>>>Some libraries have experienced a decline in catalog usage, patrons
choosing electronic databases over items available in the catalog.
Deb
____________
I would strongly caution against using anecdote, and interpreting it as
"proof." Indeed, it is possible that "some libraries" are experiencing a
reduction in catalog use (all depending on how they define "catalog"). But
others are experiencing an increase in both catalog and library usage.
What we as a field lack is good, clear, carefully defined, reliable, and
complete studies upon which to base our arguments.
If you define "catalog" as the discovery tool maintained by a library (or
group of libraries) through which information seekers may obtain access
through various mechanisms to information resources -- whether owned (or
leased) by the particular institution or not -- then its use will certainly
be greater than if you define "catalog" as the tool that provides access in
a single listing utilizing a single methodology, and only to materials owned
(or leased/subscribed to) by the local institution.
Janet Swan Hill, Professor
Associate Director for Technical Services
University of Colorado Libraries, CB184
Boulder, CO 80309
janet.hill_at_colorado.edu
*****
Tradition is the handing-on of Fire, and not the worship of Ashes.
- Gustav Mahler,
Received on Thu Sep 20 2007 - 11:02:49 EDT