The information needs of parents

The information needs of consumers or the general public have been neglected by information researchers. Consumers are the users of public libraries, they are changing their sources of information and they are a very large group. This paper discusses two investigations into the information needs of parents - a sub-group of consumers particularly important to the future of libraries. In the first investigation carried out by the authors the records of a telephone helpline were analysed to find out the subjects of the information that parents needed. These were: children's behaviour, family problems and school. The second investigation, funded by the British Library, involves discussion groups and interviews with parents of children under 5 ill the London Borough of Haringey. These parents need information with particular characteristics: it should have authority. Local information is helpful. Information may be needed very fast when a child is ill. 1990s parents want current information. The viewpoint may be important. Considering sources of information, oral information still comes first, books remain reliable and grey literature (e.g. newsletters) is considered very useful. Information provides support for parents undergoing a major transition in their lives.