Boolean logic can be a difficult concept for first-year, introductory students to grasp. This paper compares the results of Boolean and natural language searching across several databases with searches created from student research questions. Performance differences between databases varied. Overall, natural search language is at least as good as…

The National Medical Library of Cuba is currently developing an information literacy program to train users in the use of biomedical databases. This paper describes the experience with the course "Cochrane Library: Evidence-Based Medicine," which aims to teach users how to make the best use of this database, as well as the evidence-based…

Nearly every commercial database that covers natural sciences and engineering offers some type of current awareness (CA) service that provides regular updates to users on current literature in a selected field of interest. Current awareness services include e-mail alerts, tables of contents, and RSS feeds. This study was designed to find out what…

The increase in end-user searching, the advantages and limitations of front ends, and the role of the librarian in end-user searching are discussed. It is argued that librarians need to recognize that front ends can be of benefit to themselves and patrons, and to assume the role of advisors and educators for end-users. (37 references) (CLB)

Investigates the search behavior of CD-ROM database users in Zagreb (Croatia) libraries: one group needed a minimum of technical assistance, and the other was completely independent. Highlights include the use of questionnaires and transaction log analysis and the need for end-user education. The questionnaire and definitions of search process…

Reports on a two-phase study of academic libraries to identify patterns of database use and the factors that might influence this use. Online data was used as well as results from a survey that investigated factors that may influence online use, including level of instruction and availability of remote access. (LRW)

Describes the results of a survey of faculty members at Western Michigan University which was conducted to explore the relationship between faculty use of university libraries and faculty use of computers. Implications for libraries are discussed, including computer databases, faculty assistance, collaboration with computing staff, and marketing…

The trend toward teaching library users to design and execute their own database searches is examined, three methods of providing this instruction (course-integrated, classroom-based, and self-service) are described, and the librarian's role is discussed. (MSE)

Discusses the need to reevaluate bibliographic instruction in academic libraries for an expanded online environment based on experiences at Moorhead State University (Minnesota). Topics addressed include the addition of databases to local online catalogs; student searching; search patterns; database characteristics; student search skills; library…

This report discusses a workshop conducted by the library of San Jose State University to instruct eight students with learning disabilities (SLD) in the use of CD-ROM databases. The workshop contributors believed that CD-ROM databases could simplify research paper and homework assignments for such students. The 5-month workshop sought not only to…

The administrator of the library of the future will be concerned with costs of new services, while the scholar will see a knowledge explosion within his or her own lifetime. Librarians must help scholars stay informed of new developments in their respective disciplines and teach them new techniques to access materials. (CDD)

Collecting statistical data about database usage by library patrons aids in the management of CD-ROM and database offerings, collection development, and evaluation of training programs. Two approaches to data collection are presented which should be used together: an automated or nonintrusive method which monitors search sessions while the…

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…

Considers the success and satisfaction of end users' searches on CD-ROM systems. Topics discussed include introductory training lessons; the selection of appropriate databases; search strategies; and implications for the role of library staff and for staffing patterns. Examples of end-user search techniques and common errors are included. (11…

This report is structured to educate East Carolina University about library materials preservation. The library-wide preservation program began at Joyner Library in 1993 with the organization of the Preservation and Conservation Department. The planning phase of the preservation program began in 1995 with the appointment of the…