The results of our recent community survey on library services are on our website - http://www.qldc.govt.nz//assets/OldImages/content/your_council/Surveys/Library_Survey_Summary.pdf

 

There were 1765 completed responses, almost off of which (97%) were from library members.

Infrequent visitors (those who go once a month or less) most commonly say they don’t use the library more often because they live or work outside the district. 13% of them mentioned opening hours as a barrier.

The range of books and the helpfulness and friendliness of staff rate mostly highly in importance. Other factors that ranked highly were the availability of books, opening hours and accessibility.

Common suggestions for additional services and facilities included a coffee shop; free or cheap wifi; a better online database; meeting and activity spaces; self-operated check-outs and book discussion groups.

There was only 55% awareness that members can borrow e-books and 42% awareness that information about the Council and its services could be accessed at libraries.

Views on charging for library services varied. 88% like the current system; 48% were keen on free services for residents and ratepayers with all costs covered by rates; 9% preferred an annual membership fee.

By: QLDC