Librarian adjusts to changing research landscape
Roy Lenn
Posted on: 1/27/10 Section: Features
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In his dissertation for a Ph.D degree in Information Studies at UCLA, Haley studied the use of patterns of print and digital resources in academic libraries.
By looking at online circulation records of print materials at both PCC and UCLA, he determined trends in use.
"The use of print journals has dropped considerably," Haley concluded, "but the use of printed books is actually holding steady."
Haley believes that use of printed books has not dropped because much of the material is not yet available in digital form, as many academic journals are.
"Users are shifting over to digital because the content is the same," said Haley. "But books are not quite there yet."
Haley concluded that users would switch to online digital materials when equivalent content is offered.
"It's neither bad nor good, but it is different," Haley said of the trend towards digital content. "Librarians and teachers need to adjust for the change."
He finds that the change benefits students. With digital resources, all students can access desired information immediately and no longer have to wait for a single printed journal that another student might have checked out.
Haley says that students are learning more due to increased access to digital information, but also believes that assignments have become more demanding as a result.
"Teachers are realizing that research for content has gotten a lot easier, and students are capable of incorporating more materials into their assignments," Haley said.
After putting the finishing touches on his dissertation, Haley expects to receive his Ph.D early this year.
PCC Dean of Library Sciences Mary Ann Laun spoke highly of Haley's work and his role as a coordinator of Reference Services at Shatford Library.
"I consider Dan a scholar, a true academic librarian," she said, "and one who is fascinated with the searching behaviors of our students. He loves connecting students with the information to meet their needs. And, like all librarians, he loves to see the look on a student's face when he helps them to find the perfect resources."
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