Surveyors and professional librarians should look to the methodologies of other fields, such as the social sciences, for more satisfactory techniques. (Author)

This paper discusses some of the more recent major user studies and examines their methods, findings, and conclusions. The appendix includes a brief bibliography of bibliographies of user studies. (Author/MF)

Since users' needs are never static, librarians must continuously evaluate existing services and make appropriate modifications or innovations--or else the role of the library will diminish and eventually be eliminated. (Author)

This article provides an overview of a new project for a long-range program of research to improve the quality of Federal technical library and information services. (MF)

The main concern is with identifying exemplar user need studies and discussing the possible value of their methodology for a broader range of library services. (Author/MF)

Identifies the future research needs of information and referral services in public libraries. The major theme is that emphasis must be given to users--both present and potential users of public libraries. (Author/PF)

If the information capacity or the diversity of products of any system is to be increased, the attitudes of the users must be considered or they may simply not use the system, and turn to more personal means of communication for their information. (Author)

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)

This paper examines the elements of user studies and presents them as unified concepts within a model of information-seeking behavior. Definitions of information-seeking behavior, information needs, information gathering, information giving, and source preference are discussed. Thirty-two references are cited. (EJS)

Describes a pilot project by a regional library system in central New York State to implement systematic planning activities in rural public libraries serving populations under 5,000. Motivations for the adoption of innovation and key elements in the decision making process during implementation are examined. (CLB)