Library Survey Results

Thanks to the over 600 participants who completed the LibQUAL+ survey, the library has some rich data and illustrative comments on which to base plans for growth and improvement. The length of the survey and its repetitive nature helped insure that that the data we collected is valid. Unlike a simpler, shorter survey, LibQUAL+ tells us more than just how you see our performance. It tells us the minimal level of accepted service and the level of service you desire. We are just beginning our interpretation of the data presented in the LibQUAL+ report. What is presented here is a very brief and broad view of the results. The complete results report can be found here. If you want to focus your reading, we suggest starting with pages 10 and 11, and then jumping to page 31 to see results. A summary of our response rate can be found in the most recent library newsletter on page 5.

Interestingly, the survey data supports much of what the library staff has observed directly and heard anecdotally. Generally, the library scored high in personal service. Without additional resources, our challenge will be to maintain this level of service under the pressure of increased enrollment and library use. The need to strengthen our journal collection and focus it on curricular and research needs was noted by all user groups, with the least favorable data provided by graduate students and faculty. Faculty responses indicate that the library does not meet minimal levels of accepted service in this area. Responses regarding ease of access to resources were not as low but the data suggests that we also evaluate and adjust this aspect of library service. While all user groups rated the library highly for inviting, comfortable space, the need for more quiet study space is a major concern for undergraduates.

LibQUAL+ is only one of the assessment tools we used this year to evaluate and improve library services. We also conducted usability testing on our web site, evaluated our journal collection based on use data, and completed a space use observational study.

As you might have noticed, the library's web page was redesigned over break to incorporate what was learned from usability testing, as well as matching it to the new university web design. Web page usability tests will resume next fall. Last spring we evaluated journal subscriptions based on actual use data. A number of subscriptions were cancelled for 2013 and the savings were used to add some new journals, paying for online access to others, and adding the Web of Knowledge database (an outstanding collection request for over ten years!) More journal subscriptions will be reviewed this spring and adjustments made accordingly. The library has also established a space planning task force for addressing space issues within the Christopher Center. Due to a move of current periodicals and government publications, additional open space is being created on the first floor. One idea is to move some of the larger study tables from the upper floors to the first floor and add individual study carrels to the upper floors. Physical changes to the Christopher Center will be influenced by additional student, faculty and staff input. For example, a furniture fair, where users can try out different types of tables, chairs and furniture configurations and express their opinions, is being planned for after spring break.

As the Christopher Center Library Services continues to evaluate resources, space and services, we appreciate your input. If you have additional comments to share with us, please fill out our comments and suggestions form or contact Brad Eden, Dean of Library Services.