The research project focuses on aspects of multi-skilling as utilized in academic libraries internationally which contributes to providing a quality service delivery. The researcher&rsquo / s extensive literature search, focuses on aspect of multi-skilling programs such as: job rotation, cross-training, job enrichment, on-the-job training, and succession planning conducted at academic libraries in America, Australia, Canada, Birmingham, Nigeria, Kenya, Botswana and South Africa. Multi-skilling can be seen as the umbrella term for the above concepts.<br /> <br /> It was found in the literature that aspects of multi-skilling as applied in American academic libraries was a voluntary process and often occurred between the Public service and the Technical service within academic libraries. At Wollongong, Queensland and Birmingham academic libraries the program was formal, and staff had to apply to enrol for the program. This does not mean that staff qualified automatically. This was a formalized policy within the university. In Nigeria, Kenya and Botswana the program, at academic libraries was formal but literature does not indicate if it is a university policy or just the academic library&rsquo / s policy.<br /> The immense benefits derived from all the aspects of multi-skilling are: contributes towards employee training and development / employee satisfaction / reduction in boredom / increased productivity / enhances job skills / increased versatility / career mobility and advancement / increased intellectual stimulation and confidence / enhances workers&rsquo / flexibility and broadens their knowledge / achieves efficiency in the workplace / helps break down barriers in efficiency which exists on many levels / better communication between the various units in the library / and better understanding of responsibility involved in other units.<br /> <br /> For academic libraries to become effective, the management of service organizations needs to create a climate in which staff will function effectively, be happy and derive maximum satisfaction from their work. Academic libraries exist for the benefit of their users, supporting the teaching and research programs of their parent institutions. To achieve this objective, the academic library manager needs to have effective staff organization strategies devised to ensure best quality service delivery to its users.<br /> These strategies employed are job rotation, cross training, job enrichment, succession planning and on-the-job training that will ultimately contribute towards provision of a quality service delivery.

The social impacts of new information technology have attracted much attention in recent years. This study looked at the personal computer's impact on the public library's services and functions. Particular attention was paid to the public access personal computer. The method involved a Baseline survey to establish the availability and use of public access personal computers in Australian public libraries and a Delphi survey to consider possible futures. The researcher's framework was drawn from reviews of the literatures on futures research; new information technology and its social impacts; the development and current situation of the public library; and innovation research. The Baseline survey revealed that public access personal computers were becoming increasingly common in public libraries, though their provision was not yet widespread. Existing and planned uses included games, literacy and various other educational activities. Overall the public access personal computer was viewed as a favourable innovation with the part it could play in developing community computer literacy receiving particular attention. The Delphi panel was comprised of 25 public librarians selected on the basis of their knowledge about computers in public libraries. The 41 Event Statements postulated a wide range of changes in - (1) the nature and method of service provision; (2) the patterns of client demand and use; and, (3) financial allocations. The results revealed greater variability of opinion about the likely time of occurrence of the Events than about their desirability. A high level of opinion change between the two Rounds did not produce much movement toward consensus - indicating that the panel had varied views of the future. Comment on both surveys indicated that the librarians were keen to develop services relevant to their communities and if public access personal computers were such a service they would strive to provide them. The Delphi survey proved a good vehicle for encouraging consideration of the future and further research using the method seems warranted.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Washington, 2006. / Vita. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 204-223).

Thesis (D. Min.)--Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, 1987. / Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 344-355).

Thesis (Ed.D.)--University of Central Florida, 2008. / Includes bibliographical references (p. 106-111). Also available online.

Thesis--Pennsylvania State University, 1968. / Vita. Bibliography: leaves 215-221. Also issued in print.

Report (M. Eng.)--Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1991. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 139-148). Also available via the Internet.

Thesis (Ed.D.)--University of Central Florida, 2008. / Adviser: William Bozeman. Includes bibliographical references (p. 106-111).

Thesis (M.A.)--University of Alberta, 2009. Thesis (M.L.Sc.)--University of Alberta, 2009. / "Fall 2009." Title from pdf file main screen (viewed on October 30, 2009). A thesis submitted to the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts and Master of Library and Information Studies, Humanities Computing, Library and Information Studies, University of Alberta. Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--Texas Woman's University, 1992. / eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 120-151).