THE USE OF TAGS FOR BROWSING PURPOSES IN PUBLIC LIBRARY CATALOGS

Public libraries are experimenting within their online catalogs with new means of supporting browsing via tagging systems. Although tagging is promising, research examining the effectiveness of such systems for patrons in this venue is limited. This paper presents results of a research study that examined if tagging in online web-based catalog systems improves browsing. A quasi-experiment was conducted to determine the usefulness of a sample of five online systems using search box verses tagging options to aid in patron searches. Results indicated that tags are useful in advancing the browsability of such catalog systems, but requires further developing to appeal to average patrons and to provide patrons with desired results. Based on the results a theoretical model was developed to aid in further analysis development of potential systems integrating tagging and the usability of these systems. Future studies are anticipated as further developed systems become integrated into web-accessible systems.