Sometimes users need to be asked if they need help. This is difficult with online users, because in-person cues cannot be used to engage when the users need assistance. Proactive chat widgets help to solve this problem as the chat box slides out onto the screen and prompts the user for help. The need for the proactive chat widget was also seen as…

This study conducted a systematic sample of every 70th reference transaction from over a three-year period and analyzed 1,852 reference transactions asked at an academic library system's fifteen face-to-face (f2f) service points as well as via telephone, e-mail, and chat. Findings indicate two-thirds of the total questions asked were…

After two to three hours of class instruction, it is possible for students to use MEDLINE independently and to gain a valuable learning experience. (Author)

This paper presents data and discusses: (1) the procedures used in the preparation and delivery of eight computer-produced bibliographies, (2) the benefits of using them, (3) the costs in dollars, librarians, and time, (4) the possible operational problems, (5) suggested improvements, (6) additional uses, and (7) questions concerning service…

Provides suggestions for using on-line database systems (CompuServe, The Source, Dow Jones) in the classroom, presenting examples of the kinds of information and services available from CompuServe. Major CompuServe submenus are provided to illustrate encyclopedia searches, use of reference library, news sources, and accessing clubs and special…

This paper presented as part of a symposium on Issues in the Design and Implementation of Computer-Based Student Information Systems focuses on the ethical and legal aspects of these systems. It provides an update of the Buckley Amendment or Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) and a reminder of related codes of ethics. Four…

This essay addresses access to information through the use of computer networking systems. Highlights include national commercial networks, bulletin board systems, cautionary notes on networking, the role of the public library in providing a link between the computer and the public, and maximizing access and efficiency through library services.…

Describes Reflink, a system based on sophisticated information retrieval techniques which is housed in a small microcomputer, and its predecessor, Reference Librarian Enhancement System (REFLES). The systems are placed in a conceptual framework involving stable and dynamic information, and several illustrations of multiple uses are presented. Four…

Compares the rapid development of online bibliographic information retrieval systems with that of videotex, still in its experimental stages. Examples of equipment used and services offered in Canada are given. (Author/JJD)

A file management system provides a powerful search tool for library reference groups. The system described produces current awareness and retrospective searches from diverse data bases. The same query language is used to interrogate all data bases in on-line or batch mode searches. (4 references) (Author/DH)

Discussion of the scheduling procedures of librarians' hours at the reference desk at the Rutherford Humanities and Social Sciences Library, University of Alberta, highlights services provided, the preference table system, and manual scheduling versus computer scheduling. (EJS)

Issues and impacts of microcomputer use in libraries are discussed in terms of labor dislocation, costs, distributed data processing, networks, current system configurations and capabilities, and software. Reference service management, information retrieval systems, and external online access are also examined. Twenty-six references are listed.…

The Statewide Film Library Network developed this procedural appendix for use by staff members of participating libraries so that they could organize their procedures along lines compatible with the system. The general objectives of the manual are to indicate steps in sending and receiving messages within the Network, to suggest methods for the…

Discusses the application and use of a microcomputer-assisted reference statistics procedure which allows for customized programs to be designed and determined by local, unique research objectives, service demands, and the ultimate use of the recorded data. A literature review of the development and use of reference statistics is included. (EM)

Four articles outline problems, programing, case studies, and hardware/software selection in library use of microcomputer-based electronic bulletin board systems (BBS). Highlights include the North-Pulaski (Chicago, Illinois) BBS, features of Liverpool Public Library (New York) system, and misuse of a library BBS (obscenity, bulletin board…