Impact of Information Technology on Information Seeking Behavior of Sericulture Scientists

This study attempts to investigate the impact of information technology on the information seeking behavior of scientists of Central Sericulture Research and Training Institute (CSRTI), Mysore, India. In this study questionnaire method was used for data collection. A total of 110 questionnaires were distributed to the Sericulture Scientists of CSRTI and 105 filled-in questionnaires were returned with an overall response rate of 95.45%. The findings show that highest numbers of scientists have awareness on using computer and its facilities for storing and retrieving information. The print copy of journal articles is given prime preference by most of the scientists. Effect of electronic dissemination of information on information gathering habit of scientists is very different compared to what it was in the last five years. Use of e-resources has very high impact on gathering and use of information and hence, the scientists find it very easy to use the information in their field. Nearly 72.4% of scientists spend 30 minute to 1 hour with in a day for searching information without taking anybody's assistance. Abstracting and indexing services are highly preferred library products and 67.62% of scientists are satisfied with the present library services at 75% level.