Describes ways in which content analysis is being used in library and information science research. Methodological concerns are addressed, including selection of target documents, selection of samples to be analyzed, selection of categories for analysis, and elimination of researcher bias to assure reliability. (35 references) (LRW)

Provides an introduction to and analysis of hermeneutics as an alternative research method for library and information science, discussing its philosophical advantages over quantitative research. The triadic process of interpretation is described as particularly suitable for advancing the theoretical foundations of library and information science.…

Examines Blumenschein's "Description of Various Libraries in Europe" as an early example of library research methodology; discusses his methods of data collection; describes his use of a questionnaire; and suggests the necessity of further studies of the development of research in library and information science. (Contains 10…

Analyzes and characterizes issues and trends in library and information science research published in 91 English-language journals in 1984. Data presented in tables include: (1) broad subject areas; (2) subdivisions of applied subject category; (3) library types; (4) research methods; and (5) research method percentages for given years. (MES)

This study describes the research articles published during 1980 in 41 core library journals and reports data for each source article: journal, research methodology, subject, total number of references, and number of references to journal articles. List of journals included in study and 12 tables are appended. (9 references) (EJS)

Discusses the study of libraries as complex organizations and describes theoretical organizational models that have been used to investigate libraries. The concepts of complexity, centralization, and formalization are examined; occupational specialty, professional training, and knowledge specialization are explored; and further research is…

Review of research methodologies used in studies of online public access catalog (OPAC) users finds that a variety of research methodologies--e.g., surveys, transaction log analysis, interviews--have been used with varying degrees of expertise. It is concluded that poor research methodology resulting from limited training and resources limits the…

Discusses three major motivations for in-house library research--planning, problem solving, and staff development--in terms of the functions and responsibilities of library management. Ten stages in a research project are identified and management contribution to each is described. It is concluded that the role of management is critical.…

Presents conceptual framework for library and information science research and analyzes research methodology that has application for information science, using as example results of study conducted by authors. Rationale for use of qualitative research methods in theory building is discussed and qualitative and quantitative research methods are…

Research on two exposure techniques--book displays and book lists--supports the idea that browsers need, want, and will use some type of guidance to narrow their book selection. Two reasons for this are given: these techniques require little patron effort and reach large numbers of browsers at one time. (Author/EM)

Reviews the use of propositional analysis in library and information science research. Evidence that different analysts produce similar judgments about texts and use the method consistently over time is presented, and it is concluded that propositional analysis is a reliable and valid research method. An example of an analysis is appended. (32…

Examines the application of the Fishbein and Ajzen model of attitude-behavior consistency to research in library and information science (LIS). The components of the model are explained, two examples of LIS research are presented, and there is a brief review of areas in LIS that could benefit from attitude-behavior consistency research. (Contains…

Argues that semiotics, the science of signs, provides a suitable research tool for investigating the communication process in public libraries. Literature review identifies research using semiotic methods, as well as communication research in public librarianship that would have profited from semiotics, as a first step toward understanding the…

This study examines and compares the purpose, content, and form of the problem statement by researchers in disciplines other than library and information science (LIS). Their assessments of the attributes of a problem statement were compared to the literature and an evaluation of problem statements evidenced by researchers within LIS. (Contains 16…

Examines various characteristics of authors of library and information science journal articles published in 1986. Comparisons are made between the author characteristics of articles that resulted from funded research and articles that were not supported by funding, and patterns of collaboration and possession of a doctoral degree are also…