Information Retrieval Techniques used by the Midnapore College (Autonomous) Library Users: A Study

Abstract

This paper aims to present the results of a survey conducted to determine the information retrieval techniques used by the teachers and students of Midnapore College library. The paper examines the result from a questionnaire-based survey conducted at the library. 100 samples of the questionnaire were distributed randomly between the staff and students of the college out of which 93 completed and received for analysis. The study reveals that a significant number of users search information regarding the library material through OPAC despite encountering problems. Lack of basic skills among users was found to be the major reason for not utilizing full features of OPAC, improper query formulation and non use of search operators while surf the web. It is suggested that library should organize quality instruction programmes to improve knowledge and skills of the users.