research (LIS) is at least an order of magnitude less in quantity than that in science and technology The effect of the growing information industry on this model is discussed Current Research for the Information Profession is sampled and a scientometric review provided A recent review of LIS academic research in the UK is commented on Half-life data are used to criticize the rather tardy publication of a recent conference proceedings
Community libraries: a brief review of their origins and nature with particular reference to South Africa
Authors: Stilwell Christine
Published: March 2008

This review of the development of community libraries draws upon a wide range of sources Public libraries in Africa were established by colonials for colonials, and the needs of the colonized were subservient In South Africa, public libraries have been retarded by the racial policies of a succession of governments, and by the class implications of education and library provision Their lack of relevance has resulted in a certain neutrality but this has positive implications for their potential role in information provision at present
Professional publishing in the UK: the literature of librarianship and information work, 1967-87
Authors: Ritchie Sheila
Published: March 2008

Book publishing for the profession expanded in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It stabilized towards the late 1970s and sales declined in the 1980s Professional bodies dominated production during the first decade; commercial publishers, apart from Clive Bingley, did not exploit the library market until the late 1970s For journals the main era of growth was the 1980s, new titles proliferating while subscriptions to existing journals declined The number of titles of both books and journals increased as the print runs and sales of individual titles decreased, mirroring the pattern of the publishing industry in general
The LIBSCOT file and library historiography
Authors: Crawford John C.
Published: March 2008

Two projects and their interrelationships are discussed. the LIBSCOT file, a microcomputer held directory of library provision in Scotland in the 1890s, and the project to catalogue Scottish 'public' library printed catalogues issued by publicly accessible libranes between 1765 and 1914 (PLPC). The LIBSCOT file consists of 534 records representing all types of library at the period. Although library provision was in some respects comprehensive it was based on small administrative units and underfunding was endemic. PLPC consists of over 900 records which are being converted to machine-readable format. The historiographical implications are analysed
The effects of new technology on information work: examples from chemical companies
Authors: Smith Elaine Davis
Published: March 2008

A study is made of a survey by interview and questionnaire of the effects of new technology on online searching in a number of chemical companies, the aim being to establish the forms of technology involved and their effects on budget, information staff and end users. Technologies currently in use and anticipated are investigated and noted; these, together with other factors which arose in the discussions and their effects, are summarized, and conclusions drawn It was generally found that the developments in technology over the last decade or so had had some effect on budget, but respondents were often more concerned with the sociological effects of the new technologies on both information staff and end users.
Poverty and development in South Africa and the role of libraries
Authors: Nassimbeni Mary
Published: March 2008

After a general overview of the report of the Second Carnegie Inquiry, this article explores its significance for librarians and its potential impact on library and information services in South Africa.
Are librarians burning out?
Authors: Fisher David P.
Published: March 2008

A critical analysis of stress and burnout studies of librarians published over the last ten years The researchers fall into two camps those who want to investigate the prevalence of stress/ burnout and those who merely insist that it exists Unfortunately, the believers are more numerous than the empiricists No conclusive evidence regarding the existence of stress and burnout amongst librarians was discovered A brief review of the most popular stress remedies is given and, finally, tentative proposals are made as to the most appropriate direction for future research
Duplicates and other manifestations: a new approach to the presentation of bibliographic information
Authors: Ayres F.H.
Published: March 2008

This article discusses the problem of bibliographic control in the large machine- readable databases that are replacing the traditional library catalogue The nature of duplication in these large databases is examined and a possible way in which it could be eliminated is outlined It is suggested that the main entry should be replaced by a manifestation entry This would enable a new approach to be made to the way in which catalogue information is presented to the user. Revised and expanded functions and objectives for the catalogue are laid down to replace those of Cutter which have been used for over a century Modern developments in bibliographic control make this change possible
International librarianship: a review article
Authors: Benge Ronald
Published: March 2008

An examination of K C Harrison's recently published International librarianship with particular reference to libraries in the Third World Its value as publicity material is acknowledged and its limitations as a study of more permanent interest are stressed
The development of document delivery services in Australia: an overview 1980-1994
Authors: Cochrane Tom
Published: March 2008

Traces the development of document delivery systems in Australia against the background of three major factors: demography and global isolation of the country; the country's response to this pattern of demography and isolation; and the systems of government. Traces the striving for bibliographic control and the successful development of computerized cataloguing and telecom munications networks, such as ABN and the Internet. Concludes with a dis cussion of interloans and document delivery, the important role played by the Australian National Library and the Australian Council of Libraries and Information Services (ACLIS) in co-ordinating these developments, and the issue of copyright as it is likely to affect document delivery in the future.
Information and library research 1975-1994: a review article
Authors: Conway Patrick
Published: March 2008

The book under review considers in some detail the role played by the British Library Research and Development Department (BLRDD) in pro moting and financing research in the library and information science field, over a 20 year period. The reviewer considers this particularly from the pub lic libraries perspective. Concludes that the brief of the book has generally been satisfied and the account of the BLRDD's activities is comprehensive. The book confirms the concern, felt by many commentators and practition ers for several years, that the need for research into public library issues has been neglected.
The management and use of reserve and special collections in public libraries: a study of the East Midlands
Authors: Feather John , Matthews Graham , Pritchett Carolyn
Published: March 2008

Considers the role of reserve collections and special collections in public library cooperative schemes of the loosely knit regional library system (RLS) type, based in the East Midlands of the UK. Reports the results of a questionnaire survey, carried out for the East Midlands Regional Library System (EMRLS), to assess the effectiveness of document supply through its own member libraries, aiming at 4 specific objectives: to identify reserve and special collections in member libraries and to provide a position statement on their development, availability and preservation; to identify duplication of effort and materials in relation to reserve and special collections; to identify cost savings and service improvements to be gained through the development and exploitation of reserve and special collections; and to suggest means of developing a plan for the effective, coordinated, maintenance and development of reserve and special collections in the East Midlands region. Reports general survey conclusions and describes some of the courses of action currently being planned as a result of the findings of the survey in order to maximize the cost effective use of the resources in the region.
Bodleian Library Cataloque: a review article
Authors: Roberts Hywel
Published: March 2008

Reviews the publication of the Bodleian Library pre-1920 Catalogue on CD-ROM. Notes that this database provides a significant enhancement to the apparatus available to facilitate retrospective bibliographic searching by providing a key to the collections of another great UK deposit library. Outlines the work carried out over a 60 year period to improve the catalogue in various ways, focusing particularly on the great efforts made to generate computerized cataloguing records. Briefly describes the operation and searching characteristics of the database; noting that complicated searches tend to yield high recall but low precision but simple
Facilitating the partnership between Business Link and public libraries
Authors: Rice Catherine
Published: March 2008

Identifies the optimum role of public library business information services (PLBIS) with UK's Business Link and the steps which can be taken to achieve greater cooperation between them. Examines briefly some conclusions con cerning public library partnerships with business referral and advisory ser vices by identifying the role played in the past by public libraries in partnerships with these services; discusses the advantages and disadvan tages of the public library joining the Business Link partnership; draws attention to assets which the PLBIS can offer Business Link; identifies the ser vice development areas which need attention from the public library service wishing to derive the maximum benefit from its Business Link involve ment ; and gathers the evidence needed to identify the possible nature of the future optimum public library involvement with Business Link and notes the support that it will need from library related organizations in order to achieve this. Concludes with useful suggestions and recommendations for success ful co-operation between public library business information services and the Business Link movement.