One of the more surprising findings in the information sciences is the recurrence of a small number of frequency distributions. In this paper, these distributions are described, and a point of view is adopted that allows us to understand them as being different versions of a single distribution. (Author)

Gives a model to interrelate the measures of service used in a library. (Author/PF)

Presents a mathematical model of an information retrieval system thought to be general enough to serve as an abstract representation of most document and reference retrieval systems. The model is made up of four components that, in one form or another, appear in every functioning system. (Author)

This paper attempts to analyze the problem of congestion, using a mathematical model shown to be of value in other similar applications. Three criteria of congestion are considered, and it is found that the conclusion one can draw is sensitive to which of these criteria is paramount. (8 references) (Author/NH)

In this paper the amount of frustration in a section of books is derived from a model that includes the effects of variable book circulation and the nondeterministic nature of book use. (Author/DH)

Though unshelved books are a problem in every library, little systematic effort has been made to design an optimal solution. Presented here is a mathematical model that attempts to approach such a solution. (2 references) (Author/DH)

New model formulations and solution methods are given for the Journal Selection Problem. The results are developed in a framework that can also accommodate problems with a somewhat different structure than the Journal Selection Problem, thus providing new solution strategies for these problems as well. (32 references) (Author/NH)

Presents a decision theoretic model that minimizes the costs of the material selection decision process by using formal methods to rank materials. Illustrations of the process are provided, and an implementation method using MARC records is described. (Author/CLB)

Proposes a model of library output as an abstract quantity, and relates it to other components of library performance. The consequences of basing library funding on such measurable outputs as circulation are also examined in light of the proposed model. A 13-item reference list and four figures are provided. (JL)

Mathematical models of library operations are presented which describe the amount of use made of resources by a user in a visit, the distribution of book circulation in a collection, the dependence of circulation on time, and the effect of multiple copies on user satisfaction. (9 references) (Author/NH)

Explores optimal foraging theory, derived from evolutionary ecology, for its potential to clarify and operationalize studies of scholarly communication. Metaphorical parallels between subsistence foragers and scholarly information seekers are drawn. Hypotheses to test the models are recommended. The place of ethnographic and bibliometric…

Research analyzing demand for librarians in public, school, academic, special libraries, and in nonlibrary information professions, indicates that from 1983 to 1990, there will be almost no additional positions in traditional areas. Replacement of librarians will generate 9,500 to 10,000 new jobs per year. Footnotes and 114 references are…

Applies an economic model of occupational supply to librarianship to develop models that explain determination of number of accredited M.L.S. graduates and their starting salaries. Models are used to project graduates and salaries through 1990, then extended to project additions to supply of librarians from all sources. (36 references) (EJS)