Discusses results of interviews with reference librarians that were conducted to investigate the effects of electronic reference options such as CD-ROM and OPACs (Online Public Access Catalogs). The work environment is described; changes in library instruction are considered; and the changing nature of reference work is discussed, including users'…

This study focused on how CD-ROM systems were being used in a college library and training users had received or assistance they required. Patrons completed surveys and librarians logged assistance requests to determine the level of assistance needed for CD-ROM workstations. Results showed most patrons need assistance from librarians even for…

Discusses "Night Owl," a Maryland public library's after hours telephone reference service. Issues include project start-up, user profiles, types of questions, volume, after hours reference accessibility, security, costs, service limits, publicity, staffing, and employee turnover. Similar services in other states are cited. (Contains six…

This special section on CD-ROM and multimedia includes three articles: "What You Need to Know before Networking CD-ROMs" (David Burke); "Multimedia in a Traditional Library Setting" (Norman K. Peterson and Laurn Wilhelm); and "SilverPlatter Embraces the Future" (Pat Ensor). Reviews of two CD-ROM products are also…

Describes the use of Compact Disc-Interactive (CD-I) and Commodore Dynamic Total Vision (CDTV) technology in school library media center reference services. CD-I and CDTV are compared to CD-ROM regarding hardware, editing, and software; and to videodisks regarding hardware, analog/digital, standardization, audio/video, and cost. (Contains 12…

The new roles that reference librarians are being asked to play require that reference librarians should be given clear budgetary and programmatic authority; placed closer to the top of the organization; relieved of nonprofessional tasks; brought out of isolated departments; allowed to plan services and set priorities. (Contains 56 references.)…

Describes the development of a prototype Intelligent Reference Information System (IRIS) at the University of Houston library which integrated a CD-ROM local area network (LAN) and expert system technologies. Evaluations of the CD-ROM LAN performance and user reactions are reported, and possible future developments are discussed. (13 references)…

Discussion of performance appraisal and evaluation focuses on a peer review and evaluation process of reference services that was developed at Louisiana State University. Formative evaluation principles are discussed, user survey results are reported, and a checklist for implementing a peer desk review process is provided. (20 references) (LRW)

The Native American Authors Internet Library, hosted by the Internet Public Library (an award-winning site maintained by the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor), presents five administrative and reference sections with numerous links, and three browsers covering 400 authors, 700 titles, and 200 tribes. Authenticity, accountability, credibility,…

An academic librarian answered 24 questions using reference books, then tried to answer the same questions using an Internet search engine (Metacrawler). Evaluates the results of the Internet searches and discusses implications for library reference services and reference book publishers; Internet user expectations and satisfaction; and librarians…

Characterizes the questioning behavior in reference interviews preceding delegated online searches of bibliographic databases and relates it to questioning behavior in other types of interviews/settings. Compares questions asked by the information specialist and those asked by the client; findings show the information specialist dominates the…

Describes experiences in providing real-time online reference services to users with remote Web access at the Bowling Green State University library. Discusses the decision making process first used to select HumanClick software to communicate via chat; and the selection of a fee-based customer service product, Virtual Reference Desk. (LRW)

Discusses library services at the University of Tennessee to reach off-campus and distance education students. Topics include online research; email; library instruction for faculty and students; Web interfaces; fax; telephone service; chat technology; the library's Web page; virtual classrooms; library links from a course management system; and…

Compares and analyzes job advertisements for catalogers and reference librarians in academic libraries from 1971 to 1990 to trace the impact of automation on job requirements and qualifications. Findings indicate that computer skills are needed, and there are more entry-level jobs being posted for both groups. (Author/JMV)

Discusses the use of the Internet for ready reference and considers limitations, reference policy, and cost issues. Highlights include general reference sources; database searching on the Internet; Gopher; bibliographic control and access to Internet resources; personnel issues; and levels of service. (Contains 30 references.) (LRW)