Creating the User-Friendly Library by Evaluating Patron Perception of Signage

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Reference Services Review

ISSN: 0090-7324

Online from: 1973

Subject Area: Library and Information Studies

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Document Information:
Title:	Creating the User-Friendly Library by Evaluating Patron Perception of Signage
Author(s):	Ellen Bosman, (Director of technical services at Indiana University Northwest), Carol Rusinek, (Reference services librarian at Indiana University Northwest.)
Citation:	Ellen Bosman, Carol Rusinek, (1997) "Creating the User-Friendly Library by Evaluating Patron Perception of Signage", Reference Services Review, Vol. 25 Iss: 1, pp.71 - 82
Keywords:	Academic Libraries, Buildings, Internet, USA, User satisfaction
Article type:	Research paper
DOI:	10.1108/00907329710306599 (Permanent URL)
Publisher:	MCB UP Ltd
Abstract:	Despite all manners of instruction, there is a nagging sense that patrons have difficulty using the library. Further, despite the impact of the World Wide Web, the library “as a place” is important. The library building is seldom given much post-construction thought, although lighting, collection arrangement, service points, signs, and study areas all contribute to a positive learning experience. A committee at Indiana University Northwest Library investigated ways to make the library’s collection and services more accessible by improving signage. This article describes the results of a preliminary and a follow-up survey to evaluate users’ abilities to locate various signs effectively and comparatively analyzes responses from specific classes of participants.