Describes a survey of physics and physical science teachers in Iowa that was conducted to determine their use of microcomputers. Availability of computers and types of software used are examined, frequency of use and access to computer laboratories are investigated, and results are compared with those from earlier surveys. (seven references) (LRW)

Describes results of a survey conducted at Indiana State University libraries that studied patron perceptions and demographics related to keyword searching on LUIS, the online public access catalog (OPAC) available through NOTIS (Northwestern Online Total Integrated System.) Demographics studied include age, status, frequency of LUIS use, and…

Describes a survey of the use of newspaper libraries by journalists in India that was conducted to determine why journalists use their library, how they use the information they obtain, types of reading materials they use, other sources of information, and whether library collections are meeting journalists' needs. (LRW)

Describes study conducted at Chicago Public Library's Computer-Assisted Reference Center (CARC) that examined patron's evaluations of their online searches and the search service provided. The relationship between user satisfaction and relevance, precision, and recall is highlighted, and suggestions for future research are offered. (40 references)…

A survey of undergraduates taking non-course-related library tours found that 86% learned what they expected to learn, 96% believed they learned useful information, and 93% indicated feeling more comfortable about using the library after the tour. Overall use of the tours suggested a need for more promotion of the service. Includes the tour survey…

In this study, small academic libraries (monographic collections of under 30,001 volumes) were surveyed to determine the types and extent of electronic technology available and how it was being used. Satisfaction of users and staff, the correlation between instruction and the use of electronic technology, and funding are also discussed. (LRW)

This study of 18 novice Internet users employed a structured self-report method to investigate affective and cognitive operations in the following phases of World Wide Web searching: presearch formulation, search statement formulation, search strategy, and evaluation of results. Users also rated their self-confidence as searchers and satisfaction…

Describes the relationship between Carnegie Mellon University libraries and Sirsi Corporation, their integrated library-management system vendor. Topics include Carnegie Mellon's expertise in library automation research and development; and three primary elements of the alliance: research, including user protocols, surveys, and focus groups;…

Discusses the need for usability testing for information systems and for librarians to recognize what makes computer interfaces either easy or difficult to use. Highlights include user friendliness; navigation; standards; visual appeal; layout and design; feedback; help screens; and the usability-testing process. (LRW)

Offers experiences related to library media center usage and orientation/instruction that resulted from a change to block scheduling at Lakeview High School (Battle Creek, Michigan). Highlights include increased library use and circulation, and library instruction and orientation that includes print and nonprint media as part of a freshman…

This study compared Internet use among 462 faculty members of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Survey included field and research interests, formal Internet training, self-instruction for Internet, general use and knowledge of computers, and perceived need for information the Internet can provide. Results found Internet use higher in sciences…

A user survey of 60 company Web sites (electronic commerce, entertainment and leisure, financial and banking services, information services, retailing and travel, and tourism) determined that 30% had facilities for conducting online transactions and only 7% charged for site access. Overall, Web sites were rated high in ease of access, content, and…

Explains videotex, discusses its usefulness in disseminating large quantities of information via computer, and describes the use of videotex at the Glaxo, Inc., library where it is used for a daily news service and newsletters. An evaluation of the videotex services is reported, including usage statistics and results of a library survey. (Contains…

Compares directors' use of Public Library Data Service statistics and Federal-State Cooperative System for Public Library Data statistics to show how directors make use of statistics and to highlight the statistical information that directors find particularly useful. The survey addressed: last time of use; ways of use; frequency of use of…

Broome Community College demonstrates how user satisfaction surveys contribute quality and accountability assessment data to their learning resources program review process and ultimately, to educational effectiveness. Appended in this article are the Library/Learning Resource Center Faculty and Staff Survey and the Student Use Survey. (VWC)