To compile a list of recommended electronic databases for rural libraries, public library patron questions received by the Arizona State Reference Center were searched on ten databases. The results indicated Books in Print, Magazine Database, ABI/INFORM, Public Affairs Information System (PAIS), and Government Printing Office (GPO) Publications…

To improve its service, the Offa (Nigeria) township library conducted a user study. The investigation found that 51% of users were students ages 19 and below and that 78% were males. Most users wanted extended hours, improved newspaper collections, more accurate shelving, and a consistent lending policy for all materials and users. (PEN)

Examines governmental and nongovernmental funding of rural libraries at three intervals over a 10-year period (1984, 1989, and 1994). Questionnaires were administered to 300 rural libraries. Findings indicate a relative status quo has been maintained in proportions of budgets but the funding and fund raising have increased to keep abreast of…

A survey of 66 libraries providing bookmobile services found that the main constraint on bookmobile services is the lack of funding, that most bookmobile librarians do not receive enough questions to warrant carrying reference sources, that only 5% were equipped to handle physically challenged patrons, and that more than 30% had automated…

Describes the results of a survey of rural public libraries that examined the impressions of librarians involved in establishing the role of the library, the degree to which planning is accomplished, and current socioeconomic data relevant to rural libraries. The discussion focuses on the finding that librarians are not planning for future…

Describes results of a survey of rural public libraries that was conducted to determine what technology is currently available and in use. Highlights include library personnel education; cataloging and other areas of technical services; reference services; online databases; and suggestions for further studies. A copy of the questionnaire…

Examines how rural librarians view librarianship and libraries, and the future of both. A total of 441 surveys were sent out; 232 were analyzed. Findings indicate rural librarians are overwhelmingly positive about the profession and its future. The major obstacle facing rural libraries is a lack of education to cope with changes the information…

Provides an overview of library cooperatives in Illinois. Considers their relationship to rural public libraries, previous attempts at evaluating cooperative systems, and current evaluation standards. Analyzes the results of a survey on the effectiveness of library cooperatives in Illinois with regard to continuing education, consultants'…

Reviews literature that describes information need studies of medical communities. Surveyed health-care professionals in a rural community to identify the information needs of health- care professionals, their primary sources of information, their attitudes toward the public library, and information needs of patients. An appendix contains…

These volumes report on investigation, activities, and viewpoints related to rural library service. Topics covered are the role of rural libraries, the needs and characteristics of its users, the characteristics of its trustees, difference in operation and information service between rural and urban libraries, and the role of technology in helping…