Search

A usability study was undertaken at Penn State University to explore how students search the library's online catalog after they have received library instruction. In 2004, eight first-year students received library instruction and were subsequently recruited for the study. Participants were recorded using the online catalog, and a think-aloud protocol was employed to capture students' thoughts. Results were compared with nine first-year students observed in 2002, using the same methodology. Analysis of both groups revealed subtle differences in how they utilized the online catalog. Although these differences cannot be definitively attributed to library instruction, the evidence suggests that instruction can have a positive effect on user search behaviors. The article recommends strategies for increasing the impact of library instruction. (Contains 35 notes.)

The article focuses on the impact of COVID-19 on libraries and society will be the focus of intense study for generations to come—a process that was already well underway even in the midst of the pandemic. Topics discussed include to capture and preserve a slice of this historical moment, we invited members of the Library History Round Table listserv to respond anonymously to a survey; and the results of the survey complement the more detailed stories published in this issue.

The article discusses various reports published within the issue, including research on electric references from a variety of authors including Andrew Briedenbaugh, Buff Hirko, Ruth Vondracek, Lauren Miranda, and Melissa Gross.

A preface for the September 2006 issue of the "Reference Librarian" is presented.