Postdoctoral Scholars: A Forgotten Library Constituency?

Abstract

Postdoctoral scholars are highly productive researchers employed by academic institutions, nonprofits, government, and private industry in a variety of fields, particularly in the sciences. Because of the research-focused nature of their positions, they have strong needs for information, search skills, publication support, and other library resources and services. Librarians should consider the needs of postdocs in their institutions and endeavor to match resources, services, and policies to the needs of this productive and possibly underserved group.

Keywords:

• evaluation
• information needs
• information services
• library outreach
• library resources
• library services
• library surveys
• postdoctoral scholars
• program development
• research