engleski

Computers in Croatian public libraries: users and uses

There are many misconceptions related to the computer service in libraries such as: there are still not enough people who use the Internet, users who use computers in libraries do not have their own personal computers, in libraries are only books to be found, access to computers in libraries is only a temporary service for which there is no need because everyone owns their own personal computer, and similar prejudices. The aim of this research was to find groups of users that use computers and the Internet in the library, and to examine the nature of their use. It is assumed that computers and Internet in public libraries mostly use children and young adults for fun. A research was carried out through the “in-situ” survey questionnaires (paper and online) in several public libraries in Croatian region Slavonia. In the study participated 152 users of public libraries. Research has shown that the users of computers and the Internet are mainly students aged 19-24. They believe that computers and the Internet are essential in libraries (67%) which should improve their computer services (80%). 68% of respondents agreed that all the information (printed and electronic) should be in the unlimited access. Most of them complained about insufficient number of computers, old equipment and slow Internet, the crowds, and the limited time of use. Even 28% of respondents said that their library does not provide support for using computers and the Internet, while 33% of respondents use the assistance in Web browsing, and searching the library catalog. The research data can help libraries to enhance existing services and for developing new ones, and the questionnaire can serve as template for regular surveys about satisfaction with library services.

computers ; Internet ; public libraries ; users ; Croatia

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