A plan for sampling in-library use is presented. The library is divided into a certain number of areas, and a sample of monographs within each area is selected for study. Inspection rounds are then made on each of the days of the survey period. (5 references) (Author/SJ)

Summarizes use statistics for the first year of search activity for the Kansas City Libraries Metropolitan Information Network (MINET). Included are databases searched, types of participating libraries, patron status, search systems used, charges, nonpaid searches, and referrals. (SW)

This selective review covers user studies done from the standpoints of both the library and the user. Use of catalogs, reference services, circulation, browsing and library facilities are included as are information-gathering habits of scientists and the general public. Studies of whole information systems and the methodology and philosophy of…

Discusses three conceptual approaches to the measurement of library use: use, users, and uses. For each of these approaches, units of measure involved conceptual strengths and limitations, and methods of measurement are presented. Two tables of data are included. (Author/JD)

Presents results from study of mathematical models (Cobb-Douglas model, mixture of Poissons, inverse effects of distance, weighted entropy) relating to usage of information systems, and notes papers developed during study which provide three types of analysis--literature reviews, analytical studies, and tests of models. Six references are…

Patrons of an engineering library have technical requirements and idiosyncracies which should be considered by library planners. The results of a survey made by the Mitre Corp. are discussed. (DH)

In order to utilize cable, libraries will be dealing with an entirely new clientele. The present knowledge libraries have about their users is not sufficient to extrapolate to the new clientele, so needs must be identified. (Other conference materials are LI 503071-503074 and 503076 through 503084.) (Author/SJ)

The introduction to this UNISIST seminar report discusses problems in training present and potential users of scientific and technical information and emphasizes the importance of better recognition and formulation of information needs in order to effectively assess and use available libraries, information systems, and services. Papers presented…

A survey of urban agencies sought to discover: 1) their perceived and actual information needs; 2) the kinds of information they used; 3) the nature of their information problems; and 4) their attitudes toward and the feasibility of a computerized information retrieval system. Results showed that speed and ease of use were the controlling factors…

User training experiences in Asian countries, using the UNISIST guidelines for training users of scientific and technical information, are reported through summaries of discussions following the presentation of papers, as well as the texts of the papers. Participants, including users, user trainers, and information handlers, heard these papers:…

Presents a framework for measuring the value of information from three perspectives--the reader of information, the organization or funder, and society--which is based on use studies of the Energy Data Base by Department of Energy researchers. (CLB)

This two-part document comprises an introductory statement and final report of a meeting that promoted the harmonized development, at regional and national levels, of theoretical and practical training programs for all kinds of information specialists. The meeting was attended by 19 experts from 17 countries--Brazil, Ethiopia, France, India,…

The case study method (employing direct observation and interviews) has become the primary means of investigating how secondary school and undergraduate students locate and use information in the library. This article examines and illustrates the shift from survey to case study with examples from dissertations and field studies of secondary school…