During the past 50 years, the study of "international librarianship"-global, universal, or comparative-has increasingly become an essential element in understanding the importance of information and knowledge in the global setting. Over this period of time, many attempts have been made to evaluate the similarities and differences in information structures, staffing, and services in various areas of the world with the ultimate intention of providing timely and accurate information to seekers in the greater international arena. International Librarianship: A Basic Guide to Global Knowledge Access identifies basic background sources, in whatever format, for the study and teaching of international librarianship.