Suggests that fundamental questions with broad policy implications and a perspective that approaches academic library from patron's point of view remain to be asked about library costs, collections and their use, library users, and both the academic setting itself and the people who work within it. Seventeen references are cited. (EJS)

Presents conceptual framework for library and information science research and analyzes research methodology that has application for information science, using as example results of study conducted by authors. Rationale for use of qualitative research methods in theory building is discussed and qualitative and quantitative research methods are…

Traces emergence and development of research in library science; argues that prevailing ideology posits desirability of adoption of a positivist epistemology for research in the field; and proposes drawing of work in critical theory and hermeneutics, to rethink the epistemological foundations of research in library and information science. (38…

Library use and user studies (1973-1981) indexed in ERIC database were analyzed to ascertain areas in need of research as characterized by Tobin. Since 1972, most research conducted has been in large-scale studies and use of nonprint materials; use of government documents and library staff needs remain unresearched areas. (35 references) (EJS)

Presents an overview of the field of comparative librarianship, i.e., systematic analysis of library development, practices, or problems as they occur under different circumstances, most usually in different countries in context of relevant background factors. Highlights include definition, purposes, research methodology, problems, and possible…

Discusses funding for library research (1964-84), including previous findings; problems in analyses of funding; activities of major research funding agencies (Higher Education Act of 1965 Title II-B, National Science Foundation, National Library of Medicine, Council on Library Resources); and funding by professional organizations. Problems and…

Report on study to consider ways in which research effectiveness could be assessed outlines possible approaches (cost-benefit assessment, citation analysis, publications, real-time tracking study, case study, take-up survey, audience research panel, penetration study). Appropriateness of approaches is discussed in relation to projects funded by…

Reviews library management research, particularly objectives, measurement methods, collection size, book availability, and stock control. (LS)

This U.S. history curriculum guide, based upon historical essays written by Richard B. Bernstein, is intended for postsecondary students. The guide incorporates an extended syllabus that sketches a two-semester survey course. This course provides students with a serious grounding in U.S. history. It also demonstrates the perennial contests over…

Libraries are spending an increasing amount of money on acquisitions and an expanding portion of these expenditures is for microforms. It behooves the acquisitions librarian to be aware of changes and developments in microforms and to interpret what effect they will have on acquisitions. (50 references) (Author/SJ)

Ten thousand students tell what's wrong (and what's right) about their school and public libraries. (Author)

This article focuses on storage models for libraries, first considering the Dewey classification system from this perspective and then summarizing more current research carried out under the direction of the author with a grant from the National Science Foundation. (33 references) (Author/NH)

Assesses the significance of the Conference on five areas toward which library educators can focus attention: (1) public awareness of libraries, (2) user-oriented library services, (3) resource sharing and networking, (4) enabling mechanisms for library legislation and funding, and (5) library research needs. Fifteen references are listed. (FM)

Discusses the results of an analysis of the reference process in which behavioral outcomes were distinguished from the causal factors that inhibit the delivery of reference service. Data on reference services in 16 libraries are analyzed and presented in five figures and three tables. A 26-item reference list is included. (JL)

Describes the elements required for a well-designed questionnaire, including appearance, question writing, organization, and cover letter. A checklist for effective questionnaire design is provided, as well as seven references. (BK)