Information Technology in Public Libraries in Kuwait: A First Study

This study examines the availability and use of information technology in public libraries in Kuwait. Specific areas addressed are (1) hardware/software, (2) patterns of connectivity such as LANs, Internet, etc., (3) training and development activities in support of information technology, and (4) future projections regarding the use of information technology. The study provides policy-makers and information professionals with previously unavailable baseline data concerning the use of computers and access to telecommunications networks in public libraries in Kuwait. A questionnaire sent to all public libraries (N=25) yielded a 92% response. Interviews with libraries' administrators and authorities were also undertaken to gather additional data. The results of the study reveal that many information technology inequalities exist among the libraries. Only eight libraries make use of computers and 15 are without any type of IT-related technology. The study shows that few libraries have connectivity, limited use of applications, and the implementation of an automated library system are slow moving. Factors impeding the development of information technology are planning, funding, human resources, and building structure. Recommendations are made with the intention to encourage the public library sector and information professionals in Kuwait to take a proactive position in overcoming the forces that hinder the development of IT.     

Standards for Library Education in Private Universities in Jordan

Standards are necessary to ensure that quality programs in Library and Information Science are delivered. The paper outlines the development of library education programs in Jordan. It places particular emphasis on the development, beginning in 1998, of the programs in private universities and describes the design of library standards for those programs at the undergraduate level. A historical look at Jordan, the higher education system, emergence and development of private universities are reviewed and standards are prescribed. The standards include rationales, objectives, curricula, study plans, basic and supplementary courses required, major subject areas of study, faculty qualifications, student admission, physical resources and facilities, and administration and financial support.     

A survey of pediatricians' attitudes and experiences with court in cases of child maltreatment

OBJECTIVES: To explore pediatricians' attitudes and experiences with the court system in child maltreatment cases. DESIGN: An anonymous, cross-sectional survey of a random sample of pediatricians registered with the North Carolina Medical Board. RESULTS: The response rate of the study was 60% (N=270). Few pediatricians (10%) reported that they had "ever" suspected maltreatment but decided not to report it. Pediatricians were equally likely to recall positive and negative experiences in court for child abuse cases. Pediatricians with negative court experiences were more likely to view reporting as time-consuming and were more than twice as likely not to report suspected cases of maltreatment (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.04, 6.0). Seventy-five percent of pediatricians felt that court is harmful or distressing for children. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of pediatricians report suspected cases of child maltreatment. Pediatrician's court experiences play a role in the response to child maltreatment cases, influencing attitudes towards the legal system and the process of caring for maltreated children. Future research efforts should address physicians' concerns about the impact of court on children, ways to improve the working relationship between the legal system and physicians, and the training needs of physicians in child maltreatment, including testifying and understanding the court process.     

Purpose is Dead,Long Live Purpose!

Science & Education -