Information collected by questionnaires, correspondence, and consultation with library personnel at four collegiate consortia shed light upon the role of libraries in the functioning of these consortia. The results showed that many expectations went unmet. Namely, specialized collections were not efficiently built and shared, faculties exhibited…

The author discusses the impact of the "computer revolution" on the field of rhetoric and public address in terms of the potential applications of computer methods to rhetorical problems. He first discusses the computer as a very fast calculator, giving the example of a study that probably would not have been undertaken if the calculations had had…

The current formula for staffing libraries and resource centers in Virginia public institutions of higher learning was examined by a subcommittee of library directors. Questionnaires were mailed to relevant institutions to collect information regarding: (1) input variables; (2) staffing needs as perceived by the directors of the institutions; and…

Having freshman English students at Pan American University in the Rio Grande valley of Texas focus on Mexican-American folklore themes for research papers has proved to be successful in motivating students and in activating their ethnic interests and cultural pride. Steps involved in preparing these research papers include choosing a topic which…

This study was conducted to determine how librarians answer reference queries, and to develop instructional materials for teaching the answering process. Twenty-three science and technology reference librarians used and commented on a six-step model of the search strategy process. The model was then revised to include the following steps: (1)…

Describes a checklist for writing research papers that assists the student and allows the freshman composition teacher to monitor and guide student progress. Includes a sample checklist. (RL)

Discusses types of knowledge that should define the academic librarian: (1) background in history and development of higher education; (2) appreciation for history of scholarship and learning; (3) understanding of how knowledge is obtained in various disciplines; (4) ability to evaluate research findings. Three reactions to essay are included.…

Examines library availability studies for the past 50 years as a measure of library effectiveness and looks at their differing sources of study samples, methods for gathering data, categories of nonavailability, and data analysis. The Kantor branching technique developed in 1976 is described as the standard analysis method. (Author/EM)

A study conducted to determine if integrated shelving in a curriculum resources center made a difference to users in terms of finding more resources and using more audiovisual aids found that audiovisual and print materials use seemed to be influenced less by integrated shelving than by ease of access. (MBR)

Discusses need for research in library and information science from perspective of an academic library director. The current state of information science research, areas where research might be undertaken, economics, library schools, librarians as managers, and the impact of new information technology on research are examined. (Six sources are…

Introduces Q-analysis, a methodology for investigating a wide range of structural phenomena that defines structures in terms of relations between members of sets and reveals their salient features by using techniques of algebraic topology. Applications relevant to librarianship and information science are reviewed and present limitations…

Presents results of study which examined interlibrary loan requests received at University of West Florida to ascertain whether books that other libraries could normally be expected to buy were being requested, and how many books in "high-use" areas were being requested by other libraries. Conclusions and recommendations are included. (3…

This review of major applications of economic theory and research methods to libraries provides overviews of economics of information and of library services, research related to supply of library services, research into demand for library services, finances and fees, and the library labor market. A 78-item bibliography is provided. (EJS)

An epistemological analysis of bibliographic literature networks is set forth as a useful aid in both teaching and research. A structural-functional treatment of library reference materials is presented and the integration of classroom instruction and library research is suggested. (Editor/LBH)

Survey of criteria and procedures used by children's book publishers in selecting beginning reading books. Discusses relationship of these practices to the role of the media specialist in the teaching of reading. (KP)