The computer-based reference process includes the user pre-search form, appointments, search strategy negotiation, on-line sampling and on-line search session. The role of the search analyst, his personality and communication skills are discussed in relation to the success or failure of a computer search. (JAB)

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…

Methods of obtaining information which were developed by the Prussian General Staff (military) could be adapted to reference interviews. (JAB)

Summarizes methods of searching currently available for OCLC, provides list of questions that can be answered with terminal (monographic series, mock subject searching, bibliography, government documents, serials, microforms, music, birth/death dates, corporate bodies, name authority, variant editions, artistic transpositions), and demonstrates…

Analyzes the search process, isolating the pertinent elements that make up a search and identifying the many decision points in the process. (Author/PF)

Students of reference work need help in developing search strategies. The general knowledge of the student and the size of the collection should be considered, then decision factors such as language, time available, amount of information required and space can be ranked. (2 references) (DH)

This paper outlines the history and purpose of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which insures the right to access the voluminous files of U.S. government agencies, and explains FOIA implementation procedures for reference librarians assisting patrons. Recent attempts to amend the FOIA are discussed. Thirty-four references are cited. (EJS)

Discusses the need to educate the library's professional reference staff in online searching so that subsequent training on the job will be more effective. (FM)

Discusses the usefulness of the World Wide Web to answer reference questions as compared to print sources, based on a study of 104 reference questions. Topics include timeliness of the information, search engines, bookmarks, current versus noncurrent information needs, and time spent on searching. (LRW)

Discusses the needs of remote users of online public access catalogs (OPACs). User expectations are discussed; problems encountered by remote-access users are examined, including technical problems and searching problems; support services are described, including instruction, print guides, and online help; and differences from the needs of…

Discusses the use of the OCLC Authority File for answering reference questions. Contents of the authority file are described, including personal, corporate, conference, and geographic names, uniform titles, and subject headings; accessing the authority file is explained; searching strategies are discussed; and examples of authority records are…

Describes how genealogists visiting the Library of Congress can use Library of Congress Information System (LOCIS) to identify genealogies in library's collections. Search strategies within two LOCIS systems--Multiple-Use MARC System (MUMS) and Subject-Oriented-Retriever for Processing Information Online (SCORPIO)--and the PREMARC database for…

Describes a computer aid developed to assist in academic library reference service using the DataPhase Circulation System, an automated system that features full cataloging records in database and permits local programing. Access points (subject, type of reference work, course) and database structure and user screens are highlighted. (EJS)

Presents results of study evaluating reactions of 20 university students and faculty to first-time online database searching on the Bibliographic Retrieval Service's menu-driven BRS/After Dark. Background information on participants, search analysis and problems, end user education needs, and the role of the intermediary are discussed. Four…

Discusses overuse and abuse of the online search in academic libraries, citing cases where patrons are not well served by it. Suggestions include helping students define and refine research goals and use of print indexes and abstracts which display citations in context of related literature. (15 references) (EJS)