Understanding Vendor Data with Federated Searching

ABSTRACT

Federated searching options are offered by academic libraries as a way to simplify using varied electronic resources while simulating a popular Internet search engine. While search results may satisfy the novice user, more senior, sophisticated researchers often prefer using the proprietary, native interfaces of the specific resource. This study investigates one university's encounter with a federated search portal and analyzes usage and effectiveness through vendor-provided data. Statistical reports indicate patron use despite the lack of promotion and instruction, no significant differences in completion of searches between access methods, and the distribution of access methods for freely available Internet resources. Avenues for further research are also presented.

Key Words:

• Federated searching
• metasearch
• access methods
• vendor data
• protocols