Describes a multifaceted evaluation of the Brandeis model of reference services, which included how the model was defined, direct observation of librarians, unobtrusive study, and a focus group project to gauge patron response. Results of the study and needed improvements are discussed. A sidebar article describes the Brandeis model. (22…

Discusses the evaluation of academic library reference librarians' effectiveness in providing services to patrons using electronic sources based on experiences at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Topics include core technical competencies for subject specialists and reference desk service; the Internet; and methods of evaluation.…

Discusses an in-service cross-training program designed for reference desk workers at the University of New Mexico Library. Describes the reference department and provides an overview of cross training. Highlights include training issues, a needs assessment questionnaire, program implementation, and evaluation. Four appendices provide sample…

A retired library administrator discusses contemporary reference service based on his experience as a volunteer at the reference desk of an academic library. Narrative includes education; experience; work setting; training; impressions of users; knowledge acquired from fellow reference librarians; and print and electronic resources. (AEF)

Discusses bibliographic instruction in the field of psychology and reviews library science literature, psychological literature, and electronic teaching resources. Highlights include reviews of library science and psychological journals, books, literature guides, bibliographies, databases, CD-ROMs, and Internet resources. A reference list at the…

Discusses two Electronic Library Education Centers (ELECs) created at the University of Arizona to improve library instruction in the use of online resources. Examines costs of developing ELECs; technical changes experienced; and benefits to users and librarians. A sidebar by Abbie J. Basile identifies Internet resources for planning and/or…

Discusses the importance of information literacy and resource-based, collaborative learning. Offers suggestions and guidelines to help teacher-librarian collaborations effectively educate the public and students for the 21st century. (AEF)

Presents a summary review of 25 years of the literature on user instruction and information literacy. Notes how developments and technology during the last 10 years have affected user instruction and have led to the emergence of information literacy. Demonstrates how the field of user instruction has expanded. Includes bibliographies. (Author/AEF)

Presents results of a study of seven World Wide Web-based "What's New" announcement services to determine their relevance for academic library Webmasters, concluding that the use of such services for locating appropriate new Internet resources is problematic. A list of 15 recommended Web-based sources of new sites for library home pages…

Describes a feasibility study which focused on converting Japanese-American evacuation and relocation photographs to digital format for improved access and preservation. Problems and issues surrounding indexing the collection, the use of Library of Congress Subject Headings and authority files, and public service issues raised by a digital image…

Examines the role of electronic sources in the humanities. Topics include characteristics of humanities, electronic resources in libraries, two bibliographic utilities, library online catalogs, commercial online databases, CD-ROMs, resources on the Internet, discussion lists, electronic journals, full-text databases, research centers, informal…

The Economic Bulletin Board (EBB), a one-stop site for economic statistics and government-sponsored business information, can be accessed on the World Wide Web, gopher, telnet, file transfer protocol, dial-up, and fax. Each access method has advantages and disadvantages related to connections, pricing, depth of access, retrieval, and system…