An Anthropologist in the Library.

The article discusses the work of applied anthropologist Nancy Fried Foster of the University of Rochester library, who studied undergraduates' habits, research practices, and papers. Her findings helped the library to refine its processes and the way that it markets its services to students, which improved how the librarians viewed the students and better meet their needs. One of the findings was that not all students are naturally adept at using technology. Another unexpected discovery was that many students admitted to discussing their papers with their parents. Since so many of the students were overachievers, their hectic schedules reflected their motivation.