Presents preliminary findings of a study that developed descriptions of the behaviors and underlying cognitive processes observed during information retrieval interactions. Data from talk-aloud protocols and postsearch interviews from users of online public access catalogs in academic libraries are examined. (20 references) (LRW)

Presents highlights of research that used industrywide surveys, focus groups, personal interviews, and industry-published data to explore the future of electronic information delivery in libraries. Topics discussed include CD-ROMs; prices; full-text products; magnetic tape leasing; engineering and technical literature; connections between online…

Reports on a qualitative study that explored strategies and behaviors of public library users during interaction with an online public access catalog, and users' confidence in finding needed information online. Discusses results of questionnaires, interviews, and observations that examined unknown-item searches, area searches, and known-item…

Identifies and characterizes the knowledge used by 10 experienced librarians while searching for subject information in online catalogs. Metaknowledge is examined through participant explanations, observation, and self-evaluation; and implications for online catalog design and for library and information science education are suggested.…

Discussion of a study conducted at the University of Wisconsin-Madison to elicit information about the library's online catalog. Highlights the use of focus group interviews. Topics include experience with other catalogs, approaches to searching, positive feedback, barriers to use, and changes to the catalog as a result of the study. (LRW)

Describes a study that investigated fifth-grade children's search behavior using an automated library catalog designed for children called the Science Library Catalog. Level of science domain knowledge was found to influence both their success and search behavior. (Author/LRW)

Discusses results of interviews with reference librarians that were conducted to investigate the effects of electronic reference options such as CD-ROM and OPACs (Online Public Access Catalogs). The work environment is described; changes in library instruction are considered; and the changing nature of reference work is discussed, including users'…

This study examined two groups of online catalog users--one group using terminals in the library at Drew University (New Jersey) and the other using remote workstations. Transaction log analysis, online surveys, and interviews were used to determine perceptions of accessibility, frequency of use, user satisfaction, browsing behavior, and task…