Starting, Managing and Promoting the Small Library by Robert Berk

Author:Robert Berk [Berk, Robert]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Social Science, Sociology, General, Media Studies
ISBN: 9781315491400
Google: tyG3DAAAQBAJ
Publisher: Routledge
Published: 2016-07-22T04:29:59+00:00

Complex subject searches

When subject searches depend upon the coordination of two or more concepts, it becomes increasingly difficult for the librarian to identify materials that contain the needed information. The advent of online computer searching of bibliographic files has greatly increased the librarian's ability to perform accurate and highly efficient coordinate searches. Online bibliographic searching may be the single most effective means of conserving the librarian's time while providing a high level of personalized service to the library's users. A number of online database vendors are currently economically available to even the smallest of libraries.

There is considerable debate as to whether or not the person seeking information should be present when the librarian performs an online search or if, with the advent of user-friendly search systems, the user should conduct his or her own searches. Regarding the first issue, it may be more effective if the user is present when the search is conducted; however, many librarians feel that with a thorough presearch interview, there is no reason why the requester has to be present for the actual search. It is likely that the user's presence will extend the time required by the search because of the interaction that takes place with the user present. The librarian and user should decide together whether it would be important for the user to browse or have the advantage of serendipity during an online search. The second issue brings about the question of whether or not patrons would prefer to conduct their own searches. User-friendly systems should probably be available to those who do wish to conduct their own searches. Some users, however, will never want to do their own searching no matter how friendly or easy to use the system is. In any event, the librarian must make sure that users are fully informed about limitations to systems and approaches being used, and that they are aware of additional sources of information that might also be considered.

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