Google Scholar and academic libraries: an update

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to update the authors' original 2005 study of Google Scholar's integration into ARL libraries' web sites. Have more ARL libraries added Google Scholar? Design/methodology/approach – The library homepages of the 113 ARL academic institutions were examined for paths or links to Google Scholar. The coding scheme focused on noting whether Google Scholar appeared on the library homepage, in the OPAC, and on various database lists and subject guides. Findings – The 2007 data indicate continued acceptance of Google Scholar and integration of this resource on the web pages of ARL libraries. The mean number of paths to Google Scholar more than doubled from 2005 to 2007. Partnering institutions were more likely to include paths to Google Scholar and the number of partnering institutions increased dramatically. Practical implications – This study is useful for those making decisions about integration of Google Scholar into library collections and services, particularly the web site. Originality/value – This paper illustrates future directions for integrating new categories of resources into the academic library web site.