Analyzing Scholarly Communication Information Transactions at an R1 University: Internet Reference Services Quarterly: Vol 0, No 0

Abstract:  This study analyzes the information transactions related to scholarly communication topics at a southeastern R1 university in the US, focusing on the types of questions raised by the academic community and how this data can be used to improve library services. Data were collected from phone calls, direct emails, and forwarded emails from liaison librarians or the library’s chat service. The consultation details were entered into LibInsight and analyzed to identify patterns and trends. The author recorded a total of 428 information transactions during a three-year study period. The inquiries came from a wide range of disciplines across campus, with the highest number of transactions from faculty members in the School of Social Work, the Department of English, and the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The most common topics of inquiry were related to institutional repository services, copyright, and licensing. This study addresses an existing gap in the literature regarding strategies for academic librarians to enhance scholarly communication services through evidence-based research. It contributes to understanding the evolving information needs of the academic community and underscores the significance of ongoing monitoring and systematic analysis of information transactions to ensure that scholarly communication services remain up-to-date and pertinent.