Applications of Social Research Methods to Questions in Information and Library Science
"Aimed at social scientists and library science professionals, this guide to research methodologies evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of each type of research design. Wildemuth (information and library science, U. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) reviews the most common research questions asked in the fields of library and information sciences and analyzes sampling issues from case studies, naturalistic research, longitudinal studies, Delphi studies and experimental designs. Data collection methods are also reviewed, including surveys, interviews, historical studies, transaction log analysis and participant observation."-Reference & Research Book News"This is a valuable addition to any professional or library science collection where a need exists for a basic yet thorough introduction to the area of research methods and methodology."-ARBA"In this earnest, encyclopedic, energetic and easily accessible book, Barbara Wildemuth has produced a landmark text that will be of great use to information and library science master and doctoral students, as well as to professors and professionals in library and allied fields. . . . This book will easily achieve its stated goal of aiding its readers in designing and publishing research projects that will eventually improve professional practice."-College & Research Libraries"Fills an important gap, connecting the dots between social science research methods and real-world applications in Library and Information Science research. It is very strongly recommended for use in graduate school Library and Information Science courses that teach research methods from the context of social science. This text serves as an excellent reference for any librarian who conducts research, for example, academic librarians who are faculty members."-Catholic Library World