Discusses the application of statistical sampling to the compiling of reference-desk statistics, and describes a technique that uses the Pearson correlation procedure of SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) to determine appropriate sampling periods for keeping reference desk statistics at the University of Missouri at St. Louis. (FM)

This study compared online versions of LISA (Library and Information Science Abstracts), Library Literature, and ERIC to investigate time lag and duplication of coverage. Six searches of each database were executed over a period of 15 months. Results indicated that Library Literature had the least time lag and LISA the most; duplication was low.…

Summarizes problems affecting reference accuracy and solutions recommended by librarians in four areas: the reference interview, inadequate knowledge of sources, library system failure, and the fallible nature of human beings. It is argued that the recommended actions, when viewed as a whole, indicate that collaboration among librarians is a key…

Presents a method for collecting reference desk statistics in machine-readable form using optical marks. Useful data categories are identified, and figures illustrate how data can be recorded for each category. Ten references are listed. (FM)

Discusses the theory of self-disclosure and outlines a proposed model of self-disclosure appropriate for reference work and question negotiations between librarians and library users. (Author/FM)

Behavior of patrons choosing between a person sitting at a counter and one sitting at a desk at each of two reference points was observed at the reference department during remodeling at the M. D. Anderson Library of the University of Houston. Results showed a statistically relevant preference for the counter. (Author/JD)

Discusses sources of available data on reference questions asked and answered in public libraries, and analyzes data collected between 1970 and 1985 in nine states. National data from libraries in the United States, Canada, and Great Britain are also presented. (Author/MES)

Develops a conceptual base for analyzing the literature on interviewing for its usefulness to the reference interview. Four holistic dimensions of the reference interview are identified and discussed in relation to interviewer decisions and other factors not directly controlled by the librarian. There are 18 references. (Author/RAA)

This study examined the importance of negative searching, or searching to discover topics not previously explored in writing, and its oversight in the library literature. A survey of university faculty revealed a tendency to view negative searching as necessary to scholarly endeavors, but an online literature search showed little discussion of…

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…

Examines range of coverage and principles of inclusion of dissertations in PsycINFO by comparing searches done on PsycINFO and Dissertation Abstracts Online. Searchers are advised to be skeptical about the accuracy and completeness of vendor documentation and the practical journal literature. Search strategies used are appended. (eight references)…

Eliminates communication apprehension (CA) as a variable influencing the initiation of an interaction between student searcher and reference librarian. Respondents regardless of CA level behave similarly in the search process prior to approaching a librarian. An aided-recall interview form is appended, and there are 14 references. (RAA)

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)

Presents the scope and developmental guidelines for reference and information services in libraries and information centers that have been adopted by the Reference and Adult Services Division of the American Library Association. Services, resources, environment, personnel, evaluation, and ethics of service are the areas covered. Included is a…