Library Usage Study, the How and What: A Survey of Space Usage at a Mid-Sized Research Library

Objective – The research was conducted to understand better how and what spaces are used in a mid-size academic library. Also, the authors were interested their users' spatial likes dislikes why they gravitated or avoided specific floors. also found an opportunity examine recent renovations that added connector bridge first-year student dorm subsequent increase foot traffic evaluate its success meeting needs for varied productive study across building. Methods survey gauge user satisfaction with library's space environment research, study, collaborative work. hand-distributed five multiple-choice three open-response questions users over days (Monday-Wednesday) between 10 am - 4 pm, busiest times typical week. collected surveys sorted coded Excel spreadsheet uploaded analyzed JMP Pro. Results 298 completed responses came from undergraduate students (n=281) who visited first floor, identified as (n=144). Respondents showed visit library daily (58%, n=173) weekly (34%, n=104). Most of participants (98%, n=293) indicated pursued work quiet occupied (75%, n=224). Interestingly enough, noisiest quietest floors areas most avoided, floor-collaborative, (54%, n=161) third floor-designated (18%, n=55). final question invited respondents "sound off," 135 responding; 107 (79%) them opined on improvements existing within Conclusion This demonstrated value place but critical excessive noise overcrowding designated areas. Academic libraries should consider balance when designing spaces. Librarians designers strive strike appropriate seating quality quantity, acceptable levels spaces, impacts environmental factors such printers, food services, exhibits, art displays, restrooms, walkways through