Describes and evaluates a project which examined the feasibility of converting the University of Illinois' ILLINET Online Union Catalog to optical format, allowing users across the state to search the database using microcomputers. The evaluation focused on the impact on interlibrary loans and on the reactions of librarians and users. (CLB)

This report describes a three-stage catalog use study conducted at the University of Wisconsin-Stout from 1982 through 1986 to determine the types of searches conducted and search success rates for both the card and online catalogs during the library's transition to the DataPhase Automated Library Information System (ALIS). Phase I, conducted…

Presents a model that calculates the conditions under which a library may adopt a highly service-oriented online catalog access policy at minimum additional cost. The use of arrival rates, service rates, and queueing calculations to arrive at a cost-effective policy is explained. (Author/CLB)

Reports results of a survey of online catalog users in an academic library in Saudi Arabia that examined search patterns, levels of satisfaction, and user attitudes toward the online catalog. The special problems encountered when searching in a foreign language are discussed, and systems improvements are suggested. (CLB)

This report describes a survey of 942 California State University, Northridge, (CSUN) library patrons conducted from March 15 through April 15, 1987. The survey was administered by student interviewers who approached patrons exiting the two CSUN libraries and asked them questions from the survey questionnaire. Survey findings are briefly…

Describes the research objectives, rationale, methodology, and findings of a model program developed at the Northwestern University Library, which examined whether online catalogs require instruction and, if so, how that instruction would be best delivered. (CLB)

Reports the rationale, design, implementation, and results of an examination of the impact of online subject catalogs on users by comparing their behaviors before and after catalog installation. Evaluation criteria included volume of use, types of searches, use of other catalogs, search time, user satisfaction, and need for assistance. (CLB)

The impact of an automated circulation system and online catalog on interlibrary loans at a county college is evaluated in terms of activity by patron type, periodicals usage, costs, borrowing activity, and interlibrary loan activity. (CLB)

Discusses user satisfaction with remote access to online catalogs, categorizes the types of assistance remote users require, and considers the library's responsibility to these invisible users. An outline of suggestions for improving service to remote users is provided. (CLB)