The 1990's brought the greatest changes to both the Federal Depository Library Program [FDLP] and the State Depository Library Program in the Twentieth Century. These changes reflected the growing importance of electronic publishing and distribution of government information as CD-ROM distribution gave way to the World Wide Web.
The accepted Depository principles of free public access, distribution [with certain exceptions] of all federal publications to the FDLP libraries, and the location of FDLP libraries in each state and Congressional district to promote public access were gradually over shadowed by the realization that without guaranteed Permanent Public Access to electronic government information, the Depository Programs would have little chance of surviving beyond the Twentieth Century.
Changes in the Federal Depository Program included:
- The Government Printing Office Electronic Information Access Enhancement Act of 1993 enacted (Public Law 103-40) "GPO Access Law;" the launch in 1994 of the GPO Access service - first as a subscription service but free to depositories and later as a free web-based service to the public.
- The celebration in 1995 of the Centennial year of Federal Depository Library Program;
- The publication in 1996 of the GPO Study to Identify Measures Necessary for a Successful Transition to a More Electronic Federal Depository Library Program that outlined a transition to a predominantly electronic Depository Library Program in 5 to 7 years; and
- The 1998 GPO report, Managing the FDLP Electronic Collection: A Policy and Planning Document.
(Taken from the history of the Federal Depository Library Program, "Keeping America Informed, the Federal Depository Library Program)
Other important federal developments included the creation of Electronic Gateway Libraries and Content Partnerships between GPO and selected Depository Libraries. These agreements were designed to provide expanded public access to electronic government information and to ensure some measure of permanent public access to designated agencies' electronic collections. The University of North Texas signed an agreement with the Government Printing Office to provide permanent public access to deceased agency websites and documents - the Cybercemetery.
Current Federal Depository Libraries who joined the Program during the 1990's are: Nicholson Memorial Library System, 1990; Palo Alto College, 1990; Texas A&M International University, 1997; Tarrant County College Northeast Campus Library, 1999.
Throughout Texas depository libraries created Depository Library Web Sites and began providing global access to their valuable collections. Several libraries began digitization projects and the University of North Texas signed a Partnership agreement with the Texas Secretary of State to provide permanent public access to the electronic Texas Register.
Texas State Library & Archive Commission's TRAIL service was launched announced in 1999. It is designed to provide the same quality of access to these electronic state publications that users have come to expect for print publications in library catalogs. The plan is that by April 2000, the TRAIL web site (http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/trail) will provide searching and retrieval for more than 6,000 electronic publications from about 150 Texas state agencies. Users will be able to search by author/agency, title, subject and keyword.
In addition to TRAIL, the State Library announced plans for the Texas State Electronic Library - Following up on this, TLA GODORT and TLA Council passed a resolution asking the Texas State Library and Archives Commission to begin a plan to preserve electronically published Texas government documents. Particularly, it asked that partnerships with Texas Depository Libraries be explored to preserve the information and make it publicly available.
TLA-GODORT organized programs to prepare librarians to take advantage of electronic government information and published a series of articles in the Texas Library Journal (vol. 26, no. 1- , Mar. 1950- ) to promote the use of government information. In 1995 the Round Table began publishing Lone Star Docs as its official newsletter and created an official GODORT Round Table Home Page on the Texas Library Association's TXLA.ORG web site. During the 1990's The Round Table developed the delightful tradition of holding business meetings at 8 a.m. on Thursday morning during the Annual Conference.
The following excerpts from the Journal, the TLA GODORT Meeting Minutes, the TLA Conference Program, Lone Star Docs, and articles from the literature are included to chronicle interest in government information and documents librarianship in Texas.
Items of Interest from the 1990's
Spring 1990 (College and Research Libraries News, vol. 51, no. 3, March, 1990, pages 207-209) "HOT Docs consortium: a new link in an old network."
By John S. Wilson, Baylor University; Nancy Anderson, Howard Payne University, Karen Hendrick, Abilene Christian University; Carolyn McClellan, Hardin-Simmons University
Abstract: Describes the formation, organization and early accomplishment of a selective depository consortium consisting of private university libraries in Central Texas. Describes the goals of the Heart of Texas Documents Consortium (HOT DOCS), and its structure and lists observations relating to its success. Discusses goals achieved continuing projects and implications of HOT DOCS.
Spring 1990 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, April 5, 1990) TLA Conference Program April 4-7, 1990
Officers elected:
Chair - John Wilson, Baylor University
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - Gay Carter, University of Houston - Clear Lake
Secretary-Treasurer - Nancy Anderson, Howard Payne University
Councilor - Melody Kelly, University of North Texas; Alternate - Bonnie Grobar, Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Ad Hoc Committee on Publicity formed volunteers included Laura Tull, Janet Karias, Susan Norrisey, Ruth Stiles, and Charlotte Bagh
TLA GODORT Survey of Federal and State Depository Libraries planned.
Conference Program:
"Accessing Texas Online Resources" Panelist: Tom Linehan, Data Depository, Texas Dept. of Commerce; Charles Palmer, Texas Natural Resources Information System and Dan Morrison, Texas Innovation Information Network System. "Discover what is being done at the State level to create accessible on-line bases for public use." (Program, page 9)
Winter 1990 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 66, no. 4, Winter, 1990, page 133) "Celebrating 85 years of service."
By John S. Wilson, Baylor University
Abstract: This is the first in a series of articles to provide information on depository library services. This one page article recounts the beginning of the federal documents collection at Baylor University and the services provided locally throughout the State via the national Federal Depository Library Program.
Spring 1991 (Government Publications Review, vol. 18, no. 1 Jan/Feb 1991, pages 51-64) "Documents to the people: access through the automated catalog."
By Myrtle Smith Bolner; Barbara Kile; Bolner M. Smith
Abstract: Poor bibliographic control of government publications in depository libraries has led to their under-utilization and problems with Government Printing Office (GPO) tapes have prevented libraries from taking advantage of this cost-effective way to acquire full cataloguing for US government publications. From 1987-89, documents libraries at Louisiana State University, Rice University and Texas A and M University were engaged in a project that will reverse the situation. Describes measures taken to clean up the retrospective tapes and make them available to depository libraries.
Spring 1991 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 67, no. 1, Spring 1991, pages 9-10) "Access to Government Information"
By Mary Ann Higdon, Texas Tech University
Abstract: A review of the changes in access to government information, both state and federal over the past 20 years, including a reduction in documents distributed because of changes in government policies, budget reductions due to economic downturns, and the beginning move toward electronic distribution. "Technology can provide faster, more efficient, and better access to government information. New technology will be used to store and distribute government information. The challenge is to continue to uphold the ideal of 'Documents for the People' and to provide access for those who cannot pay as well as for those who can afford to pay for information."
Spring 1991 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 67, no. 1, Spring 1991, pages 10-11) "Reaching out: documents to young people."
By Melody S. Kelly, University of North Texas
Abstract: A brief discussion of the variety of inexpensive documents available to support the Texas public school curricula and meet the "essential elements" as well as the recent efforts made by TLA GODORT to introduce librarians to these materials by way of workshops and TLA Conference programs.
Spring 1991 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 67, no. 1, Spring 1991, pages 11-14) "Patents"
By Laura Tull, Texas A&M University and Janet Karius, formerly of Texas A&M University
Abstract: A brief discussion of the Patent Depository Library Program, the types of Patents and the location of Patent Libraries in Texas and their holdings. This is followed by a bibliography of basic sources of information on patents and how to research patents.
Spring 1991 (Technical Services Quarterly, vol. 9, no. 1, 1991, pages 3-18) "Contract cataloging: retrospective conversion of a technical report collection."
By Laura Tull, Texas A&M University
Abstract: In 1979 the Sterling C. Evans Library at Texas A&M University began the retrospective conversion of its card catalog in anticipation of eventually possessing an on-line public catalogue. The initial retrospective conversion included only material represented in the card catalogue. This excluded government documents, technical reports, un-cataloged special collections and archives. Since then smaller projects have been implemented to achieve the Library's goal of having every item owned by the Library accessible in the on-line catalogue. Contract cataloguing offers a speedy way of dealing with these unconverted collections. The Library contracted AMIGOS to do a retrospective conversion project of the technical report collection housed in the Documents Division. Describes the entire project from contract specifications, through daily procedures to final cleanup after the tape load.
Spring 1991 Texas Library Association Annual Conference, April 9-13, 1991, Fort Worth
Officers elected from the Annual Assembly Minutes, July 25, 1991:
Chair - Gay Carter, University of Houston - Clear Lake
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - Charlotte Bagh, Dallas Public Library
Secretary-Treasurer - Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University
Councilor - Melody Kelly, University of North Texas; Alternate - Bonnie Grobar, Texas Library and Archives Commission
Jim Drummond of CIS sponsored a breakfast
"Documents to Young People" Panelist: Melody Kelly Government Documents Librarian, University of North Texas; Karen S. Locher, Documents Librarian, University of Houston-Victoria; Annette F. Nall Librarian, Gene Howe Elementary School, Canyon, ISD. John Wilson Presiding. "Speakers will discuss the exciting world of federal state documents for children K – 12, making documents an essential element in your school or public library collection, and the collection support services available through the Federal and State Depository Libraries." (Program page 22)
Summer 1991 (Documents to the People, vol. 19, June 1991, pages 113-116) "Planning for online access of government documents."
By Sinai P. Rocha, Baylor University
Abstract: A review of the how the Moody Memorial Library at Baylor University designed a study to determine via a random sample what percentage of the documents collection had MARC records and determine a priority for retrospective conversion project.
Summer 1991 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, July 25, 1991) TLA Annual Assembly, July 9-13, 1991
From Annual Assembly minutes, GODORT planned a 1992 Pre-Conference on the 1990 Census. The Ad Hoc Committee on Depository Publicity planned a directory publication based upon the TLA GODORT Survey of Federal and State Depository Libraries – Susan Norrisey and Tom Rohrig, co-coordinating the project. Plans were made for two programs and a pre-conference for the 1992 Conference Program.
Spring 1992 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, April 9, 1992) TLA Conference Program, April 7-11, 1992, Houston, Texas
Officers elected:
Chair - Charlotte Bagh, Dallas Public Library
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - Mary Shearer, University of Houston Law Library
Secretary-Treasurer - Kayce Halstead, Stephen F. Austin
Councilor: Melody Kelly, University of North Texas; Alternate - Ruth Stiles, Rice University
Pre-Conference:
1990 Census – A World of Information presented by Paula Wright and Kevin Cross from the Census Bureau – 45 attended. "Now that it's over, how do you use it? Representatives of the U.S. Bureau of the Census will give an overview of numerous information products which make up the 1990 Census. The session will focus on those products made available to depository libraries, including the TIGER/line files. Demonstrations will be given of electronic Census products and opportunities will be given for questions and answers." (Program, page 6)
Conference Programs:
"Government-produced CD-ROMS," John Wilson Chair, CD-ROM Users Committee GODORT presiding. "GODORT will discuss topics pertaining to the use of government-produced CD-ROMS in depository libraries. The discussion will include questions and answers concerning hardware and software requirements, security issues, and proper storage and disposal of CD-ROM products." (Program, page 16)
Articles by members are appearing regularly in the Texas Library Journal.
Summer 1992 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, July 23, 1992) TLA Annual Assembly, July 23, 1992
From Annual Assembly minutes:
Ad Hoc Committee on Depository Publicity – Chair, Susan Norissey, Texas Tech University: Project compiling the directory from the Survey
Ad Hoc Committee on CD ROM Users – Chair, Bert Chapman, Lamar University: Bert Chapman reported on conference discussions on CD-ROM’s and submitted an article for TLA Journal.
1993 Conference Program – Co-sponsor with Legislative Committee "lobbying effectively" and possibly sponsor a cataloging program on GPO Tape Loads.
Announced the fall Federal Depository Conference is on restructuring the FDLP to accommodate electronic resources.
Spring 1993 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, March 11, 1993) TLA Conference Program, March 9 - 13, 1993
From Annual Conference – San Antonio minutes, April, 1993
Officers elected:
Chair - Mary Shearer, University of Houston Law Library
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - Cathy Hartman, Austin College
Secretary-Treasurer - Ruth Stiles, Rice University
Councilor - Melody Kelly, University of North Texas; Alternate - Ruth Stiles, Rice University
Ad Hoc Committee on Depository Publicity – Chair, Susan Norissey, Texas Tech University: Project compiling the directory from the Survey
Ad Hoc Committee on CD ROM Users – Chair, Bert Chapman, Lamar University: Bert Chapman reported on conference discussions on CD-ROM’s and submitted an article for Texas Library Journal
Ad Hoc Committee on Electronic Networking – Acting Chair, Mary Shearer, University of Houston Law Library
Ad Hoc Committee on Depository Publicity - Directory of Texas Federal and State Depository Libraries, Susan Norissey, ed. costs $100.00; directories sell for $5.00 each
Ad Hoc Committee on CD-ROM Users discussed problems users encounter.
Jo Kimbro, Texas A&M University, Coordinator for the "Texas Documents to the People [cataloging]" Project reported progress made on the 1976 to the 1993 state documents cataloging records supplied by the State Library.
Preliminary Program discussion for the 1994 Conference was "Electronic Access to Government Information: Are Depository Libraries Being Left Out?" Planning group agreed to solicit other ideas from the membership. (Letter from the Chair, May 19, 1993, Mary Shearer)
Summer 1993 Federal Government Documents Librarians Meeting - Austin, July 21, 1993
The Regional Depository Libraries at the Texas State Library and Texas Tech University co-hosted an informal meeting for federal document depository librarians and staff from 1-5 p.m. at the Texas State Library. The agenda items: Kay Schlueter, Secretary of the Depository Library council to the Public Printer on the May DLC meeting; items for discussion include using email between depository libraries in Texas and opportunities to increase communication and to assist on another. (Letter from the Chair, June 29, 1993, Mary Shearer)
Summer 1993 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, July 22, 1993) TLA Annual Assembly, July 22-24, 1993
From the Meeting Minutes:
CD-ROM Users Sub-Committee - Chair Bert Chapman, Lamar University
Electronic Networking Subcommittee - Chair Mary Shearer, University of Houston Law Library reported on activities.
Membership Sub-Committee, Chair Maxi Templeton, University of Texas at Austin, Irene Cordova, ???, Mary Ann Higdon, Texas Tech University, and Charlotte Bagh, Dallas Public Library.
Mary Shearer announced the Texas Documents Information Network TXDXN-L
Winter 1993 (Documents to the People, vol. 21, December, 1993, pages 212-14) "A survey of automated bibliographic access of government documents in Texas depository libraries."
By Sinai P. Rocha; John S. Wilson
Abstract: A report on a questionnaire sent to 62 federal depository libraries in Texas regarding the current state of automated cataloging records in each institution. Included were type of system; percentage of the collection in the online catalog; how cataloging record tapes are loaded; any plans for retrospective conversion; continuation of any manual cataloging/record keeping, etc.
Fall 1993 (Technical Services Quarterly, vol. 10, no. 4, 1993, pages 1-10) "Maintaining the GPO tapes: Using Marcive's printout."
By B.B. Alexander; L. Tull
Abstract: Discusses the impact of the load of retrospective Marcive Government Printing Office (GPO) tapes into the online catalog at the Sterling C. Evans Library at Texas A&M University. A marked increase in the use of government documents was attributed to their presence in the OPAC. However, reference staff encountered many problems, especially location problems, when assisting users. Systematic maintenance of the records was deemed necessary and a monthly customized printout of GPO tape records was provided by Marcive and employed to identify records by format and location and for receipt verification and retrieval of the documents to create item level records for circulation purposes. Use of the Marcive printout has proved a most successful and cost-effective method of collection and database management.
Spring 1994 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, April 14, 1994) TLA Conference Program April 12-16, 1994
Officers elected:
Chair - Cathy Hartman, Austin College
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - John Wilson, Baylor University
Secretary-Treasurer - Robin Gruner, Southern Methodist University
Councilor - Melody Kelly, University of North Texas; Alternate - Ruth Stiles, Rice University
CD-ROM Users Sub-Committee, Chair Bert Chapman, Lamar University
Electronic Networking Subcommittee, Chair Mary Shearer, University of Houston Law Library
Membership Sub-Committee, Chair Maxi Templeton, University of Texas at Austin, Irene Cordova, ???, Mary Ann Higdon, Texas Tech University and Charlotte Bagh, Dallas Public Library.
Government Documents Round Table: Breakfast and Business Meeting April 14, 8 – 10 a.m.
Mary Shearer announced the Texas Documents Information Network TXDXN-L
Conference Program:
"Reinventing Government Information Dissemination." Panelist: J.D. (Jay) Young, Director Library Programs Service, Government Printing Office; Susan Tulis, Assistant Washington Affairs Representative for the American Association of Law Libraries, and Chair of ALA GODORT Depository Operations Work Group; David Larkin, Dupont Circle Group Member, Government Documents Department, UT-El Paso Library. Mary Shearer presiding. "Re-inventing government is currently a hot issue, and the FDLP has not been spared scrutiny. Our speakers discuss ideas and recommendations that will drastically alter the delivery and cost of essential federal information to ALL Texas libraries." (Program page 19)
Spring 1994 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 70, Spring 1994, pages 19-22) "Access to federal documents: an information age approach."
By Kayce Halstead; Sue Muckleroy; Marthea Turnage, Stephen F. Austin State University
Abstract: Ralph W. Steen Library at Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, Texas, USA, was designated a depository for US government publications in 1965 and receives approximately 50 percent of the publication classes made available from the Government Printing Office (GPO). Describes a project to provide access to all US documents received since 1976 through the library's online public access catalogue (OPAC) which runs on the NOTIS system; GPO records were to become part of the integrated database whereby document titles would appear on the OPAC screen with other library materials. Discusses loading bibliographic records; choosing a vendor; procedures for retrospective and current records; and personnel and cost. The project was clearly a success, with circulation statistics for documents increasing nearly 500 per cent and continuing to rise.
Winter 1994 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 70, Winter 1994, pages 166-169) Baker's dozen times three; utilizing U.S. government documents in public and school libraries.
By Melody S. Kelly; John S. Wilson
Abstract: A bibliographic essay promoting the acquisition and use of federal documents in public and school libraries. The recommended titles are divided into three major categories: periodicals, reference materials, and just-for-fun. These are followed by an introduction to "Exploring the World of Federal Documents on the Internet."
Winter 1994 (Cataloging and Classification Quarterly, vol. 18 (3/4) 1994, pages 57-74) "Sharing expertise to mainstream government documents cataloging"
By B. McKay; N. Carmack, Trinity University
Abstract: Article included in a special issue devoted to the theme: Cataloging government publications online. In 1989 the Maddox Library, Trinity University Library, Texas, began a project to copy catalog pre-1976 government publications in its U.S. Depository Collection. In light of the fact that the documents unit is too small to carry out this specialized project alone, several librarians and para-professionals shared their time and expertise to ensure the success of this project. Discusses the pioneering role of Trinity University and Marcive, Inc. in the retrospective loading of United States Government Printing Office (USGPO) magnetic tape cataloguing records, together with additional ways in which the library is integrating some of the documents cataloguing and maintenance responsibilities into the technical services department.
Spring 1995 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, April 6, 1995) TLA Conference Program April 4-8, 1995 - The 1996 Annual Conference – Minutes were published in Lone Star Docs, vol. 2, no. 1, Fall 1995.
Officers elected:
Chair - John Wilson, Baylor University
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - Tom Rohrig, Texas Tech University
Secretary-Treasurer - Brenda Barnes, Texas Christian University
Councilor - Melody Kelly, Alternate - Ruth Stiles
Editor Lone Star Docs - vol. 1, no. 1 Bert Chapman, Lamar University; and Lone Star Docs vol. 1, no. 2 - Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University
Liaison to TLA Telecommunications and Networked Technology Policy Committee – Mary Ann Higdon, Texas Tech University
CDROM Users Group Chair - Diana Houston, Texas State Library
Conference Booth Committee Co-Chairs - Brenda Barnes, Texas Christian University and Vicki Phillips, Houston Public Library
Business Meeting and Breakfast, April 6 8:00 to 9:50 a.m. (Program page 18)
Conference Program:
"Access and Link: The Public Connection to Federal and State Information" Panelist: Judy Russell, Director, Electronic Information Dissemination Services, GPO, Lisa deGruyter, Manager Electronic Library Services, Automated Information Services, Texas State Library. Cathy Hartman Presiding. "Speakers will demonstrate emerging electronic resources available to the public from governments. This introduction will be of interest to librarians who have access to the Internet." (Program page 23) The 1996 Annual Conference – Minutes were published in Lone Star Docs, vol. 3, no. 1, Fall 1996.
Spring 1995 (Texas Library Journal, 71, no. 1, Spring 1995, pages 24-28) "The Texas State electronic library."
By M.L. deGruyter, Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Abstract: The Texas State Electronic Library (TSEL) was officially opened to the public in April 1994. Since then over 52,000 users have called up the front menu. Currently, there are over 320 users a day, the majority of them Texans, using over 4,500 documents. The most popular items include: User Picks, a menu compiled daily by the computer automatically from its records of sources users have visited on the Internet; Texas State Government information; and legislative information. Describes how traditional library principles and procedures have been adapted to the very different materials and methods available in the electronic setting, in the areas of: collection development; organizing materials through cataloguing and indexing; providing an electronic reference service; and coordinating access to materials. It is the aim of TSEL to serve as a resource, an example, and a test bed for providing electronic information to every Texan, regardless of location or ability to pay, through the libraries of Texas.
Spring 1995 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 71, no. 1, Spring 1995, pages 40-44) "Internet access to United States government information"
By Cathy Nelson Hartman
Abstract: An overview of the availability of U.S. government information via the Internet including presidential, Congressional, and agency documents. Included is a list of current Gopher, File Transfer Protocol (FTP), telnet, World Wide Web sites and an explanation of the Gateway programs by the Government Printing Office and Partnership libraries.
Summer 1995 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 71, no. 2, Summer 1995, pages 98-99) "Top Texas documents for small libraries."
By John C. Hepner, Texas Woman's University
Abstract: Provides a brief bibliography of free or inexpensive publications produced by government agencies and public institutions of higher education in Texas, which provide information about Texas and about issues of concern in the state. Acquiring these and similar publications can be an inexpensive way for smaller libraries to increase local information resources and meet the information needs of local users.
Summer 1995 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, July 31, 1995) TLA Annual Assembly, 1995. (Minutes were published in Lone Star Docs, vol. 1, no. 3, Fall, 1995)
Membership Committee reported current membership is 78.
Resolution Honoring Bonnie Grobar was passed and approved by TLA Council - Text of the Resolution appears on page 4 of Lone Star Docs, vol. 2, no. 1, Fall, 1995.
Exhibit Booth Committee: Vickie Phillips, Houston Public Library and Brenda Barnes, Texas Christian University reported on Exhibit Booth success at the Annual Conference.
Lone Star Docs: Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University, reported that Readex was asked to sponsor the Lone Star Docs newsletter and members were asked to act as reporters for their districts.
Publicity plans: John Wilson, Baylor University reported on plans to include articles by GODORT members in future issues of the Texas Library Journal.
Planning for the 1996 Conference Program centered on the theme: "Educating the Public in Legislative Affairs
Fall 1995 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 71, no. 3, Fall 1995, pages 142-144) "Business reference sources for limited budgets: OT: Augmented title: federal agency CD-ROM resources, periodicals, and Internet sites; bibliographical essay
By Cathy Helson Hartman and Melody S. Kelly, University of North Texas
Abstract: "Providing the local business or academic community with authoritative and timely business reference materials is a continuing challenge, particularly for public and small academic libraries whose materials budgets have been cut - and cut again. Fortunately, excellent domestic and international business reference sources are currently available from federal agencies through either direct sales or via the Internet. . . ."
Spring 1996 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, April 25, 1996) TLA Conference Program April 23-27, 1996
Officers elected:
Chair - Tom Rohrig, Texas Tech University
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - Brenda Barnes, Texas Christian University
Secretary-Treasurer - Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University
CD-ROM Users Sub-Committee, Chair Diana Houston, Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Councilor - Cathy Hartman, University of North Texas; Alternate - Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University
Councilor Cathy Hartman reported that TLA had received a thank you from Bonnie Grobar for the resolution honoring her service to the Association and Texas librarians.
Editor Lone Star Docs - Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University
Liaison to TLA Telecommunications and Networked Technology Policy Committee – Melody Kelly, University of North Texas
Government Documents Round Table Business Meeting April 25 1996, 8 – 10:50 a.m.
Conference Programs:
"Election Year Education: How to Locate Legislative and Political Information" Gay Carter, Reference Librarian, University of Houston- Clear Lake; Rono Mertink, Reference Librarian, Texas Legislative Reference Library. Tom Rohrig presiding. "Cast your vote for this program. During this presidential election year, library patrons will want the scoop on candidates and issues. Identify the best resources, organizations, publications, and services to answer their questions." (Program, page 28)
"Maps: The Next Generation" presented by Stephen W. Littrell, Head of Periodicals and Microforms and Maps Units, The University of Texas at Austin. Diana Houston presiding. "Stephen W. Littrell will demonstrate and explore map resources available on the Internet. Find out what you need to know to go where no map librarian has gone before." (Program, page 31)
Spring 1996 (Journal of Government Information; vol. 23, no. 2, March/April, 1996, pages 151-159) "Methods for training library staff members in the use of CD-ROMs in federal depository libraries in Texas: a survey."
By A.B. Quinn
Abstract: Presents the results of a questionnaire survey mailed to one contact person in each of the 59 selective depositories in Texas in order to determine the methods employed to train depository staff members to use federal government CD-ROMs. Examines the types of formal training programs and the informal methods of training used. Sets out recommendations for further study.
Spring 1996 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 72, no. 1, Spring 96, pages 32-35) "Recommended Texas state publications for ready reference"
By Z.Y. Yang
Abstract: Provides an annotated bibliography of information materials published by Texas government agencies which can be used to answer routine reference questions pertaining to Texas. The selection is aimed at the general information provider in an academic library.
Summer 1996 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, July 29, 1995) TLA Annual Assembly, July 29, 1996. (Minutes were published in Lone Star Docs, vol. 2, no. 3, Fall, 1996)
Program Planning included a pre-conference to be co-sponsored with Reference Round Table on free, non-copyrighted government information on the Internet. The site will be University of North Texas Library and bus transportation will be needed from and to Fort Worth.
The TLA GODORT Web site is under construction.
The new TLA GODORT liaison to the Telecommunications and Networked Technology Policy Committee is Melody Kelly.
Membership/Publicity Committee will be co-chaired by Vickie Phillips and Bennett Ponsford. The Committee plans to design a brochure that would spark an interest in GODORT and increase new membership.
The CD-ROM Committee met and recommended a change in name to the TLA GODORT Electronic Resource Committee. (Minutes of the CD-ROM Committee published in Lone Star Docs, vol. 2, no. 3, Fall 1996)
Fall 1996 (Texas Library Journal, vol. 72, no. 3, Fall 1996, pages 134-137) "Hitting the road with government documents: an instructional exercise in one act."
By Diana Houston and Carol Winship, Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Abstract: Taking the form of an imaginary conversation between a librarian and a library patron seeking information on the Big Bend National Park, Texas, describes the wealth of travel information that can be found in federal and state government documents. The publications include road maps, travel guides, camping and accommodation guides, wildlife guides, periodicals published by government agencies, events calendars, and national park brochures. Also lists helpful Internet sites such as those of the National Park Service, the Texas Historical Commission and the General Land Office.
Spring 1997 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes April 9, 1997) TLA Conference Program April 8-12, 1997
Officers elected:
Chair - Brenda Barnes, Texas Christian University
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - Nancy Anderson, Howard Payne University - later replaced by Vickie Phillips, Houston Public Library
Secretary-Treasurer - Vickie Phillips, Houston Public Library
Councilor - Cathy Hartman, University of North Texas; Alternate - Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University
Editor Lone Star Docs - Bennett Claire Ponsford, West Texas A&M University
Liaison to TLA Telecommunications and Networked Technology Policy Committee – Melody Kelly, University of North Texas
Brochure Committee: Charlotte Bagh, Dallas Public Library; Vickie Phillips, Houston Public Library; Bennett Claire Ponsford, West Texas A&M University
Conference Booth Committee: Brenda Barnes, Texas Christian University and Vickie Phillips, Houston Public Library
Electronic Resources Committee: Cathy Hartman, University of North Texas; Nancy Anderson, Howard Payne University; Laura Baker, Abilene Christian University; Donna Goda, Texas A&M International University; Diana Houston, Texas State Library; Bradley Meyer, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi; Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University; Vickie Phillips, Houston Public Library
Membership/Publicity Committee: Vickie Phillips, Houston Public Library; Bennett Claire Ponsford, West Texas A&M University; Charlotte Bagh, Dallas Public Library
Nominating Committee: Susan Hidalgo, Texas Tech University; Laura Baker, Abilene Christian University; Bradley Meyer, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi
Webpage Committee: Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University; Vickie Phillips, Houston Public Library; Bennett Claire Ponsford, West Texas A&M University
Business Meeting, April 9, 8 – 9:50 a.m.
Pre-Conference:
"Lassoing Government Resources on the Net: Federal, Texas, and Local," April 8, 1997 hosted by UNT Libraries – Cathy Hartman and Melody Kelly "Want to find useful resources for free? (Who doesn't?) Free Low-cost, and copyright-free public information reference resources, produced at all levels of government, await on the Internet. Held at the University of North Texas in Denton, this introductory, hands-on pre-conference is geared especially to public and school librarians with modest computer skills. Learn by doing and walk away with a treasure trove of valuable Net sources." (Program, page 16)
Conference Program:
"Changing Times: Providing Government Resources During a Time of Transition – Expert Panelists Charlotte Bagh, Documents Librarian, Dallas Public Library; Brenda Barnes, Government Information Librarian, Mary Couts Burnett Library, Texas Christian University; Cathy Nelson Hartman, Documents Librarian and Electronic Resources Coordinator, University of North Texas Libraries; Diana Boardman Houston, Assistant Director of Information Services, Texas State Library and Archives Commission; Tom Rohrig, Documents Head, Texas Tech University Library. Brenda Barnes, presiding. "Once among the most stable and dependable areas of the collection, government information resources are undergoing a transformation in scope, format, and availability. Veteran Texas public-information librarians discuss maintaining quality service in a time of transition. Speakers focus on managing government resources in all types of libraries and emphasize integrating electronic public information into reference services." (Program, page 33)
Fall 1997 (Mississippi Libraries, vol. 61, no. 3, Fall 1997, pages 69-70) "The language of cataloging: Internet resources: Adding URL links to online catalogs."
By Cathy Nelson Hartman, University of North Texas
Abstract: A review of current cataloging options to link using a URL in the 856 filed of MARC records for documents with reference to the CONSER Cataloging Manual Module 31 and the use of persistent uniform resource locators (PURLS).
Spring 1998 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, April 3, 1998) TLA Conference Program April 1-4, 1998
Government Documents Business Meeting, April 3, 8 – 9:50 a.m. (Program page 26)
Officers elected:
Chair - Susan Norrisey, Texas Tech University
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - Cathy Hartman, University of North Texas
Secretary-Treasurer - Jack Becker
Councilor - Diana Houston, State Library; Alternate - Victoria Packard, Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Liaison to TLA Telecommunications and Networked Technology Policy Committee – Melody Kelly, University of North Texas
Editor Lone Star Docs - Bennett Claire Ponsford, West Texas A&M University
Conference Program:
"Connect to the Information you Need with STAT-USA" Presented by Ken Rogers, Directory STAT-USA U.S. Dept. of Commerce. Cathy Hartman, presiding. "Every library needs quick access to current statistical information and STAT-USA the comprehensive data source from the U.S. Dept. of Commerce meets this need. The wealth of free and fee-based resources available from the STAT-USA Web server includes census statistics, trade figures, and community profiles. Join the director of STAT-USA for a humorous and practical exploration of the program’s mission and services." (Program page 32)
Spring 1999 (Government Document Round Table Meeting Minutes, April 20 and 23, 1999) TLA Conference Program April 19-24, 1999
Officers elected:
Chair - Cathy Hartman, University of North Texas
Vice-Chair/Chair Elect - Lorraine Bingham, Texas Tech University
Secretary-Treasurer - Clarice Luce, University of North Texas
Councilor - Diana Houston, Houston Public Library; Alternate - ?
Liaison to TLA Telecommunications and Networked Technology Policy Committee – Melody Kelly, University of North Texas
Editor Lone Star Docs - Bennett Claire Ponsford, West Texas A&M University
TLA GODORT and MARCIVE, Inc. announced a new award - the "Knowledge is Power Award" - the first award will be given at the Annual Conference in 2000.
Pre-conference:
"Uncle Sam, Texas and TEKS on the Web: Finding Government Information to Support K-12 Curriculum" Presented by Melody Kelly, Head, Government Documents, University of North Texas Libraries and hosted by the Dallas Public Library – 84 attendees. "Are your faculty and students looking for web sites that support Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) objectives and assignments? Are you concerned about Internet copyright issues? This program will describe where to find free, authoritative, copyright-free K-12 government information on the Web." (Program, page 13)
Conference Program:
"The Texas Legislature in 1899 and 1999: Hot Topics and Tall Tales" Panelist: Diana Houston, Texas State Library and Archives Commission; Nancy Quesada, Texas Legislative Reference Library; Susan Norrisey, presiding. - "In 1899, when a senator introduced legislation, how long did it take constituents to get a copy of the bill? What about in 1999? These legislative information specialists will contrast access in 1899 and 1999 and describe the hot topics from each time period as well as a few "tall tales" from each legislative session." (Program, page 29)
"Coping with the Plethora of Copyright-free Government CD-ROMS" Panelist: Cathy Hartman, Documents Librarian – Electronic Resources Coordinator, University of North Texas; Bennett Claire Ponsford, Government Documents Librarian, West Texas A&M University; Tom Rohrig, Asst. Head of Information Services for Government Documents and Maps, Texas Tech University Library. Tom Rohrig Presiding. - "Are your drowning in federal government CD-ROMs? Three experienced government documents librarians will offer alternatives for loading these products on networks and workstations and making them available to patrons. The panel will also discuss ways to help library staff and patrons learn to use these valuable, but often frustrating, materials." (Program, page 31)
Spring 1999 (Technical Services Quarterly, vol. 17, no. 1, 1999, pages 23-29) "Zeroing in on an elusive target: the search for government documents at Texas A&M University"
By Brian B. Carpenter and Margaret H. Carpenter, Texas A&M University
Abstract to be added
Spring 1999 (Library Computing, vol. 18, no. 2, 1999, pages 143-150) "Blazing new TRAILS in Texas"
By Allen Mullen
Abstract: The Texas State Library and Archives Commission has developed a new generation of Government/Global Information Locator Service (GILS) systems. Guided by past federal efforts and examples of state GILS systems, the Texas Records and Information Locator (TRAIL) service uses traditional library methodology and state-of-the-art Internet technology to guide citizens to state government information. Discusses the philosophy of TRAIL, the development of a system based on that philosophy, the technology employed and the capabilities and services it provides.
