Nature's Bounty: From Asparagus to Maple Syrup: An Analysis of AgNIC Questions Received by the Michigan State University Library January, 2002-March, 2005

This paper presents the results from an analysis of the questions received by Michigan State University (MSU) via the MSU AgNIC (Agriculture Network Information Center) site between January 2002 and March 2005. The primary subjects supported by the Michigan State University Library include blueberries (cultivated), maple syrup, cherries, asparagus, bedding plants, black beans, navy beans, potatoes, and USDA electronic publications. The data was analyzed by month, subject, total number and category percentage, trends, and type of question. The analysis revealed that the types of questions received fluctuated in a predictable pattern based on the season and subject matter. Three categories- asparagus, bedding plants, and blueberries-comprised almost 73% of the total questions received. A resource list of Web sites frequently used in response is included. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-HAWORTH. E-mail address: <docdelivery@haworthpress.com> Website: <http://www.HaworthPress.com> (C) 2006 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.]