A study of the information-seeking behaviour of the researchers in the Parliamentary Research Unit at the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:This study examined the information seeking behaviour of the researchersattached to the Parliamentary Research Unit in Parliament. It looked at their useof the Parliamentary Library, their use of the library and its resources, what otheravenues for information they use and what suggestions they have for improvingthe service. A questionnaire was developed and e-rnailed to researchers. As theresponse rate was poor, it limited the conclusions that could be drawn from theresearch.In line with other studies, it was found that electronic resources and the Internetplayed a great role in how they sourced information. Researchers frequented theInternet to find information more than they use the library and they havedifficulties with accessing online resources and the catalogue. The manualcirculation system was a source of frustration as well.They made use of personal contacts to a certain extent to find unpublishedinformation and very recent information. These categories of information,especially government information, are crucial to their work. Suggestions forimprovement centred on the online catalogue, instruction in the use of the onlineresources, updating the collection of books and journals and consultingresearchers where necessary.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University