Open Access Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington
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An evaluation of the Electronic Purchasing in Consortium database marketing at a New Zealand public library

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thesis
posted on 2021-11-14, 01:23 authored by Armour, Andrew Wreford

Research problem The Electronic Purchasing in Consortium (EPIC) databases are a useful paid resource that some librarians consider to be underused. Marketing is a key means of increasing awareness and use of library resources, but research into EPIC database marketing is sparse. This study investigated ways of improving the efficiency of marketing at a New Zealand public library through conversations with library staff and a customer. Methodology Data was collected through five semi-structured face-to-face interviews and was qualitatively analysed with reference to the product, price, place and promotion of a public library’s EPIC databases. Results It was found that the library does not market its EPIC databases and that there is a connection between inadequate promotion, low customer awareness and low usage of the EPIC databases. EPIC database accessibility and staff training in database use were found to be areas in need of work. These issues were in part explained by the low priority the EPIC databases had at the library when compared with community outreach initiatives. Implications This study recommends market research be carried out, followed by targeted promotional efforts, further customer and staff training in the use of EPIC databases and more prominent web links to databases. It also recommends the library look into ways of using the EPIC databases in its customer outreach initiatives.

History

Copyright Date

2014-01-01

Date of Award

2014-01-01

Publisher

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Rights License

Author Retains Copyright

Degree Discipline

Information Studies

Degree Grantor

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Degree Level

Masters

Degree Name

Master of Information Studies

ANZSRC Type Of Activity code

970108 Expanding Knowledge in the Information and Computing Sciences

Victoria University of Wellington Item Type

Masters Research Paper

Language

en_NZ

Victoria University of Wellington School

School of Information Management

Advisors

Calvert, Philip