Examines two traditional approaches to the measurement of library service--the gathering of circulation and reference statistics--and relates them in a statistical model in an attempt to define real standards against which a library's activity can be compared. Graphs comparing reference and circulation statistics are included. (Author/JD)

The jobtype of an academic librarian--administrator, public service librarian, or technical service librarian--appears to be an important determinant as to corresponding contacts with various types of information sources important in decision making. (Author/MBR)

Describes an experimental "reference desk" on the American pattern in the Mulla Sadra Library of Pahlavi University. Results showed that the role of the reference librarian in the traditional societies needs to be more concerned with education of the library user and public relations than in the Western nations. (VT)

This paper reports the results of a study conducted at the University of Arizona Graduate Library School, to determine whether students taught reference using an audio-tutorial method would differ significantly in learning ability and attitude from students in a traditional reference course. (Author/KP)

Presented are the results of a study which examined the scope of the ERIC data base. Recommendations include a more explicitly stated policy for selective indexing of data base and indexing procedures, and also a consideration of indexing, but not abstracting, relevant dissertations. (AP)

Examines online searching done for public libraries during October 1984 at The System Reference Service of the multitype North Suburban Library System. Highlights include total requests searched online, total public library requests searched online (by subject category), samples of successful and unsuccessful public library searches, databases…

Compares OCLC, WLN, and RLIN in terms of the composition of the databases, indexes and searching, special uses for public services, costs, and documentation. Selected bibliographies of general public service uses and interlibrary loan applications are provided. (CLB)

Outlines the services that telecommunications technology can provide for historical research. Examines online research procedures. Reviews Scholar Net, a new telecommunications network designed specifically for the humanities and social sciences. (BSR)

Summarizes issues raised at the OCLC Conference on the Future of the Public Library, focusing on anticipated trends in technology and the library role. Areas discussed include the use of appropriate technologies, governance, demands for reference services, user fees, and the need for strong library leadership. (CLB)

Considers the need for academic libraries to measure the effectiveness of reference services on an ongoing basis, and discusses factors to be considered in the planning, design, implementation, and analysis of various assessment methods. The different evaluation criteria for reference staff, bibliographic instruction, and online services are…

Six brief papers on expert systems for libraries cover (1) a knowledge-based approach to database design; (2) getting started in expert systems; (3) using public domain software to develop a business reference system; (4) a music cataloging inquiry system; (5) linguistic analysis of reference transactions; and (6) a model of a reference librarian.…

This third in five-lesson tutorial on library evaluation focuses on three measures of reference effectiveness in terms of users' experience: total number of reference questions received, proportion of answers provided to inquiries received, and accuracy with which questions are answered. Four required and suggested readings and four references are…

The author identifies the unique contributions of the computer to vocational guidance, tells what is in the "grey area," and makes prophecies about the future of the computer and career development. (Author/CT)

Compares online literature retrieval with traditional reference services. Discusses the reasons for and against adding online reference services to two-year college libraries and the unique applications online search services may have in the community college environment. (CBC)

Describes InfoTrac, a self-contained periodical reference system designed for in-library use by library patrons; the core database provides coverage of 900 general interest, business, management, and economic periodicals. Confusion in library markets resulting from introduction of new computer technology is discussed, and hardware/software…