Purpose: This paper focuses on identifying the searching behaviors of the users, their difficulties as well as their expectations from library supports while using online databases at the Central Library of Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh city.
Methods: Usage Reports of six online databases subscribed by the Central Library were analyzed and a survey by emailing users a questionnaire was conducted.
Findings: The amount of usage increases yearly, however it is still low in comparison with the amount of subscribers who have registered for using online databases. Users did search for their research and study rather than for their teaching or professional knowledge update. Often they looked for journal articles rather than e-books and thesis. Key words or subjects were used the most when searching. Reading the guidance from the library websites or from the databases was most used. This suggested that most users did not know how to use the databases and preferred to learn by themselves. Email was user preferred mean to communicate with library staff. English language and database searching skills were the biggest barriers preventing users from employing online database.
Originality and implication: This paper provides the understanding of users‘ behaviors and suggests the necessity to assist users in using online databases in Vietnam universities. Up to now, these issues have not been known. They are relevant to improve the utilization of online databases.
Nguyen Hong Sinh-
Education:
PhD (Library and Information management), 2009, School of Information Management, Vitoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
Master of Science (Library and Information Science), 2003, Simmons College, Massachusetts, USA
Position Held:
2010 – present: Vice Director of Central Library of Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh city
2008 – present: Deputy Head of Department of Library and Information science, University of Social sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh city
2000 – present: Lecturer of Department of Library and Information science,.
Hoàng Thị Hồng Nhung-
2009 – present: Head of Department Public Services of Central Library of Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh city
2008 – 2009: Deputy Head of Department Public Services of Central Library of Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh city
2006-2007: Staff of Central Library of Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh city
2002 – 2006: Student of Library and Information Science, University of Social sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh city.
#iatul2012 #p213 no budget to buy more pcs, so encourage users to use own laptops
— Phoebe Lim Choon Lan (@PhoebeLimCL) June 5, 2012
#iatul2012 #p213 lecturers provide basic information which are readily available in printed sources.
— Phoebe Lim Choon Lan (@PhoebeLimCL) June 5, 2012
#iatul2012 #p213 only 4% use databases for teaching.
— Phoebe Lim Choon Lan (@PhoebeLimCL) June 5, 2012
#iatul2012 #p213 VNU Hanoi city’s experience with providing and promoting online databases
— Phoebe Lim Choon Lan (@PhoebeLimCL) June 5, 2012
Very few universities in Vietnam use online databases. #P213 #iatul2012
— IATUL 2012 (@iatul2012) June 5, 2012
4% of respondents use online databases for teaching (although predominantly are faculty). Seems getting full-text from old friends overseas still works fine. Independent learning among students is still the preferred method. English language and speed of online transmission are some of the obstacles to use.