A locational analysis of academic library computer use

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure, characterize and correlate relationships between spaces within an academic library and the amount of use they receive from patrons.

Design/methodology/approach

Login data gathered from computers were analyzed spatially using AutoCAD and ArcGIS to characterize the relative popularity of each computer. The login data were correlated to each computer's proximity to the entrance, a picture window, its printer, quantity of neighboring computers, and service points.

Findings

Descriptive statistics reveal high usage of computers close to the entrance and close to service points. The strongest relationship of all was with a combination of attractors rather than any one attractor. Other measures were less closely correlated with usage, with proximity to window having little to no correlation. These hypotheses merit further study.

Originality/value

Understanding the use of technology in library spaces is important to inform future facility planning to meet patron needs.

Citation

Weessies, K.W. (2011), "A locational analysis of academic library computer use", Reference Services Review, Vol. 39 No. 3, pp. 465-481. https://doi.org/10.1108/00907321111175868