This study has been conducted to examine users ’views regarding retrieving Bengali documents using subject headings. It also examines users ’views of subject access, revealing issues with retrieving Bengali documents by subject in online public access catalogue. A stratified sampling method was used in the investigation. The users met in person to collect pertinent data while visiting the library and searching the OPAC. A structured schedule, developed for the purpose, was given to library patrons, and as a result, interviews and interpretations were meticulously documented. The results indicated that subject headings do not provide a good search experience. Although keyword search performs better, due to search redundancy, it is difficult to retrieve needed documents in the shortest time. It is also found that fewer respondents execute known-item searches, and their success rates are typically high. To sustain uniformity and consistency, factors accounted for standard guidelines and principles for the formulation of Bengali subject headings. It has been suggested that relevant insertions to use controlled vocabulary be included in the OPAC interface to meet the needs of new-age users.
Bibliographic data, Controlled vocabulary, Information retrieval, OPAC, Subject headings, Users study
