Your search found 3443 results.

Descriptors:
Public Libraries; Library Role; Human Capital; Quality of Life; Cultural Centers; Internet; Access to Computers; Immigrants; Urban Areas; Career Readiness; Older Adults; Library Services; Electronic Publishing; Adult Literacy; Games; Library Administration; Technological Advancement; English Language Learners

Abstract:
As more and more New Yorkers turn to digital books, Wikipedia and other online tools for information and entertainment, there is a growing sense that the age of the public library is over. But, in reality, New York City's public libraries are more essential than ever. Far from becoming obsolete, the city's three public library systems--Brooklyn, Queens and New York, which encompasses the branches in Manhattan, the Bronx and Staten Island--have experienced a 40 percent spike in the number of people attending programs and a 59 percent increase in circulation over the past decade. Although they are often thought of as cultural institutions, the reality is that the public libraries are a key component of the city's human capital system. With roots in nearly every community across the five boroughs, New York's public libraries play a critical role in helping adults upgrade their skills and find jobs, assisting immigrants assimilate, fostering reading skills in young people and providing technology access for those who don't have a computer or an Internet connection at home. The libraries also are uniquely positioned to help the city address several economic, demographic and social challenges that will impact New York in the decades ahead. Despite all of this, New York policymakers, social service leaders and economic officials have largely failed to see the public libraries as the critical 21st century resource that they are, and the libraries themselves have only begun to make the investments that will keep them relevant in today's digital age. One way or another, New York needs to better leverage its libraries if it is to be economically competitive and remain a city of opportunity. This report takes an in-depth look at the role that New York's public libraries play in the city's economy and quality of life and examines opportunities for libraries to make even greater contributions in the years ahead. (Contains 38 endnotes.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

 ERIC Full Text (2326K)

Descriptors:
Ethics; Library Services; Confidentiality; Staff Development; Inservice Education; Library Administration; Library Personnel; Library Policy; Work Ethic; Moral Values; Ethical Instruction; Values Education; Information Policy; Vignettes; Compliance (Legal)

Abstract:
Every U.S. state and the District of Columbia has a law on the books that protects a library borrower's privacy, both an ethical and legal obligation of the library. In addition, FERPA further restricts access to users' records. Getting the message across to staff can be a challenge, especially if you employ students or volunteers who may not share your strongly held sense of professional responsibility or nuanced appreciation. Using scenarios, or minicase studies, based on real-life experiences to generate discussion and expand the scope of their understanding can be a very effective way to transmit the message. This article outlines the method used at Penn State University Libraries to instruct frontline staff on policy, law, and the ethics of protecting the confidentiality and privacy of library users. Pedagogy of case study is discussed. Advice on designing a training session and examples are provided. Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

More Info:
Help | Tutorial Help Finding Full Text |  More Info:
Help Find in a Library |  Publisher's website

Descriptors:
Academic Libraries; Library Development; Library Research; Library Services; Library Materials; Evaluation Criteria; Self Evaluation (Groups); Organizational Effectiveness; Institutional Research; Library Administration; Information Management; Access to Information

Abstract:
This article examines multiple inventory methods and findings from the inventory processes at the University of Mississippi Libraries. In an attempt to reduce user frustration from not being able to locate materials, the University of Mississippi Libraries conducted an inventory process beginning with a pilot inventory of a branch library and a sample inventory at the Main Library followed by full inventory of sections of the Main Library's one-million-plus collection. The benefits of inventories, including cost effective, efficient workflows, are discussed. (Contains 4 tables and 1 figure.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

More Info:
Help | Tutorial Help Finding Full Text |  More Info:
Help Find in a Library |  Publisher's website

Descriptors:
Academic Libraries; Library Services; Library Administration; Library Development; User Needs (Information); Performance Technology; Improvement Programs; Access to Information; Change Strategies; Copyrights; Strategic Planning; Total Quality Management

Abstract:
Through vision, leadership, and creativity, Salisbury University's Blackwell Library transformed its access services department structurally and philosophically to better position itself to meet, and strive to exceed, today's user needs and expectations. Restructuring and the introduction of new leadership and new ideas provided the foundation for creating a more open and collaborative problem-solving environment. New services and models were introduced based on various user feedback channels and staff initiatives, producing a department better equipped to not only manage, but to proactively engage with the one constant of change that is universal among today's academic libraries. Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

More Info:
Help | Tutorial Help Finding Full Text |  More Info:
Help Find in a Library |  Publisher's website

Descriptors:
Information Needs; Library Services; Computer Simulation; Electronic Libraries; Focus Groups; User Needs (Information); Interviews; Library Research; Use Studies; Needs Assessment; Intermode Differences; Library Administration; Usability

Abstract:
As virtual worlds continue to proliferate globally, libraries are faced with the question of whether to provide information services to virtual patrons. This study, utilizing a mixed-method approach of interviews, focus groups, and surveys, represents one of the largest studies of virtual libraries attempted to date. Taking a holistic perspective, the design and implementation of virtual library services and the information needs of 366 participants were examined with both traditional and virtual library users and librarians. Findings suggest that the information needs of traditional and virtual users differ significantly and the overall match between information provided and user needs of virtual branches are typically low. The study's impact centers on the findings that virtual library users represent a disparate group of first-time visitors whose primary information goals are exploratory; successful virtual libraries provide nontraditional information services utilizing the unique virtual reality context to emphasize and support social engagement and communication. (Contains 4 figures and 8 tables.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

More Info:
Help | Tutorial Help Finding Full Text |  More Info:
Help Find in a Library |  Publisher's website

Descriptors:
Special Libraries; Library Services; Correctional Institutions; Correctional Education; Library Materials; Library Policy; Library Research; Librarian Attitudes; Intellectual Freedom; Confidentiality; Online Surveys; Library Administration

Abstract:
Prison libraries have traditionally fulfilled many purposes for their incarcerated patrons, and these libraries often carry a diverse collection to serve varied patron needs. However, during the trial of Steven Hayes for the Petit family murders, the prosecution questioned the collection development policies of the institutions where Hayes had previously been incarcerated, requesting the reading lists in efforts to prove that his salacious choices in literature fueled his crimes. This request by prosecution brought two major issues into question, including (1) the collection development policies of US prison libraries and (2) the question of patron privacy in prison libraries. This article investigates current prison library policies on collection development and confidentiality of patron borrowing records through an exploratory survey of seventeen librarians currently working in correctional institutions throughout the United States. Their responses detail collection development policies in the prison library and present the ambiguity for handling the confidentiality of patron borrowing records. (Contains 1 table, 3 figures, and 8 footnotes.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

More Info:
Help | Tutorial Help Finding Full Text |  More Info:
Help Find in a Library |  Publisher's website

Descriptors:
Research Libraries; Foreign Countries; Library Research; Institutional Research; Organizational Change; Library Services; Library Administration; Institutional Characteristics; Organizational Objectives; Organizational Theories; Academic Libraries; Educational Practices; Research Methodology

Abstract:
University libraries worldwide are reconceptualising the ways in which they support the research agenda in their respective institutions. This paper is based on a survey completed by member libraries of the Queensland University Libraries Office of Cooperation (QULOC), the findings of which may be informative for other university libraries. After briefly examining major emerging trends in research support, the paper discusses the results of the survey specifically focussing on support for researchers and the research agenda in their institutions. All responding libraries offer a high level of research support, however, eResearch support, in general, and research data management support, in particular, have the highest variance among the libraries, and signal possible areas for growth. Areas for follow-up, benchmarking and development are suggested. (Contains 2 figures and 1 table.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

More Info:
Help | Tutorial Help Finding Full Text |  More Info:
Help Find in a Library |  Publisher's website

Descriptors:
Academic Libraries; Internet; Reading Habits; Influence of Technology; Science and Society; Mass Media Effects; Mass Media Use; Information Policy; Library Administration; Library Services; Library Development; Privacy; Confidential Records; Disclosure; Information Security; Access to Information; Confidentiality

Abstract:
Colleges share many things on Twitter, but one topic can be risky to broach: the reading habits of library patrons. Patrons' privacy is precious to most librarians. Yet new Web services thrive on collecting and sharing the very information that has long been protected. This points to an emerging tension as libraries embrace digital services. Historically, libraries have been staunch defenders of patrons' privacy. Yet to embrace many aspects of the modern Internet, which has grown more social and personalized, libraries will need to "tap into and encourage increased flows of personal information from their patrons," says the privacy-and-social-media scholar Michael Zimmer. But as librarians expand digital services, they face "a Faustian bargain," warns Mr. Zimmer, an assistant professor in the School of Information Studies at the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee. In a forthcoming paper, he writes that librarians may decide that "the benefits of these advanced data-based services outweigh the traditional protection of patron privacy." Now the Web has put privacy in flux, and the lines are fuzzy as to what trade-offs libraries should make. When should data be used? When should the information be shielded? One option is to use systems that allow patrons to opt in to libraries' tracking such activities as their previous checkouts. Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

More Info:
Help | Tutorial Help Finding Full Text |  More Info:
Help Find in a Library |  Publisher's website

Descriptors:
Research Universities; Research Libraries; Library Administration; Educational Innovation; Library Development; Library Services; Entrepreneurship; Librarians; Administrators; Educational Finance; Educational Facilities Improvement; Library Role; Outreach Programs; Technology Uses in Education; Social Influences; Leadership Styles; Interior Space; Physical Environment; Space Utilization

Abstract:
This case explores various entrepreneurial initiatives introduced by Dr. Ron Dow, dean of libraries, at a private, research-extensive institution in the northeastern United States. The case serves as an example of how entrepreneurial ideas can be applied within educational contexts, specifically, the academic support context of the university library. The accompanying teaching notes facilitate analysis of the potential and limits of entrepreneurial practice for educational leaders who operate within the ever-changing fiscal landscape of academe. Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

More Info:
Help | Tutorial Help Finding Full Text |  More Info:
Help Find in a Library |  Publisher's website

Descriptors:
Academic Libraries; Publishing Industry; Electronic Publishing; Cooperatives; Library Administration; College Faculty; Vignettes

Abstract:
This study explores possible futures for university-based library publishing services (LPS) and uses scenario planning as its research method. The study posits that the major force in developing LPS is the level of funding from the host university, with the most uncertain factor being whether faculty will adopt LPS. The study participants comprised university library directors, library managers responsible for publishing services, and library association personnel and consultants involved in publishing. Many participants saw collaborating with multiple libraries and other stakeholder organizations to establish publishing cooperatives as essential. Issues discussed include whether university libraries will embrace this role, faculties' level of satisfaction with existing services, divergent disciplinary experiences, opportunism as a mechanism to develop services, technology challenges, international dynamics, traditional vs. new forms of scholarly publishing, and publishing cost considerations. (Contains 2 figures, 1 table and 23 notes.) Note:The following two links are not-applicable for text-based browsers or screen-reading software. Show Hide Full Abstract

Related Items: Show Related Items

Full-Text Availability Options:

More Info:
Help | Tutorial Help Finding Full Text |  More Info:
Help Find in a Library |  Publisher's website