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Student Presentation (No formal paper)

**Reference Statistics Collection Using a Web-based Interface: The Impact of Open-source Software on Statistics Collection and Analysis** //Mary Kate Durkee, Graduate Student, Library and Information Science, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA, mkd331@hawaii.edu // Staff at the University of Hawai’i’s Sinclair Library have recently started using Zoho Creator, a web-based open-source software, as a means of collecting reference statistics. The data is collected from various service points throughout the library, exported to an Excel spreadsheet, and analyzed offline.

Reference statistics are questions patrons ask library staff. These range from basic directional questions to more specialized questions. The data measured and analyzed includes the question types, where and when they are asked, as well as how they are answered. This helps to determine how library services are being used, and how they can be improved. Equally important to consider is how the data is collected. Are we asking the right questions? Is the form providing us with the information we need? Are library staff using the form the way we intend?

Formerly, we used a paper form which had several drawbacks. Its physical nature made it hard to compile statistics because many questions were answered through roving assistance: by staff away from stationary service points. It was more complex then it needed to be, and consequently it was confusing to use. This resulted in statistics being inaccurate in terms of both type and quantity.

We will share and discuss our experience using Zoho. We would like to explain our process, from concept to realization, and invite feedback, comments and questions. All Audiences