Use of an academic library Web site search engine

An academic library Web site's search engine logs were analyzed to discover how patrons used the site search. Results from this study were intended to improve the site search engine and the library's Web page organization and features. The findings showed that patrons did not understand the function of the search and tried to use it to find information of all kinds, not just library Web pages. Queries often resembled the content of questions at a reference desk but without dialog and the expertise of library staff. This study showed that although the site search itself was found to be effective for its intended purpose, patrons might need another feature-an online reference service similar in attitude to the site search but with a human answering the queries.