We believe video games have a place in libraries. We start by describing two provocative video games. Next, we offer a framework for the general mission of libraries, including access, motivation, and guidance. As a medium, video games have some distinguishing traits: they are visual, interactive, and based on simulations. We explain how these…

This paper is based on the author's empirical experience in assisting cultural immersion programs through developing multicultural collections, promoting diversity resources, and creating a supportive information environment for faculty and students. After summarizing the significance, goals, learning objectives, and program models of cultural…

The 20th century information explosion provided widespread technological innovation and ease of access to information, and due to the 21st century emphasis on digital collections and electronic resources, libraries around the world are facing an uncertain future. This naturally causes librarians to re-evaluate their professional role, but perhaps…

This paper discusses some of the issues related to e-journals: cost, speed of publication, global access, the politics of academic publication, and reduced control of publication houses. E-journals are also examined relative to their impact on academic responsibility, the peer review process, censorship, credibility, and academic literacy skill…

Accessibility issues are at the forefront of library services as the number of students with disabilities attending colleges or universities continues to increase. Three areas where academic librarians can concentrate efforts to better meet the needs of these students are: bibliographic instruction, web page design, and staff training. While the…

Discusses the unique factors that online electronic resources pose in school library settings. Topics include the appropriateness of online electronic resources; strategic planning for Internet access, including acceptable use policies; administrative issues; selection and acquisition; organization; and intellectual access, including library…

Discusses copyright issues that arise when creating digital archives. Highlights include public-domain material; fair use of copyrighted works; uncertain copyright status; cooperative projects; acquiring or accessing digital archives; and copyright for works the library digitizes. (LRW)

Discusses issues related to electronic publishing. Topics include writing; reading; production, distribution, and commerce; copyright and ownership of intellectual property; archival storage; technical obsolescence; control of content; equality of access; and cultural changes. (Author/LRW)

Describes the creation of a database of publishers' catalogs of teaching materials by a teaching resources librarian using Apple software. Topics discussed include decisions about material inclusion, the creation of searchable fields, the design and format of the database, updating, and the effectiveness of the database. A selected bibliography is…

Describes and compares three versions of the ERIC database that are available on optical data disks: (1) DIALOG OnDisc ERIC; (2) OCLC Search CD450; and (3) SilverPlatter ERIC. The database contents, software and search commands, hardware requirements, notable features, and costs of each version are discussed. (CLB)

Discusses the growing importance of machine readable data files (MRDFs) as library reference tools, and describes the policies and services for MRDFs developed at the University of Florida libraries. Guidelines to selecting, acquiring, and planning for MRDFs are appended, along with examples of ERIC records for MRDFs. (four references) (CLB)

Discusses the use of numeric machine readable data files (MRDFs) in educational research. Three areas are addressed: MRDFs that deal specifically with educational topics and processes; the use of general databases, such as the 1990 census, by educational researchers; and the use of the new Integrated Postsecondary Educational System database to…

Describes the products and services offered by the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC), and how users can access this information. AskERIC, other ERIC gopher sites, the National Parent Information Network, ERIC listserv activity on the Internet, and ERIC's offerings on commercial online services are discussed. It also lists resources…

Discusses new technology for research and pedagogy in the electronic age and gives examples of usage. The role of librarians as knowledge managers and the development of automated instructional systems for higher education are also considered; and a selected bibliography of 25 titles by the author is included. (10 references) (EA)

Reviews the history and structure of ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center), and describes the resources provided by the system that offer opportunities for networking by education librarians. Such resources include the ERIC database, publications, search services, document delivery services, and outreach programs. Opportunities for…