A protocol analysis study was undertaken to explore how a Web-savvy generation of library users searches the online catalog. Eighteen users, including experienced and novice searchers, were recruited. Participants agreed to be recorded and to express their thoughts aloud while searching. Analysis of these data has revealed several distinct trends. Most notable among these trends has been the impact of Internet search engines on user expectations. Given the influence of the Web, these assumptions are likely common throughout higher education.This research reveals where bottlenecks occur and provides insights into how libraries can design systems that help users around trouble spots.nline public access catalogs (OPACs) were the subject of intense study in the 1980s and 1990s, but interest in these basic library tools tapered off as libraries added other online resources.

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A usability study was undertaken at Penn State University to explore how students search the library's online catalog after they have received library instruction. In 2004, eight first-year students received library instruction and were subsequently recruited for the study. Participants were recorded using the online catalog, and a think-aloud protocol was employed to capture students' thoughts. Results were compared with nine first-year students observed in 2002, using the same methodology. Analysis of both groups revealed subtle differences in how they utilized the online catalog. Although these differences cannot be definitively attributed to library instruction, the evidence suggests that instruction can have a positive effect on user search behaviors. The article recommends strategies for increasing the impact of library instruction.

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