The internet and special librarians : use, training and the future

Former Special Libraries Association Networking Committee chairs Ladner and Tillman analyze the results of their survey of Internet use by special librarians. In the first half of their report, they describe the methods of network access, determine the advantages and disadvantages of having network access, and identify training needs. The authors conclude that electronic mail is the "major reason why special librarians should use the Internet." In the second half, Ladner and Tillman look at the implications of Internet, saying that advances in network technology might eliminate the need for patrons to visit the special library. They predict that special librarians "will emerge as information consultants and guides," cybersurfing with their patrons through the array of Internet databases. The authors warn that "Internet will not make or break the special library, although ignoring the type of communication technology it represents will . . . hasten its demise." Appendixes include an Internet tutorial written specifically for special librarians, a list of Internet access providers, a list of electronic conferences of interest to special librarians, and a glossary. Librarians who have limited or no time to explore Internet should at least examine this report.