A selection of recent scholarly and general works of interest to reference librarians in academic libraries. (Author/AP)

Describes the experience of the University of Pennsylvania Libraries with computerized searches. (PF)

Twenty-five sets of "indirect" and "faculty information" questions were asked at two university library reference centers, one staffed by nonprofessionals and the other by professionals. The purpose was to determine relative success of professional and nonprofessional reference staff in (1) probing beyond "indirect" questions and (2) detecting and…

A continuation of a semiannual series, this list presents a selection of recent scholarly and foreign works of interest to reference workers in unversity libraries. (JB)

In a detailed study of reserve book circulations at the University of Nebraska, it was found that the percentage of titles never circulated rises rather sharply fo course lists longer than twenty titles. (Author/NH)

The results of a survey on the nature and functions of information desks in large academic and public libraries are examined with respect to the functions, staffing patterns, and times of service. The survey expands and updates Kleiner's 1967 study. (JB)

Presents book reviews of recently published scholarly and general works of interest to reference workers in university libraries. The listing includes a brief roundup of new editions of standard works, continuations, and supplements. (RAA)

The academic librarian in the period since 1876 has consistently promoted greater access to informational materials. Several periods represent an approximate emphasis in chronological sequence; these are: (1) accumulation of materials, (2) organization of resources, (3) personal assistance to readers, (4) organization patterns, and (5) physical…

The reference-bibliographer concept is examined from several perspectives: historical antecedents; relationship to the academic setting; and the authors' experience with a staff of subject specialists at a predominantly undergraduate college library. (JB)

A survey of the faculties at six colleges was undertaken to measure the degree to which the libraries of those institutions were communicating with the faculty concerning the availability of various references services. The results demonstrated that the average faculty member was aware of barely half the services actually available. (11…

The provision of library services through networks has already affected collection development, cataloging, interlibrary loan, reference work, and document delivery. Library managers are advised to review how networks might impact their operations in order to formulate appropriate solutions as soon as possible. Several specific management problems…

A questionnaire survey was conducted to determine the use and training of nonprofessional personnel (including student assistants) in academic libraries with student enrollments of 500 - 6000. (Author)

Describes an unobtrusive study of the ability of professional librarians to deal with factual questions that was conducted at Illinois State University. Evaluation of the accuracy of responses is discussed, the responsiveness and helpfulness of librarians is examined, attitude scores are described, and implications for improving reference service…

Summarizes a study of the use of reference service at Sterling Memorial Library, the central research library of Yale University. (PF)

Describes a study that used a nonobtrusive methodology to determine the effectiveness of an information desk staffed by graduate students and nonprofessionals in an academic library. Relationships that were found between the level of staff members and the quality of reference services are described, and the implications for staffing patterns and…