This investigation compared self-reported use of public libraries and public opinion about library services with levels of per-capita library funding over time. Results showed a small relationship between self-reported use of libraries and levels of library funding. There was no relationship between public opinion and funding levels. Non-economic…

Explores ways in which libraries can enter into partnerships with other libraries, businesses, community agencies, government, and patrons to improve library service. Values and attitudes that are inherent in partnerships are examined, and ways to apply these values to improve partnerships with patrons are suggested. (three references) (LRW)

Survey of adult Canadian library users focused on defining "seniors," and determining their awareness of library programing and needs for further programing aimed specifically at older adults. Results indicated that, in an era of fiscal restraint, librarians need to be wary of improving services to seniors at the expense of other…

Describes two experiments that were conducted at the University of Illinois to determine how cognitive abilities of users of information retrieval systems and specific design features combine to create system usability. Logical reasoning and perceptual speed are examined, and reliability and validity are discussed. (Contains 12 references.) (LRW)

Discusses individual differences between users of information systems that can influence search performance, and describes two experiments that addressed user-centered design of information systems. Highlights include interaction between cognitive abilities and design features; compensation and capitalization perspectives; recall and precision;…

Results from 4 cognitive tests administered to 84 public service librarians and 50 university students show that librarians outperformed students in logical reasoning and verbal ability but that students outperformed librarians in perceptual speed. Findings suggest students may find browsing, point of use instruction, and basic services more…

A study of logical reasoning ability of endusers searching a CD-ROM index and its correlation to searching performance was conducted at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Findings showed a correlation between cognitive skills and citation selection and indicated that computer system design can be improved using a cognitive engineering…