Document Detail


Information-seeking behavior of basic science researchers: implications for library services.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  20098658     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
OBJECTIVES: This study examined the information-seeking behaviors of basic science researchers to inform the development of customized library services.
METHODS: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted on a sample of basic science researchers employed at a university medical school.
RESULTS: The basic science researchers used a variety of information resources ranging from popular Internet search engines to highly technical databases. They generally relied on basic keyword searching, using the simplest interface of a database or search engine. They were highly collegial, interacting primarily with coworkers in their laboratories and colleagues employed at other institutions. They made little use of traditional library services and instead performed many traditional library functions internally.
CONCLUSIONS: Although the basic science researchers expressed a positive attitude toward the library, they did not view its resources or services as integral to their work. To maximize their use by researchers, library resources must be accessible via departmental websites. Use of library services may be increased by cultivating relationships with key departmental administrative personnel. Despite their self-sufficiency, subjects expressed a desire for centralized information about ongoing research on campus and shared resources, suggesting a role for the library in creating and managing an institutional repository.
Authors:
Laura L Haines; Jeanene Light; Donna O'Malley; Frances A Delwiche
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Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article    
Journal Detail:
Title:  Journal of the Medical Library Association : JMLA     Volume:  98     ISSN:  1558-9439     ISO Abbreviation:  J Med Libr Assoc     Publication Date:  2010 Jan 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2010-01-25     Completed Date:  2010-12-28     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  101132728     Medline TA:  J Med Libr Assoc     Country:  United States    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  73-81     Citation Subset:  IM    
Affiliation:
Dana Medical Library, University of Vermont, 81 Colchester Avenue, Burlington, VT 05405, USA. Laura.Haines@uvm.edu
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MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Female
Humans
Information Seeking Behavior*
Libraries, Medical*
Male
Pilot Projects
Qualitative Research
Questionnaires
Research*
Research Personnel*
Vermont
Comments/Corrections

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