Session Number
P213
Keywords
searching behavior, online databases, Vietnam
Description
Purpose: This paper focuses on identifying the searching behaviors of the users, their difficulties as well as their expectations from library supports while using online databases at the Central Library of Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh city.
Methods: Usage Reports of six online databases subscribed by the Central Library were analyzed and a survey by emailing users a questionnaire was conducted.
Findings: The amount of usage increases yearly, however it is still low in comparison with the amount of subscribers who have registered for using online databases. Users did search for their research and study rather than for their teaching or professional knowledge update. Often they looked for journal articles and thesis rather than e-book. Key words and titles were used the most when searching. Reading the guidance from the library websites or from the databases was most used. This suggested that most users did not know how to use the databases and preferred to learn by themselves. Email was user preferred mean to communicate with library staff. English language and database searching skills were the biggest barriers preventing users from employing online database.
Originality and implication: This paper provides the understanding of users‟ behaviors and suggests the necessity to assist users in using online databases in Vietnam universities. Up to now, these issues have not been known. They are relevant to improve the utilization of online databases.
P213 Presentation
Users' Searching Behaviour in Using Online Databases at Vietnam National University - Ho Chi Minh City
Purpose: This paper focuses on identifying the searching behaviors of the users, their difficulties as well as their expectations from library supports while using online databases at the Central Library of Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh city.
Methods: Usage Reports of six online databases subscribed by the Central Library were analyzed and a survey by emailing users a questionnaire was conducted.
Findings: The amount of usage increases yearly, however it is still low in comparison with the amount of subscribers who have registered for using online databases. Users did search for their research and study rather than for their teaching or professional knowledge update. Often they looked for journal articles and thesis rather than e-book. Key words and titles were used the most when searching. Reading the guidance from the library websites or from the databases was most used. This suggested that most users did not know how to use the databases and preferred to learn by themselves. Email was user preferred mean to communicate with library staff. English language and database searching skills were the biggest barriers preventing users from employing online database.
Originality and implication: This paper provides the understanding of users‟ behaviors and suggests the necessity to assist users in using online databases in Vietnam universities. Up to now, these issues have not been known. They are relevant to improve the utilization of online databases.