Discussion of the organization of the University of British Columbia Data Library jointly operated by the University Library and Computing Center covers historical development, collections policy, composition of the collection, technical services, user services, and current issues. Six references are cited. (EJS)

Analysis of one component of library reference service--online numeric database systems for time-series data--reviews tradition of reference service and ways in which computer technology has enhanced provision of library services. Experiences with Kentucky Economic Information System (KEIS) are described. Examples of KEIS and 30 references are…

Briefly looks at the present use of computers in library reference service for bibliographic database searching, then surveys the future as indicated by recent developments and ongoing research. Cooperative online reference, local databases, and increasing ease of online information retrieval are discussed. Included are 40 references. (Author/JL)

Discusses issues regarding training for computer-based reference services, including who is to be trained and who is responsible for training, and summarizes the training offered to date by search service suppliers, database suppliers, library schools, and extension programs. Available training materials are also considered. (Author/FM)

Two articles describe the experiences of Loyola University of Chicago and Texas A&M libraries with locally mounted online databases under the same user interface as the online catalog. The Multiple Database Access System (MDAS) offered by NOTIS is explained, its impact on the libraries is described, and student and faculty reactions are…

Eleven articles introduce expert systems applications in library and information science, and present design and implementation issues of system development for reference services. Topics covered include knowledge based systems, prototype development, the use of artificial intelligence to remedy current system inadequacies, and an expert system to…

Describes 3.5 years' experience using BRS/After Dark and Dialog's Knowledge Index as the main systems of choice in the mediated search service of a department library on a large academic campus. Factors discussed include average use, costs, databases offered, system capabilities, comparisons of the two systems, and limitations of the systems. (13…

Describes the process of question referral in California's second-level reference centers where questions are referred by public librarians, and provides examples of questions and sources typical of humanities research. Topics include the varied clientele and the use of databases, reference files, library collections, organizations, special…

Presents an overview of the 1990 census and its many components, including sources of census data, format availability such as CD-ROM and databases, and ways in which census data are used. The effect of new technology, especially CD-ROM, on users and reference librarians is considered. (Author/LRW)

Discusses results of a survey of factors influencing database use in public libraries. Highlights the importance of content; ease of use; and importance of instruction. Tabulates importance indications for number and location of workstations, library hours, availability of remote login, usefulness and quality of content, lack of other databases,…

Geographic information system (GIS) technology is a rapidly growing and powerful method for managing and analyzing spatial data and information for libraries. This article introduces GIS basic concepts, reviews GIS usage in libraries, and presents some challenges, strengths, and opportunities for libraries and GIS. Six figures illustrate the…

Academic clientele expect their library to select the best information and organize it effectively for their personal consumption. Some answers to a hierarchical approach are customization through a MyLibrary feature, a role-based vertical view, and a powerful search engine all built on a rich resource database. Each is discussed. (AEF)

Discusses database usage data from a sample of 98 public libraries and library systems in the United States and Canada that revealed patterns of use. Results of the questionnaire used, which is appended, showed the number of workstations was statistically correlated with amount of use. (Author/LRW)

This paper reports a research project funded by the State Library of NSW and the National Library of Australia which focuses on the training needs of public librarians for using electronic databases, and the subsequent development of training modules to address them. The paper discusses literature relevant to training issues in database use for…

High school students often use online databases and the Internet in the school library media center (SLMC) to complete teachers' assignments. This case study used a survey to assess teachers' awareness of electronic resources, and to determine whether their directions influence student use of these resources in the SLMC. Participants were teachers…