As virtual worlds continue to proliferate globally, libraries are faced with the question of whether to provide information services to virtual patrons. This study, utilizing a mixed-method approach of interviews, focus groups, and surveys, represents one of the largest studies of virtual libraries attempted to date. Taking a holistic perspective,…

Reports results of a study which tested a hierarchical model that considers public library use as a function of the user's individual characteristics, awareness of library services, perceived accessibility of the library, perceived ease of use of the library, and use of other nonpublic libraries. Twenty references are cited. (Author/FM)

Describes geographic information systems and the assembly of data for analysis for the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library (Indiana). Presents examples of possible analyses: distribution of library patrons; distances patrons travel to use libraries; branch library services and characteristics of populations served; numbers of patrons served…

Mathematical models of library operations are presented which describe the amount of use made of resources by a user in a visit, the distribution of book circulation in a collection, the dependence of circulation on time, and the effect of multiple copies on user satisfaction. (9 references) (Author/NH)

This article is an exploration of the relationship between Australian soldiers and wartime libraries in the First and Second World Wars. It examines the way soldiers, as readers, used a variety of libraries, including those of charitable organizations, the education libraries organized by military authorities, and the libraries formed in Prisoner…

Reviews current state of the art pertaining to measurement and use of the construct of user satisfaction (user's self-reported degree of satisfaction with library services) and reports results of survey of 623 public library patrons measuring user satisfaction, evaluation of services, library use, and individual characteristics. Twenty-six sources…

Three studies examined public library reference services use by patrons in Anglo, Hispanic, and Vietnamese communities in California. Interview questions concerned search topics, use of staff help, perceived usefulness of search result, successful search strategies, reasons for not seeking help, foreknowledge of sources, reasons for using the…

A reanalysis of data from a national telephone poll (n1181) conducted in 1991 determined that if local libraries faced a fiscal crisis, 47% favored raising taxes, 44% preferred instituting user fees, and 9% advocated reducing services. Frequent library use, urban residence, higher level of education, and greater income were associated with a…