Reports results of user survey complemented by personal discussions organized to ascertain users' satisfaction with and impact of On-line Information Service (OLIS) introduced by University of Hong Kong Libraries in January 1980. Subject searches, relevance of citations, and costs are discussed. The questionnaire and OLIS requests form are…

Discussion of theoretical considerations and practical factors relating to use of library reference service highlights factors involved in desk approachability--need, communication and promotion, physical arrangement of department, positioning (which gives the product a clear image communicating its purpose or use), psychological cost (personal…

Describes instructional methods and resources used by school librarians in meeting responsibility to teach students steps of an information search, validity and kind of sources, why a particular book was used, and value of reference tools. Examples are given of reference tools and situations in which they might be used. (EJS)

Details the history of the San Francisco Mechanics' Institute, discussing the origins of mechanics' institutes and of early San Francisco and focusing on the policy of social control, the contributions of president Andrew Hallidie, and the importance of such program components as the lending and reference library, exhibitions, public lectures,…

Until recently, the World Wide Web (WWW) public access search engines have not included many of the advanced commands, options, and features commonly available with the for-profit online database user interfaces, such as DIALOG. This study evaluates the features and characteristics common to both types of search interfaces, examines the Web search…

This book examines technical, social, and management issues related to librarians and cyberspace. The following chapters and articles are included: (1) "The Cybrarian's Tool Kit," including "Internet News and Website Reviews" (M. Sylvia), "Searching the Future" (J. Powell), "Netiquette, Hoaxes, and Scams! Oh…

Long a controversial topic in the specialized world of reference librarianship, unobtrusive evaluation is a useful tool in gauging the degree to which reference librarians are effectively performing their jobs. Based on a nationwide survey of government documents reference service in Canada, This book examines the broad philosophical implications…

Results of study conducted in academic library to determine whether self-disclosure by librarians would promote patron satisfaction with the reference interview and willingness to return for aid indicate that patrons felt more satisfied with self-disclosure, but it had no effect on their perception of being understood. Thirteen references are…

Describes techniques developed for providing continuing education to individuals solving medical reference requests over a telephone teleconference network linking library personnel in nonurban public libraries, systems libraries, and small hospital libraries. Background, project aims, and teleconferencing techniques, including their advantages,…

Discusses ways instruction librarians can use the World Wide Web to serve students in the classroom, at the reference desk, in distance education, and as a self-directed learning tool. Outlines how the Web can function as a desktop publishing system, revitalize subject pathfinders and "how-to" guides, and promote the invention of interactive…

An external user and an academic business reference librarian collaborated to design a Web site for members of the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO). This article describes the Web site's development and organization (accounting, budgeting, and related areas; technology and information systems; health and human resources; and finding…

Many Web sites are useful in helping answer reference questions in geography and international studies. This paper describes Web sites which provide maps, gazetteers, and country information. Also included are Web guides which collect and organize numerous links to geographical and international sites. (Author)

Proposes a reference-interview strategy that allows the reference librarian to assess the information need of the undergraduate doing social science research that requires the use of an electronic database; label the information need; and assign the most appropriate search strategy to satisfy this need. Questions for further study are offered.…

Arguing that physician/patient and librarian/user communications are similar, this article compares medical and reference interviews, focusing on physician or librarian attitudes and behaviors as it presents a series of verbal communication issues and outcomes. Offers suggestions to avoid communication problems at the reference desk, improving…

Explores the use of MOO (multi-user object oriented) virtual environments in academic libraries to enhance reference services. Highlights include the development of multi-user database (MUD) technology from gaming to non-recreational settings; programming issues; collaborative MOOs; MOOs as distinguished from other types of virtual reality; audio…