Preprint articles are available on servers, such as arXiv and ChemRxiv, at no-cost to benefit the movement toward open access of research. However, the use of preprint research articles as a reference source in academia is not heavily documented. To examine if researchers are utilizing preprint articles, this paper examines citation trends in the…

Libraries have adopted web scale discovery services with the goal of providing their users with a streamlined research experience. However, the single search box that characterizes web scale discovery is one option among many that libraries continue to provide, including subject databases and other legacy tools. Libraries lack evidence regarding…

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive literature review on the utilisation of intelligent agent technology in the library environment. Design/methodology/approach: Research papers since 1990 on the use of various intelligent agent technologies in libraries are divided into two main application areas: digital library…

Low cost and high capacity microcomputers now have the potential for improvement of library services at various levels. They seem well adapted for text-processing, preparation of local bibliographies and resource guides, and improvement of online database searching. (Author/RAA)

Develops model of the reference interview which explicitly incorporates human information processing, particularly schema ideas presented by Marvin Minsky and other theorists in cognitive processing and artificial intelligence. Questions are raised concerning use of content analysis of transcribed verbal protocols as methodology for studying…

Considers a definition of online searching and discusses each of these factors--training, search aids, physical setting, search request form, interview and profile construction, terminal session, search evaluation, document delivery, professional reading, and online user groups. Eighteen sources are cited. (EJS)

Examines history of online information retrieval services in North American in general and in Canada specifically. The current situation is assessed on the basis of results of a recent national survey and the issue of charging for these services is discussed. Twelve references are cited. (EJS)

Surveys the impact of computers and related technology on reference work in Australia highlighting online information retrieval and related databases; Australian Information Network; coverage of Australian material in local and foreign databases; Australian Bibliographic Network; electronic mail; Australian Consortium for Social and Political…

Analysis of one component of library reference service--online numeric database systems for time-series data--reviews tradition of reference service and ways in which computer technology has enhanced provision of library services. Experiences with Kentucky Economic Information System (KEIS) are described. Examples of KEIS and 30 references are…

Discusses issues regarding training for computer-based reference services, including who is to be trained and who is responsible for training, and summarizes the training offered to date by search service suppliers, database suppliers, library schools, and extension programs. Available training materials are also considered. (Author/FM)

This guide to information services used by the Environmental Research Center (ERC) in Cincinnati, the scientific and technical information focal point for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), explains the online searching services available at the Cincinnati Library, outlines the procedure for requesting a literature search, and…

Overview of the impact of information technology on libraries highlights turnkey vendors, bibliographic utilities, commercial suppliers of records, state and regional networks, computer-to-computer linkages, remote database searching, terminals and microcomputers, building local databases, delivery of information, digital telefacsimile,…

Proposes a formal thesis program to be conducted by a librarian in an academic library on a one-to-one basis. Discussion covers the graduate student/thesis advisor relationship; students' difficulties; a three-way partnership involving the student, the advisor, and the librarian; and eight basic features of the program. (8 references) (EJS)

Based on a review of the literature, this discussion addresses such key aspects of the librarian's changing role in the online search process as the reference interview, online search evaluation, user training, and information service management. Future trends are noted, and 43 references are listed. (EJS)

Social interest in information as a shared resource is diminishing, while proprietary interest in information as a profitable resource increases. Technological advancement in information processing and services, considerations of cost recovery by public agencies, and opportunities for commercial profit are blurring distinctions between the public…