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The transition from printed to digital versions of reference works has important consequences not only for those materials as collections of resources, but also for the ways in which libraries select and use those materials. Users are attracted by the benefits of online tools: remote access, around the clock access, access to multiple copies, and improved searching features. Librarians are aware of the drawbacks: the absence of some content, technical complexity, higher costs, and risks that arise when leased access replaces ownership. Database purchasing decisions may bypass the expertise of subject bibliographers, while aggregators, consortia and grant‐makers play new roles in defining the content of library collections. The technical and mechanical problems associated with databases present new challenges to reference desk staff, and introduce systems staff as partners. Successful engagement with change includes an appreciation of users’ expectations, and a positive attitude.

To determine the most popular entries on library ready reference web sites and the role of visibility in the selection of resources.

Ready reference web sites of 100 American libraries were examined, for a census of the most frequently selected online resources. The dates of news, library and online media coverage were considered for specific tools, to explain their prominence.

Early publicity for web tools was found to be an important element in their relative popularity as choices for library web sites.

The date on which a given web resource became well known among librarians can only be estimated from media reports, not proved. Additional study could establish the frequency with which libraries modify their ready reference web sites and investigate why other resources of comparable quality have not become as popular.

The paper shows that early visibility plays a role in librarians' selection of web resources that is rarely mentioned in discussions of selection criteria.

The purpose of this paper is to provide a selected bibliography of recent resources on library instruction and information literacy.

The paper introduces and annotates periodical articles, monographs, and audiovisual material examining library instruction and information literacy.

The findings provide information about each source, discusses the characteristics of current scholarship, and describes sources that contain unique scholarly contributions and quality reproductions.

The information may be used by librarians and interested parties as a quick reference to literature on library instruction and information literacy.