Browsing by Author "Swartz, Barbara Dawn"

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    A study of the information-seeking behaviour of the researchers in the Parliamentary Research Unit at the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2005-03) Swartz, Barbara Dawn; Van der Walt, M.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Information Science.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study examined the information seeking behaviour of the researchers attached to the Parliamentary Research Unit in Parliament. It looked at their use of the Parliamentary Library, their use of the library and its resources, what other avenues for information they use and what suggestions they have for improving the service. A questionnaire was developed and e-rnailed to researchers. As the response rate was poor, it limited the conclusions that could be drawn from the research. In line with other studies, it was found that electronic resources and the Internet played a great role in how they sourced information. Researchers frequented the Internet to find information more than they use the library and they have difficulties with accessing online resources and the catalogue. The manual circulation system was a source of frustration as well. They made use of personal contacts to a certain extent to find unpublished information and very recent information. These categories of information, especially government information, are crucial to their work. Suggestions for improvement centred on the online catalogue, instruction in the use of the online resources, updating the collection of books and journals and consulting researchers where necessary.