Library User Needs Analysis Report

Lindsay k. Harris, Government of South Australia, SA Health

Abstract

In mid 2008 The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Library conducted a User Information Needs Analysis to review the Library’s overall level of performance in supporting the information requirements of Library users. As well, the survey was designed to identify areas of unfulfilled need amongst those client groups. This survey was based upon a previous 2005 User Information Needs Analysis, with some modifications in the questions posed, and was partly intended to chart the Library’s progress in dealing with issues and service gaps identified in that first survey. The results of the User Information Needs Analysis will contribute to informing the direction of future Library services and to overcome perceived gaps in the delivery of services.

The User Information Needs Analysis was sent to 100 departmental heads and unit managers in the course of April - June 2008. Some 50 completed surveys were returned by the end of June 2008, reflecting a 50% return rate by unit managers, as against a 60% return rate from a distribution group of 85 unit heads in 2005.

Departmental heads and unit managers were asked to reply on behalf of their whole department or unit to ensure the results were representative across the work group and they were encouraged to consult with their staff in completing the questionnaires.