"Research Library Issues" ("RLI") focuses on current and emerging topics that are strategically important to research libraries. The articles explore issues, share information, pose critical questions, and provide examples. This issue includes the following articles: (1) Special at the Core: Aligning, Integrating, and…

This review of the 1987 journal literature on serials covers (1) electronic and optical storage; (2) automation of processing; (3) cataloging; (4) holdings information and cooperative efforts; (5) cost analysis and collection contraction; (6) work abroad; (7) subject collections; (8) serving patrons; (9) serials as a professional specialty; and…

Random samples of monographic materials from U.S. and Canadian public libraries were matched with collections from similar libraries of different sizes. Strong positive correlation appears between percentage find rate and target library size, with regression analysis suggesting linearity over a wide range of collection sizes. (Author)

The Index of American Public Library Circulation dates back to 1939, and the Index of American Public Library Expenditures to 1951. These indexes are based on annual reports from a sample of all American public libraries serving more than 25,000 people each. Using the 1982 American Library Directory, the researchers identified 1,586 public…

Database usage from a random sample of academic and public libraries in the United States and Canada reveals patterns of use in selected types of libraries. Nine tables present usage statistics. Factors that influence database use are briefly discussed. (AEF)

To increase a deep continuous stream of library research, the following steps are recommended: (1) expand present research activities in library schools, libraries, and professional associations; (2) add evaluative measures to library "demonstrations" set up as a part of state plans for library development; (3) sponsor experimental…

To investigate the experience of American and Canadian university libraries with remote access catalogs, self-administered questionnaires were sent to the 137 directors of all Association of Research Libraries (ARL) libraries and all libraries of Canadian degree-granting institutions. The study was designed to: (1) survey Canadian and U.S.…

A study was undertaken to assess the quality and quantity of practical experience and field work provided in the instructional programs of American Library Association-accredited library schools. Some 62 schools in the United States and Canada were surveyed by mail, and personal visits were made to 13 of the 62. In 65% of the schools some formal…

It has become widely recognised across the academic and research libraries sector that special collections and archives play a key role in differentiating each institution from its peers. In recognition of this, Research Libraries UK (RLUK) established the workstrand "Unique and Distinctive Collections" (UDC) in support of its strategic…

To determine more rational and economical methods for serving the information needs of the public, a series of studies have been sponsored by the Association of Research Libraries. Libraries in the United States are characterized as independent agencies supported from governmental and private sources and serving a local clientele. Steadily rising…

Describes a colloquium on library service to children in the Soviet Union which was attended by a delegation of U.S. librarians. Distinctive features of Soviet library service are described, as well as practices shared by both countries. The colloquium recommendations for future projects are listed, and papers presented by Soviet librarians are…

Discusses database usage data from a sample of 98 public libraries and library systems in the United States and Canada that revealed patterns of use. Results of the questionnaire used, which is appended, showed the number of workstations was statistically correlated with amount of use. (Author/LRW)

The 1996 National Household Education Survey (NHES:96), an ongoing national survey on important educational issues, included a series of questions about the use of public library services by members of United States households. Responses represent public library use by members of each household surveyed and not by individual persons within…

Traces historical developments and recent trends in library and information science research in United States, Great Britain, and India; discusses factors contributing to developments in United States and United Kingdom; and reviews Ranganathan's contributions in detail. Some factors hindering research in India and areas which require research are…

Papers on library history and library theory and research presented at the 1986 International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) conference include: (1) "The History of Western Literature Library Collections in Japan" (Yoshitomi Okazaki, Japan); (2) "Trends of Library History Research in Japan" (Hiroshi Kawai, Yukio…