Research Methods in Library and Information Studies – serie

Although the phenomenon of library anxiety and its debilitating effects on library use have been observed for years, it has only recently been studied in a systematic and scientific manner. This is the first in depth look at the origins and subsequent evolution of this fascinating field of study. Beginning with a discussion of the Library Anxiety Scale, the most widely used measure of library anxiety among college and university students, it investigates a number of theoretical models, provides an extensive framework for conducting research at the institutional level, and offers both research-based and proposed strategies for prevention and intervention.

This book reports on a study examining 'Imposed Queries in the School Library Media Center,' and is a follow up to a pilot study on the same topic. The analysis is presented in a way that provides a clear road map for researchers, students, and practitioners who wish to undertake a study of this type, or to advance thinking about the place of imposed queries in information seeking. Particular attention is given to the special nature of the investigative processes undertaken and the concerns researchers have when approaching the study of children in information-providing environments. The research process is described in detail and highlights research questions, methodological issues, and data gathering techniques. The literature on children as a user group and as information seekers is reviewed, and the research findings and conclusions are discussed. Also, advice is offered for readers interested in undertaking their own study of imposed and self-generated queries.