Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2004

Publication Title

College and Research Libraries

Volume

65

Issue

1

First Page

36

Last Page

54

Abstract

Describes a study that explored ways in which users subject searching problems in a local online catalogue might be reduced. On a weekly basis, the author reviewed catalogue transaction logs to identify topics of subject searches retrieving no records for which appropriate information resources may actually be represented in the catalog. For topics thus identified, the author explored two potential ameliorations of the no-hits search results through the use of authority record cross-references and pathfinder records providing brief instructions on search refinement. Describes the study findings, discusses possible concerns regarding the amelioration methods used, outlines additional steps needed to determine whether the potential ameliorations make a difference to users searching experiences, and suggests related areas for further research. (Original abstract)

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