The Central Periodicals/Microforms Room

TLDR: It is reached that an online public access catalog that includes serial locations and holdings will further improve serial accessibility and relieve user frustration.

Abstract: A number of articles have dealt with the frustration that users have in locating books but few have concentrated on problems experienced in retrieving periodical issues. User studies conducted by Murfin and Hanson and Serebnick are discussed, and their findings analyzed. The complexity of serial files, the problems experienced in using them and the frequent lack of adequate serials public service are mentioned. The need for a separate serials information desk, staffed with well-trained people able to handle all kinds of serials questions, is emphasized. The University of Oklahoma's experience with a Current Periodicals/Microforms Room is used as an example. The conclusion is reached that an online public access catalog that includes serial locations and holdings will further improve serial accessibility and relieve user frustration.