Describes and evaluates a project which examined the feasibility of converting the University of Illinois' ILLINET Online Union Catalog to optical format, allowing users across the state to search the database using microcomputers. The evaluation focused on the impact on interlibrary loans and on the reactions of librarians and users. (CLB)

A survey at the University of Houston examined factors related to subject searching success in online catalogs, including: extent of subject searching; response to unsuccessful searches; reasons subject search is not used; users' awareness of sources of subject terms; and suggestions from users for improving subject searching capabilities. (CLB)

Describes the use of library surveys as a tool for library planning in the United States from the late 19th century to the present. Different eras of library planning in the United States are identified, and the weaknesses and strengths of the survey method are discussed. (CLB)

Describes a study of library users' search strategies which focused on the extent of subject searching activity when using bibliographic tools and shelf browsing. The use of the results to evaluate the impact of a future online catalog on search behaviors is discussed. (23 references) (CLB)

This article describes study of the relative effectiveness of classroom faculty and librarians as book selection agents in a small urban commuter college located in Chicago, Illinois. Use of history section of collection, hypotheses tested, data collection and analysis, circulation activity, and comparative data are highlighted. Eight references…

Describes a study investigating extent to which 11 media were utilized by teachers in general, and at elementary, middle, and high school levels in Fort Worth, Texas, public schools. Results indicate nonprint media is underutilized; the simplest forms are chosen for use; and more high school teachers utilize complex technologies. (MBR)

An investigation of motivations for and satisfactions obtained from political electronic bulletin boards surveyed system users via telephone. Surveillance and curiosity were most commonly mentioned motivations for use. Overall political use was motivated equally by surveillance, personal identity, and diversion motives. System was evaluated most…

Reviews the literature on user studies in both online catalogs and bibliographic retrieval systems. User problems with both mechanical and conceptual aspects are reviewed and potential sources of problems due either to individual characteristics or system variables are discussed. Possible solutions and areas that need further research are noted.…

Patterns of instructional television use in elementary and secondary school classrooms in Japan indicate heavy use in elementary schools and diminished use in secondary schools. Factors that contribute to this phenomenon are discussed, including school environment, sociocultural patterns, educational philosophy, and teacher training. (MBR)

This article on the purposes, process, frequency, and instruments of educational facility evaluation emphasizes the importance of obtaining data on the effect a facility has upon its users. Four references are provided. (DCS)

Library circulation records for five years in one Hawaiian elementary school were analyzed to discover patterns according to sex and grade level; identify titles, subjects, and types of books circulated; and determine circulation of Hawaiiana and books about Asia. Bibliography of 129 titles mentioned in text is included. (11 references) (EJS)

Describes program of end user training designed to teach students rudiments of searching using Bibliographic Retrieval Service/After Dark. Results of participant responses to post-search questionnaire are reported, including suggestions of what to cover in basic training, problems of end users, and developing role of online searcher as consultant.…

Describes structure, aims, methodology, and results of a study investigating the use of school broadcasts in primary and secondary schools in Scotland. Findings indicate that teachers and pupils value broadcasts highly despite problems with provision of equipment and facilities, management of resources, policymaking, and inadequate teacher…

The purpose of this study was to explore and investigate the ways faculty at The School of Information and Library Science, ranked # 1 in 2004, at the University of North Carolina, obtain information to support their teaching tasks. Information and Library Science faculty at the University of North Carolina were chosen as the population for this…

In 1996, membership or subscription contributions provided 23% of public broadcasting's $1.9 billion income. Detailed information about the contributing audience can help managers maintain and grow member support. As part of the annual Yankelovich Monitor survey, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting gathered extensive demographic, attitudinal,…