Towards an evaluation of CD-ROM products in the library user services environment

Abstract

The topic of this discussion is the need for, and the issues involved in, the evaluation of CD-ROM products in the library user services environment.

The number and range of CD-ROM databases available for end-user searching in libraries is proliferating. A wide range of products is available, including bibliographic databases, microcomputer software databases, dictionaries, and encyclopaedias. In the case of popular and widely used databases such as ERIC and MEDLINE, multiple versions are available from different suppliers, each offering different searching capabilities, hardware technical configurations, and file coverage options.

CD-ROMs are expensive compared to their printed counterparts but they offer quick and complex searching not available through printed means. Selection of the CD-ROM product which best meets the needs of the library and the user in a cost effective manner is essential; appropriate evaluation of potential acquisitions is of critical importance.

The University of Melbourne Library has an extensive biomedical teaching and research function. As a result, MEDLINE is one of the Library's most heavily used online databases. Since 1985, the University Library has explored the use of a variety of CD-ROM products, an extension of the Library's online searching programme. Further services are likely to be introduced during the 1989 academic year with one of the versions of MEDLINE as a high priority.

In-house evaluation of the four MEDLINE versions available in Australia commenced in December 1988. The evaluation aims to identify the product which will best meet the needs of the Library and its users. Discussion will cover the evaluation process, including the criteria adopted and the test methods utilized.