Open source library management systems have improved steadily in the last five years. They now present a credible option for small to medium libraries and library networks. An approach to their evaluation is proposed that takes account of three additional dimensions that only open source can offer: the developer and support community, the source…

Some of the issues currently confronting libraries are discussed from the perspective of the librarian in an independent school, including automation, censorship, copyright legislation, evaluation, insurance, and networks. A section of statements about these issues and questions relating them to the respondent's library is provided as a guide to…

Arguing that professional library literature often ignores the problem of evaluating the effectiveness of a library tour or the aids (e.g., audiotape, slides, video, computer programs, handbooks) which may supplement the tour, this article provides a proposed evaluation model for measuring a tour's success. The evaluation of library tours is…

Describes the evaluation of four relational database management systems (RDBMSs) (Informix Turbo, Oracle 6.0 TPS, Unify 2000 and Relational Technology's Ingres 5.0) to determine which is best suited for library automation. The evaluation criteria used to develop a benchmark specifically designed to test RDBMSs for libraries are discussed. (CLB)

Purpose: Learning how to identify and avoid inaccurate information, especially disinformation, is essential for any informational consumer. Many information literacy tools specify criteria that can help users evaluate information more efficiently and effectively. However, the authors of these tools do not always agree on which criteria should be…

Briefly reviews the development of Chinese library schools and describes the management and evaluation of library school faculty. The discussion covers problems with the current system and suggestions for improvements. A directory of departments of library and information science in China is included. (21 references) (CLB)

This document is an orientation manual for the Library Media Specialist Evaluation System, a part of the Tennessee Career Ladder Better Schools Program. This evaluation system was developed by using the best ideas from educational research and from library media specialists in Tennessee. The system was field tested in the fall of 1985. Contained…

Evaluation and the objectives of library instruction are inextricably linked; evaluation starts with a questioning of the necessity of library instruction itself. It begins by asking if library instruction can meet student needs, if it embraces realistic objectives, and if it is cost effective. (17 references) (Author/NH)

This essay outlines general criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of an existing or proposed sign system for libraries with respect to the needs of physically disabled library users, specifically the deaf, the blind, and those confined to wheelchairs. The function of the International Symbol of Access is described, and design considerations…

Describes a new analytical tool, data envelope analysis (DEA) model, which can provide better understanding of the efficiency of academic research libraries. Reports the results of a study using 1994-1995 Association of Research Libraries statistics together with expert judgments, in terms of constraints, to make the model more applicable to the…

Taking a post-modern approach, this paper addresses the relevance of measurement and evaluation of libraries and information services. The following topics are discussed: (1) past and present approaches to performance measurement, including origins of measurement and landmarks of the past; (2) a conceptual framework for evaluation, including a…

The collective bargaining agreement between Adrian College and Adrian College Association of Professors, an affiliate of the Michigan and National Education Associations, covering the period September 1, 1984-September 1, 1986 is presented. Items covered in the agreement include: unit recognition; definitions; rights of the Board of Trustees;…

Professional librarians working in public libraries are generally evaluated in a number of ways, including standardized forms. By collecting and studying these forms, it was proposed that certain management traits and behaviors could be identified and compared. A total of 115 libraries serving municipalities with populations of more than 50,000…

This report begins by noting that, in the interests of developing a vigorous and professionally active library faculty, a major goal of the James White Library (Andrews University, Michigan) is to recruit, retain and promote librarians who are highly self-motivated and have the ability to support the mission of the library. It then provides…

Focuses on resources useful for the evaluation of school library media specialists, including four Web sites from various states and one from the American Association of School Librarians, and a chapter in a print publication. Include areas of competencies, intervention plans, evaluation criteria, sample job descriptions, and evaluation…