Describes the conspectus collection evaluation process and its utility to smaller libraries, as demonstrated by the Library and Information Resources for the Northwest project. The discussion includes the costs of this method in staff time, the value of a completed conspectus, and problems with the methodology. (13 notes with references) (CLB)

Libraries need solid information upon which to base collection development decisions. Specific evaluative methods for determining scope, access, and usefullness are described. Approaches used for data collection include analysis of interlibrary loan requests, comparison with major bibliographies, and analysis of accessibility through available…

Indicates that Bradford's law may be applied with a relatively high degree of confidence to citations in library science periodicals. The study tests verbal and graphical formulations of the law using 5,628 citations to journal literature referenced in College and Research Libraries and Special Libraries between 1940 and 1974. (RAA)

Presents results of an evaluation of C.D. Cat, a CD-ROM union catalog developed by the Associated College Libraries of Central Pennsylvania consortium. Outcomes are reported in the areas of bibliographic quality, user evaluation, public relations strategies, bibliographic instruction, and guidelines for continuing operations. Recommendations are…

Examines the long-term retention of library-use skills through the utilization of various research techniques and discusses the appropriateness of quantitative and qualitative research methodology. Conclusions indicate that long-term possession of skills is more highly related to library-use instruction than inherent ability or academic diligence.…

Proposes two procedures for cost studies of processing of archival and manuscript collections, and describes the results of such studies at the University of Illinois. A description of processing efficiency measurements and of the application of study findings to program operations is also included. (Author/RAA)

Reprint of a 1964 article by David Kaser which presented mathematical formulas for estimating the collection sizes (in volumes) required to ensure minimum adequacy of academic library collections at institutions with widely different characteristics. Current article presents new formulas and illustrates their application at specific institutions.…

Describes an unobtrusive study of the ability of professional librarians to deal with factual questions that was conducted at Illinois State University. Evaluation of the accuracy of responses is discussed, the responsiveness and helpfulness of librarians is examined, attitude scores are described, and implications for improving reference service…

Concludes that evaluations of library instruction based on library use present a useful picture of the impact of instruction within the context of program objectives. Yet to be found, however, is a methodology that will express the role student motivation and maturation play in the development of effective library skills. (RAA)

Describes a study conducted in 1988 that investigated book availability in an academic library by providing a quantitative measure of library performance based on outcomes of card catalog searches and that can serve as a model for ongoing assessment in the library. Results are compared with earlier research from 1986. (Contains 12 references.)…

Discusses procedures used to evaluate the instructional effectiveness of materials and methods implemented in a self-paced college credit course in library skills. A description of the course and assessment strategies used--multiple-choice assignments, end-of-course test, an attitudinal survey--are included. Twelve references are cited.…