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)

The question of whether a library's catalog should consist of cards arranged in a single alphabetical order (the "dictionary catalog) or be segregated as a separate file is discussed. Development is extended to encompass related problems involved in the creation of a book catalog. A model to study the effects of congestion at the catalog is…

Describes a study that used transaction log analysis to investigate the use of subject searching in the University of California's Online Union Catalog, MELVYL. Mathematical models of trends and patterns in the data are presented, problems with subject searching are explained, and remedies to subject searching problems are suggested. (62…

Examines how informetric characteristics of information retrieval (IR) system databases can be used to help system designers decide what type of file structures would provide the best performance. The development of appropriate models describing database contents is highlighted in this first part of a two-part study. (30 references) (LRW)

This second report on a two-part study on the application of informetrics to information retrieval (IR) system design used models of database contents in a factorial simulation study at the University of Western Ontario. The study explored whether different file structures were better suited for different informetric environments. (32 references)…