Literature analysis indicates that surveys are not widely used in the planning process for academic libraries because of difficulties with design of user studies, translation of survey results into management decisions, and acceptance of survey data by librarians. Trends such as competition from private information sources will force a change in…

Three urban library systems asked their patrons to read descriptions of seven library roles and to select the role that best described why they were visiting the library. From these patron surveys, each library system was able to develop profiles of the roles that its libraries play in the community. (Contains two references.) (SLW)

Reports on a four-year study of use patterns of CD-ROM databases in a biological sciences library. More than half the individuals recorded all use within one month. Over a third recorded use on only one day. Results suggest that the library should emphasize point-of-use instruction for first-time searchers and deemphasize workshops. (Contains 11…

Describes a study which was conducted to test the ability of four motivators to explain adult use of the public library: (1) home and family life; (2) vocational growth; (3) religion; and (4) politics. Other general user characteristics were examined as supplements to the four motivators in predicting library use. (16 references) (LRW)

Reviews the literature for studies conducted in the United States and in Canada on the use of magazines in elementary school libraries, and describes a study of Oklahoma schools that investigated titles most frequently used by children. Results are reported that indicate most use is for pleasure reading. (six references) (LRW)

Discusses results of a telephone survey of academic, private, corporate, and secondary school libraries that was conducted for UMI (University Microfilms International) to track the use of CD-ROM in the library industry, monitor market share levels, and identify trends. The success of CD-ROM and the growth potential for networking are highlighted.…

Reviews the collection development literature of 1992. Topics addressed include selection and collecting policies; cooperation; assessment and evaluation, including citation studies and user studies; organization and staffing; budget and allocations; electronic technologies of the present; and possible future developments. (Contains 178…

Based on a review of international research, this paper discusses factors that influence the use and impact of educational television (ETV) in schools. Highlights include access to videorecorders; program series; support materials; relation of ETV to the curriculum; teacher and student attitudes toward ETV; cultural differences; and strategies for…

Describes use studies of CD-ROM products in American and western European academic, public, and special libraries. Comparative results of the surveys are reported, including effect of CD-ROMs on library use of online databases, difficulties with different vendors' search techniques, and desired subjects of optical products. (10 references) (LRW)

Presents an evaluation of the OnLine at PA Libraries (1996-97) Internet-based information services and resources project for Pennsylvania residents. The project provided a statewide demonstration to improve public library services; connect public libraries to the Internet; provide a range of new services and resources to their communities; and…

Examines the distribution of student Internet use across 152 schools in the National School Network, schools that were among the first to provide direct Internet access for networked computers. Discusses socioeconomic status differences, student ability, teacher differences, school population ethnicity, the Internet as innovation, and a vision for…

Presents a review of D.A. Schreiber and Z. Berge's book, "Distance Training: How Innovative Organizations Are Using Technology To Maximize Learning and Meet Business Objectives" (Jossey-Bass, 1998). The book explores, through reports/cases how corporations are implementing new technologies in addressing ongoing new training requirements.…

A reanalysis of data from a national telephone poll (n1181) conducted in 1991 determined that if local libraries faced a fiscal crisis, 47% favored raising taxes, 44% preferred instituting user fees, and 9% advocated reducing services. Frequent library use, urban residence, higher level of education, and greater income were associated with a…

Research in human-computer interaction is evolving a user-centered methodology for system design and instruction that focuses on integrating affective and cognitive user variables to increase productivity, creativity, and human growth. Discussion includes the survey approach, the experimental-ethnographic approach; theory-building; and the future…

Describes the ELVYN project in the United Kingdom that investigated the scenario of dual publishing (in electronic and print formats) of journals in the physical sciences by delivery of the electronic file from the publisher to academic libraries. Topics include implementation, use of the World Wide Web and electronic mail, usage data, and cost…