Develops a conceptual base for analyzing the literature on interviewing for its usefulness to the reference interview. Four holistic dimensions of the reference interview are identified and discussed in relation to interviewer decisions and other factors not directly controlled by the librarian. There are 18 references. (Author/RAA)

Describes the nature and function of source and reference databases in the geosciences and discusses current trends in the development of such databases. A 32-item reference list and a directory listing geoscience databases from around the world (including information on organizational sponsors and online accessibility) accompany the text. (JL)

Assesses the effect of the communications technology revolution on library and information specialists and the environment for the delivery of library services. Four functions affecting the library and information environment--management, communications, instruction, and publication--are noted. (EJS)

Reports on a survey of 47 academic library online facilities. Data gathered on finances, number of searches conducted, patrons served, sytems accessed, equipment used, procedures, promotion, and other facets are summarized. (FM)

Describes the rise of information brokers, who package, validate, and evaluate data for clients on a cost-effective basis, and who use all forms of technology. It is suggested that librarians should familiarize themselves with these new trends, benefit from them through their use, and seek development of a national information policy. (Author/JD)

In an attempt to ascertain student involvement in physical education programs, a cross-referencing participation scale was conducted to determine which activities were most popular, the extent of participation, and budget justifications. (JN)

The three papers presented discuss the components of the pricing structure for online service vendors (Roger Summit); describe an information system designed to provide agricultural weather data to farmers (Lehnert and Scott); and explore the impact of information delivery systems for the home (Mark Plakias). (FM)

Briefly describes the functions of the national library network in Bangladesh. (FM)

Urges librarians involved in library user instruction to meet the challenges preented by the growing role of computers in bibliographic systems. (FM)

Provides step-by-step instructions for ordering documents online through DIALOG and ORBIT, including some helpful hints. Tables show database or independent document suppliers; list ordering commands, with examples; and explain optional commands, for the two retrieval systems. (SW)

Shares some of the experiences of the University of Florida Libraries' Census Access Program, which has provided print and machine-readable census products to users since 1971. Article anticipates the demand for the new data products of the 1980 census. (Author/JD)

Discusses the role librarians have assumed in the implementation of AACR 2/catalog closing at the Library of Congress (LC), speculates on how AACR 2 will affect public service librarians in patron interactions, and describes LC's plans to inform/instruct/train staff and the public regarding the changes. (Author)

Examines the theory and application of zero base budgeting (ZBB) and presents an example of ZBB in an academic library reference department, illustrating the preparation of a budget proposal and demonstrating the different approaches to staffing for reference services and varying funding levels. (FM)

Discusses results of an empirical study of the library reference assistance process that indicate the need to incorporate a select strategy that librarians use in the choice of appropriate information sources. The reference process is examined, a model is presented, and the survey instruments and examples of reference transactions are appended.…

Although some patent questions should be left to professionals, others can be answered using Internet-based patent databases. Provides an overview of Internet sites, including addresses, descriptions, costs, and evaluations of free and fee-based sites and guidelines for when do-it-yourself online patent searching is and is not appropriate. (PEN)