Library and Information Science

The author, from July 1975 through May 1976, carried out a survey concerning the information need and use of 1.10 researchers at the National Institute of Animal Industry (NIAI) and 94 at the National Institute of Animal Health (NIAH).

The most researchers use at both institutes the following materials as sources of information: (1) original papers, (2) references in original papers, (3) review journals, (4) abstracting journals, (5) monographs.

The average frequency of visits to the library is 2.7 times a week per person at NIAI, while 1.9 times at NIAH, and the ratios of gaining information at the library are 63% and 56% respectively. In average, 2.5 hours a week are spent for literature search, 18 hours for reading, and about 22–23% of working hours are for acquiring information.

In relation to informal communication the author found persons who might be called “gatekeepers” Their special features are as follows: (1) their rank is comparatively above others in the group, (2) they have a Ph.D. degree, (3) they are more positive in writing and reading papers, (4) their articles are well read. About 10% of the group are presumed to be “gatekeepers” 60% are persons who mostly receive information from others, and the remaining 30% are to be called “reserve gatekeeper” from whom 3–5 researchers receive information.