Research plays a vital role in a deeper understanding of librarianship. Careful consideration of how evidence-based research is conducted is essential to its effective use. Research helps professionals identify and explore areas of concern or interest in addition to providing possible solutions to known problems. Delphi and quasi-experimental studies provide examples of research carried out in library science. The Delphi Study The Delphi Study was developed by the RAND Corporation in the 1950s for the Air Force and was primarily used to predict future events based on expert opinions (Wildemuth, 2009 ). ). Delphi studies offer an alternative to traditional round table discussions (Cypher & Gant, 1971). The Delphi design depends on three elements: anonymity, controlled feedback, and statistical analysis of ranked items (Fischer, 1978). Each study uses a group of experts who can remain anonymous because their work is carried out through a series of questionnaires. The absence of meetings gives participants the freedom to respond without pressure from other members. Conformity based on majority opinion is also avoided (Fischer, 1978). Each study includes several rounds of questionnaires in which items of interest are ranked numerically on a scale. As rounds progress, feedback is monitored as each set of responses is organized and summarized in a subsequent questionnaire. The objective is to eliminate alternative solutions by aiming for consensus (Kochtanek & Hein, 1999). Statistical analysis of the elements is carried out in each round. While the original purpose of a Delphi study was to predict future events, the study is now also used for alternative purposes, such as information gathering. The design of the questionnaire attempts...... middle of paper ......criticism. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 4 (2), 64-70. Haas, D.F. & Kraft, D.H. (1984). Experimental and quasi-experimental designs for information science research. Information Processing and Management, 20 (1-2), 229-237. Kochtanek, TR & Hein, KK (1999). Delphi study of digital libraries. Information Processing and Management, 35, 245-254. Olson, CA, Tooman, TR, & Leist, JC (2005). Content of a core library in continuing medical education: a Delphi study. The Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions, 25, 278-288. Petersohn, B. (2008). Classroom performance systems, library instruction, and instructional design: A pilot study. Libraries and the Academy, 8 (3), 313-324. Wildemuth, BM (2009). Applications of social research methods to library and information issues. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.