A Comprehensive Study of Online Public Access Catalogs: An Overview and Application of Findings. Volume III of Three Volumes. Final Report

Abstract

This report covers the background, scope, and findings of a multifaceted research project which focused on data collection and analysis related to online public access systems (OPAC's); the ultimate goal of this project is to improve information access through OPAC design and enhancement. To assist library decision-makers when planning for the initial installation of OPAC's or the enhancement of existing systems, this volume evaluates and integrates the findings detailed in the first two. Because the system/patron interaction is central to the study, a conceptual model for online catalog research which illustrates the user interface for an interactive system is presented. A project overview discusses objectives, methodologies, data collection and analysis. Summaries are provided of findings obtained through self-administered questionnaires for OPAC users and non-users, as well as through focus group interviews and transaction log analysis. Findings are discussed both generally and then specifically in a question-answer format, and areas for additional research are suggested. Six references are listed. Four appendices include pretest and final user and nonuser questionnaires. (Author/LMM)