Based on data from two experiments, this article attempts to assess degree to which people differ in interpretations of questions referring to library services and the implications for interpreting survey results. Sources of error in questionnaire research--sampling, response (question interpretation, response decision, category choices)--are…

Discusses funding for library research (1964-84), including previous findings; problems in analyses of funding; activities of major research funding agencies (Higher Education Act of 1965 Title II-B, National Science Foundation, National Library of Medicine, Council on Library Resources); and funding by professional organizations. Problems and…

This article reviews research about the indexes and abstracts, surveys the major secondary services in librarianship, and relates weaknesses in the services to problems in the profession itself. It recommends that the present system be retained until further research explores information needs and usage. (Author/RAA)

This guest editorial discusses the underrepresentation of community colleges in the literature on academic libraries/librarianship. Highlights include the roots of the problem, why this research is important, overcoming barriers, and sources of support. (Contains 6 references.) (MES)

Examines the current state of acceptance and use of microformatted visual materials for serious research in art. Problems of resolution, color fidelity, permanence, and large audience image display are discussed against new trends in publication and distribution which together can increase the holdings and research capacity of institutions.…

In this report of the Council's fourteenth year, a sum of $1,722,375 was appropriated for the support of 29 new projects and work was continued or completed on a good many more. It has become increasingly evident that the average library will never be able to "go it alone" in some aspects of the new technology--automation, for example.…

Discusses difficulties involved in locating sources of statistical information on public libraries in Canada and describes a study conducted to identify and evaluate various sources of such information. An 18-item bibliography is provided. (CHC)

Willingness to return to the same librarian avoids the limitations associated with using accuracy as a primary measure of success. Based on a case study, factors associated with the successful reference interaction are examined. Problems with accuracy as a success measure, staff activity upon approach, interpersonal skills, and ability to…

Discusses the British Library's role, identity, and expectations, and comments on successes, charges, and copyright problems of the Lending Division, the current image of the Reference Division, controversial areas within the Bibliographic Services Division, and criticism of library research associated with the Research and Development Department.…

The history, goals, organization and achievements of the Federal Library Committee (FLC) are examined in this graduate paper. A brief initial section relates the history of the Committee from the first recognition of its necessity through its planning, official creation and establishment of responsibilities, organization and funding. The body of…

Explains objectives of research on development of an online public access catalog using a proprietary microcomputer network being conducted by the Polytechnic of Central London; examines background of existing local area library networks, problems of network system design, and advantages of distributed processing; and summarizes research…

Discusses library use studies that examined library catalog search failures and demonstrates types of online catalog access that can reduce the failures caused by card catalog flaws or by user search errors by half. The use of single keyword, implied Boolean, or derived truncated key retrieval is suggested. (14 references) (LRW)

Explored user perceptions of dependability and accuracy of Texas A&M library services through focus groups. Reports user difficulties in locating materials, inaccurate catalog and circulation records, inadequate signage, searching the online catalog, and late notification of interlibrary loan arrivals; and discusses the library's efforts to…

Compares data collected in library surveys of Internet users at Seton Hall University in 1998 and 2001 to provide information on changes in library users' Internet use behavior, satisfaction levels, and problems in using the Internet. Discusses use of the university library home page; search strategies; and search training. (Author/LRW)

Questions the soundness of the creation of the British Library and whether it has met its originators' expectations. Reviews its historical development, facility and staffing problems, the Lending Division, the Bibliographical Services Division, and the Research and Development Department. Seven references are listed. (RBF)