Although many recent studies have been conducted on the implementation and results of patron-driven acquisition (PDA) initiatives at academic libraries, very few have focused on whether, or how, patrons' selections vary from selection choices librarians would have made. This study compares titles selected by patrons during a PDA pilot program…

Describes a model which uses patron arrival rate, length of time on the terminal, and library service policies to determine the minimum number of terminals needed. The model is then used to compare the effects of various service policies on the minimum number of terminals. (CLB)

Describes experience gained by applying philosophical principles to library serials cooperation between two academic libraries. Philosophical views concerning cooperation; conditions leading to success of the project; serials survey of selected faculty members from English, biology, and economics departments; and proposals based on computer…

This examination of the criteria used in the evaluation of library literacy programs reviews the relevant literature, discusses several evaluation models that have already been used in literacy projects, and outlines a proposed evaluation model. (EM)

This paper defines performance measurement as the clarification of objectives and standards, identification of key activities, data collection and analysis, and formative evaluation of services. It then examines some of the factors involved in using performance measurement to evaluate public services activities, and analyzes performance…

Presents Checkland's soft systems methodology, discusses it in terms of the systems approach, and illustrates how it was used to relate evidence of user survey to practical problems of library management. Difficulties in using methodology are described and implications for library management and information science research are presented. (8…

Results of this examination of the information needs and gathering behavior of social scientists, especially historians, suggests that existing library and information services may be based on a misunderstanding of their needs. Factors that need to be studied are identified, and research models are suggested. (CLB)

Provides an interim report on a project whose goal is to provide subject access to the knowledge of mankind at least as well as the skilled reference librarian. Classification and concept formation are discussed in terms of four modules: diagnostics of information-seeking behavior, network interface, subject access, and graphic interface. (EM)

Reports on a study of the awareness, use, and diffusion of job information in a low-income population as a test of diffusion theory. A review of the literature is included and major models are reexamined with information rather than technology as the innovation. Implications for librarians are discussed. (EM)