Search results

Bradford's Law is presented as an observation made from the outcome of searching, rather than a mathematical development. The organization and presentation of search data is explained. Potential applications of Bradford's Law are discussed. New findings are presented which show the relationship described by Bradford's Law to be fundamentally important but in a more subtle way than previously supposed. Future developments are suggested in terms of their impact on librarianship.

Anyone who has tried to review studies relating to use of academic libraries may argue that a great deal of research exists on college students and how they use their libraries. Studies of reading habits and library use among college students have been appearing for more than fifty years, and the diligent student can compile an impressive bibliography of these studies. In spite of all we have learned about student interaction with library resources, there is still much we do not know.

Librarians working in public service posts are well aware that students possess varying levels of library skills. High school librarians bemoan the fact that students seem to have learned little about libraries during their elementary school years, college librarians bemoan secondary level preparation, and all librarians wonder at the assignments students bring with them. The assignments seem to range from trivia quizzes to inappropriately advanced research tasks, and, inevitably, the students seem to lack complete information and adequate direction.

The following is an annotated list of materials dealing with orientation to library facilities and services, instruction in the use of information resources, and research and computer skills related to retrieving and using information. The thirteenth annual such review in Reference Services Review, the article covers items in English published in 1986. A few items are without annotations because the compiler was unable to secure copies of them for this review.

The following annotated list of materials on providing library orientation to users and instructing them in library and information skills is the tenth annual review of this literature and covers publications from 1983. A few items have not been annotated because the compiler was unable to secure a copy of these items.

Examines literature surrounding several issues concerning interlibrary lending (ILL). Reviews the value given to statistical analysis in ILL. Discusses the importance of acquiring documents speedily and reliably. Looks at the increasing demand for old and precious materials through ILL and whether special privileges given to researchers are justified. Finally, outlines the role of ILL for school libraries.

The following is an annotated list of materials that discuss the ways in which librarians can provide library users with orientation to facilities and services, and instruct them in library information and computer skills. This is RSR's 11th annual review of this literature, and covers publications from 1984. A few items from 1983 have been included because of their significance, and because they were not available for review last year. Several items were not annotated because the compiler was unable to secure them.