Die kontemporêre gebruik van enkele gedrukte en elektroniese naslaanbronne in akademiese biblioteke

Abstract

Aim of the study: The value of information in printed sources became of importance with the publishing of the same information in electronic sources. The purpose of this study is to investigate the frequency of holdings and use of printed and electronic reference sources in academic libraries in South Africa to determine the value of each format. Research method: A literature study was conducted to establish the nature and value of printed information and the development thereof into electronic reference sources. A questionnaire was used to obtain reliable information with regard to the printed and electronic holdings of academic libraries. The frequency with which information librarians make use of these different formats of information was also determined. Core findings: Printed encyclopedias, dictionaries, ready-reference sources and periodical indexes are particularly useful because of the alphabetical compilation of the text, which ensures easy and quick information retrieval. Although electronic reference sources offer additional improved search techniques, the printed format can still be the most accessible source for information retrieval in certain circumstances. All the academic libraries that responded to the questionnaire have printed encyclopedias and dictionaries as part of their holdings. A total of 98% have printed ready-reference sources and 86% have periodical indexes as part of their holdings. About 80% of the libraries have electronic periodical indexes in their holdings, but only about 40% of them possess electronic encyclopedias and dictionaries. Electronic readyreference sources are part of only a few academic libraries' holdings, since much information of this kind is published on Internet. Encyclopedias and dictionaries in printed format and periodical indexes in electronic format are most commonly used. Almost the same number of librarians make use of the printed and electronic ready-reference sources. Printed information sources still have value and are not excluded from being used by the electronic formats. Therefore academic libraries should include both formats as part of their holdings