The purpose of these guidelines is to assist librarians in providing students and faculty with appropriate information about computerized sources of information, particularly national online and compact disc (CD-ROM) databases. The guidelines offer ideas for brief, medium-length, and long presentations on the use of online searches, including…

This manual provides detailed instructions for using SilverPlatter software to search the ERIC CD ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), a large bibliographic database relating to education which contains reference information on numerous journal articles from over 750 journals cited in the "Current Index to Journals in Education" (CIJE),…

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for the end user for searching the ERIC database on CD-ROM using the Dialog OnDisc software. Topics include: (1) preparing for the search by analyzing the information need; (2) beginning the search and selecting a search option; (3) modifying the search; (4) displaying the records; (5) printing all…

Provides fundamental information about patents, describes effective and affordable reference resources, and discusses specific issues in providing patent information services to inventors and other patrons. Basic resources, including CD-ROM products, patent classification and searching resources, and other search tools are described in an…

Describes contents and format of effective quick reference guides for users of CD-ROM databases. The different needs of beginning and more sophisticated users are detailed; guidelines for organizing information and laying out the text are provided; and two formats for user aids are pictured. (KRN)

This study focused on how CD-ROM systems were being used in a college library and training users had received or assistance they required. Patrons completed surveys and librarians logged assistance requests to determine the level of assistance needed for CD-ROM workstations. Results showed most patrons need assistance from librarians even for…

Analysis of the needs of users of Compact Disk-Read Only Memory (CD-ROM) was performed at the Tampa campus of the University of South Florida. A review of the literature indicated that problems associated with selecting the appropriate database, searching, and requiring technical assistance were the probable areas of user need. The library has 17…

Reports results of an electronic survey of users of CD-ROM databases at a university library. Data are presented on experience level, database selection, how users learned of the service, use of multiple databases, favorite features, user satisfaction, preferred source of help, research strategies, and use of printed versions. A copy of the…

Discusses the need for end-user instruction in searching CD-ROM databases and describes various instructional methods, including point-of-use; group instruction, e.g., demonstrations, workshops, and course integrated classes; written materials, e.g., manuals, templates, workbooks, and search forms; tutorials; and videotapes. Staffing needs,…

This study analyzed CD-ROM searches in five science and engineering databases in an academic library. Results indicated that users were usually able to obtain results and print records but that few used more sophisticated techniques to refine their searches. It was concluded that instruction in CD-ROM database searching should be a high priority.…

Describes an evaluation of a CD-ROM wide-area network at the University of Pittsburgh libraries. Reference staff were interviewed on their use of and satisfaction with the network; student assistants were asked about the type and amount of user assistance they provide; and users were surveyed. Suggestions for future enhancements are offered.…

Designed to acquaint students with the facilities and resources of the North Dakota State University (NDSU) Library, this library manual is divided into 24 chapters: (1) The Main Library; (2) Reference Room; (3) Periodical Indexes; (4) Infotrac Academic Index; (5) Abstracts and Two-Step Indexes; (6) Locating Periodicals; (7) Newspaper Indexes and…

Discusses the incorporation of CD-ROM technology into Georgia State University's William Russell Pullen Library, and considers its impact on reference services and bibliographic instruction. Concludes that technology increases the need for critical thinking skills, faculty-librarian interaction, and human resources for reference and technical…

Discusses a decline in patron requests for librarian-mediated searches of MEDLINE at Yale University's medical library and describes results of a survey that was conducted to determine possible reasons. The influences of miniMEDLINE (an in-house version), online end-user systems, and CD-ROMs outside the library are examined. (five references) (LRW)

Examines the effects of CD-ROM on academic library reference work. Topics discussed include the impact on job duties of the reference librarian; impact on users; system drawbacks; location of equipment; search strategies of users versus librarians; budgetary concerns; and future ramifications, including networking and electronic publishing. (10…