A selection of recent scholarly and general works of interest to reference librarians in academic libraries. (Author/AP)

Library Pathfinders offer the opportunity to share reference methodology in an organized, nationwide manner. Intended to introduce users to the variety of information sources available, Pathfinders have been published in a wide range of disciplines. The authors describe Pathfinders and indicate how they can provide improved user service and…

Describes the experience of the University of Pennsylvania Libraries with computerized searches. (PF)

Twenty-five sets of "indirect" and "faculty information" questions were asked at two university library reference centers, one staffed by nonprofessionals and the other by professionals. The purpose was to determine relative success of professional and nonprofessional reference staff in (1) probing beyond "indirect" questions and (2) detecting and…

A continuation of a semiannual series, this list presents a selection of recent scholarly and foreign works of interest to reference workers in unversity libraries. (JB)

Library group practice bears striking similarities to medical group practice, both in rationale and patterns of service. Library group practice is a means of enhancing professional achievement, improving rate of productivity in libraries, and thereby offering one way in which information can be marketed by libraries at an acceptable price. (8…

In a detailed study of reserve book circulations at the University of Nebraska, it was found that the percentage of titles never circulated rises rather sharply fo course lists longer than twenty titles. (Author/NH)

The results of a survey on the nature and functions of information desks in large academic and public libraries are examined with respect to the functions, staffing patterns, and times of service. The survey expands and updates Kleiner's 1967 study. (JB)

Describes the rise of information brokers, who package, validate, and evaluate data for clients on a cost-effective basis, and who use all forms of technology. It is suggested that librarians should familiarize themselves with these new trends, benefit from them through their use, and seek development of a national information policy. (Author/JD)

Presents book reviews of recently published scholarly and general works of interest to reference workers in university libraries. The listing includes a brief roundup of new editions of standard works, continuations, and supplements. (RAA)

Outlines an explicit research agenda to address the development of expert systems for reference services. The discussion specifically addresses system testing, describes what has been done, evaluates existing systems, identifies work in progress, and raises seven critical questions in this area. (58 references) (Author/CLB)

The academic librarian in the period since 1876 has consistently promoted greater access to informational materials. Several periods represent an approximate emphasis in chronological sequence; these are: (1) accumulation of materials, (2) organization of resources, (3) personal assistance to readers, (4) organization patterns, and (5) physical…

Describes a peer coaching program implemented at Temple University's Reference and Information Services Department to provide staff with support in fine-tuning and maintaining certain reference desk skills. The discussion covers the origins of the program, coaching basics, and the applicability of peer coaching to the academic library setting. (12…

This study at an academic library used a simulation technique (1) to analyze the extent to which queues develop at a reference desk during peak periods, (2) to propose alternative staffing models to reduce queues, and (3) to examine the cost effectiveness of the alternatives. (Author/JAB)

The reference-bibliographer concept is examined from several perspectives: historical antecedents; relationship to the academic setting; and the authors' experience with a staff of subject specialists at a predominantly undergraduate college library. (JB)