Google Scholar is a free service that provides a simple way to broadly search for scholarly works and to connect patrons with the resources libraries provide. The researchers in this study analyzed Google Scholar usage data from 2006 for three library tools at San Francisco State University: SFX link resolver, Web Access Management proxy server,…

This discussion of various ways of looking at information argues that it is important for media specialists to think about the concepts and ethics of information in order to assist students to become effective information users. Ten references are listed. (MES)

As libraries automate their collections and mount online public access catalogs (OPACs), they face special challenges in educating patrons to use these electronic systems effectively and efficiently. Because users are less familiar with the concept and arrangement of an OPAC than with a card catalog, less successful searches commonly occur.…

These two brief guides are designed to assist users in searching the GPO Monthly Catalog of Government Publications and the ERIC databases on CD-ROM produced by Silver Platter Information, Inc. Each guide contains step-by-step instructions for: (1) simple subject searching using basic Boolean connectors; (2) displaying and printing; (3) correcting…

Outlines five areas to which standards of professionalism to enhance the public service of microform collections must apply: microform management policy; the microforms librarians; physical environment and equipment; bibliographic control and access (microform collection guides); and promotion of microform use (bibliographic instruction). Five…

This report summarizes the proceedings of a conference that brought together 35 librarians, network representatives, and system vendors to exchange information on the training of users of online public access catalogs. Three papers are presented: "Historic Concerns in Library Instruction: Teaching the Card Catalog," by Evan Farber;…

Identifies six successive stages in model of the library research process developed from the findings of study of high school seniors using library for two assigned research papers: initiating research assignment, selecting topic, exploring information, forming focus, collecting information, preparing to present. Assessment of the research process…

This article outlines an Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) CD-ROM bibliographic instruction (BI) session at an academic library, which is intended to produce knowledgeable and competent ERIC searchers. The 1.5 hour lecture session includes: a basic introduction to the ERIC database; narrowing down a search topic; using the thesaurus…

Stresses the importance of teaching the skills necessary for students to understand computer communications, including microcomputer and remote computer commands; how to get information from human resources through a bulletin board service or information utility; and keyword searching and Boolean logic. (EM)

Library instruction about reference materials, databases, and quality web sites never goes out of fashion for students, faculty, or staff. An annual professional development program on the Colorado State University campus offers an opportunity to provide specialized library instruction to targeted faculty and staff members. For two consecutive…

The availability of appropriate software for library applications is a continuing problem, and this directory is designed to reduce the frustration of librarians in their search for library software for a microcomputer by providing profiles of software packages designed specifically for libraries. Each profile describes the purpose of the program,…

This paper describes how four classes of high school students were introduced over a 2-year period to the concepts and terminology of online bibliographic searching, instructed to formulate their own search strategies, and received the opportunity to observe their strategies executed by a skilled searcher on various selected databases. It also…

Focuses on the training of students in online bibliographic searching as introduced by school library media centers. The online process, teaching students to search, search steps, negative and positive aspects, and implications for school library media programs in three areas (student instruction, collection development, service goals) are…

Describes how four classes of high school students were introduced to concepts and terminology of online bibliographic searching, were instructed to formulate their own search strategies, and received opportunity to observe their execution. Purpose, course description, course evaluation responses, and postcourse examination results are noted.…

A total of 54 designs for successful active learning strategies for library instruction in the classroom are presented in this sourcebook. These librarian-authored strategies have been developed and used successfully in instruction. The lesson designs are divided into five sections: Basic Library Instruction; Searching Indexes and Online Catalogs;…