scholarly journals Public Library is….; Mapping Stakeholder Perspectives on the Values and Purposes of the Public Library

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pam McKenzie ◽  
Jacquelyn Burkell ◽  
Janet Allen
Keyword(s):  
Nous Avons ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Concept Map ◽  
Public Library ◽  
The Public ◽  
Stakeholder Perspectives ◽  
General Importance ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Public Library Users ◽  
Survey Responses

We used survey responses and statements of library organizations to create a corpus of items describing the value of public libraries.  A sample of public library users and staff from the province of Ontario individually sorted these statements into groups and labelled the groups, and rated each statement with respect to its general importance, its centrality to the mission of the public library, and its uniqueness to the public library.  We used GroupWisdom™ software to analyze individual responses into an overall concept map and to identify differences in patterns across different participant groups. Nous avons utilisé les réponses aux sondages et les déclarations des organisations de bibliothèques pour créer un corpus d'articles décrivant les valeurs des bibliothèques publiques. Un échantillon d'utilisateurs et d'employés des bibliothèques publiques de la province de l'Ontario a trié individuellement ces énoncés en groupes et étiqueté les groupes, et a évalué chaque énoncé en fonction de son importance générale, de son rôle central dans la mission de la bibliothèque publique et de son caractère unique pour le bibliotheque publique. Nous avons utilisé le logiciel GroupWisdom ™ pour analyser les réponses individuelles dans une carte conceptuelle globale et pour identifier les différences dans les modèles entre les différents groupes de participants.

scholarly journals Public library mobile apps in Scotland: views from the local authorities and the public

2018 ◽  
Vol 36 (2) ◽  
pp. 237-251 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alan Kerr ◽  
Diane Rasmussen Pennington
Keyword(s):  
Public Libraries ◽  
Mobile Apps ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Qualitative And Quantitative ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Alternative Means ◽  
Least Core ◽  
Public Library Users

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine current public library apps in Scotland and assess Scottish public library users’ opinions of those apps. Design/methodology/approach Two qualitative and quantitative surveys were conducted. One survey was distributed to each Scottish local authority, the entities responsible for public libraries and Scotland. The second survey was made available to the public. The results were analysed with nonparametric statistics and content analysis. Findings All 32 authorities responded. In all, 17 authorities had an app, two had one in development, and 13 had none. Offering an alternative means of communication to patrons was the main reason for providing an app, while cost and low priority were the main reasons provided against app provision. Authorities were satisfied with the core services offered in their apps, but less so with others. No authorities had consulted the public regarding app provision. The public (n=185), while satisfied with current library apps, criticised the complex procedures required to access external services. Patrons from authorities without an app stated interest in apps. Research limitations/implications It is vital for public libraries to implement at least core services that are optimised for mobile devices. They should consult with the public before and throughout the development process to ensure they are happy with the implementation. Originality/value This is the first known study to explore public library app use in Scotland as well as one of the first in public library app use worldwide.

Globalization, modernization and functionality of the public library system in Nigeria

2016 ◽  
Vol 37 (8/9) ◽  
pp. 426-440
Author(s):  
Patience Uzezi Otolo
Keyword(s):  
Technology Use ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Time And Space ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Library System ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Public Library Users

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to find out: the functionality of public libraries in the provision of needed information resources; the impact of the use of modern electronic gadgets as the level of patronage; the influence of old technology use on libraries; and the globalization effect on the user behavior toward public libraries. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted the descriptive survey design since the opinion, perceptions and observation of public library users were examined. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 185 respondents. A well-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. The instrument was validated by research experts in the area of test and measurement and in library and information science research. A reliability test was carried out using 25 academic library users in Delta State University, Abraka, to establish a coefficient of 0.87 using Cronbach’s α. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics for research questions while the Pearson product moment correlation coefficient analysis and linear regression analysis were used to test hypotheses. Findings Public libraries in Nigeria are functional and accessible. There is inadequacy in modern information and communication technology devices that aid information provision and dissemination, Globalization and modernization has negatively impacted the patronage of public libraries. The influence of deterritorialization has influenced the user attitude toward regular use. Globalization has made time and space much more closer, thereby reducing contact and interaction between library staff and users in the public library system. Globalization and/or modernization has brought not only challenges to public libraries, but also opportunities to exploit. Research limitations/implications The findings of the study were drawn from one sampled area to represent the entirety of the country. The respondents were public library users who were found using public libraries; therefore, less time was allocated to answering research instrument, thereby potentially and probably not responded to with utmost concern. Practical implications Public library functionality will be deterred if necessary actions are taken to improve the quality of service provision. There will likely be a reduced patronage of public libraries if users do not get the most recent information as supposed. There is already a negative effect of globalization and modernization on the functionality of public libraries. There is an urgent need to update and modernize public libraries across the nation for effective and efficient service delivery. Social implications Globalization has led to the reduction of interpersonal and social interaction which is supposed to promote friendliness between public library users and the staff. It also promoted the use of modern technologies such as telecommunication devices, information disseminating gadgets in homes while inhibiting public library patronage time and space is now been maximized for the benefit of library users who are distant from the public library location in as much as information has become accessible at their fingertips. Originality/value This research was carried out by the author (Dr (Mrs) P.U. Otolo) and is fully individual. All authors cited are duly acknowledged.

How to increase the loyalty of public library users? A qualitative study

2019 ◽  
Vol 52 (2) ◽  
pp. 317-330 ◽  
Author(s):  
Oranus Tajedini ◽  
Ali Akbar Khasseh ◽  
Mahin Afzali ◽  
Ali Sadatmoosavi
Keyword(s):  
Resource Management ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Physical Space ◽  
Space Management ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
Frequent Use ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Research Population ◽  
Public Library Users

The main objective of this study is to explain how to increase user loyalty behavior to public library services. This study uses a qualitative method based on grounded theory. The research population included users of public libraries in Iran. The data were collected through in-depth interviews, and the theoretical saturation was obtained after interviewing 24 members of public libraries. The collected data through interviews were analyzed using theoretical coding and content analysis. Results indicated that observing moral and humane principles when dealing with library users plays a significant role in both building user loyalty to the library and attracting new users. In addition, it was found that causal conditions in increasing loyalty among public library users are related to four areas including physical space management, information resource management, human resource management, and information technology management. It was also noted that factors such as service quality, proper design of interiors, providing diverse and updated information resources, the use of new communication technologies, and the use of cyberspace and social network applications must be taken into account by public libraries. Building loyalty among users and members of public libraries in today’s technological world is of high importance, as it will guarantee the repeated and more frequent use of public libraries and their services and thus reflect their positive effects. The loyalty of users of libraries and information centers can be based on perceived quality, effective communication between librarians and users, and satisfaction with services offered by libraries and their staffs and can affect the intention for repeated visits, and the use of library service and preferring a library over other libraries.

scholarly journals Library as a Social Place

2018 ◽  
Vol 4 (12) ◽  
pp. 48-59
Author(s):  
Wan Hashimah Wan Ismail ◽  
Lily Ting Shu Chi
Keyword(s):  
Public Libraries ◽  
Publishing House ◽  
Public Library ◽  
New Approach ◽  
The Public ◽  
Library Users ◽  
International Publishing ◽  
The One ◽  
Open Access Article

This paper clarifies on the condition of the public libraries, focusing on the one in Alor Gajah town.  The objectives were to search the reasons for the lack of visitors to the library, the perspectives of the locals and library users, as well as the means to assimilate their viewpoints into a new approach in designing a library. The discussions in the findings include the preference of the locals, the location and the users of the public library. The strategies suggested comprise the role of the library to be redefined as a social interactive space for the community. Keywords: public library; social; Interactive space; community eISSN 2514-7528 © 2019. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRAcE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open-access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) andcE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia. https://doi.org/10.21834/jabs.v4i12.329

The long tail of search and topical queries in public libraries

2017 ◽  
Vol 66 (6/7) ◽  
pp. 430-441 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tami Oliphant ◽  
Ali Shiri
Keyword(s):  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Long Tail ◽  
Research Attention ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Search Queries ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Current Events ◽  
Public Library Users ◽  
June July

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to elaborate the long tail of topical search queries, including the influence of current events, posed to a large, urban public library discovery system. Design/methodology/approach Search queries from the months of June, July, August and September 2014 (1,488,339 total queries) were collected from the Edmonton Public Library’s BiblioCommons database using Google Analytics and exported to Excel. The data were then analyzed using descriptive statistics, frequency counts and textual analysis to explicate the long tail of search, (including the most popular searches) and to explore the relationship between topical search queries and current events. Findings The findings support the long tail theory, as the aggregate tail of topical search queries comprised the vast majority of the total searches and current events exert some influence on the nature and frequency of topical searches. Research limitations/implications Data collection was limited to four months of the year; thus, comparisons across the year cannot be made. There are practical implications for public libraries in terms of marketing and collections, as well as for improving catalogue functionality, to support user search behaviour. Originality/value Not much research attention has been focused on the nature of topical search queries in public libraries compared to academic libraries and the Web. The findings contribute to developing insight into the divergent interests of intergenerational public library users and the topics of materials they are searching for.

Inviting and/or inclusive: A study of the Flemish public library sector

IFLA Journal ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 034003522110175
Author(s):  
Dennis Mathysen ◽  
Ignace Glorieux
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Regression Analyses ◽  
The Public ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Gender Education ◽  
Education Levels ◽  
Lower Education ◽  
Positive Effect

Comparing the results of two large-scale user surveys conducted in Flanders in 2004 and 2018 shows that the Flemish public library sector has successfully adapted to challenging circumstances, such as increasing budgetary stringency and the pervasive digitalization of society. However, it is also clear that attendance numbers have decreased in Flemish public libraries in the last two decades, especially among visitors with lower education levels, which is cause for concern. In this article, the authors present an overview of exploratory analyses that try to ascertain how many of the public libraries that took part in their study were considered to be significantly more (or less) ‘inviting’ by specific subgroups (age, gender, education level, etc.) of the visiting public. Moreover, regression analyses are presented, showing which library characteristics have a positive effect on the attendance of two under-represented groups among Flemish library users: men and the lower educated.

Acquisition of Audiovisual Materials on the Tiv Tyumbun Magic Rite by the Public Libraries in Benue State of Nigeria

Libri ◽  
2014 ◽  
Vol 64 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Tim Cuttings Agber ◽  
Nancy Ngunan Ugbagir ◽  
James Ngushin Mngutyô ◽  
Fabian G. Amaakaven
Keyword(s):  
Standard Deviation ◽  
Cultural Heritage ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Chi Square ◽  
The Public ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Research Questions ◽  
Level Of Significance ◽  
Over Time

AbstractThe Tiv Tyumbun Magic Rite over time has been found useful for the treatment or removal of tambe (bewitchment), tyumbur (foolishness), geng or genggegen (disorders) and ukoghkogh (certain ailments) from people and for instilling normalcy and stability for the wellbeing of individuals. However, because of a lack of acquisition of audiovisual materials on the Tyumbun by public libraries, coupled with Christian religious interference, this important magic rite has been threatened with extinction. Therefore, this paper looks at acquisition of audiovisual materials on the Tiv Tyumbun Magic Rite and the role that the public library plays in trying to acquire and preserve this cultural heritage for posterity. The study sampled 105 library staff, library users, traditional priests and native doctors. Mean and standard deviation statistics were used to answer research questions, while chi-square was used for testing the hypotheses formulated at the 0.05 level of significance. It was discovered that public libraries do not acquire the Tiv magic rites of Ibyamegh, Iwya, Atseve, Waio, Igbye, Tyumbun, Akombu á Gbande, Kyurche, Vegh Akombu, and Atsuku. The study recommends that public libraries in Benue State should start acquiring audiovisual materials on the Tiv Tyumbun Magic Rite.

The governance and management of public library services in Nigeria

2018 ◽  
Vol 39 (6-7) ◽  
pp. 389-401
Author(s):  
Abdulsalam Abiodun Salman ◽  
Janneke Mostert ◽  
Tinashe Mugwisi
Keyword(s):  
Service Delivery ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Library Administration ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Public Library Users ◽  
Academic Qualifications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the managerial and governance issues that impact on service delivery in public libraries in Nigeria. Within many countries this seems to be a challenge often resulting in an ineffective service delivery resulting in underutilisation thereof. This study was conducted among administrators and managers of public libraries in Nigeria to establish the current status quo concerning governance and management issues impacting on service delivery. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative study using interviews was used to illicit data from three permanent secretaries, six public library directors, and six heads of rural community libraries, purposively selected for the study. Findings The findings show that variables such as relevant academic qualifications, years of experience, and designation of the administrators and managers of public libraries affect service delivery. A huge dependency on government bodies for decision making and funding was established. Impediments to good management of the libraries were found to be inadequate funding; lack of involvement of stakeholders in public library administration; and inappropriate public library legislation. Practical implications The study recommends the promulgation of a public library-specific act in order to regulate the administration and management of this public unit, involve stakeholders in public library administration, as well as the provision of alternative forms of funding in order to alleviate the dependence on governmental budgets. Originality/value With very little research available on these issues in Nigeria, this paper will create awareness among all stakeholders of specific governance and managerial issues impacting on effective service delivery to public library users so that it can be addressed.

scholarly journals Use of Information Sources and Services in Public Libraries: A Study

2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 37-40
Author(s):  
R. M. Shivakumara ◽  
B. T. Sampath Kumar
Keyword(s):  
Rural Areas ◽  
Information Sources ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Waiting Room ◽  
The Public ◽  
Women Health ◽  
City District ◽  
Public Library Users ◽  
Use Of Information Sources

The purpose of this paper is to explore the use of information sources and services of public library. This study selected 1527 registered users from 25 city / district central libraries in Karnataka State. The result of the study shows that 73.67% of public library users are students and most of them (48.13%) are from rural areas. Majority of users (62%) used the public library daily, and 73.3% of respondents spent more than 4 hours in public library. In this context, the public library should procure more number of books which are more relevant to the students. The public library needs to create awareness among the female users to visit the public library as well to make use of sources available in the public library. The basic facilities viz., separate reading hall, ladies waiting room need to be created. Apart from that the need based information services viz., novels, comics, women health related books need to be procured by public library.

scholarly journals The Public Library Catalogue as a Social Space: A Case Study of Social Discovery Systems in Two Canadian Public Libraries

2013 ◽  
Author(s):  
Louise F. Spiteri ◽  
Laurel Tarulli
Keyword(s):  
Social Space ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
User Generated Content ◽  
Log Data ◽  
The Public ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Library Catalogue

This paper uses transaction log data to examine how library users interact with two social discovery systems used in two Canadian public library systems. Results indicate that user-generated content is not used extensively or significantly in the two social discovery systems. Format is the predominant facet used to refine searches; the remaining facets are significantly underrepresented.Cette étude utilise les journaux transactionnels pour déterminer comment les usagers des bibliothèques interagissent avec deux systèmes de découverte sociaux en place dans deux réseaux de bibliothèques publiques canadiennes. Les résultats indiquent que le contenu généré par les utilisateurs n’est pas utilisé à grande échelle ou de façon importante dans aucun des deux systèmes de découverte sociaux. Le format est la principale facette utilisée pour raffiner les recherches; les autres facettes étant sous-représentées. 

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