Basic Research Methods for Librarians

by Ronald R. Powell, Lynn Silipigni Connaway

Most library post-graduate programs teach research methods using generic research methods textbooks. However, this ground-breaking textbook covers the basic research methodologies likely to be used by librarians with an orientation to library issues. It also includes basic instructions on writing the research proposal and the research report.

Genres: Nonfiction, Library Science, Textbooks, School, Grad School, Adult, Information Science

347 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1985

Reviews

[Kimberly]

This book provides a solid overview for research methods for the library and information science fields. The book covers such topics as: developing a research study, selecting a research method, picking the best sampling method, various types of research, data analysis, and styles/outlines to follow when writing research proposals and reports. A rather dry read, but full of good information useful for information professionals. I read it for a class in which I had to write a research grant proposal, and found the book to be very helpful for the semester long assignment.

[Tatjana]

This book uses 10-dollar words where a 1-dollar word would be just fine... and wouldn't diminish the academic quality of the work. While it didn't change any understanding of the text, it made reading it devastatingly ponderous. It's a shame, because the subject is quite interesting.

[Benjamin Fasching-Gray]

Disappointing. Too focused on quantitative methods, giving it a musty 1960s feeling. Also, generally disorganized and dry.

[Bant]

This stuff made my head implode. But I had a great teacher.

[Michelle]

Read for class. Nonfiction. About qualitative and quantitative research methods.

[Molly]

I read this for my "Introduction to Research Methods in Library and Information Sciences" course in library school. I remember it being very dry.

[Karla]

This is an outstanding book on research methods in library and information science. It is relatively easy to read and is current as of April 2011. The book helped me to see the value in completing and sharing research in library and information science.

[Mp]

I learned basic research methods for librarians.

[Jennifer]

school book

[Sarah Sammis]

Read over summer session.

[Christa]

Really helped me to complete my research analysis and great for helping you focus on journal entries. As for today, I'm not sure if the information will be helpful, since it's sorta dated.

[Lexi]

I actually only skimmed the last chapter. Shh!

[Greg]

Does exactly what it says. Helpful if you're writing a research proposal, but you'd never want to pick it up otherwise.

[amy]

"Basic" should include some discussion of research ethics, I think.

[Angela]

This is a fine text book. I am not overly invested in the research side of librarianism, but as this was for a required class, I read it.