THEMATIC NUCLEUS ON DROUGHT/UFRN: USE OF THE INFORMATION COLLECTION

Abstract

Analyses the Thematic Nucleus on Drought (NUT–SECA) at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) with regard to the use of the information collection. The NUT–SECA is a centre of specialised documentation which studies the phenomenon of drought from an interdisciplinary perspective. The theoretical framework covers studies of the concept and functions of a centre of documentation, the stages and importance of developing collections and the use of information offered by documentation centres. The methodology, in coherence with the theoretical framework, considers quantitative and qualitative aspects of the data obtained. Due to the lack of a register of users of NUT–SECA and having confirmed the presence of faculty staff as potential users, we opted to use the teaching staff as the universe of this research. The questionnaires underlined the little use made by faculty staff from UFRN of the collection, even though these carry out research activities, know about and use the collection when elaborating their research on the theme of drought. In addition, the data collected indicates the lack of dissemination of the existence of the NUT-SECA collection as a determinant of the little use made of the material. It was also observed that the collection does not receive an adequate technical treatment which can also contribute to its under-use. The suggestions resulting from the research are related to the need to publicise the existence of the collection and for the Nucleus to participate in information networks given that this study shows the value of the collection and its importance as a source of study for researchers of the phenomenon of drought. We also highlight the possibility of NUT-SECA developing actions which make the community aware not only of the sources of information which it offers but also of the relevance of study on drought. And more, we refer to the responsibility of UFRN in contributing to widen understanding of a phenomenon which affects the region in which the University is located.