Presents the results of a study on data collection instruments, specifically questionnaires, used by libraries in evaluating resource use and institutional effectiveness. A number of causes for inconsistent survey results are identified and problems with imprecision in survey question terminology are discussed. (JL)

The Colorado Council for Library Development commissioned a state survey to facilitate long range library planning. A survey was designed by Colorado Market Research Services, Inc. and directed to adults throughout the state to ascertain the information needs of the sample population. Citizens were queried as to the frequency of their library use,…

Article focuses on planning process used by staff of State University of New York College at Brockport library to develop and implement a user study measuring effectiveness of library's services. The planning model, research committee, sampling design, questionnaire development, and implementation and evaluation of survey are discussed. Twenty-one…

Describes the use of library surveys as a tool for library planning in the United States from the late 19th century to the present. Different eras of library planning in the United States are identified, and the weaknesses and strengths of the survey method are discussed. (CLB)

During one week in 1981, 648 telephone reference questions were analyzed at medium-sized public library. Subject-oriented question analysis revealed little relationship between subject of question, answer format, and complexity level; significant correlation appeared between answer format and level of complexity. Sample coding form and statistical…

Reviews current state of the art pertaining to measurement and use of the construct of user satisfaction (user's self-reported degree of satisfaction with library services) and reports results of survey of 623 public library patrons measuring user satisfaction, evaluation of services, library use, and individual characteristics. Twenty-six sources…