The Library and Information Service's recent survey, Space use patterns and diversity, received 886 responses, 71% from undergraduate students. The Library thanks you for your participation which contributes to making the Library a better place for everyone.
The online survey, which ran from 4 September to 4 October 2024, aimed to find out how often and why clients visit the SU libraries, what their preferred spaces and hours are, the extent of diversity and inclusion and satisfaction levels of clients.
Some 27% of respondents visit the library daily, predominantly to study. In addition, over 69% of those who completed the survey are satisfied or very satisfied with the current physical library spaces, while over 79% are satisfied or very satisfied with the inclusivity at the library in terms of accommodating individuals from diverse backgrounds. While we are pleased with the high satisfaction levels overall, as a user-centred library, we remain concerned that 30% of respondents are either neutral or unsatisfied with our spaces. Likewise, we are attentive to the 20% of participants who feel that diversity within the library could be improved.
Analysis of the goldmine of nearly 3 000 comments provided by respondents is underway.
In other related news, we are thrilled to announce that three participants in the survey were selected through a lucky draw. Each received a voucher worth R1 500, to spend at a computer technology store. The winners were Misses Zenande Siqwana, Owam Nqamra and Anele Taumbe.
Misses Siqwana and Taumbe were presented with their vouchers at the SU Library on 30 October, while Miss Nqamra received hers at the Medicine and Health Sciences Library on 8 November.
Among others, the students shared that they use the library space to study, write, read for leisure, prepare for exams and to meet new friends.
