Showing papers in "Library Trends in 1997"

Learning in digital libraries: an information search process approach

Abstract: This article discusses a constructivist approach to information age learning environments for children and teenagers, particularly as students in schools. An intervention role for librarians is described for guiding and coaching students in the stages of the information search process (ISP) using the abundant resources of digital libraries. Five strategies for coaching students in the ISP-collaborating, continuing, conversing, charting, and composing-are recommended for adaptation to electronic environments. A theory for creating learning environments in digital libraries is presented based on the concepts in the constructivist approach of acting and reflecting, feeling and formulating, predicting and choosing, and interpreting and creating.

Recent Trends in Statewide Academic Library Consortia

Abstract: HISTORICALLY, FORMED consortia for the primary purpose ACMEMlC LIBRNES of sharing printed materials. Recently, academic libraries are forming consortia to provide common access to electronic resources across the Internet, and they are forming these consortia on a statewide basis. This article describes five of these newer statewide efforts: GALILEO in Georgia, the Louisiana Library Network, OhioLink, TexShare in Texas, and VIVA in Virginia. In describing these consortia, particular attention will be paid to participating libraries, core programs, the reason for formation, funding, the involvement of the larger academic libraries in the state, and governance. Similarities and differences are discussed and emerging patterns in statewide academic library consortia dilineated.

Learning and the Digital Library

Abstract: The phrase learning and the digital library encompasses two distinct components: learning related to accessing, evaluating, and using the information resources available in this environment and learning related to mastering and building upon the ideas embodied within those individual resources. Educators and system designers must draw upon research, theory, and practice from fields concerned with both these components in order to help children achieve the maximum learning benefits afforded by the digital library. This article draws upon selected research from two such fields-information studies and instructional technology-in order to present a range of ideas related to using the digital library as an environment for school-based learning. Although the two fields overlap, information studies provide insights primarily about the contextual and relational aspects of using the digital library, while instructional technology provides insights primarily about learning with the various media formats encompassed within this rich and complex venue. Information literacy, an area that incorporates concepts from both areas, provides a useful overarching framework for considering the digital library as a learning environment.

Is There a Future for Cooperative Collection Development in the Digital Age

Abstract: Of the three major components of resource sharing, cooperative collection development, in contrast to bibliographic access and interlibrary lending, has thus far experienced less extensive transformation as a result of new technologies There is widespread agreement about the factors that should lead to success in cooperative collection building projects, but there is also a general sense that such projects have not lived up to their promise The changes being experienced during the present transition to a largely digital environment offer new opportunities for cooperative collection development efforts but also call into question the value of investing in models based on a predominantly print environment Collection development librarians may find that, in the future, their expertise may be the most important resource they have to share rather than the collections they are building

The Evolution of Selection Activities for Electronic Resources

Abstract: As THE PRINCIPLES OF COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT have evolved over the last two decades, most selection activities for electronic resources have developed from criteria established for print materials. For nonprint formats, selection criteria follow a generally standard model, varying only slightly as additional criteria are needed to assure equipment compatibility and storage security. Selection of electronic resources, such as CD-ROMs, dial access databases, electronic journals, and World Wide Web (WWW) products, requires a more extensive set of criteria. This article outlines how the traditional selection activities must continue to evolve to meet the needs of the new electronic environment.

Teaching Reflection: Information Seeking and Evaluation in a Digital Library Environment

Abstract: In this article, we explore influences of electronic information systems on teaching methods. Data are analyzed from the information literacy portion of an introductory computer science course. This curriculum was taught by the first author, whose pedagogical goal was to teach students to search for and evaluate information using a variety of systems. Her teaching methods were informed by three complementary theories: Kuhlthau's (1993a) process model, cognitive flexibility theory, and situated cognition. She also employed Schon's (1983) reflective practitioner model, which stipulates that teachers evaluate their pedagogical methods as a course is in session. Although this work is far from being completed, we have confirmed that teachers must be able to reflect on specific incidents and adjust their teaching methods according to individual situations rather than strictly follow prescribed models. Even though the new information systems encourage interaction and offer user-friendly interfaces, the ability to search effectively across systems and critically evaluate retrieved information still needs to be taught. In other words, the digital library environment demands instructional intervention which is flexible and responsive to the situation. Thus we perceive digital libraries as systems comprised of the user, digitized information and software tools, and human mediators.

Building the Infrastructure of Resource Sharing: Union Catalogs, Distributed Search, and Cross-Database Linkage.

Abstract: Effective resource sharing presupposes an infrastructure which permits users to locate materials of interest in both print and electonic formats. Two approaches for providing this are union catalogs and Z39.50-based distributed search systems. The advantages and limitations of each approach are considered, paying particular attention to a realistic assessment of Z39.50 implementations. This article argues that the two approaches should be considered complementary rather than competitive. Technologies to create linkage between the bibliographic apparatus of catalogs and abstracting and indexing databases and primary content in electronic form; such as the new Serial Item and Contribution Identifier (SICI) standard are also discussed as key elements in the infrastructure to support resource sharing.

Resources description in the digital age

Abstract: Resource description, known more familiarly within the library community as cataloging or indexing, is undergoing intense scrutiny with the rapid proliferation of, and access to, digital resources. There are many initiatives addressing a range of issues. The author references the following discussions and proposals: the need for, and definition of, a basic set of metadata elements; the examination of library cataloging objectives and record structures; persistent addresses for resources; and the proposal for a data registry to facilitate interoperability among metadata schemes. The importance of a framework for resource discovery created through formal resource description is reiterated.

Activity in Professional Associations: The Positive Difference in a Librarian's Career

Abstract: PARTICIPATING ACTIVELY IN PROFESSIONAL associations can make a positive difference in a librarian’s job and career. Associations are relevant sources of current information. Effective communication and leadership skills are learned or enhanced. Librarians can become familiar with the processes of research and publication. A sense of professional community is nurtured. This article discusses the impact of active participation in professional associations on the librarian’s job and career development.

The Value of Professional Associations

Abstract: PROFESSIONAL INTHE IIBRARY/INFORMATION ASSOCL~TIONS science field are viewed from the perspective of the value they bring to the field Two areas in particular, research and professional development, are reviewed in this context based on the efforts of ALA,ALISE, ASIS, and SLA

Professional Associations or Unions? A Comparative Look.

Abstract: The article discusses professional associations and unions in terms of their culture, motives for collective action, and the values which they ultimately promote. The author concludes that it is up to a professional occupation to define the degree of difference between these two types of organizations.

Silicon dreams and silicon bricks : The continuing evolution of libraries

Abstract: THE DIGITAL REVOLUTION WILL EVENTUALLY LEAD TO DRAMATIC CHANGES in libraries as print is eclipsed by electronics. However, while some changes, especially in research libraries, are imminent, others will be drawn out over several decades. To survive, libraries will have to rethink their basic mission

Resource Sharing in a Changing Ohio Environment

Abstract: Starting from the assumption that significantly expanded resource sharing will be a dominant feature of all twenty-first century libraries, this article identifies five milestones or landmarks which can be used to identify key tasks and chart progress. Joining a consortium, integrating intellectual access, providing for both physical and electronic delivery of materials, and integrating the collection development process are steps illustrated with primary reference to the OhioLINK (OL) experience. This article focuses on clearly identifying major issues in resource sharing and illustrating possible solutions with actual examples. The intent, however, is to educate and facilitate ongoing discussion rather than propose final answers.

To join or not to join : How librarians make membership decisions about their associations

Abstract: Why do librarians join professional associations? Although a literature review finds little research on the topic, the author's survey concludes that many factors influence decisions.

Electronic Collections and Wired Faculty.

Abstract: This article explores the relevance between electronic resources and faculty in their teaching and research. The role these resources play in faculty planning for their own research and their planning for their students' research, individual learning, and classroom activities are all explored. Additionally, issues pertaining to geographically dispersed students and faculty, copyright, and computer skills are included. The discussion uses The Pennsylvania State University as a model, and a spectrum of Penn State faculty were interviewed and provided information about their work and the impact of electronic resources.

Professional Associations: Promoting Leadership in a Career.

Abstract: Leadership within the library community is vitally important in the wake of continual technological developments, recurrent budgetary shortfalls, and the fluidity of the job market for library professionals. Libraries must identify and foster the inherent personal characteristics and skills considered most relevant for leadership in the field of information management. Professional library associations play an important role in teaching and developing skills by providing experiential opportunities for their membership. Career models for academic or research librarians are discussed along with an assessment of career management.

Searching for Digital Libraries in Education: Why Computers Cannot Tell the Story

Abstract: This article argues for the evaluation of digital libraries in schools by drawing upon situated observations, an exploration of educational goals, and a discusssion of current technologies. As most of the research and development of digital libraries has been directed toward specialized workplace settings, the authors posit that an unrealized potential exists for the development of educational digital libraries, raising a number of current questions and challenges. First, the meanings and practices of information searching and information use are explored from the perspectives of teachers and students. The article next focuses upon contexts of library activity, emphasizing how physical and digital spaces carry their own meanings in relation to the school community and pedagogical practices. Further, these physical and digital spaces articulate and become the contexts of new hybrid practices and roles for educators and students alike.

Commercial Document Suppliers: How Many of the ILL/DD Periodical Article Requests Can They Fulfill?

Abstract: AESTRACT COMMERCIAL DOCUMENT SUPPLIERS have been capturing an increasing share of the document supply market. New data on the availability of periodical articles at five frequently used commercial suppliers are presented. The findings are based on samples of periodical requests processed through the OCLC PRISM ILL service over a recent twelve-month period. Of the 373 sample articles, 92 percent are available from at least one of these suppliers. Other related findings are: approximately 40 percent of all requests pertain to articles; one-fifth of all the articles are published in the preceding year; and 64 percent are published within a fiveyear-period. Date and format variables, taken together, can serve as a starting point for programmatically selecting and directing requests to commercial suppliers.

Influence of the Digital Environment on Literature for Youth: Radical Change in the Handheld Book

Abstract: A radical change, an unalterable transormation in form and content, is underway in handheld books for youth, influenced by the digital environment of the 1990s. The multilayered, nonlinear, nonsequential, graphic, interactive nature of digitized communication and the affinity of children for it are examined. Numerous examples of handheld literature for youth reflecting these digital influences are woven into the discussion. A new framework for literary criticism and evaluation, taking account of the radical changes in literature for youth, is proposed. The author suggests that: (1) those involved with criticism or evaluation of children's literature will take account of the constructs of radical change in order to employ an appropriate holistic context for examination; (2) children's increasing freedom from the dominance of a limiting adult definition of their capabilities will be reflected in how their handheld literature is structured; (3) printed handheld literature will continue to be calibrated to changes in the digitized environment; and (4) further radical changes in literature for youth will develop in a nonlinear, nonhierarchical fashion.

Interlibrary Loan and Resource Sharing: The Economics of the SUNY Express Consortium

Abstract: This article present an economic analysis of the SUNY Express consortium and the potential savings from consortium delivery of scholarly articles and joint collection development. An economic model of consortium collection development is presented. Data on the cost of interlibrary loan, journal prices, andjournal use are provided to determine the potential savings of the SUNY Express consortium. While considerable savings are possible using consortium delivery of scholarly journal articles, savings from joint collection development are small.

Becoming digital : Policy implications for library youth services

Abstract: The author frames the policy issues surrounding children and digital libraries by establishing two criteria for decision making: (1) Does this policy facilitate access to information by children and young adults? and (2) Does this policy enable the library to provide better service to children and young adults? The intellectual freedom issues are discussed along with the range of responses to them, including the use of filtering software and the teaching of information literacy skills. Both the digital challenge to conventional collection development policy and the problem of equity are linked to the issue of access to information. The outcomes for children from digital libraries are weighed, and a policy metanarrative is constructed from the conflicting images of the child in the digital world by including the computer as an active protagonist interacting constructively with the child.

Surveying the role of Ethnic-American library associations

Abstract: In the last quarter centurey, ethnic professional associations have been organized by American librarians of various ethnicities. These associations fill a niche in the profession not met by other associations. This article explores several such organizations to understand their origins and roles among the professional associations in library and information science. The associations examined are the American Indian Library Association, the Chinese-American Librarians Association, the Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association, REFORMA, ALA Black Caucus, the Association of Jewish Libraries, and the Jewish Information Committee. The ALA Ethnic Materials and Information Exchange Round Table and the ALA Office for Literacy and Outreach Services are considered in connection with the ethnic American library associations. The authors also posit areas for further research.

International Library Associations.

Abstract: This article presents an overview of the types of international library associations which exist today. These include large, truly global, associations; large associations which are adding international components; small associations with membership of a specific professional grouping or type of library; small associations which focus on a specific subject area; and local or regional library associations which have a very circumscribed constituency. Issues and trends which exemplify these associations include their ability to communicate with their members, their ability to create relevant programs and conferences, and their need to evaluate their successes. This article will highlight five international library associations which typify the trends.

One Giant Leap, One Small Step: Continuing the Migration to Electronic Journals

Abstract: AFSTRACT A NUMBER OF RECENT EVENTS, most notably the emergence of the World Wide Web, have triggered a dramatic increase in the availability of electronic journals. Today’s electronic journals make use of the technologies of the present but are also based on the experiences of the past. This article discusses the steps that have been taken to reach the point where we are today in electronic publishing, including CD-ROM systems, local data loading, and pre-Web online, and outlines some remaining obstacles, including critical mass, aggregation, local collection development, integration, and archiving, that must be overcome before libraries can make the ultimate leap from paper to electronic collections.

Resource Sharing in the Systemic Context of Scholarly Communication

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to examine issues related to resource sharing among libraries within the context of world knowledge needs, economic and publishing realities, and the intersection of conflicting interests of stakeholders in the scholarly communications system as it moves into an increasingly electronic environment. The author surveys the emergence of distinctive attitudes and localized solutions to practical challenges faced by librarians and publishers under the impact of electronic documents, and considers the kinds of technical solutions and impacts that might be expected in the future.

Just in Time Learning with Electric Library

Abstract: The arrival of digital libraries has necessitated the creation of a new definition of literacy. This author is an inventor of an online reference library service (Electric Library/Homework Helper) and posits that free-form learning and information delivered on demand to a scholar is the highest form of new media literacy. This just in time learning embodies all of the most popular aspects of twenty-first century literacy as recently defined and debated by educators and librarians. The author surveys recent research and literature on the topic and defines twenty-first century literacy in a new light, expanding on the traditional definition while incorporating a discussion of the Electric Library as it pertains to this new media trend.

Creating a Future for Public Libraries: Diverse Strategies for a Diverse Nation

Abstract: PUBLIC LIBRARIES ctwmmLY FACE a number of significant challenges and opportunities as they move into the digital future. The report Buildings, Books, and Bytes: Libraries and Communities in the Digital Age is a useful catalyst to continue the discussion concerning the role of public libraries in this global, networked, digital future. This article raises some concerns regarding the method used in the study, selected findings, and the lack of specific recommendations. Findings from other recent studies do offer some strategies and recommendations for making this transition effective. Moreover, global strategies for how public libraries, as a group, can effectively make this transition may miss the mark. At issue is how each librxy, individually, offers a vision, promotes that vision, responds to its community, and takes a leadership stance as to what its role should be in this electronic networked environment. Public libraries will need diverse strategies that depend on a range of factors to be successful.

Issues in Commercial Document Delivery

Abstract: Fifteen years ago, document delivery was a cottage industry looking for its niche in the information marketplace. It has grown exponentially as publishers, clients, and vendors grapple with the future of article-based information delivery. The history of document delivery is discussed from a business perspective, and the author examines the most important factors in choosing the best document vendor. Assisted and frustrated by rapid advances in technology, document delivery has matured. The industry has seen large corporations acquire individually owned enterprises, infusing capital and supporting growth to keep pace with client demands. From the perspective of a document delivery pioneer, a number of key issues are examined. Fundamental in the new order is intellectual property. Today's vendor must negotiate with primary publishers, reproduction rights organizations (CCC, CANCOPY etc.), and authors in an attempt to work within the new and evolving copyright paradigm. Scanning and imaging technology, photocopying, hardware, software, and cost analyses are among the other factors evaluated for their influence on document delivery.

How firm a foundation

Abstract: THE BENTON FOUNDATION REPORT, Buildings, Books, and Bytes: Libraries and Communities in the Digital Age, bases its conclusions on three separate data collections: a gathering of insights from Kellogg Foundation grantees, a telephone survey, and a focus group interview. In order to judge the weight that can be placed on the report, the quality of the information obtained through these investigations is assessed in terms of the methods used. A concluding discussion raises ignored issues in the determination of the role of the public library

Creating Library Services with Wow! Staying Slightly Ahead of the Curve

Abstract: THE BENTON REPORT (BENTON FOUNDATION, 1996) IS A THOUGHT PROVOKING study that must be widely read. It is impossible to envision any modern organizations, including libraries, succeeding by staying slightly behind the curve of service improvement as presented in the metaphor discussed by users and leaders in the report. Being behind the added-value service curve means: (1) the needs of the majority of the people are being met elsewhere; (2) the loss of a passionate new generation of users, and (3) a scenario set for failure. Staying slightly ahead of the curve means creating library services with Wow!-i.e., giving users expected services but also surprising them with added-value that they did not expect. A variety of ideas for adding value (Wow!) to library services are discussed. Specific examples are given including time shifting, time saving, site shifting, improving quality, reducing noise, customization, personalization, and so on. In the Benton Report, users thought libraries should take a reactive role, adapting to, rather than pioneering, new technologies. Since digital technologies can and already do offer previously impossible new services that can greatly improve consumer satisfaction and added value, a reactive role to technology is not a prescription for success. Providing sophisticated, value-added services, enabled by proven powerful new nonlocal technologies, supports and fosters the library's local higher purpose (public good)