Research plays a vital role in understanding librarianship more deeply. 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 as well as provide possible solutions to known problems. Delphi and quasi-experimental studies provide examples of research conducted in library science. The Delphi Study The Delphi study was developed by the RAND Corporation in the 1950s for the Air Force and was used primarily to predict future events based on expert opinions (Wildemuth, 2009 ). Delphi studies provide an alternative to the traditional roundtable-type discussion (Cypher & Gant, 1971). The Delphi design is based on three components: anonymity, controlled feedback, and statistical analysis of classified items (Fischer, 1978). Each study uses a group of experts who can remain anonymous as 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 is composed of several rounds of questionnaires in which the 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 goal is to eliminate alternative solutions by aiming for consensus (Kochtanek & Hein, 1999). Statistical analysis of items is performed at each turn. While the original intent of a Delphi study was to predict future events, the study is now also used for alternative purposes such as gathering information. The structure of the questionnaire attests...... middle of the sheet ......riticism. 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, T. R. & Hein, K. K. (1999). Delphi study of digital libraries. Information Processing and Management, 35, 245-254.Olson, C. A., Tooman, T. R. & Leist, J. C. (2005). Core library content 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 Academy, 8 (3), 313-324.Wildemuth, B. M. (2009). Applications of social research methods to computer science and library science issues. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.