Systematic observation of non-computer seating areas in library and non-library spaces on an urban campus showed an important role for the library in individual and group study area choices. The study provides data on important points to consider in library design, including laptop needs and gender preferences. (Contains 2 tables and 1 figure.)

A one-time survey may give a falsely precise indication of local usage. Examining four iterations of a library assignment survey reveals large within-discipline variation; even individual faculty members are inconsistent in their use of library assignments from year to year. Additional causes of variation include changing faculty and pedagogy.…

Reviews research on faculty status of librarians to show that the roles and benefits included in the traditional model are not supported by empirical evidence. Two alternative approaches are suggested: using only the significant components or building new theories, based on conventional organizational theory or gender-based theory. (Contains 54…