Because the library is not located within walking distance, librarians teach library instruction in the mediated computer classrooms of the College of Engineering at the University of Toledo. This article examines a pilot project linking information searching and introductory engineering; the use of OhioLink, a statewide information system; and…

Ohio State University Library studied abilities of undergraduates to identify correct sources for answering reference questions when using the online catalog and the Sourcefinder database with its new Question Unit feature. Users located subjects and instructions at a greater percentage with Sourcefinder than with the online catalog. Topics…

Discusses results of four surveys sent to members of the Association of Research Libraries to investigate changes in academic library reference services due to new and rapidly evolving technologies. Highlights include digital reference options; local databases; CD-ROMs; intermediary online searching; end-user online search services; and the…

Describes an experiment that examined the relationship between successful searching of CD-ROM databases by undergraduate students and various types of instruction provided by the library staff. The findings indicate that the only level of instruction that resulted in a significant difference was a live demonstration of searches. (six references)…

Describes a prototype current awareness service for college faculty and staff which is based on online bibliographic databases and tables of contents from selected periodical holdings for the selective dissemination of information. The discussion reports patterns of use, types of documents selected, delivery patterns, and the overall effectiveness…

Because the publication of census data on CD-ROM has expanded the capabilities of users, librarians need to consider issues involved in providing census and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) services, selecting GIS software, and providing user support. (JMV)

Describes the system architecture and user evaluation tools for Cheshire II, an online catalog and full-text information retrieval system being developed at the University of California, Berkeley, that uses advanced information retrieval techniques to overcome the problems of topical searching in online catalogs, search failure, and information…

Discusses key developments in library automation. Topics discussed include online database vendors; bibliographic utilities; local online systems, i.e., turnkey circulation systems and academic systems that have incorporated online catalogs, circulation, acquisitions, and serials control; commercial integrated systems; CD-ROMs; local online…

The Memex Research Institute (MRI), an independent nonprofit research and development organization, has created an electronic library program of shared research and development to make the collective vision of Vannevar Bush's "memex" more concrete. Program is working toward the creation of large, publicly available indexed electronic image…

Discusses copyright issues for librarians that have arisen because of technological advances. Topics discussed include changes in the electronic information environment; legal aspects of copyright enforcement; research patterns and electronic use; multimedia; electronic information networks; local databases; license agreements; printing;…

Discussion of library purchasing decisions regarding serials focuses on efforts at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University to compile numerous measures into a comprehensive database for decision support. Discusses a faculty survey of serials needs and future implications. (Author/LRW)

Describes the totally electronic library that serves Jones International University which provides Internet-delivered courses leading to bachelor's or master's degrees in Business Communication. Discuses accreditation and describes library services, including bibliographic instruction, reference, document delivery, interlibrary loan, and…

Outlines progress initiated by the University of South Africa (Unisa) library to develop online support to distance-education users. Topics include a library skills training program delivered via the World Wide Web; research information skills; Internet course development; current awareness service; the library's home page; electronic libraries;…

It is noted that the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and libraries have a mutual mission: the collection and dissemination of information in formats that are useful to the information needs of the public. This report discusses the NCES' mission statement in these terms and describes its broad-based data gathering program, which…

A survey of 88 users of SISMAKOM, a computerized selective dissemination of information (SDI) and document delivery service provided by the Universiti Sains Malaysia and four other Malaysian universities, was conducted in August 1982 in order to collect data about SISMAKOM and to assess the value of a computerized SDI service in a developing…