This study of reference service measurement in support of professionalism for librarians eliminates the directional vs. reference query distinctions and looks at all reference desk transactions in terms of the number of distinct and definable judgments they require for resolution. (Author/JAB)

This study compared online versions of LISA (Library and Information Science Abstracts), Library Literature, and ERIC to investigate time lag and duplication of coverage. Six searches of each database were executed over a period of 15 months. Results indicated that Library Literature had the least time lag and LISA the most; duplication was low.…

If librarians from all areas of reference and information service understood their own roles better, then they might feel more capable of fruitful interchange transcending common institutional boundaries. (Author)

The plan proposed in this paper may offer the best means of convincing students that the field of librarianship affords them the creative challenge of dealing with the information explosion and an opportunity to serve with a community of scholars as a subject expert. (2 references) (Author/NH)

Six decision-making steps of the reference process were isolated through development of a model reference query. Instructional modules for each of the steps are described. The program is suitable for library school students or library paraprofessionals. (JAB)

This study examined the importance of negative searching, or searching to discover topics not previously explored in writing, and its oversight in the library literature. A survey of university faculty revealed a tendency to view negative searching as necessary to scholarly endeavors, but an online literature search showed little discussion of…

A better understanding of the reference process can result in better reference services. Seven models and flowcharts representing different approaches to reference work are reproduced and discussed. (4 references) (DH)

Growth and changes in "RQ" (1960-1985) are examined and detailed in both text and tables (cover/size, pagination, editor, articles, advertisements, physical features, association interests, reviews, columns, government publications). Development of columns, government publication news, thematic articles, authors of "RQ"…

Students of reference work need help in developing search strategies. The general knowledge of the student and the size of the collection should be considered, then decision factors such as language, time available, amount of information required and space can be ranked. (2 references) (DH)

Presented are the results of a study which examined the scope of the ERIC data base. Recommendations include a more explicitly stated policy for selective indexing of data base and indexing procedures, and also a consideration of indexing, but not abstracting, relevant dissertations. (AP)

Reports on research to determine the cognitive style of reference librarians on the field dependence/field independence dimension and to relate cognitive style to personal and professional variables such as role perception, library affiliation, and undergraduate major. Included are two figures, one data table, and a reference list. (Author/JL)

Highlights findings from the Library and Information Science Students' Attitudes, Demographics and Aspirations survey that pertain to reference and information service. Tables and discussion present data on the most desirable types of positions and libraries, students' demographics and ethnicity, prior type-of-library experience, and the search…

This five-article section on current issues in reference and adult services highlights origins of American Library Association's Reference and Adult Services Division, history and development of RQ's column "The Exchange," 25 years of adult services articles, documents reference service and changing attitudes of librarians, and library…

This essay on the future of reference librarianship addresses elements necessary to guarantee continued vitality of the profession. Discussion covers person-to-person contacts with library users, recreational functions of library, fees and "information stamps," organizational structure of library, information consulting, project-team…