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The intent of this article is to illustrate outcomes and results of a collection analysis done by a smaller academic library.

The collection was evaluated using an online analysis tool combined with a physical inventory of the collection.

Peer group comparisons revealed some of the problems with this particular collection were also widespread among the comparison libraries. The value of the e‐book collection to patrons was clear: not only did e‐books provide resources to remote students; they help compensate for shortfalls in the print collection.

The catalog more accurately reflects what is on the shelf and also what is reported to OCLC. Access to the collection has been improved and enhanced. Steps were taken to refocus the library's collection development procedures and management. The changes made have led to increased faculty involvement in selection and a more balanced, more comprehensive collection management plan.

For any library considering whether they can or should do an analysis, the article illustrates that the benefits are well worth the time and expense. The analysis had a positive impact on collection development and management.

The tragedy of the War has come very close to librarians in the death of Mr. W. G. C. Gladstone, M.P., from wounds received in action in Flanders on April 14th. About two years ago he became interested in the new Libraries Bill, and took charge of it in the House of Commons. He worked assiduously, and his historic name, and his genial, unaffected manner won over men on all sides of the House, insomuch that the backers of the Bill included members of every political complexion. War has intervened, and prevented the Bill's progress, and now our Parliamentary leader has given his life for a greater cause. Regret for his loss is widespread throughout the country, and no one will feel it more keenly than librarians.

This paper aims to investigate the relationship between information literacy and critical thinking. Specifically, the connection between the elements of critical thinking as expressed in one university’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) and the advancing learning transforming scholarship (ACRL) Information Literacy Competency Standards (ACRL IL Standards). Concrete examples of how librarians support information literacy and critical thinking were examined.

Following a literature review, the ACRL IL Standards were mapped to the elements of a university’s QEP (critical thinking + core values = decision-making). A wiki was then created to illicit specific examples from librarians regarding how they incorporate the elements of critical thinking in their reference/instruction work.

Considerable correspondence was found between the ACRL IL Standards and the elements of critical thinking in the QEP, but this varied with the specific standard and the specific QEP component. Wiki results revealed that librarians used many concrete activities that supported QEP critical-thinking elements.

In this study, mapping the ACRL IL Standards to QEP components was subjective, performed by only one individual. Future research, perhaps involving the forthcoming ACRL IL Standards, might be better carried out by a larger group, thereby enhancing objectivity.

The literature review showed a lack of specificity in how critical thinking is defined and integrated into library reference/instruction work. The present study compared eight specific elements of critical thinking to the ACRL IL Standards and found 108 concrete examples of their application.

We issue a double Souvenir number of The Library World in connection with the Library Association Conference at Birmingham, in which we have pleasure in including a special article, “Libraries in Birmingham,” by Mr. Walter Powell, Chief Librarian of Birmingham Public Libraries. He has endeavoured to combine in it the subject of Special Library collections, and libraries other than the Municipal Libraries in the City. Another article entitled “Some Memories of Birmingham” is by Mr. Richard W. Mould, Chief Librarian and Curator of Southwark Public Libraries and Cuming Museum. We understand that a very full programme has been arranged for the Conference, and we have already published such details as are now available in our July number.