Information‐seeking behavior for recreational activities and its implications for libraries
Douglas J. Ernest, Allison V. Level, Michael J. Culbertson · Reference Services Review · 2005
Purpose Seeks to prove that studies conducted over the past several decades repeatedly indicate that information‐seeking behavior by members of the general public involves consultation of a variety of potential information sources, including libraries. Design/methodology/approach This article focuses on information seeking with regard to recreation activities in wilderness areas including, but not limited to, hiking. Findings The study results indicate that respondents do turn to the internet for some of their information needs. Web sites providing information on three hiking areas were also analyzed to determine their accuracy and access to information. The study concludes that information‐seeking behavior on the internet represents investigation of sources that existed in the pre‐internet era but that access has altered from earlier mechanisms, such as paper mail, telephone, or on‐site visits, to electronic investigation. Originality/value Libraries continue to represent a potential information source, provided that they take advantage of electronic access.