Boolean logic can be a difficult concept for first-year, introductory students to grasp. This paper compares the results of Boolean and natural language searching across several databases with searches created from student research questions. Performance differences between databases varied. Overall, natural search language is at least as good as Boolean searching. With evidence that students struggle to grasp Boolean searching, and may not use it even after instruction, it could be left out of first-year instruction, freeing up valuable class time to focus on concepts such as question development and source evaluation. As the Framework for Information Literacy does not specifically address Boolean operators, the authors suggest it should have less prominence in first-year Information Literacy instruction. IntroductionConventional wisdom considers knowledge of Boolean logic a basic information retrieval Information Literacy (IL) skill. Librarians and other information professionals are taught the value of Boolean searching (referred to throughout this article interchangeably as "Boolean") in professional education, and it is seen in instruction, reference interactions, and database interfaces. However, the concept can be difficult for first-year (introductory) students to grasp, and it can take multiple sessions before a student demonstrates effective use of Boolean logic.A student's ability to use Boolean operators is a performance indicator within the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Information Literacy Compe-

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Due to the increasing availability of digital content and systems improvements that have accelerated physical delivery, academic libraries are afforded opportunities to more efficiently provide users access to library materials. A theory for efficient provision of information resources, and thus more efficient use of financial resources, was proposed by one of the coauthors in "The Future of Academic Library Materials Expenditures: A Thought Experiment." The strategies on which the theory is based include purchase on demand, library publishing, and improved open access discovery. This article details the theory and then examines IUPUI University Library's experience of implementing strategies based on this theory. The authors analyze the effectiveness of the theory and offer guidance for libraries considering a similar path.

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Building off an earlier study, which examined whether or not it was beneficial to teach Boolean logic to introductory students, the present study examines the efficacy of Boolean OR searching in more advanced search strategies, for example, capstone projects and graduate theses and dissertations. Results show that both simple and advanced Boolean searches yield relevant results. Based on relevance, there is no compelling evidence that either search is superior. To capture all the literature on a topic, however, it is important that upper-level students know the relevant databases for their discipline and perform multiple searches. Results can help inform whether teaching Boolean search skills to upper-division students in disciplinary contexts is time well spent.