As a closed access library (one where books are held in stores and have to be requested if you wish to read them), the ability to find items on our catalogue is of paramount importance. Apart from the quick reference section around the walls of the reading rooms, you won’t be able to just browse the shelves in a general subject area. Instead you have to rely on a search of the catalogue to discover the books you may want to see.
With this in mind, we are working with our partners in the Art Discovery Group to better understand why and how those in the art world / users of art libraries look for information with a view to improving their experience of using the Art Discovery Group Catalogue and WorldCat Discovery. Together we are looking to identify new features and improvements to WorldCat Discovery that would help art library users successfully and enjoyably complete their information seeking and research tasks.
Patron interviews
Before making any product changes, we want to consult and learn more from art library users. We are focusing on the following user categories at present:
- Provenance researchers
- Creative professionals
- Auction house staff
- Curators
- Dealers
- Collectors
If you are a user of the National Art Library, feel that you fit the bill, and would be willing to take part in an interview, we would love to hear from you. Please email: v.worsfold@vam.ac.uk, Vicky Worsfold, Head of Onsite Information Services. Responses would be appreciated by 7 February 2020, thank you.
