Seventeen idea tactics to aid information specialists in furthering a reference search are defined as parts of total search strategies, and are grouped into idea generation and pattern breaking modes. Problems in testing such tactics are discussed. (FM)

This description of the process used and the problems encountered by an amateur super 8 film maker in producing a 13 minute film on a limited budget for use in formal library instruction at the University of California at Berkeley, provides practical advice to prospective film makers contemplating a similar project. The film uses animation to…

Designed as a policy statement for staff and an orientation document for the new staff member, this manual presents reference service guidelines for user assisted access to the library collections and library instruction. The manual sets forth the purpose, goals, and ethics of reference service; defines categories of users; establishes priorities…

Describes differences between print and online reference sources in terms of the structure of the sources and the process of searching. Factors that affect the decision of which type of source to use are identified and grouped into seven categories: availability; cost; convenience; bibliographic; subject specification; inaccessibility through…

This policy manual explains computer search services at the University of Massachusetts/Amherst, University Library. The service is available to anyone willing to assume the cost of the services and able to schedule time for both the search strategy interview and the search itself. Requests for computer services are not accepted over the phone or…

A handbook of the procedures and organization of the Ford Foundation Library, a current reference library, this manual includes forms used for selection, acquisition, and circulation of the Foundation's library materials. The manual was written for the use of the Foundation staff but includes a broad informational outline on which to base the…

Compares traditional online interview with the presearch counseling session (process whereby a librarian, acting in an advisory role, assists client searcher in devising his/her search strategy, before that searcher goes online) and presents a one-step model of a presearch counseling session. An online self-service worksheet and 102-item…

Discusses the benefits and complexity of reference within the serials department and its interrelationship with general reference service. Practical solutions are suggested for problems of training, staffing and organization of serials reference service. (RAA)

Identifies deficiencies in reference services offered by archives and examines factors preventing effective use of archival resources, including changing clientele, organization of collections based on the principle of provenance, and the uniqueness of archival collections. Suggestions for improving public service, including user studies and…

The second of two articles on setting up a CD-ROM work area in a library considers access to the discs, including security, distribution alternatives, and limiting access; user needs, including needs of novice and expert searchers, troubleshooting, and instruction; distance from printed reference tools; and other issues, including printing,…

The service policies of the Pratt Institute Library are divided into two categories. The section on access covers constituency, hours of service, circulation of materials, reference and information services, reserve materials, and access to other library collections. The collection development section includes objectives, responsibility,…

This paper discusses personal resource discovery on the World Wide Web from the point of view of a reference librarian. Two key questions for finding information on the Internet are identified: (1) What are you actually looking for? and (2) Who is likely to have the information? Examples of this approach are provided, and some problems with using…

This guide discusses the use of the World Wide Web for library reference service. Part 1, "Ready Reference on the Web: Resources for Patrons," contains chapters on searching and meta-searching the Internet, using the Web to find people, news on the Internet, quality reference resources on the Web, Internet sites for kids, free full-text…

This manual provides information to aid home computer owners in performing literature searches of ERIC and other education and social science databases using the BRS Information Technologies "After Dark" system. Assuming some familiarity with printed ERIC indexes or online searches, this manual is divided into five chapters. It is…

This manual provides information to aid home computer owners in performing literature searches of ERIC and other education and social science databases, such as the DIALOG Information Services "Knowledge Index" System. Assuming some familiarity with printed ERIC indexes or online searches, this manual is divided into five chapters. It is…