Help-Seeking Behaviors in Research Data Management

Investigations on the help-seeking behavior of academic library patrons have to date primarily focused on the undergraduate experience, most often in the context of reference interactions. This study seeks to explore the help-seeking behaviors of a different audience - faculty in the natural and physical sciences at an R2 land-grant university. Eighteen faculty in the natural and physical sciences at the University of Idaho were individually interviewed using an in-depth qualitative interview format and all transcripts were coded and analyzed using an open transcript data visualization tool created at the University of Idaho Library. Responses revealed that faculty are seeking help from colleagues; peers outside the university, via connections formed in graduate school or professional circles; and through DIY solutions like "just googling it," but less often through university resources and programs. Using the results of this project as a starting point, we will explore how libraries might better understand the help-seeking behavior of research faculty, with an eye towards developing services and sources that better meet faculty research needs.