Information-Seeking Behavior and Reference Medium Preferences

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Anthony Shong-Yu Chow, Associate Professor (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: The article looks at the differences in information seeking behavior among faculty, staff, and students at a university in the southeastern United States and what it means for library reference support strategies. The number of individuals using public and academic libraries for information is increasing, the article states, which means that librarians must assess their practices and services through studying user preferences. According to the study of university staff and students, most participants preferred face-to-face interaction for reference help, but technology such as email was preferred over phone calls and online chats. Other topics covered include demographic influence, gender differences, and convenience factors.

Additional Information

Publication
Language: English
Date: 2012
Keywords
information seeking behavior, research, academic libraries, library reference services, librarianship, gender differences, college students

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