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Adams C, Krtalić M. I feel at home: Perspectives of homeless library customers on public library services and social inclusion. JOURNAL OF LIBRARIANSHIP AND INFORMATION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/09610006211053045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Homeless library customers often face barriers to equitable library use. This study examined homeless library customers’ perspectives on general and targeted public library services, and social inclusion. Findings presented in the paper come from a qualitative phenomenological study comprising semi-structured in-depth interviews with seven self-identified regular library users of a public library in Christchurch, New Zealand, who were experiencing homelessness at the time of the study. Findings report on a diverse range of information needs and motivations for visiting a public library. Participants viewed the public library as a safe, warm, and quiet place in which to relax and escape difficulties related to experiencing homelessness. The results reflect changes in the role of public libraries and in the expectations of customers, and discuss a need for targeted library services in the form of specialist gatekeeper roles such as that of a community liaison. This study evaluated the effectiveness of general and targeted library services from users’ points of view, providing insights which could be used to inform the design of relevant information policies and services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maja Krtalić
- Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
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Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to describe how public librarians can better address complex information needs. First, librarians should classify the degree of complexity of the need by using Warner’s classification model; then they can use Popper’s three world theory to anticipate and respond to complex information needs by following specific steps.
Design/methodology/approach
After examining the information science literature, appropriate models were selected to support public librarians. Our information science scholarship, coupled with our practical experience, informed our search and selection.
Findings
This paper details specific steps that public librarians can take to anticipate and respond to individual information needs. Doing so is imperative as the information needs of the public continue to become increasingly complex.
Originality/value
This paper improves information practice because it offers specific steps to aid public librarians to anticipate and respond to complex information needs. It draws upon an existing model and theoretical framework. This paper also highlights selected examples of how public librarians across the USA have anticipated information needs, and developed partnerships with organizations external to the public library to address complex information needs.
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Hernández-Pérez O, Vilariño F, Domènech M. Public Libraries Engaging Communities through Technology and Innovation: Insights from the Library Living Lab. PUBLIC LIBRARY QUARTERLY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/01616846.2020.1845047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Oskar Hernández-Pérez
- Department of Social Psychology, Barcelona Science and Technology Studies Group (STS-b), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernando Vilariño
- Computer Vision Center (CVC), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miquel Domènech
- Department of Social Psychology, Barcelona Science and Technology Studies Group (STS-b), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Hill T, Tamminen KA. Examining the Library as a Site for Intervention: A Mixed-Methods Case Study Evaluation of the “Innovative Solutions to Homelessness” Project. JOURNAL OF LIBRARY ADMINISTRATION 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/01930826.2020.1729626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Hill
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katherine A. Tamminen
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Provence MA, Wahler EA, Helling J, Williams MA. Self-Reported Psychosocial Needs of Public Library Patrons: Comparisons Based on Housing Status. PUBLIC LIBRARY QUARTERLY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/01616846.2020.1730738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary A. Provence
- Indiana University School of Social Work, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | | | - John Helling
- Indianapolis Public Library, Library Services Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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