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)

Discusses the use of quantitative collection development and use studies as research tools to evaluate the quality of children's library collections. Four studies, conducted in school and public libraries, that involve analyzing data with statistical tests are reviewed to show how data already being collected can be developed into research…

A University of Nebraska-Lincoln study evaluated use of a campus compensatory technology program, particularly compensatory communications systems, by students with disabilities. Results indicate a high level of student use, student perceptions that the compensatory systems were helpful, and improved student academic performance. (Author/MSE)

This case study examines the implications of the installation and expansion of a CD-ROM local area network (LAN) in the Hofstra University library based on a survey of users' perceptions. Topics discussed include perceived strength of the periodicals collection; training issues; economic factors; physical space; and reference personnel. (eight…

Discussion of the development of periodical collections in college libraries describes strategies for building the collection, including collection use studies, collection development policies, and bibliographic instruction programs. It is suggested that access to the collection be enhanced by improvement of available indexing such as CD-ROM…

Examined problems experienced and services used by Black college students (N=1,261) over 11 years. Found issues of finances, academic adjustment, and living conditions were ranked highest. Use of several services could be predicted by sex, classification, age, and residence, but use of services was not always consistent with rankings, particularly…

The relationship between a 4-group (control and low- through high-intensity intervention) health promotion intervention program and subsequent medical costs was analyzed for 1,188 employees in a California utility company. Results suggest strong associations between health promotion interventions and subsequent reduction in medical care costs,…

Presents guidelines developed by the International Coalition of Library Consortia (ICOLC) for statistical measures of the use of Web-based indexed, abstracted, and full-text resources. Privacy, user confidentiality, comparative statistics, and access and delivery mechanisms are discussed. (LRW)

Examines what children learn from using educational technology in an informal, collaborative environment. Explores how mastering educational computer programs can promote problem-solving transfer. Studies at three after-school computer clubs reveal children who use educational software may learn content knowledge about computer literacy,…

Describes the results of a study of academic libraries that was conducted to determine what influences users when choosing an online database to search. Highlights include quality content; intuitive interfaces; convenient access; recommendations from library instruction or instructors; and the availability of full text. (LRW)

This study examined the impact of parental involvement on four outcomes for 28 young children with hearing loss. Although parental involvement was a significant positive predictor of early reading skills, maternal communication skill and the child's degree of hearing loss were more significant predictors for positive language and academic…

Examines the spatial implications of farm lot shape. Specifically discusses three aspects of farmstead location: the location of the house, the location of the barn, and the distance and direction relationships between the barn and the house. Explores the role of farm lot shape within the farm survey system. (MJP)

The Lancaster County (Pennsylvania) public library, which receives many school districts' interlibrary loan requests, experienced a 100% increase in periodical article requests. Working cooperatively, school and public librarians developed a LSCA Title II grant to study magazine usage to make cost-effective decisions about improving timely access…

Discusses results of a science faculty survey conducted at York University to determine researchers' use of current awareness services, including print and Web-based services. Considers differences between science disciplines and implications for future library services and includes a copy of the survey. (Author/LRW)

Presents cases of four Latino middle school students who gained home Internet access for the first time in connection with an educational technology project set in an urban public school in Detroit. Investigated how the students and their families perceived and used the Internet as a tool for education, recreation, and socializing. (Author/LRW)