Information Retrieval Knowledge Of Users Using The National Earth Science And Energy Information Centre Databases

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the information retrieval knowledge of the users of the National Earth Science and Energy Information Centre (NESEIC). The purpose of the study was to establish the gaps in the information retrieval knowledge of NESEIC users and the information skills NESEIC users require to search and locate relevant information from the NESEIC library systems. The study utilised a mixed method research design. Data was collected through interviews, observation and questionnaires from the NESEIC users and NESEIC librarians. A sample of 100 NESEIC users responded to the questionnaire. Thirteen NESEIC users were observed. Ten NESEIC users and two NESEIC librarians were interviewed. The Descriptive Statistical Analysis was used to analyse quantitative data from the questionnaires, a Chi-square test was used to explore relations between variables and SPSS was used as a programme for data entry. Furthermore, cross check was ensured through assigned codes for all questionnaires in the SPSS programme. Content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data from the interviews. The ethics of this study honoured voluntary participation, confidentiality and informed consent. The literature reviewed in this study suggests that, there is an increasing gap in libraries‟ user knowledge and retrieval of information. The main findings of the study established that, a lack of information literacy skills is the major problem limiting NESEIC users from independently searching, accessing and using the resources effectively in the NESEIC library.