What users want: Assessing government information preferences to drive information services

摘要: Abstract Access to government information has changed dramatically in the past 20 years. There are many indicators of use, but it is challenging for service institutions gain a current and comprehensive view research practices preferences their users. Information stakeholders must seek out data gauge potential success new initiatives policies order meet user needs. To that end, study was conducted on University Montana campus spring 2006. The survey sent random, stratified sample population. instrument included questions frequency methods locating learning about documents, awareness Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP), format preferences. results show majority researchers using at least quarterly they most often use general search engines find it. Respondents indicate strong interest alerting services, tutorials, virtual reference, topic-oriented assistance. Although some respondents prefer printed materials specific types information, users generally want access online. offer program planning, collection development, policy creation.