Describes the addition of a collection management module to an advanced reference course in the arts and humanities, and reports the preliminary findings of a practicum that used the Research Libraries Group Conspectus as a basis for collection analysis in the humanities for a university library. (Author/CLB)

Deals with the difficulties that arise in overcoming the physical and bibliographic problems of microform government publications. Areas discussed include accessing documents, arranging collections, and type of physical facilities and equipment needed. Practical suggestions for promoting use of microforms documents are given. (Author/EM)

Questionnaires were sent to 116 newly appointed reference librarians at academic institutions regarding the extent, content, and evaluation of their introductory training for their new positions. The majority of respondents indicated lack of overall planning and content depth in their training. (Author/EM)

An urban public library responds to an invitation from the local Fire and Rescue Services Department to make suggestions for improving communication between the library and the County Emergency Management Program. Recommendations are made for library involvement in long-term prevention, preparedness to respond, response to emergencies, and…

Addresses public and scholarly interest in the fields of family history and genealogy. Highlights include attitudes before and after publication of Alex Haley's "Roots," library literature on genealogy, history of the family as a field of study, and academic library collection development and services. Twenty-five references are provided. (EJS)

Discussion of barriers that prevent open and free access to government information highlights federal policies toward reduced data collection for and dissemination of agency studies and privatization of these functions; the use of microforms and computer technologies as media for government information; and the quality of depository library…

This annotated bibliography of materials dealing with the evaluation of library reference services is arranged by category including literature success, quality, and accuracy of answers; cost and task analysis; interviews and communication; classification of reference questions; reference collections; staff availability; use and nonuse of…

Discusses the special needs of gifted children and the role that public libraries may serve in supporting these children. The areas discussed include personal contact and assistance, access to adult level research materials and reference tools, library use instruction, reading guidance, and specialized library activities. (46 references) (CLB)

Discusses topics related to the introduction of CD-ROM databases at the Hahnemann University library, including hardware and software, staff training, changes in workload, access and promotion of the service, bibliographic instruction, and public response. Tables listing basic knowledge and protocol for assisting users, a user questionnaire, and…

The author discusses the types of online databases useful to technology educators and other applications of online technology. He briefly describes (1) search techniques, (2) equipment requirements, (3) costs, and (4) various information services. (CH)

Briefly describes fundamental problems with library reference service based on the findings of 20 separate studies using unobtrusive tests. An emphasis on quality of service, realistic goals, and effective managerial strategies are identified as possible resolutions of these problems. (CLB)

Discussion of library reference work that may be suitable for use of expert systems focuses on (1) information and literature searches, and (2) requests to interpret bibliographic references and locate items listed. Systems and computer-assisted instruction modules designed for information retrieval at the University of Waterloo Library are…

Describes method of keeping track of search service and database changes through use of database information files stored on microcomputer in use at Computer Search Service, State University of New York Albany. System configuration, file structure, data input forms, system reports, database fact sheets, and search service brochure are highlighted.…

Fifty-five Association of Research Libraries member academic libraries were surveyed to determine trends in use of commercially available online numeric databases. Databases searched, searchers, users, publicity, library role in relation to numeric databases, and librarians' attitudes toward and knowledge of databases are examined. The…

Examines correctness of answers received to reference questions in Maryland public libraries and investigates three categories of variables that might affect that correctness: resources (number of volumes, subscriptions, staff, setting); demand (contact, busyness); and behaviors (negotiation of inquiry, interest in question, comfort with question,…