Discusses the recruiting process for paraprofessional catalogers (job description, qualifications, interview) and outlines a training program in copy cataloging techniques. Includes a sample job description, a list of general competencies for entry-level paraprofessional catalogers, and a bibliography of basic tools (general cataloging,…

Describes a bibliographic instruction program for master's candidates in education that trains students to be independent information seekers using traditional print-based materials as well as ERIC on CD-ROM. The rationale for the course is discussed, and the materials and methods used in the course are described in detail. (13 references) (CLB)

Discussion of online bibliographic database searches focuses on a software system, SORT-AID/SABRE, that ranks retrieved citations in terms of relevance. Results of a comprehensive user evaluation of the relevance ranking procedure to determine its effectiveness are presented, and implications for future work are suggested. (10 references) (LRW)

Describes a questionnaire survey that identified characteristics of members of the Council on Botanical and Horticultural Libraries, Inc. Results discussed include types of libraries; regional distribution; clientele; services offered by libraries; use of online bibliographic databases; backgrounds of professional staff; collections and subject…

Discusses issues that must be addressed to determine if a library's cataloging needs are best met with an online system, an optical data disk system, or some combination of the two. The experiences of academic and public libraries in Nevada are used to illustrate issues related to vendors, databases, and system features. (10 references) (CLB)

Description of the ERIC database covers suggested uses for teachers, students, parents, and researchers; information available in ERIC; how to access ERIC, including through the Internet; the AskERIC service that is available through the Internet; and steps for searching the database. A directory of ERIC clearinghouses is also included. (LRW)

Focuses on the disadvantages of working teachers engaged in research. Seven sources of informal and three sources of formal information are listed. Teacher/researchers are unfamiliar with how research information is disseminated. Through networking and learning the library, they can access the same kind of data available to professional…

Examines vendors' views on the future of CD-ROM technology. Topics include the library role, single point access, costs, tape backup, user-friendly library automation systems and databases, improved quality, the growth of Internet access, and perspectives on technology in schools. (AEF)

Describes research and development of the Mercury Electronic Library Project, which was developed at Carnegie Mellon University Libraries to design an advanced retrieval system. Topics discussed include system architecture; security; performance, including automated and manual assessments; enhanced retrieval, including available databases;…

Considers comparative prices for bibliographic data on CD-ROM and in print. Topics addressed include differences in the nature of bibliographic data in the two media, the relative complexities of pricing structure, varying policies on network pricing, and standardization of the licensing arrangement. (KRN)

Describes the Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) and the inclusion of abstracting and indexing industry databases in OPACs. Topics addressed include the implications of including abstracting and indexing tape and CD-ROM products in OPACs; the need for standards allowing library systems to communicate with dissimilar CD-ROM products; and computer,…

Discussion of the information-seeking behavior of humanists focuses on a study that investigated the efficacy of following bibliographic references from documents already known. Topics include the nature of humanities research; vocabulary control and indexing; subject-based literature searches; seed documents; relevance; retrieval based on…

The Simple Index Method overcomes the difficulties in building a core list for serials in interdisciplinary fields by using multiple indexes which cover various aspects of the subject. Collection-development librarians can develop a core list when standard bibliographies or specific indexing and abstracting tools are lacking and can tailor that…

Discusses Oregon library automation projects, including Internet connectivity and a statewide multitype library network; a bibliographic information system with college and university libraries, including a union catalog; a Portland Area Library System that connects multitype libraries; and library staff training for the Internet. (LRW)

Context: Approximately 20% of North Americans and 25% of Europeans reside in rural areas. Planning and providing end-of-life (EOL) care in rural areas presents some unique challenges. Purpose: In order to understand these challenges, and other important issues or circumstances, a literature search was conducted to assess the state of science on…