Google kids lose their web cred

Although young people appear at ease with IT they are overdependent on search engines, view rather than read, and lack the critical and analytical skills to assess the information they find on the web.

The research warns libraries they will have to adapt to the digital mindset if they are to survive and prosper.

It calls on libraries to respond urgently to the changing needs of researchers and other users. Going virtual is critical, it warns, and learning what researchers want and need is crucial if libraries are not to become obsolete.

Ian Rowlands, lead author of the report, said: “Libraries in general are not keeping up with the demands of students and researchers for services that are integrated and consistent with their wider internet experience.”

Lynne Brindley, chief executive of the British Library, said: “Libraries have to accept that the future is now. At the British Library we have adopted the digital mindset and have seized many of the opportunities new technology offers to inspire our users to learn, discover and innovate.”

Malcolm Read, executive secretary of JISC, said: “Students and researchers will continue to need the appropriate skills and training to help navigate an increasingly diverse and complex information landscape.”

The study by the CIBER research team at University College London shows that research behaviour commonly associated with younger users ­ impatience in search and navigation, and intolerance of delay ­ are also becoming the norm for all age groups.