U.s. government information need, awareness, and searching: A study of small business executives

Abstract

Small business executives were studied to assess their need for government information, their awareness of its availability, and the extent to which government information searching was affected by factors such as their information need, availability awareness, and individual and company background characteristics. Data were collected through mailed survey questionnaires to small businesses in New Jersey. The results showed that the regulatory and legislative information was rated the most important to small businesses, and that less than one-third of respondents were fully aware that government information is available in multiple formats at local depository libraries with no user cost. Data also showed that more frequent users viewed government information of higher value, and were more aware of its availability. These executives were also more likely to perceive high industry competitiveness of their companies, to own a computer, and to have Internet access. Implications for library services and research are discussed.