A survey of online searchers' perceptions of seven database vendors over 13 service-related characteristics resulted in DIALOG being ranked first for all attributes. A statistically significant relationship between overall preference and frequency of use was demonstrated, with reliability, variety, and flexibility the most highly ranked…

Considers a definition of online searching and discusses each of these factors--training, search aids, physical setting, search request form, interview and profile construction, terminal session, search evaluation, document delivery, professional reading, and online user groups. Eighteen sources are cited. (EJS)

Describes Electronic Legislative Search System (ELSS), a comprehensive service which tracks current state and federal legislation and provides careful monitoring of status of bills in its database. Contents of the database, search criteria and priority, format options, learning to search, and updating the system are noted. Sample searches are…

Indexes to literature published in English-language little magazines are analyzed for duplication and completeness of coverage, and the number of little magazines founded since 1900 is estimated to determine the extent of literary work accessible by means of indexes. A 50-item annotated list of information sources and 12 references are included.

Identifies the advantages and limitations of online search services offered by libraries, cautioning the searcher and user to consider and evaluate all options before performing online search. The librarian's responsibility to solve the user's information problem in a desirable way is discussed. Five references are listed. (EJS)

Comments based on actual reference use of Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN II)--formerly BALLOTS--in a library environment focus on RLIN files, interlibrary loan, search keys, and subject searches. This article updates a description of BALLOTS as it was developed by Stanford University to support cataloging and acquisitions (Online,…

Explores the effects of library use on both capacitance and laser-optical videodisc systems and outlines proper cleaning, servicing, and storage techniques. The article is excerpted from "Conservation in the Library," a book edited by Susan Swartzberg. (Author/JJD)

Offers overview of research in progress information systems which provide information on projects between inception and published reports, discussing demise of Smithsonian Science Information Exchange (SSIE), and efforts of National Technical Information Service to maintain SSIE files. A listing of 28 research in progress information systems and…

Defines information mapping, illustrates its techniques, and compares its techniques with those employed in programed instruction. (HOD)

Assesses the adequacy of Robert S. Taylor's model of question formulation in the context of online presearch interviews, and presents an altered model which introduces the bearers of needs and makes distinctions about those needs as isolated or negotiated events in the interviews. Thirty-three references are listed. (FM)

Describes the use of the Guelph Document System (CODOC) as a vehicle for handling the University of Guelph's archival collection, noting difficulties that were encountered, as well as advantages. Two references are cited. (CHC)

Reviews the development of secondary information services in the arts and humanities, discusses the services currently provided and the usage levels for those services, outlines some of the problems associated with online databases in the humanities, and considers some probable future developments. A 5-item reference list is included. (JL)

Describes the online version of Comprehensive Dissertation Index as it is searchable through the DIALOG system. File content, searchable indexes, and particular features of the file such as online sorting of retrieved citations and text backup are discussed. Accompanying the text are 13 figures illustrating system features and two sample searches.…

Describes the use of a microcomputer system at the elementary school level in which pupils can access information by subject, author, or title as in a standard card catalog. (CHC)

Identifies policy matters to be addressed in establishing policy for computer based reference services: background and objectives; service organization and modes of operation; staff selection; training and personnel issues; service procedures; and specific search policies. Six sources are listed. (RBF)