Improving Database Discovery and Understandability by Identifying and Reducing A–Z List Jargon

Abstract

Countless research questions arise when investigating connections between library resource discovery and student success. Existing literature explores best practices of database description language and style, the usability of database A–Z lists, and library resource jargon. Academic libraries continue to grapple with these challenges in resource discovery, even as online searching behavior evolves and new research tools emerge. A research team at the University of Arizona Libraries builds on the literature by examining these topics with a focus on the impact of a user’s academic discipline, university affiliation (faculty, staff, or student), and research experience on their understanding of database terminology, resource content and applications, and A–Z list type filters. The authors conducted an environmental scan of library websites along with several usability tests to identify and reduce library and disciplinary jargon on their A–Z list to make databases more understandable and approachable to all users. This article presents the results of these assessments as a case study for exploring external and internal factors that impact users’ understanding and discovery of databases.