Discusses two articles addressing the problem of how to read and evaluate library research in a critical, consumer-oriented manner: Margaret Hayes Grazier's "Critically Reading and Applying Research in School Library Media Centers" (1982) and M. Carl Drott's "How to Read Research: An Approach to the Literature for Practitioners" (1984). (EJS)

An experiment conducted to determine the effects of a changeover to paperback collections and browsing arrangement on cost of bookmobile service and use of materials. (KP)

The conceptual approach and procedures which have been developed for this program provide the basis for initiating a similar training program in any large library within commuting distance of a library school. (4 references) (Author/NH)

Author describes his method for using the library as a resource center. (DR)

For optimal allocations of limited funds, it is necessary for libraries to develop measures of output. Various forms of user exposure to documents are discussed in an effort to develop such measures for public libraries. It is suggested that the accrual method of accounting be used to compare such measures with costs. (40 references) (Author/NH)

The methods and findings of the evaluation of an ESEA Title II special purpose grant project are highlighted. (MF)

A concept of a catalog that is hospitable to mechanized descriptive cataloging is presented, together with four areas of research programs that will yield findings useful in the development of such a catalog. (Author/JB)

Discusses use of quantitative measurement in statistical studies conducted by libraries, noting unusable measurements and the importance of adapting research methodology to particular library needs. Studies involving the allocation of library funds to academic departments, measurement of library performance, and circulation statistics are noted.…

Library performance criteria used by managers in 62 academic, special, and public libraries are analyzed to measure the extent to which criteria proposed in the literature are actually used, to identify types of criteria in use, and to develop guidelines for future criterion selection. (Author)

Examines, within the U.S. and selected regions, nine basic characteristics of social systems that are frequently mentioned as causes of differences in library development. A comparative procedure was used to identify those variables with universal explanations. Results indicate the most critical variable was level of formal education. Twenty-eight…

Reports the findings of a 1978 NLM (National Library of Medicine) study that examined grant-related communication activity as an initial task in exploring information exchange in health sciences librarianship. Background, methodology, and results are described, and data tables are provided. (Author/JD)

Reports findings of a study of the 10-year use of 334 biomedical journals in the Lane Medical Library of Stanford University Medical Center. Use and density of use (use/shelf space occupied) statistics are tabulated and a ranked list of the journals, by use and use-density, is appended. (JD)

Reviews research that has been relevant to improved user access to online information retrieval systems: (1) background; (2) natural language interfaces; (3) information retrieval system interfaces; and (4) modification of systems through user feedback. A 29-item bibliography is included. (Author/JD)

Details the current organization and functions of the various components of the British Library, with the exception of central administration. Included are the library board, reference division, lending division, bibliographic services division, and research and development department. (FM)