News

Surveys discuss library services

With the construction of the new Wilson Library and Landis Academic Center on schedule for a December completion, Dr. Marlin Heckman, head librarian, and other administrators recently distributed a survey to better assist library users with the new facility. / photo by Rosie Sinapi
With the construction of the new Wilson Library and Landis Academic Center on schedule for a December completion, Dr. Marlin Heckman, head librarian, and other administrators recently distributed a survey to better assist library users with the new facility. / photo by Rosie Sinapi

by Martha I. Fernandez
Managing Editor

In preparation for the long-awaited opening of the new Wilson Library and as a component of the University’s strategic planning, an institutional research survey has been distributed to faculty and the student body.

Strategic planning is a program that has been designed and implemented by Dr. Len Hightower, dean of student services and assistant to the President, to lead the University through the year 2000.

A vital part of strategic planning is receiving feedback from the stakeholders, people who directly use the services being evaluated.

Dr. Alfred Clark, assistant vice-president of academic affairs, in cooperation with institutional research has distributed three different surveys tailored specifically for main campus students, part-time and full time faculty.

“The kind of questions were ones that would tell us if services are known about and used, and whether the collection needs to be improved,” said Dr. Clark.

Full-time faculty surveys discussed the role of the library in courses. Surveys distributed to part-time faculty emphasized off-campus services offered.

“It is difficult for a school like this to meet the needs of students here and in Alaska or Athens,” said Dr. Clark.

For the student body survey 10 percent of each of the three groups on campus were randomly chosen to participate on the survey. Student surveys focused on the use and need of library material. Thirty-eight CAPA students, 14 graduate students and 74 traditional undergraduates received surveys.

Thus far, Dr. Clark said the response has been positive.

“They like the librarians and the amount of help,” said Dr. Clark. “They also look forward tremendously into getting into the new building.

“I am pleased that the vast majority recognize what a great library staff we have,” said Dr. Clark.

However, response with suggestions for improvement have been received one professor surveyed said, “We need more funding for library acquisitions! There simply isn’t enough money allocated for purchasing of new journals and books.”

Diversity in the current collection is also a recommendation.

“When looking for Black authors, I found only what had been supplied by the teacher of my class. I also only found one book (and that was for a child) on the African-American holiday Kwanza. That, to me is an imbalance,” said a student.

Another student suggested longer hours. “I think it should be open 24 hours, sometimes for late night studying, all-nighters, etc.”

Information from the surveys will be discussed at a library staff retreat on Sept. 20 and will be presented to the University Council in October.

“It will helpful to know how we can improve our services,” said Dr. Marlin Heckman, head librarian.

Dr. Heckman said the new library will be operating by Spring semester with the dedication ceremony set for Feb. 3.

Along with the move, the Library will be adding a new full-time librarian, more journals and new furniture.

“Most of the furniture is on campus now,” said Dr. Heckman. “Everything is on order and expected after Sept. 15.”

Martha I. Fernandez, Features Editor
Martha I. Fernandez
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Rosie Sinapi, Editor in Chief
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