Art.1: Malgorzata Kisilowska
Communication within the librarians' community

The author discusses librarians' professional environment within the context of mutual communication. She touches upon professional contacts on various levels: (superior/ subordinate, librarian/librarian of another department, librarian/reader, librarian/sponsor). She underlines a very important role of voicing direct opinions and criticism, as well as assertive behaviour at the workplace. She hints upon problems of personal communicativeness.

Art.2: Aleksander Radwanski
Everybody against everybody

The author discusses conflicts within the Polish library community. He analyses roots of deep conflictual divisions and singles out their, often trifle, origins. He wants to know who might be the prospective winner of such conflict and analyses the influence of professional associations and ministries on library community.

Art.3: Bozena Bednarek-Michalska
Is it worth it?

The author wonders about the lack of the greater discussion and responsiveness of Polish librarians regarding the condition of library community, as well as its relations with librarians world-wide. She underlines the role of an impact the authoritarian management has on unwillingness of the personnel to voice their opinions. At the same time, she points to the significant change beginning to take place in Poland in connection with the social transformation and opening of the borders. She notes the influence of new technologies on the culture of communication and more understanding for the importance of creation of a more open European society.

Art.4: Barbara Szczepanska
A quiet haven?

The author wonders about the concept of a library traditionally perceived as a 'quiet and peaceful workplace'. She discusses the problems and anxieties of young librarians entering this highly hierarchical environment who seem to be unable to accept already existing structure (the way work is organised, management systems, communication, etc.). She notes the problem of the low status librarians hold in the society and poor salaries. Nevertheless, she claims that introduction of dichotomy: young/old may be risky and discourages it.

Art.5: Maria Pidlypczak-Majerowicz
Profession - librarian

The author concentrates on the educational model available for librarians in Poland and its features. What important qualities should Polish librarian possess? The author questions already existing, inflexible structure of library positions and levels which clearly do not complement actual tasks and responsibilities. She underlines the importance of the organisation of work, the right management and the need for continuing education of personnel.