AbstractsPsychology

A survey was undertaken to establish the different methods used by the special libraries in the Johannesburg-Witwatersrand region in providing current awareness services, and the extent to which the libraries subscribe to externally-available services, with particular regard to bureaux offering computerized Selective Dissemination of information (SOl). After analyzing the responses to a questionnaire sent to the 133 libraries which constituted the population surveyed, it appears that more attention could be given to the function of providing current awareness services. Increased use of externally-available services, and greater co-operation in the provision of internally-generated services, especially information bulletins, appears advisable. It is recommended that the special libraries inaugurate a regional information policy with regard to the provision of current awareness services in order that existing services be extended and new activities, more in line with the advanced information disseminating procedures available today, be planned and implemented