How Users Approach Discovery Tools

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Author(s): Lucy Holman (University of Baltimore, USA), Elias Darraj (University of Baltimore, USA), Jonathan Glaser (University of Baltimore, USA), Alice Hom (University of Baltimore, USA), Heather Mathieson (University of Baltimore, USA), Deane Nettles (University of Baltimore, USA)and Aronya Waller (University of Baltimore, USA)
Copyright: 2012
Pages: 16
Source title: Planning and Implementing Resource Discovery Tools in Academic Libraries
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Mary Pagliero Popp (Indiana University, USA)and Diane Dallis (Indiana University, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-1821-3.ch014

Keywords: Information Science Reference / Library & Information Science / Library Information Systems / Library Science

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Abstract

Researchers observed 21 participants (undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty) conduct known item and topic searches using EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS)™1, Ex Libris’ Primo®2, and Serials Solutions’®3 Summon™4 discovery tools to compare users’ reaction to their interface design and evaluate each tool’s functionality. Participants generally liked the tools’ simple interfaces but had difficulty identifying material formats and faceted search features and were often confused by advanced search limiters and other features. Most demonstrated right-side blindness, failing to notice features or options on the right side of the screen. Participants expressed frustration with what they perceived as less than relevant results in many of their searches.

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