UM Libraries users empower change through Library Life Pulse survey
Help and support readily available at libraries, but need more study space, survey respondents say
Sixty-nine percent (69%) of respondents are satisfied with the University of Manitoba Libraries, according to the results of UM Libraries Library Life Pulse Survey, conducted by Alterline this past spring. The survey’s purpose was to capture user attitudes toward library services and spaces.
UM Libraries is already responding to feedback.
Respondents find help and support readily available at UM Libraries
Overall, users’ attitude towards the library is positive. Common phrases used to describe UM Libraries include available, responsive, helpful, resourceful, friendly, comprehensive, and supportive. Seventy-seven percent of respondents said that it is easy to access help and support in the libraries.
Libraries help students develop the skills they need
Fifty-three percent (53%) of respondents agree that the library helped them develop the skills they need for their studies or role. The Libraries currently provides the following resources, and is working to increase awareness of and improve Libraries offerings:
- Workshops throughout the Fall and Winter Terms to help equip students for academic success. Workshop Series include Library Essentials, Grad Student Workshop Series, and recently added Drop-in Study Sessions.
- Learn at the Libraries, a comprehensive online study guide developed by Librarians for students to learn how to do research, write papers, evaluate information, and more.
- Subject guides developed by Librarians that can help students in any subject area find specific and relevant resources for their program.
UM Libraries explores new and creative ways to increase study space
Fifty-two percent (52%) of respondents agreed that suitable study/workspace is readily available in library buildings. The Libraries has already started to expand on study space available through:
- Installing Quiet Pods on the first floor of Elizabeth Dafoe Library in Spring 2024. These ventilated, adjustable study pods are available for booking for online interviews, exams, or silent study.
- Adding study space on the second and third floors of the Elizabeth Dafoe Library. Furniture updates are coming soon to the first-floor collaborative study area of Elizabeth Dafoe Library.
- Integrating a study space counter to the UM Libraries homepage, making it easy for students to instantly know if there are study spaces currently available to them in that location.
The Libraries is continually working on improving available study space for students.
Online library access easy; room for improvement with navigation of print materials
Seventy-six percent (76%) of survey respondents said it is easy to access e-books, e-journals and databases, while 57% of respondents said it is easy to find printed books and journals.
The Libraries is working on a plan to improve signage and wayfinding for its print collections, and currently offers the following navigation help:
- Library users can request print materials from the online catalogue and pick them up at any of our four pickup locker or library locations.
- Library service desks, librarians, and the Ask Us chat feature on the library website are always available to help library users find anything they need.
At UM Libraries, our goal is to create the best possible experience for all users. We will continue to use the data collected to inform strategies and decision-making on current and future Libraries initiatives.
Read the full Library Life Pulse Survey summary report.
Many thanks to everyone who took the time to respond to the Library Life Pulse survey.