Library Surveys

In fall 2022, Plough Library created an online survey to learn how current CBU students are using the library building and resources/services. A survey link was sent to students via CBU's student email distribution list. It was promoted via the weekly CBU Connection newsletter and the library homepage and blog. The survey received 60 responses, all received between October 24 - 31, although the survey remained live until Nov. 30.

Student Respondent Demographics

Respondents included 17 freshmen, 12 sophomores, 21 juniors, 7 seniors, and 3 graduate students, with 28 resident students and 32 commuters. When asked if students take their classes in person, online, or both, 80% reported taking classes in person, and 20% said they take both in-person and online classes. No one responded that they had only online courses.

Library Building Usage

Most respondents said they visit the library weekly. When students visit the library, most stay 1-2 hours. The top three times for visits are weekday afternoons, weekday mornings, and weekday evenings. Only a few prefer to come on Saturday afternoons and Sunday afternoons/evenings. When in the library, the majority study alone, but they sometimes come with a friend, group, or a class. The most popular activities are studying/reading, using the printer/copier, and using library computers. The most used areas are all on the Main Floor (which was renovated with new furniture and group study rooms in spring 2020): open spaces, group study rooms, and the 6 computers near the front door. To a lesser extent, students use the Top Level study carrels and tables, as well as the Lower Level Computer Lab and Student Lounge. Fewer students use the Art Gallery and study space outside of it and the Curriculum Library.

Usage of Library Resources and Services

When asked to indicate how many times in the current term they had used specified library resources and services, answers varied. In general, it appears that about half of respondents have used the library website, a library database, or found an online article at least once or twice. Fewer students have used WorldCat Discovery (main library search) or an ebook. A lower percentage of students have used a print book, Interlibrary Loan, or an online Subject Guide. For students who responded “Never” to using resources or services, it is unknown if they were unaware of the resources/services of if they did not have a need for them. The survey asked how students prefer to reach out for help from library staff. The most popular method is in-person at the library, followed by email, chat service, and phone. Three respondents indicated they did not know they could contact the library for help.

Conclusion

Based on survey results, most students are aware of and use the library building and its resources. However, we have opportunities to make it more inviting and user-friendly. Also, future surveys may get more responses if distributed as a paper survey as well as online. We could also offer a raffle-type incentive to get more responses.

Opportunities:

• Develop better reservation sign-up system for the main floor study rooms
• Request better permanent lighting for the dark group study room
• Make lower level study areas more inviting by rearranging furniture and adding welcoming tabletop signage
• Have student workers check on dry erase markers to switch out non-working ones more often—also add note on dry erase packs telling students to let us know if markers are dry when they check them out from reserves.
• Future surveys should include library contact information or an option to ask for help (LibAnswers FAQ Submission Form).