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ERIC Number: ED234809
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1983-May
Pages: 91
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Two Studies of Illinois Public Libraries: An Adult User Survey; and Fines, Fees and Charges Levied. Illinois Library Statistical Report No. 7.
Baker, Sharon L.
Two surveys were conducted in 1981/82 and 1982 respectively to determine if Illinois public libraries were satisfying their patrons in terms of book use, and how much money Illinois public libraries received directly from their patrons in library fines, fees, and charges. In the first study, 2,133 adults returning a book at a random sample of 71 public libraries were surveyed to determine their satisfaction with books borrowed, their major book selection methods, and the actual audience the books reached. It was found that 90% of the respondents read all or more than half of the book returned, that 99% rated it good or fair, that 46% selected the book by browsing, and that each book borrowed was read by 1.5 users (due to book sharing). In the second study, questionnaires on library fees were mailed to 83 Illinois public libraries, with a response rate of 94%. It was found that the average amount received in library fees was $7,323 per year, or over 7% of library operating budgets; that the average number of charges for services per library was 17; and that more money was earned from user fees, e.g., rental of books or film projectors, than from penalty charges. Sample questionnaires and tables containing cross analyses of data collected are provided for each survey report. (Author/ESR)
Illinois State Library, Centennial Bldg., Springfield, IL 62756 (free).
Publication Type: Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Media Staff; Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: Illinois State Library, Springfield.
Identifiers - Location: Illinois
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A