Why are circulation statistics problematic?
(pg 29)- Circulation is the most universally collected statistic. Because of its widespread availability, circulation data are often used to measure the effectiveness and value of library service to a community... however, now that books are no longer the primary medium of information transfer and communities are no longer homogeneous, this approach is "no longer effective today as it ignores information that could be key in making critical decisions about today's public libraries." This is because there are new media formats (such as audio, videos, and other electronic resources) that constitute library use that are not included in circulation statistics. Also, circulation may be declining for some libraries "because of increased internet demand by local government and library administrators." (pg 31)
What can the outcome be of low circulation statistics?
(pg 30)- "it is critical that public library decision makers have data that enable them to measure performance and use, and assess needs, in vulnerable and diverse neighborhoods." So, without circulation statistics, this would not be possible.
What is the stated goal of this study?
(pg 32)- this study was designed to "research, demonstrate, and validate the critical need for 'neighborhood-level' library data to assist public librarians in assessing and addressing the needs of their particular library outlet's 'market-area.'"
What are some alternative measures of library use?
(pg 44-45)- reading/writing, browsing, using computers, checking out/using library card, library programs/tours, sitting alone/socializing, schoolwork, non-library programs, and other non-specified activities
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