This survey of rural and suburban libraries produced over 660 usable responses on special problems of rural libraries. Nearly half of libraries had budgets of under $30,000; about half did not have M.L.S. degree-holding staff members; majority participated in cooperative system; many reported inadequate reference resources; and isolation was major…

Describes responses of 19 Louisiana academic libraries to questionnaire designed to determine scope and conduct of academic online searching search services. Telecommunications networks, terminals, patrons, library search procedures, methods of charging fees, special features, selective dissemination of information, computer searching by…

Discusses objectives for public library services to the disabled in terms of material, equipment, facilities, services, and staffing, and reports selected results of a 1979 survey of public library service to the physically impaired. (FM)

A survey of online search techniques of 50 undergraduate and graduate students at Arizona State University's Hayden Library revealed heavy reliance on simple subject searching. The analysis included search types, use of library personnel and online help screens, exposure to library instruction, and length of time at the terminal for citation…

Encourages academic library program planning by listing the benefits of such activity and citing sample programs/activities drawn from a survey of college and university libraries in the Southeastern Library Association and from Old Dominion University in particular. (JD)

A computer-based, integrated information system incorporating data and information about the data, SIPP ACCESS systematically links technologies of laser disk, mainframe computer, microcomputer, and electronic networks, and applies relational technology to provide access to information about complex statistical data collections. Examples are given…

Utilizes the results of a study that examined how information was sought and actually used in everyday situations to emphasize that an understanding of the self-informing process can improve the services of adult services librarians by increasing their awareness and by suggesting communication skills needed. (Author/JD)

A survey of 34 of the largest public library systems, each serving at least 500,000 people, showed: (1) minority offer online database services; (2) cost is major prohibiting factor; (3) New York Times Information Bank is most popular database; (4) fee structures vary; and (5) business organizations are most frequent users. (JD)

This study explored the relationship between expanded information and referral (I&R) services and traditional reference services in public libraries in North Carolina. Results show librarians feel I&R services should be limited to those closely related to traditional reference services. Other I&R services typically provided by social…

A survey of heads of academic library reference services gathered information on reference collection development. Findings included: (1) selection and weeding frequently are not guided by written policies; (2) empirical studies of use are almost nonexistent; and (3) online availability of sources is an important factor in selection. (20…

Presents the results of a survey conducted by the ALA Office for Research to determine current practices with respect to the financing of online services in public libraries. Special emphasis is placed upon questions surrounding the imposition of user fees for such services. Seven tables summarize the data. (JL)

A survey of 113 Texas libraries examined characteristics of reference positions to determine whether there were important similarities and differences between public and academic libraries in the areas of professional qualifications for employment; job skills and responsibilities; work scheduling; benefits; and departmental characteristics. The…

This survey of public library use in Arthur, Illinois, reveals that 14 percent of nearby Amish population have purchased nonresident, family library cards. Comparison with rural populations in downstate Illinois and library use in Ohio Amish settlements suggests changes in Amish culture and role of public libraries near Amish settlements. Includes…

A survey designed to ascertain user expectations and satisfaction with interlibrary loan service was conducted in 1992 of a 20% sample of interlibrary loan users at Middleton Library of Louisiana State University. Findings indicated a high level of user satisfaction. (Author/JKP)

Surveys of labor educators and academic librarians, designed to study library usage by participants in labor education, indicate that a lack of communication and understanding exists between the two departments at many institutions. Increased cooperation and library utilization are recommended. Twenty-seven references are listed, and the…