Thanks to reference librarian Kristen Mastel, I came across this article about what library terms our patrons commonly use/understand.
Here are some of the highlights:
- "Common correctly understood terms include "find books", "find articles" and other combinations using natural language target words that correspond to the end product the user is seeking."
- Words that patrons don't commonly understand: "database," "library catalog," "e-journals," "index," "interlibrary loan", "periodical," "serial," "reference," and "resource."
Just something to keep in mind as the public face of the library . . . when in doubt, try to use simple, neutral (non-library specific) language if you have a confused patron.
Here's a link to the article, just in case you're interested: http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2012/03/academic-libraries/users-dont-know-what-libraries-are-talking-about-studies-find/
Happy almost-Friday!
Elisabeth
Wow, so is this a typical type of research in library studies?
Jade,
From what I've been able to gather, most of the research in library studies deals with technology -- new data management systems, citation managers, online journals, etc. Seeing research about patrons -- and especially Circulation issues -- is kind of anomalous, but exciting! If you have further questions about research in Library Science, I'd recommend talking to Kristen, Beth Petsan, or Megan Kocher, all of whom know what they're talking about way more than I do. :)
Elisabeth