This study investigated the construct of effectiveness as it applies to public libraries and developed a methodology that can be transferred to other types of libraries and organizations. The research team began by compiling a list of indicators that are commonly used to gauge library effectiveness within the areas of: (1) services access; (2)…

This library evaluation is based primarily on responses of some 320 members of the professional research staff and 50 members of the professional administrative staff at the Langley Research Center to a questionnaire. Evaluation first considers the library as a whole as only one part of a total system of information sources serving professionals.…

The project documented in this report identified barriers researchers encounter in gaining access to--i.e., identifying, acquiring, handling, and using--published information and measured the seriousness of the more significant barriers. Fifty-one barriers were identified, and a method of measuring their seriousness was developed. Thirty of the…

Discusses library instruction in the use of CD-ROMs and describes results of a survey of CD-ROM users at C.W. Post College (NY), including characteristics of CD-ROM users, evaluating searches, advanced search techniques, learning and using the system, and changes in CD-ROM users from 1992 to 1996. (LRW)

The purpose of the Public Library Effectiveness Study was to define effectiveness for the public library institution. The research was designed not to measure effectiveness or evaluate particular libraries or groups of libraries, but rather to identify the feature or features of a public library that most directly attest to its effectiveness. The…

This study, conducted at Illinois State University library, evaluated the ability of professional librarians to answer reference questions. Evaluations by undergraduate students were scored for accuracy of response and attitude of the librarian to determine the best attitudinal predictor of accuracy scores. The evaluation form is appended. (three…

Explains a multifaceted process for evaluating the operation of learning resource centers (LRCs). Identifies the underlying management principles critical to evaluation. Proposes self-evaluation by staff, evaluation by faculty, and student surveys as methods of LRC assessment. Includes sample evaluation instruments. (CBC)

The Vermont General Assembly mandated an evaluation of the regional library program of the Vermont State Department of Libraries. To carry out this charge, the department initiated a 14-month review of the program with three components: an internal review of library service, use, and costs; public library input derived from a detailed survey and…

This book illustrates the roles of the school library media specialist as instructional consultant and teacher as well as information specialist and frames these roles in a background of relevant educational concerns. Chapter 1 surveys current efforts to restructure the education system and stresses the importance of the school library media…