Discovering and Using Evidence for the Management of Social Science Research Collections

摘要

This paper describes how simple social research methods can be used effectively to discover evidence for the management of research collections. In a user-focused environment, knowledge of user needs and the use of information have become increasingly essential as management tools in the effective provision of library and information services. The authors describe the design and concepts behind a study of social science researchers in Oxford conducted in order to make decisions about collections and services for a new library in support of the social sciences. It is suggested that both qualitative and quantitative methods are used in combination (a "triangulated" study) in order to understand both aspects of information need and use. Key results from the study are presented and examples of their application in the management of collections are provided.