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| Main Authors: | , |
|---|---|
| Format: | Recurso educativo Open Access |
| Language: | en |
| Published: |
1975
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED107226 |
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Table of Contents:
- NASIC at MIT. Final Report, 1 March 1974 through 28 February 1975. Benenfeld, Alan R. And Others College Libraries Computer Oriented Programs Cost Effectiveness Information Needs Information Retrieval Information Systems Library Cooperation Library Networks Library Services Online Systems Program Evaluation Publicize Reference Services Regional Programs Search Strategies Training Use Studies Computer-based reference search services were provided to users on a fee-for-service basis at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as the first, and experimental, note in the development of the Northeast Academic Science Information Center (NASIC). Development of a training program for information specialists and training materials is described. Testing, user surveys, and 15 months of operational experience show that: (1) a moderate but growing demand exists for computer-based reference search services; (2) 77 percent of users perceive the service to be cost-effective; (3) promotional efforts need to be very intense both to increase general awareness of the service and to turn awareness into actual use; (4) many different promotional mechanisms are needed; the best are oriented toward the immediate, personal needs of the potential user; (5) cost affects the class of user, but it is only one of many factors that influence a person's decision to use the service; (6) searches are often interdisciplinary and require several sources; (7) information specialists need extensive training and practice searching to attain desirable levels of competence; and (8) integration of these services within the library environment may require organizational and staffing accommodation in addition to the commitment and enthusiasm of participants. (Author)