1. Computer technology has made a significant difference in increasing access to information and in streamlining library or archive operations. How has this technology influenced the management of libraries or archives? Think of yourself as a manager in a specific type of library (academic, public, special, or school) or archives and discuss the policy considerations that arise because of the technology. Which managerial functions are easier to perform because of the technology? Are there managerial situations that become more difficult because the technology is in the library or archive?

2. Many theorists consider "authority control" essential to information systems. Explain what "authority control" means, describe how authority work can be done, and discuss its implications for information storage and retrieval. You may focus your answer on a particular type of information system, such as a catalog or a database.

3. Although libraries now acquire materials in numerous new and varied formats, the methods of collection development and criteria for materials selection remain largely the same. Discuss these and the ways in which they apply to both traditional and new information formats.

4. Classifying books for a library appears to be quite a different task from abstracting or indexing journal articles; yet, these three activities do have some elements in common. Discuss both the similarities and the differences using hypothetical examples.

5. The European invention of printing from movable metal type in the 15th century is frequently regarded as a catalyst for cultural change in Europe and a sharp break with the past. Can an equally strong case be made for the printing press (especially in its early stages) as an agent of continuity as well as change? If so, make it. If not, explain why.

6. It is commonly observed that the information problem facing today's library users is too much, not too little information. Describe some methods reference librarians use to filter or limit information for patrons in order that they receive only what they want.

7. The use of volunteers in libraries and archives has been regarded as a mixed blessing. Particularly in times of budget constraints, unpaid internships and volunteer staffing become more prevalent. What is their appropriate role in libraries or archives? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these solutions to problems of staff cutbacks.

8. Preservation of collections has been described as the flip side of acquisitions. Should the decision to acquire an item for a library also include some consideration of preservation? In times of budget stringencies, does the relative importance of acquisitions to preservation change? If so, how? Is preservation more important in some types of libraries than in others?

9. Recent discussions of professional ethics for library and information professionals have included various recommendations: that the Code of Ethics for Librarians be more strictly enforced, that it be scrapped altogether, that it be revised and updated, that it be replaced by separate codes for various specialties. Other commentators favor the status quo. Discuss the role of a code of ethics for librarians. What basic values are embodied in the current code? How might these values differ among different groups of librarians and information professionals? Discuss which of the recommended alternatives you favor and explain why.

10. You have been asked to conduct a preliminary assessment of the holdings of an information center which has never been automated. (Select one: small college library, school media center, legal or medical library, or a university archives). Discuss how you would proceed. In addition to technological issues and standards, be sure to note any political, social, or staffing issues that might need to be taken into account.

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