The Impact of Previous Usage of Information Systems on the Mental Models of Digital Library Users

To explain how digital library users’ mental models can be affected by their previous experiences of using other information systems (such as databases, library softwares, search engines, social networks and websites).
The qualitative approach using semi-structured interview based on the Means-End Theory. The population consisted of two groups: 1) Three digital libraries (Azarakhsh, Papirus & Sana) and 2) Sixteen end users having one year experience of using three sofware were selected by snowball sampling method and others by librarian's suggestions.
Users’ mental models were mostly affected by Google, Facebook & Simorgh library software. Also, users’ expectations were mostly influenced by search engines and social networks.
Users’ mental models were a combination of their comprehensive experiences in using other information systems, especially Google. Therefore, digital library providers can apply similar functions and capabilities in their own software in order to promote the efficiency and users satisfaction.