Examines the economic effects on information-producing companies of user migration from print to online information services. Three reasons are cited for the transition to online: (1) inflation, (2) new technology, and (3) database enhancement. Cost graphs and responses to questionnaires supplement the discussion. (SW)

In the study reported here a cost model of facility usage was constructed to assess the financial impact of alternative facility usage policies. Results of the study indicate that the financial benefits that accrue from increased facility utilization would likely be more than offset by increased costs. (Author)

Describes and evaluates a learning center approach to economic education which involved secondary social studies students at the University of Texas, Austin. The subject of the learning center project was how to purchase and maintain an automobile. Findings indicated that the approach was successful and interesting to students. (Author/DB)

Reports the findings of a survey of 226 faculty members in the social sciences at the University of Illinois concerning their use of serials. Information regarding their serial needs, patterns of use, and the usefulness of specified services is presented, and means of improving service despite budgetary restraints are discussed. (Author/JD)

Reviews some research on the use of library catalogs in the light of four functions (finding list, gathering, collocating, and evaluative); suggests that access points for each work be increased and that problems involved in entry choice be analyzed further. A list of references is included. (FM)

A use study examining COM use at the Los Angeles County Public Library System is summarized. Findings indicate the COM catalog is more acceptable to patrons than its book or card alternative. Equipment needed for use posed no obstacles, and there are no significant reactionary differences between different user groups. (Author/MBR)

Results of a five-year study of drug use patterns of undergraduates at the University of Maryland show a continuous rise in the use of alcohol and suggest that a modest decline in other popular drugs of abuse may reflect a trade-off between alcohol and these other drugs. (MB)

To determine student use patterns, 185 undergraduates in first and second year psychology courses were provided hypertext lecture support documents (lecture notes, bulletin board, and e-mail) via the Internet. Although the materials were popular, analysis determined that study followed traditional patterns of paper-based learning and that no…

Discussion of multimedia evaluation and evaluation of public space learning environments focuses on the results of using a keystroke log file to identify the use patterns of the interactive multimedia system at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. Studying engagement with the technical system separately from the content is recommended. (Author/LRW)

Describes a study that explored the use of log files to investigate the process of hypermedia navigation at the University of Connecticut's information kiosk. Highlights include the use of cluster analysis; four different types of navigational performance; and external validation criteria, including self-efficacy, perceived utility, and interest.…

Analyzes survey results of university students who used the instant messaging (IM) reference service at Southern Illinois University Carbondale's library. Focuses on the results of two surveys, including a comparison of IM reference and traditional reference desk experiences; provides an overview of the IM reference system and usage data; and…

Some academic libraries have adopted the idea of the information commons, a central location providing computers, information resources in various formats, and staff assistance. An overview of several information commons in the United States and Canada is presented, and missions, features, strengths and weaknesses are explored. A table identifies…

The Analysis of Technology Assistance for Children project surveyed assistive technology use in special education classrooms in Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee. The survey focused on the status of assistive technology in educational and related settings, benefits and barriers of assistive technology, and effects of assistive technology use.…

Describes the redesign of the Web site at the virtual library of the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology). Discusses usability problems with the original site, including navigation difficulties; focus groups to determine user needs; usability testing for the new Web site; and the importance of customer input. (LRW)

Examines patterns of television viewing and viewing motivations for the "PTL Club" in light of the recent PTL scandal. Extracts the ritualized user and a modified version (curious consumer) of the instrumental user only. Discusses implications for the future of religious television. (SR)