LIBRARIES AND INFORMATIOO NEEDS
OF RURAL NORm WEST LEICESTERSHIRE by vinodrai Kikubhai Ghadjal j A Masters Dissertation, submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the Master of Science degree of the Loughborough University of Technology Sept~ 1991 . Supervisor: Miss Deborah Goodall Department of Library and Information Studies . (cl v. Ghadiali, 1991 Dedicated to my first Guruji the late Mr. Chhaganlal Pandya, who taught me A,B,C, and my last Guruji in India, Or Hiren Pandya, Head of Department of Public Administration, fran whan I learned self confidence. INDEX Acknowledgements .1 Introduction 2 Cllapter Cbe Library services in North west Leicestershire 7 Cllapter n.o Library and information provision 23 Cllapter Three North west Leicestershire • 34 Cllapter Four Methodology 48 Cllapter Five Analysis of the findings 54 Primary reasons for visiting the library 81 Type of information sought 102 Mobile library service 117 CllapterSix Surrmary of the findings 128 Conclusions and recommendations 131 Cllapter Eight Future developments 137 Bibliography 140 Appendix 143 ABSTRAcr Library and information needs in many rural communities are undergoing rapid transformation in response to profound economic and demographic change. The changes now occuring in North West Leicestershire are, in many respects, typical of this phenomenon, and this survey sets out to analyse and investigate the changes that are taking place, and the con sequences that this carries for library·and information provision within this part of Leicestershire. North West Leicestershire for the past thirty years has been characterised by long term industrial decline, symbolized above. all, by the collapse of the coal mining industry. The impact that this has had on the indigenous communities in this area has been far reaching and, for the most part, adverse. On the positive side, nearby motorway links now provide convenient access to major cities such as Birmingham, Leicester and Nottingham, and, as a result, the area has seen the rise of middle class CUlture, no longer dependent for its livelihood on the immediate locality. Library and information provision in consequence is having to respond to a multiplicity of competing demands, often of a con flicting nature, and not necessarily reconcilable. The findings are based on actual questionnaires completed and returned by the public themselves. The survey covers seventeen villages in the region. -1- My sincere thanks to all those who helped me to achieve this goal. Firstly, to Leicestershire Libraries and Information Service, who sponsored me to take this course. I ...:)uld like to thank my former Area Librarian, Mr Pravin Lukka, who constantly encouraged me to acquire a professional qualification, and Mr Paul Leivers, Area Librarian of the St. Barnabas area, for his kind help. My thanks also go to our Personnel Department, especially to Mrs Lindy McHugh, Mrs Annette Lear and Mrs Joy Brindle, for their special interest in my personal development. At this point, I ...:)uld like to thnak the staff of Coalville Library, in particular Mrs GIll Loveridge, Area Librarian, and Mr Harry Weston, the mobile librarv driver/assistant. My special thanks go to Mr Maganbhai Patel for the use of his typewriter, Mr Stephen Eales and Mr Mark Hayter for their computer expertise, and lastly, Miss Jenny Wragg without whose help, this project might not have been completed on time. I cannot ,. of course, forget those who are closely associated with this project. My grateful thanks go to Mr Lionel Durbidge, my former supervisor, and Miss Deborah Goodall, my present supervisor, who have both helped me through this entire dissertation. -2- ! INI'RODUcrION General Background "Very little research has taken place on the information needs of rural inhabitants and arguments about needs have usually been based on presumption that those living in the country do not have problems or, if they do, these can usually be sorted out by the ccmnunity." <1> So quotes Allan Bunch in his book - "Ccmnunity Information Service". Up to a certain extent, the above statement is still right and valid. In Leicestershire however, attempts have been made to provide an Information File. In 1983, a joint project between Leicester shire Libraries and Information Service (LLIS) and Leicestershire Rural Ccmnunity Council (LRCC) , was undertaken to provide local information files to the rural areas. As a result, sane four hundred files have been distributed throughout Leicester shire. The need for an Information Service developed from observations made by the Leicestershire Rural Ccmnunity Council. In 1985, the Libraries and Information Service agreed to undertake the maintainance and developnent of the files, and to periodically update and review its contents. <2> -3- The Survey The information files were designed to cover the whole of Leicestershire. However, there was relatively little information about North West Leicestershire. In 1988, when I was posted at Coalville Library, I became increasingly aware of this, so I personally decided to carry out a user survey to find out the library and information needs of the rural communities in the area. The survey served a t"-D-fold purpose in that it was a good opportunity for me to beccme better acquainted with the community and individuals, and at the same time, people were able to express their views honestly, and of course, confidentially. North West Leicestershire North West Leicestershire has a large area of unspoilt countryside. It lies at the heart of the midlands within a triangle formed by a net"-Drk of rrotorways: the Ml, M42 and the M69, which provide easy access to major surrounding cities such as Birmingham, Leicester and Nottingham. In the past~the area was mainly a coalmining centre, with a quarter of its "-Drk force directly involved in mining and quarrying. But in the last few years, the coalmining industry has declined considerably with heavy job losses. However, due to the efforts of the City Council, the service industry has -4- successfully expanded and has provided much needed employment opportunities in the area. Methodology The questionnaires were designed to serve two purposes: (a) to collect information and (b) to give information about the range of services available in the area. Questions four and six in particular included details of the kind of material and information which are readily on offer. Over a two week period, sane two hundred and fifty questionnaires were delivered to households in seventeen villages in the area. All the questionnaires were supplied with pre-paid envelopes. OUt of two hundred and fifty, eighty six were completed and returned. Contents In this survey report, the first chapter deals with library services in rural areas, which describes how the services developed and what efforts have been made to provide these services. Chapter two covers the library provision in Leicestershire and in particular North West Leicestershire. There is an introduction to the area in chapter three. It includes the population pattern, its industries and employment -5- and, a brief description of some of the villages. In chapter five, information and data have been analysed by age, sex, distance, occupation, frequency of use, reasons for visiting the library and use of the moblie library. Tables have been included at the beginning of each analysis and the findings have been sumnarised in chapter six. A sample of the questionnaire is enclosed in the appendix. Limitations and Scope Although a 32% response is not too bad, it is, in many ways, too small an amount to analyse and draw up conclusions. For example, from among a group of 15 to 17 year olds, only one person (female) responded. This shows it is not only difficult but virtually impossible to form any solid conclusions relating to single point details • Another restrictive factor was time. I had to use the mobile library to travel to each of the villages. Wherever it stopped, I delivered questionnaires to a selection of the houses. I am convinced however, that I ~uld have received a better response to the survey had I had sufficient time to complete the questio nnaires with the people instead. Nevertheless, this survey will provide useful information to the Leicestershire Libraries and Information Service. It will help in achieving its goal of providing a better service to all. -6- REFERENCES <1> BUNCH, ALLAN. Connunity Information Services. 1982. pg 99. <2> FRANK, M. Leicestershire village information files. 1983. CHAPI'ER ONE -7- LIBRARY SERVICES IN RURAL AREAS General Background It will help to give an understanding of the way in which the library service is provided if the development of the service in rural areas is put into an historical perspective. Public libraries first developed in urban areas; indeed by 1915 it was estimated that only 7.5% of the rural. population had access to public libraries (as compared to 79% of the urban population). The 1919 Public Libraries Act however, empowered county councils to establish libraries and the Carnegie Trust provided grants to enable the service to be set up. <1> The county library service developed along different lines to those adopted by boroughs. Generall y, the county service depended on one or more central book stores from which the library van delivered a book collection to voluntary librarians as opposed to the full-time lending and reference libraries in the towns. This was the 'deposit =llection' system which is still retained in some counties, albeit on a much reduced scale. There is, therefore, sanething of a tradition of voluntary involvement in providing the library service in rural areas. -8- The limitations of this system have caused the development of t= alternative schemes. In larger villages, part or full-time libraries in purpose built premises manned by professional staff have been established. In addition, the rrobile library service, serving small communities and isolated farmsteads, has been substantially expanded. since the re-organisation of local government in 1974, the responsibility for provision of library services has been vested in county councils. Thus, discussions and recommend ations concerning library facilities will primarily be directed towards the county council, although there is sane scope for district councils and , of course, parish council involvement, especially in relation to shared community facilities. It is apparent that the prime role of the local community group and pariSh councils etc. will tend to be one of advocacy and campaigning, of putting forward suggestions and recommendations and of encouraging imaginative thinking rather than one of actually providing the facility itself. However, faced with severe cutbacks in their budgets, many county councils are now looking for rrore efficient and cheaper ways of providing library services to rural communities. The library service in rural areas is provided in a variety of ways, from full-time professionally serviced branch libraries, -9- to deposit collections of a few hundred volumes supervised by an unqualified volunteer, to the !lObile library vans. Different counties adopt a mixture of methods and base this provision on a variety of criteria depending upon financial constraints and priorities. Review of Different Methods 1. Container Library The container service was pioneered by Cornwall County Library. It is basically a prefabricated unit !lOvable by a special vehicle frem point to point, and unloaded for a fixed and chosen period onto prepared sites. The container !lOves over a defined geographical area of 10 - 15 miles radius or extent, serving a cluster of three (six day week) or two (five day week) cCXlll\unities. Spending two to three days in each area is specialised and accomplished by a highly powered tractor come semi-trailer. One power unit can handle as many service units (containers) as there is time available for relocation. 1. Maximum shelf stock (6000 volumes) affords a reasonably balanced book collection. 2. Container dimensions (internal) are 37~ feet by 8 feet 2 inches totalling 308 square feet, which allows provision -10- for quick reference, basic (wall mounted) periodical provision, children and a maximum of t",u. snaIl tables (seating four). 3. Container shifting from site to site is achieved after library hours between 8pn and 8arn, giving maximum user access and therefore, maximum user time of the stock. 4. Assistant (and/or professional) time ~s used to the full as there is no time lost travelling during the working day. 5. Telephone installation is possible. 6. Sites need to be specially prepared. <2> 2. Trailer Library This option was successfully explored in many counties. It is a large and articulated mobile library, consisting of a power unit or a horse and trailer (optional two trailers shunted in acceptable time - proximity within a defined geographical limit). It has sane disadvantages: 1. Parking difficulties when a) unit is pulled by a horse, in terms of space and b) unit shunting elsewhere, service -11- unit (trailer) is totally irtmobile. 2. Access for the very old and very young, and also for the disabled can prove difficult due to its articulated construction.. Coupling and uncoupling. is, necessary, which raises the trailers height considerably. This means that separate steps have to be provided to cater for varying slopes on site stops. 3. Each service unit requires separate chasis and mounting. 4 . Extended stops means connections have to be made to the electricity mains in order to provide heat and light. 5. The overall size of the unit in transit means that minor road stops are unsuitable. Berkshire County Council operates a trailer library system to serve Maidenhead, Cox Green, Sunningdale, Holyput, Datchet and central Berkshire. The unit, which is a self contained library complete with an entrance lobby, staff toilet and kitchen, is based on a York Freightliner drop deck semi-trailer. It can house 1,500 books and is parked on a central site in the village for one to three days. The County Council believes that the unit will be cheap and easy to maintain, is reliable and in the -12- long run (it should last about twenty three years), will be inexpensive. <3> 3. Mobile and Trailer Libraries Other variations on the mobile/trailer library theme include a scheme operated by Clwyd County Council whereby a standard mobile library tows a separate trailer library to one village, parks the trialer, and then itself visits surrounding villages. The driver provides the library service in the mobile library, leaving an assistant to serve in the trailer library. Such a scheme is suitable in an area where there is one large village (for example a village with a population of over 1,000), surrounded by smaller ones. <4> 4. The Transp?rtable Library The idea of a transportable library is the brainchild of the Chief Librarian of Bradfield Metropolitan District, Mr Bill Davis. This concept contrasts with the 'container' idea, which takes the library "building" into the conmunity, and the mobile library which brings a substitute for a building, by transport ing library fixtures and fittings (bookshelves, issue counters, and kinderboxes etc) fron conmunity to ccmnunity. Thus the library furniture is conveyed fully loaded and ready for use when manoeuvred into place. BookShelves are island free, -13- standing units fitted with ten or twelve inch wheels that have Reuvothene tyres, and the units are moved by means of a tow bar system known as "Tug Lift", which has been found in practice to be easily operable by any member of staff after only a little practice. <5> 5. Deposit Collection Deposit collections have been largely phased out now and replaced by mobile libraries. Some remain however. Essex has retained one hundred and twenty service points, which operate less than ten hours per week; Kent has seventy and Cheshire twenty five. A deposit collection system works on the following basis: 1. A small bookstock is held in a publicly accessible building for example a village hall, school or post office. 2. It is supervised by (unqualified) volunteers. 3. It is open only a few hours per week (perhaps just one afternoon) • 4. It rarely carries more than a few hundred volumes. 5. The stock is changed frequently. -14- The traditional system of deposit collections suffered a number of drawbacks: limited stock and accessibility, lack of prof essional expertise and infrequent stock exchange. It was therefore a relatively expensive method of provision in relation to its u~age. However it did fulfill a useful function as a social focus and meeting point, and was, of course, reasonably convenient (at least compared to mobiles). All the same, a modified form of the deposit collection system could offer the following advantages: 1. M:Jre frequent stock exchanges, perhaps linked to a mobile library. 2. Use of better qualified volunteers, specially trained for their jobs. 3. An agency arrangement with a shopkeeper or postmaster/ mistress who would be paid a weekly sum for acting as librarian, plus a fee for the number of becks issued and this would be closely linked to a professional back-up/ advice/information service. (A scheme like this already operates successfully in Warrington and Norfolk). <6> -15- 6. caravans Trailer libraries are normally left on each site for a few hours and then rroved on elsewhere, but caravans are left for longer periods. In Staffordshire, each caravan serves two or three localities each week and stays on a site for a whole day. In Shropshire, the caravan library is operated like the Manchester vehicle, by being left on a site for an indefinite period; rrore like a tempoarary building than a true mobile library. The caravan differs from the semi-trailer and trailer by having one centrally placed axle and two wheels. The load is balanced in such a way as to impose very little downward thrust on the towing vehicle. Jacks are provided at each corner and these may be wound down to stabilise the caravan at stops. There is prObably nothing to be gained nowadays from adapting standard caravans as these include equipment not required. in a library. The essence of the caravan library is that it is a stotr9ap service, a hybrid midway between the true rrobile and static units. The increase in branch library building may mean the disappearance of this form of service altogehter. <7> -16- 7 . Expandable Trailer The electrically operated expandable semi-trailer is used in Rendsburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, to serve a predominantly rural area. The sides of the vehicle move outwards, extending its normal width of eight feet to fifteen feet, but as no island shelves are used the book capacity is low. The real advantage lies in the floor space, almost double that of the normal vehicle. There was considerable interest shown when the expandable mobile library was described, but no library in the United Kingdom has actually manufactured one. However, in one county, Northumberland, an expanded book stock has been provided by the use of double-banked shelves on one side of the trailer with a row of books behind each shelf. This was an unusual idea and has not, as far as it is known, been used elsewhere. 8. M::lbile Library The mobile library is the most usual alternative where static facilities cannot be justified. It has the advantage of being able to serve the smallest community and even individual house- -17- holds with a reasonable size of bookstock. Mobile libraries operate on the following basis: 1. Stopping time varies frem five minutes and longer. I'bbiles stop at a central point in the village such as a pub or car park, next to a village hall or schoel etc. 2. Frequency of service is either weekly or every fortnight. 3. There is an experienced, although not necessarily qualified library assistant (who may also be the driver). 4. The mobiles usually carry 2,000 -3,000 volumes. The chief drawback of mobile libraries is there limited avail ability. Stopping times are toe short and toe infrequent, although of course, they can be extremely convenient compared to static facilities. Many counties in England such as Leicestershire, Shropshire, Lancashire, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, Hertfordshire, Humberside, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Derbyshire and Stafford shire maintain a fleet of mobile libraries to serve the sparsely populated rural areas. These days, mobile libraries ccme in all different shapes and sizes to suit individual needs. They also include many -18- modern facilities such as computers for information and the issuing of books, kitchens with microwave ovens, toilets and double glazed ceilings to allow for maximum natural light. -19- The first mobile library, Warringron, Lancashire, r859 <8> An expansible trailer from West Germany <9> --'I! ..~ ': I I'V o I :l1o rto er '< o o C ,. I, '1 '. I '>',1 . \ \( I rt CD '<'" ...,o 'U m rt ..,CD o t-' 0..., o '< 0. -21- REFERENCES <1> WJOLLEl'I', STEPHEN. Alternative rural services. 1981. pg 47. <2> WESTERN EDUCATION & LIBRARY BOARD. Library provision for smaller ccmnunities: A survey of the problem. 1973. <3> THE BRITISH LIBRARY RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT REPORTS. Library services for small ccmnunities by MLG Maguire. Report no. 5444. 1978. pg 29. <4> WESTERN EDUCATION & LIBRARY BOARD. Library provision for smaller ccmnunities: A survey of the problem. 1973. <5> WESTERN EDUCATION & LIBRARY BOARD. Library provision for smaller ccmnuni ties: Another option. 1978. <6> WESTERN EDUCATION & LIBRARY BOARD. Library provision for smaller ccmnunities: A survey of the problem. 1973. <7> EAS'lWXlD, C. R. M::lbile libraries and other public library transport. 1967. pg 197. -22- EAS'IWX)O, C • R. M::>bile libraries and other public library transport., 1967. Plate 7. <9>, EAS'IWX)O, C. R. M::>bile libraries and other public library transport. 1967. Plate 14. -23- LIBRARY AND INFORMATION PROVISION 1. The Acts The provision and maintainance of public libraries, museums and art galleries in England and Wales is governed by the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964, the London Government Act 1963, and the Local Government !\et 1972, together with certain misc ellaneous provisions in other statutes. The Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964 lays on the County Council a statutory duty in the following terms: "It shall be the duty of every library authority to provide a comprehensive and efficient library service for all persons desiring to make use thereof: In fulfilling its duty under the preceding subsection, a library authority shall in partiCUlar have regard to the desirability - A. of securing, by keeping of adequate st=ks, by arrangements with other library authorities, and by any other appropriate means, that facilities are available for the bo=owing of. or reference to, books and other printed matter and pictures, gramaphone. records, .. films' and. other" materials, .". sufficient .. in number, range and quality to meet the general requirements and any special requirements both of adults and children and, -24- B. of encouraging both adults and children to make full use of the library service, and of providing advice as to its use and of making available such bibliographical and other information as may be required by persons using it and, c. of securing, in relation to any matter concerning the functions both of the library authority as such and any other authority whose functions are exercisable within the library area, that there is full cooperation between the persons engaged in carrying out those functions." The aims of the Leicesstershire Libraries and Information Service are to carry out these statutory duties efficiently and economically. <1> The Unesco Public Library Manifesto of 1973, defines the overall objectives of the public library as being "a living force of education, culture and information" ,and.cas. "an essential agent for the fostering of peace and understanding between people and nations". <2> 2 • Current Changes The public library is a practical demonstration of democracy's faith in universal education as a continuing and life long process, in the appreciation of the achievement of humanity in knowledge and culture. To this effect, Leicestershire Libraries -25- and Information Service has made provision for information related to social and educational need. Traditionally, library and information services are provided free but the recent Bill relating to library charges, is full of com plications and has created confusion among librarians and others as to which services would be chargeable. 'Ib this, the Minister for the Arts made a statement on 8th February 1989, in the House of Commons on the section of the Bill relating to library charges. He reassured that the proposals for public libraries would safeguard the concept of a core library service that is free, including both the beck lending and reference services. <3> 3. Libraries and Information provision in Leicestershire In Leicestershire, the library and information services are provided through various static and mobile libraries, grouped into five broad administrative divisions, namely: l. East 2. West 3. North 4. South 5. Central Each division is further divided into groups which are known as 'areas' . In Ieicestershire, there are eleven different areas headed by the 'Area Librarians' who are respcnsible for the day -26- to day management of that particular group of libraries. Their role is being changed now. They will be managers rather than librarians. The library and information service is rendered through seventy seven service points (libraries), and a fleet of thirteen mobile libraries. In the city, Leicester Central Libraries are housed in three separate buildings. Each library is distinguished by its special functions and responsibilities: 1. Central Lending Library Provision of book lending service. 2. Goldsmith Music Library Sound recordings and music related items. 3. Central Information Library Provision of information and reference service and local history library. In recent years the Information Centre has lost its Business Information section to Leicester Polytechnic, and the Local Study section is being transferred to Wigston library. KEY: • DIVISIONAL HO N ... AREAIIO eSllepslled • Lougllborougll Melton• MOwbray Coalvilie -- ... I - - -,- -- \ --AnsteYl • Birstali \ ...., E '"I e 1 \ I B t;.YS \ ... St Barnabas \ eOakllam w I I eHigllflelds \ I ~'",•. /, ______--'_ , Westcotes... \ Earl Shilton ' , \ e \ e ' , ... '.Oadby \ , SouthDelds \ , - \ \ • I\ Wigston • \ 5 -- Divisionlll Boundary Blaby I \ I 'Market -- - Area Boundary I Harborough I .... , \ IS'1 CENTRAL & INFORMATION SERVICES ~ - includes Leicestershire Central Library, Information Centre, and Goldsmith Music Library. -28- 4. Libraries and Information provision ~n North west Leicestershire The Coalville area is one of eleven operational areas of Leicestershire Libraries and Information Service, having four static libraries and t= rrobile libraries which serve both rural and urban areas. The area headquarters are based at Coalville, which is a town with an approximate population of 30,000, and is situated about thirteen miles from Leicester and sixteen miles from Derby. Its industry is varied, including engineering, mining, and quarrying. However,. due:·to::the. fa<:t~ that .. mining .. isccon,.the.decline, developnents. are being made in tourism, and there are opportuni- . ~. ties for business and road and civil communications. Coalville library is one of Leicestershire's major libraries. The present purpose-built library was opened in October 1979, and has established itself as a community, cultural and information centre. The library is also a Tourist Information Centre and has an advice suite which houses the local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) and Age Concern. Other libraries in the area include the smaller community libraries of Measham and Ibstock. In June 1990, the library in the market town of Ashby-de-la-Zouch rroved to a converted school where the premises are .shared with the North· west Leicestershire District Council Tourist Information Centre and Ashby museum. <4> -29- 4.1. The annual issue figures from July 1990 to June 1991 are as follows: LIBRARY ADULT JUNIOR TOI'AL SOUND FICTION BOOKS BOOKS RECORDINGS Coalville 212,347 51,498 263,845 14,331 Ashby 87,703 19,972 107,675 3,871 Measham 29,954 5,895 35,849 558 Ibstock 20,830 10,474 31,304 60 Mobile 6 66,378 11,267 77 ,645 0 Mobile 7 76,309 10,712 87,021 4 TOI'AL 493,521 101,712 603,339 18,824 <5> lJlll~CTOIl DEPUTY DIRECTOn ASSISTANT DIRECTOR' ASSISTANT DIRECTOR', SUPPORT SERVICES EDUCATION. CIIILDHEN' S 1 .&. SPECIAL SERVICES Senior Manager: County Services County Coun ty Manager: \ Technical Stock Administration Managers: Services Manager &- Personnel County Services (3) Librarian I County I I Services County Central Librarian t I W Information Lending o Librarian Librarian Personnel & I Training Officer Principal - Area Librarians (11) Librarian: Computer Applications I Pr'incipal Prindipal Principal Principal Principal Librarian: Librarian: Librarian: Librarian: Librarian: S tocl' Stock Sel~v i ce Services Special Management Management Review & to Client & Supply & Supply Development Education Groups (Technical (Bibliographical Support) Support) LibI~arian: Trainlng Publici ty & Children's Libl~arian MaJ"i Septembel- 1989 County Services Staffing Structure Director Deputy Director Assistant Director: Assistant Director: Education, CI.ildren's Support Services and Special Services Senior Manager: County Services Manager: County Services Area Librarian o Area Librarian I W >-' I Qrarians Area Senior Area Senior o Library Assistant Library Assistru.t Assistru.t Librarian: Ethnic Minority Services Senior Library Assistant Senior Senior LibI'ary Library Assistant Assistant I Senior MoL'; le Senior' I Asslstant o Assi s tan t LilH'ai~Y Driver o Library Library o Library Assistants Assistants Assi s tan ts Library Assistants: employed according to tile number of clerical tlOUI'S available, determined by tIle application of the ("lnr'i"""11 I'/n-Ir 1r>~rT l-f"'rTlr>rl- f"l""1"'r>rl Fn'1l11;-, ;'111,1 !',..,,,ir>,.,,"d '~r'""....,ll .. -32- 4.2. Staff The team of about six librarians is based at Coalville and provides professional services to the surrounding areas within the management of the Area Librarian. The Area Senior Library Assistant (ASIA) reports to the Area Librarian and is responsible for leading the work of the Senior Library Assistant (SIA), thirty two library assistants and three driver/library assistants. -33- REFERENCES <1> LEICESTERSHIRE LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION SERVICE. Internal document on statutory duty, objectives and outline strat egies. N.D. <2> HEWITT, A. R. Public library law. 1975. <3> THE TIMES. Luce climbdown on premium library charges. 9.2.1989. pg 13. Col. ABC. <4> LEICESTERSHIRE LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION SERVICE. Internal document prepared to be sent out to library candidates. 1989. <5> LEICESTERSHIRE LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION SERVICE. Data bank - Mapr:er - RID 21. 1990 CHAPI'ER THREE -34- NORTH WEST LEICESTERSHIRE 1. General Background North West Leicestershire is an area of large unspoilt_country side, with considerable areas of particularly attractive scenery such as Charnwood Forest, Staunton Harold and the Trent Valley near to Castle D:lnnington. Lying at the heart of the Midlands within a traingle of three main cities, North West Leicesterhsire has excellent communic ations with the rest of the U.K. The M42/A42 dual carriageway between Birmingham and Nottingham improves the links between North West Leicestershire and the West Midlands. The East Midlands International Airport, conveniently located tw::> miles fran junction 24 on the Ml, at Castle Donnington in the north of the district, provides scheduled flights to cover more than one hundred destinations w::>rldwide as well as all the main danestic airports, and with the completion of a new warehouse development, the Airport is rapidly becoming one of the largest air cargo centres in Europe. <1> 2. Industry Young w::>rkers have been affected the most with the heavy job -35- losses in the area. Coalmining and quarrying has suffered greatly and the County Council has had to attract new inward investments. Many new industries have I!K)ved into the area. These are two new business parks that are flourishing: 1. Hermitage Industrial Estate and South Leicester Colliery. 2. Whitwick Business Park which is spread over twenty eight acres. <2> 3. Unemployment Despite the cutbacks to the area, the munber of W1employed people has fallen. The average W1employment rate in the urban areas of the Leicestershire CoW1ty COW1cil is 6.1%, whereas it is only 2.7% in the rural parts. The highest rates are within Leicester city at 8.5% and Loughborough at 5%. In I!K)st areas however, there has been a general decrease in unemployment, the largest decrease being in Coalville of minus 225. <3> 4. Population The population of North West Leicestershire and district is expected to reach 8LOOO by 1991. It has increased steadily over the years; in 1981 it was aroW1d 78,800 and in 1986 it was roughly 79,500. The majority of the inhabitants live in the -36- main towns of Coalville (31,000) and Ashby-de-la-Zouch (11,500), but wihtin a distance of half an hour in travelling time, there exists a population of half a million people and a working population of approximately a quarter of a million. 4.1. Let us consider a summary of the population pattern in North West Leicestershire. 4.1.1. Total Population, analysed by sex TOTAL MALES FEMALES POPUlATION 78,407 38,799 39,608 Female population l.S slightly higher than male population. <4> -37- 4.1.2. Living Pattern Percentage of usually resident population. IN LIVING BORN IN %.OF %.. OF COMMUNAL AIDNE OurSIDE HOUSEHOLD . USUALLY USUALLY ESTABLISHMENI' WITH HEAD RESIDENT RESIDENT BORN IN NEW CHILDREN PENSIONERS CQ;1M()NWEALTH (LIVING ALONE) % % % % % % 0.3 6.5 1.8 0.5 3.9 27 .3 <5> -38- 4.1.3. Percentage of men aged 16-64. IN FULL-TIME PART-TIME FULL-TIME TOTAL EMPLOYMENI' EMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED Sl'UDENI'S % % % % 25,081 85.7 0.6 5.9 3.6 <6> -39- 4.1. 4. Percentage of w:xnen aged 16-59. IN FULL-TIME PART-TIME FULL-TIME MARRIED TClI'AL EMPLOYMENr EMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED STUDENI'S ID-1EN % % % % % 22,453 33.3 20.7 3.4 4.4 53.1 <7> -40- 5. A brief introduction to sane of the major villages in the area. 5.1. Coalville Coalville is the administrative centre for the North West Leicestershire district. It is situated on the main ASO road between Leicester and Burton-on-Trent, lying approximately twelve miles fran each. The exhaustion of workable coal reserves means that Coalville is a town in transition. Its mining past is literally being. consigned to history as the Snibson Colliery site is currently being developed as a major industrial heritage museum, which will house the National Mining Museum. The population is around 30,000, and has a major (level two) library which also serves as a tourist information centre. 5.2. Ashby-de-la-Zouch Ashby-de-la-Zouch is the second largest town in North West Leicestershire. It. is predominantly a market town and has a population of around 11,500. -41- 5.3. Appleby Magna On the western boW1dary of the district lies Appleby Magna, a straggling village of lovely old houses. The character of the village is enhanced by a number of interesting brick and stone houses dating back to the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The J?Opulation is approximately 1,055. 5.4. Chilcote Six and a half miles south-west of Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Chilcote is a small, typically rural village with a J?OPulation of aroW1d 96. 5.5. Ibstock The parish of Ibstock covers an area of over three square miles, about four miles south of Coalville. with a J?Opulation close to 5,250, Ibstock is one of the largest villages in England and of very ancient origin. It has a small library housed in a school building. 5.6. Heather This is a village lying some five miles south-east of Coalville. Its J?Opulation is about 825. -42- 5. T. _ Measham Measham is a large parish situated three miles south of Ashby-de la-Zouch, and has several flourishing local industries, including pipe and tile work. Its pcpulation is around 4,220, and it has a small library. 5 .. 8.. Norrnanton-le-Heath This is a typical village which is located three and a half miles south-east of Ashby-de-la-Zouch. It has an old parish church which can be seen for miles around and the village itself is surrounded by undulating countryside. It has a pcpulation of approximately 135. 5.9. Oakthorpe Located three miles south-west of Ashby-de-la-Zouch, this parish is canprised of the villages of Oakthorpe and Donisthorpe, and has the hamlet of Acresford. The pcpulation is around 1,940. 5.10. Snarestone Snarestone is a small and pleasant village five miles south of Ashby-de-la-Zouch. It has a "winding hole' -43- for long vessels, slipway and mooring facilities. There is a Victorian pumping station which supplies water to Hinkley and contains steam machinery. It has a population of around 250. 5.11. Swannington This is another typical village of Leicestershire, similar in size to Appleby Magna. Its population is approximatley 1,120. 5.12. SWepstone Above the valley of the Mease, its church overlooks miles of countryside, and SWepstone's white tower is a landmark. The population is around 535. <10> -44- North West Leicestershire District r;======Location Map Parish Boundaries 1987 LElCES'ICRSHIRE -45- 1988 POPULATION MID-YEAR ESTIMATES PARISHES & SETTLEMENTS NORTH-WEST LEICESTERSHIRE PARISH SETTLEMENT PARISHES & SETTLEMENTS POPULATION POPULATION Appleby Magna 1083 Appleby Magna 1036 Appleby Parva 47 Ashby de la Zouch * 12231 Blackfordby 1354 Ashby Woulds 2841 Albert Village 439 Moira & Norris Hill 2270 Over seal , Shelbrook & Woodville 132 Bardon 30 Belton 926 Breedon on the Hill 792 Breedon on the Hill 534 Breedon Brand 1 4 Tonge 96 Wilson 148 Castle Donington 6184 Charley 214 Chilcote 99 Coleorton 801 Coalville ** 30229 Ellistown 757 Heather 851 Ibstock 5365 Battram 209 Ibstock 5156 Isley cum Langley 85 Kegworth 3236 Lockington-Hemington 444 Hemington 324 Lockington 120 Long Whatton 1602 Diseworth 617 Long Whatton 985 Measham 4099 Normanton le Heath 128 Oakthorpe and Donisthorpe 1942 Acresford 64 Donisthorpe 1254 Oakthorpe 624 Osgathorpe 334 Packington 759 Ravenstone with Snibston 1732 Snares tone 273 Staunton Harold 111 Lount 28 Staunton Harold 83 Stretton en le Field 39 Swannington 1137 * Ashby de la Zouch population includes Blackfordby ** Coalville population includes Ellistown -46- 1988 POPULATION MID-YEAR ESTIMATES PARISHES & SETTLEMENTS NORTH-WEST LEICESTERSHIRE PARISH SETTLEMENT PARISHES & SETTLEMENTS POPULATION POPULATION Swepstone 526 Newton Burgoland 377 Swepstone 149 Worthington 1407 Griffydam 224 Newbold 669 Worthington 514 DISTRICT TOTAL 79500 • -47- REFERENCES THCMPSON, T. W. Review of Leicestershire econany for the year ending 1988. 1989. <2> LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL. North West Leicester shire industrial profile. 1990. <3> & <4> LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL. Unemployment bulletin. July, 1990. <5>, <6> & <7> OFFICE OF POPULATION CENSUSES AND SURVEYS. Census 1981 county report. 1981. <8>, <9> & <10> NORTH WEST LEICESTERSHIRE TECHNICAL COLLEGE. A history of Coalville and district. 1988. CRAPI'ER FOUR -48- MEllfOOOLCGY 1. Introduction The survey was undertaken to find out the library and information needs of the rural community in Leicestershire. The area of North West Leicestershire was chosen in part cular as for a period of seven months, from August 1988 to March 1989, I was posted at Coalville library. There I was resp:msible for the stock of the rrobile library which serves the rural community of North West Leicestershire. 2. The reason This was a good opportunity for me to become personally acquainted with the needs of the rustic people, and to become closer to them as individuals. In order to provide the necessary services that they needed, the people were encouraged to take part in a survey so that they could express their views and opinions, and this helped me to find out their particular likes and dislikes, needs and wants from they themselves. The survey was also carried out to prove that the actual needs of the public are often different from what the local librarian can so easily presume. -49- 3. Targeted audience The questionnaires that were used in the survey were part icularly directed to those people who knew little or nothing of the library serving the area. This would encourage a more honest and constructive response than those already benefiting frcrn the services given. However, for existing borrowers and users, their conrnents were welccrned too, as this provided information and suggestions on how to improve the library service, and it was especially encouraging to read of their positive replies, in particular their grateful thanks to the attention that they receive. Over a two week period, the questionnaire were delivered to selected houses around the service points of the mobile library, and all the questionnaires were supplied with pre-paid envelopes in the effort-_.to encourage people to complete and return them with interest. The following chart shows the seventeen villages that were covered by the survey. Of the 250 sent out, the total of 86 were returned, giving a percentage of 32. Sane people tried to answer for both husbands and wives. -50- VILlAGE NUMBER OF RE'IURNED QUESTIONNAIRES QUESTIONNAIRES DELIVERED l. Acres ford 10 1 2. Appleby Magna 25 15 3. Bi11stone 15 1 4. Chilcote 15 2 5. Congerstone 20 5 6. Heather 15 1 7. Measham 15 1 8. Nonnans Heath 15 1 9. Norton Juxta 10 2 10. Oakthorpe 20 9 11. Ravensto!le 15 1 12. Shakerstone 15 5 13. Snarestone 15 7 14. Swannington 20 14 15. 5wepstone 15 10 16. Thornton 10 1 17. 'I'wycross 10 4 TOTAL 250 80 -51- 4. The questionnaires The questionnaires themselves were designed to give information as well as to collect it. This enabled people to become familiar with the range of services available within Leicester shire Libraries. For example, one question asked why people visited their local library, and on answering the question, they were able to see the different range of possibilities. Question number four of the survey highlighted many of the library services available. It included the quiet study areas that most libraries offer, exhibitions and special activities that take place, and it drew attention to the regular arrangements made for talks and visits from well known authors and personalities. It also pointed to the facilities such as the photo-copying service and the various computer aids, all apart from the wide range o·f material available for lending, study .and reference. Another question was designed to give as much information as possible. It asked "What sort of information do you seek from the library?" , and people were given ten options to choose from, This in itself was informative as it helped people to see that libraries can satisfy almost all information needs for all kinds of people, from the· business carmunity to those with learning difficulties. -52- Listed below are the ten points that people were asked to consider when answering the above mentioned question:- 1. Addresses, local or others (e. g. doctors, childminders. clubs, societies, national associations etc.) 2. Business information (e.g. how to set up a business, information about other companies, British Standards etc.) 3. HELP .• ! information (e.g. welfare benefits, health, consumer advice, housing etc.) # 4. Local goverrunent (e. g. reports, minutes of council meetings, planning etc.) 5. TOurist information (e.g. maps, events, holiday guides etc.) 6. Sports information (e.g. sports and leisure facilities) 7. Bus and Railways (timetables etc.) 8. careers. 9. Local history (Leicestershire towns and villages) 10. Entertainment (cinema, theatres etc.) -53- 5. Conclusion It was hoped that people would realise from the survey that libraries are really information centres, and that they do not have to go very far for the help that they need. In fact, the survey as a whole not only enlightened people, but hopefully encouraged them to use the library and its facilities more. As a person who lives in the city, it was particularly interesting for me to visit and find out about rural communities. As it was not physically possible to cover the whole of the county, this small sample survey of North West Leicestershire enabled me to broaden my knowledge of people and places, and also to contribute to my experience of working with and for the public as a librarian. # HELP .• : Information is a recent development in Leicestershire Libraries and Information Service. It is a collection of material readily available to either consult in the library or to borrow. CHAPI'ER FIVE -54- ANALYSIS OF THE FINDINGS 1. Sex of all respondents 1.1. Differences between male and female respondents is on a magnitude level. Females are three times more likely to respond than males giving a ratio of 1:3. 1. 2 • Near 1 y three quarters of the returned quE:stionnaires were completed by females. Only about 26% males showed ciI1y interest. 1.3. It would be interesting to compare these figures with other libraries in Leicestershire. As rece:1t1y as last autumn (1990), Leicestershire Central Libraries carried out a user survey. Their findings are in sharp contrast to this survey. 1. 3 .1. At the Central Lending library users were in almost equal proportion., around 48% males to 52% females. 1.3.2. At the Information Centre, figures varied, with three quarters of males to one quarter of females. 1.3.3. The Goldsmith Music library showed a ratio of 4:1. This was about 80% males to that of 20% females. <1> -55- Table 1 All. RESPONDENTS. ANALYSED BY SEX I Male I Female Sample % % Size 25.58 74.41 86 -56- 2. Age of all respondents 2.1. The age groups were based upon previous surveys carried out by Leicestershire Libraries. It was thought at the time that the same canputer system could be used to analyse this data. Therefore, the age groups in this survey correspond to the latter and were not divided equally. 2.2. It is worth noting the age gap in each group. 2.2.1. The first group covers only three years from 11-14. 2.2.2. The second group was kept to a minimum of two years from 15-17. 2.2.3. There is a six year age difference in group three from 18-24. 2.2.4. In the next two groups, that is, 25-44 years and 45-64 years, each age gap is increased to a maximum of twenty years. 2.2.5. The sixth age group has an age gap of ten years from 65-74. 2.2.6. Anyone over the age of 74 years is included in the last age group. -57- Chart 2 ; All respondents by age group 15-17 18-24 74+ 25-44 65-74 45-64 -58- 2.3. Analysis of Age and Sex groups 2.3.1. There was no response at all in the first age group of 11-14. 2.3.2. Only one female showed any interest in this survey aged between 15 and 17. 2 . 3 . 3 . There was a poor response from people aged between 18 and 24 years. Just over 2% replied to the survey. 2.3.3.1. In the above two groups, 100% females answered the questionnaire. 2.3.4. 29% of respondents were aged between 25 and 44 years, 80% of which were female. 2.3.5. Of the 45-64 years age group, nearly 26% of people responded. 2. 3.5.1. The highest percentage of respondents belonged to this age group. 2.3.6. A similar response was received in the 65-74 years age group, but the proportion of male and female respondents changed significantly. Here it was 59% females and 41% males. 2.3.7. Elderly people over the age of 74 years responded well. Around 15% of respondents fell into this age category which is consistent with the national population. Table 2 AJJ. RESPONDENTS. ANALYSED BY SEX AND AGE GROUP Sex I U1 Age Group Tolal Male Fe male '"I % % _o __o % -- -- 11 - 14 0 0 o. 15 - 17 1 0 100 18 - 24 2.32 0 100 25 - 44 29 20 80 45 - 64 25.58 14 86 65 - 74 25.58 41 59 74 + 15.11 - 30.76 69.23 Chart 1 ; All respondents. analysed by sex I '"o I Chart 3 ; Percentage of male and female respondents in each age group 100 90 80 70 I 60 CJ"\ f-' I III Male 50 II!iI F e IlIiII e 40 30 20 10 0+--- 11 - 14 15 - 17 18 - 24 25 - 44 45 - 64 65 - 74 -62- 3" Distance 3.1. All the users were asked to indicate how far they lived frcxn the nearest library. This fell into one of four categories., 0-2 miles, 3-4 miles, 5-6 miles and more than 6 miles. 3.2. Table no. 3 shows that the lesser the distance from the library, the higher number of visitors. Around 38% live within t'NO miles, 22% within four miles, 21% within six miles and 17% travelled more than six miles. 3.3. It is interesting to ccxnpare these figures with the survey carried out by Leicestershire Central Libraries. Frcxn the same question, their statistics showed that around 12% of the readers lived within a one mile radius and a staggering 79% lived within a four mile area of the library. <2> Table 3 HOW FAR DO YOU LIVE FROM YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY ~---- Sex ,. O'i Distance Male Fem ale Tolal W, % % % 2 miles radius 11.62 26.74 38.37 4 miles radius 5.81 16.27 22.09 6 miles radius 4.65 16.27 20.93 more than 6 miles 2.32 --'---'-"--=-'------'-15.11 17.44 Table 5 DISTANCE AND AGE GROUP RELATIONSHIPS ------ Distance in Miles I '" Age Group o -2 3 - 4 5 - 6 > 6 ""I years % % % ----% 15 - 17 1.16 0 0 0 18 - 24 2.32 0 0 0 25 - 44 13.95 5.81 8.13 1.16 45 - 64 6.97 4.65 6.97 6.97 65 - 74 6.97 5.81 5.81 6.97 74 + 6.97 10.46 0 2.32 Chart 4 How far do respondents live from local library 40 35 I '"U1 30 I 25 .Hale female X 20 o • Total 15 10 5 o 2 miles radius 4 mi les radius 6 mi les radius more than 6 miles -66- 4. Frequency of Use 4.1. The survey shows that people living in the rural community of North West Leicestershire found it almost impossible to visit the library more than once a week. Not one person indicated that they use the library frequently within one week. 4.2. Those who visit the library once a week are made up of around the same percentage of men and women. 4.2.1. This is in contrast to the use of Central Lending library in Leicester city. There, 60% of all readers visit the library every week. <3> 4.3. For those who visit the library every fortnight, there is a significantly higher percentage of 31. 4.3.1. Of these who use the library every two weeks, the greatest number were women., giving a percentage of. approximately 26% males to that of 74% females. 4.3.2. However, the numbers cannot be taken as a true value as sane of the people were confused as tc whim. ' library' was in question, the mobile or the static library. -67- 4.4. Nearly 7% of people indicated that they visit their library once a month. The proportion of female users is signif icantly higher than that of males with a percentage of 85% against 15%. 4.5. 23% of respondents in the area indicated that they use the library ·'occassionally". Here again, there is a higher number of female readers than males with a percentage of 82% with that of 18%. 4.6. In North West Leicestershire, 31% of people indicated that they never use the library. 4.6.1. It is difficult to say why people 'on this scale do not use the library. However, there are two possible explanations for this. 4.6.1.1. Firstly, sane of the people are probably happy with the mobile library service which visits them every two weeks. They therefore do not see the need to visit any other library in the area. 4.6.1.2. Secondly, as one of the readers has already ccmnented, there is no direct or frequent bus route/service fran the rerote carmunities to the library. Table 4 FREQUENCY OF USE, ANALYSED BY SEX Sex I '"(Xl Frequency Male Female Total I % % -- % >Once a week 0 0 o Once a week 2.32 2.32 4.65 Once a fortnight 8.1 23.25 31.39 Once a month 1.16 5.81 6.97 Occasionally 3.48 19.76 23.25 Never 9.3 22.09 ---- 31.39 Chart. 5 Frequency of use. analysed by sex 35 30 I '" '"I Z5 ZO x o Female • Total 15 10 5 o >Once 8 week. Once a week Once a fortnight Once a month OccasionaLLy Never -70- 5. Distance and Age Group relationship 5.1. No clear pattern emerges from table no. 5 to suggest that there is a direct link or relationship between distance and visits to the library. 5.2. The table shows that up to the age of 25 years, people are less willing to travel to the local library. 5.2.1. Only one person in the 15-17 years age group, and two people from the 18-24 years age group indicated that they visit the library. In both cases, they lived within a two mile radius of the library. 5.3. In the 25-44 years age group, more people showed a willing ness to travel, although the percentages varied in each related distance. 5.3.1. The highest number of people live within a two mile radius of the library giving a percentage of 14. After that, the second highest number that follows is the 8% in the 5-6 mile radius group. Understandably, ar.:lUnd 1% of people living more than six miles from the library are prepared to travel. 5.4. In the 45-65 years age group, fewer people (compared to the 25-44 years age group) are willing to travel to the library, regardless of the distance. -71- 5.4.1. Only 7% of these people live within two miles of the library, 4% within 3-4 miles, and 7% within 5-7 miles. Yet in the latter category, some indicated that they were happy to travel. However, the greatest response to this question came from those who lived further than six miles. 7% indicated that they were willing to travel. 5.5. Regardless of the distance, retired people are much rrore likely to travel to the library. In the 65-74 years age group, the number of people that are willing to travel is consistent in relation to each distance group. 5.5.1. '!he figures are as follows:- 7% "no live within two miles of the library, 6% who live within 3-4 miles and 5-6 miles, and 7% who live further than six miles. 5.6. '!he last.age group of over 74 years provided the rrost interesting figures. MJre people from this group than any other showed that they were prepared to travel 3-4 miles to the library. 10% indicated this. 5.6.1. From the same group, 7% travel less than two miles. 5.6.2. '!he response showed that virtually no one living within 5-6 miles of the library ll'ade any visit at all and yet 2.32% of" people indicated that they travel rrore than six miles. I • Chart 6 Distance and age group relationships 12 Distant!' fro. library (Idles) 1 -..J N I " 01-2 03- • !>'i I - 6 6 .) 6 15 - 17 65 - 7\ 7•• -73- 6. Use of other libraries 6.1. All respondents were asked to indicate if they used other libraries, 28% of whan said that they did. 6.2. People were then asked to identify those libraries. Most named only one, but sane indicated t'M:> or three. A total of nine libraries were mentioned which included the use of the academic libraries. They are as follows:- Ashby # Atherstone Binningham Central Burton on Trent Coalville Measham # Nottingham Solihull College Library Worcester # These are part of Leicestershire Libraries and Information Service (LLIS) , while the others listed serve other counties. 6.2.1. North West Leicestershire has a unique geographical position giving easy access to other counties such as Derbyshire, Nott- inghamshire and Worcestershire. Road links make travelling easy to these counties especially with use of the Ml, M69 and M42 rootorways. -74- 6.3. The survey showed that females use other libraries more than males. Nearly 75% of females indicated this. 6.3.1. Tables- no. 6 and 7 show the proportional differences on each age group. These are 4% in the 15-17 year olds, 32% in the 25-44 year olds, 32% in the 45-64 year olds and 4% in the 65-74 year olds. 6.4. In the 18-24 years age group, no one indicated that they use other libraries. Nevertheless, they proved to be in the lowest percentage of library users. Table 6 USE OF OTHER UBRARIES Sex I -.J lJ1 Age Group Male Female Total I % % % - 15 - 17 0 1.16 1.16 18 - 24 0 0 o 25 - 44 3.48 9.3 12.79 45 - 64 -----1.16 ------9.3 1------10.46 65 - 74 2.32 1.16 3.48 74 + 0 1.16 1.16 Total 6.97 ---'-----22 28.97 Chart 7 : Use of other libraries by age and sex 30 25 20 I • Male -J '"I % 15 o Felllale 116 Total 10 5 o --!-----'- 15 - 17 18 - 24 25 - 44 45 - 64 65 - 74 74 + Total -77- 7. Occupation 7.1. Included in the survey was a question ab:Jut occupation. It was not intended to find out the type of employment that people were engaged in, but rather, how many people were actually employed, self-employed, retired, housewives or at school. It was thought that the information would establish a relationship between library usage and readers according to their employment status. 7.2. On the whole, the response showed that the majority of library customers were female. 7.2.1. Among female users, the highest proportion, around 35%, were made up of housewives, followed by an 18% proportion of females who were retired. 7.2.2. An equal percentage of 8.12 were w::xnen who were employed on either a full-time or part-time basis. Around 5% indicated that they were self-employed. 7.2.2.1. The survey therefore suggests that the female population of North West Leicestershire enjoy reading in their spare or leisure time. -78- 7.3. Of the males that responded to this question, none indicated that they were employed part-time, self-employed or unemploy ed or at school. 7.3.1. This does not mean however, that the male population of North West Leicestershire in general is not interested in reading or the use of the library and its services. 7.4. The data establishes the fact that there is no direct relationship between the reading pattern of users and the availability of (spare) time. The use of the library always depends, of course, on the individual person and his or her reading habits. Table 7 OCCUPATIONS OF RESPONDENTS --- Sex I -.J Occupation Male Female '"I % % Part time employed 0 8.12 Full time employed 6.97 8.12 Full lime self employed 0 4.65 Unemployed 0 0 Retired 17.44 17.44 At school 0 1.16 Housewife 0------34.88 Chad B Occupations of respondents 35 30 I co 25 0 I 20 .Hale X o Female 15 10 5 o Part time eIf1lloyed Full time efI1lloyed Full time self Uneflllloyed Retired At school Housewife efIllloyed -81- 8. Primary reasons for visiting the library All respondents were asked to identify the primary reasons for visiting the library. Fourteen options were given in the questionnaire and, people were invited to indicate more than one of these if necessary. The list of likely reasons was as follows:- 1. To borrow books 2 • To bo=ow sound recordings 3. To read newspapers and magazines 4. To use reference material 5. To obtain information 6. To find out what's on 7. To study 8. To do school work 9. To visit exhibitions and displays 10. To attend talks or activities 11. To use other facilities 12. To meet friends 13. To take information leaflets At the end of this list space was provided for other suggestions to be written that were not· included in the questionnaire. This was option fourteen. -82- Analysis of Data 8.1. To borrow books Out of eighty returned questionnaires, a total of 89% of people go to the library to borrow books. Analysing this by sex, primarily the ratio of male and female borrowers corresponds with earlier findings, that of around 76% wcmen, and 24% men. The above figure confinns the national trend. In February 1990, the =nsurner magazine "Which ?" published a library survey. Their findings showed that 90% of people visit libraries primarily to borrow books. <4> 8.1.1. These figures compare greatly with the survey carried out at Leicestershire Central Libraries. Their information stated:- "Differences between male and female use of the Lending Library are not statistically significant. However there is a strong relationship between sex and use of both the Information Centre and the Goldsmith Libraries, with around three quarters of the users of both being males. At the Lending Library the ratio; is 48% male to 26% female. At the Information Centre- , 74% male to 26% female. At Goldsmith Music Library, 80% male to 20% female. " <5> -83- 8.1. 2. Analysis by-age and sex 8.1.2.1. Only one female of the 15-17 years age group answered this question. 8.1.2.2. Around 3% of people belonged to the 18-24 years age group. All were female. 8.1.2.3. In the age group of 25-44 years, a quarter of the people indicated that they visit the library to borrow books. 8.1.2.4. Nearly 82% of these were female. 8.1.2.5. A quarter of the people who said that they use the library to borrow books belonged to the 45-64 years age group. 8.1.2.5.1. The above mentioned group is divided into 14% males and 86% females. 8.1.2.6. Another quarter of respondents to this option belonged to the 65-74 years age group. 8.1.2.6.1. Of these, 60% were women and 40% men. -84- 8.1.2.7. About 14% of people over the age of 74 years use the library to borrow books. 8.1.2.8. The above statistics show a pattern. The majority of those·who visit the library to borrow books are female. -85- 8.2. To borrow sound recordings 8.2.1. The words 'Sound Recordings' were not actually used in the questionnaire. They were simply stated as records and cassettes etc. 8.2.2. 17% of people go to the library to borrow sound recordings. This is comparable to the national trend of 22%. 8.2.3. Of the above 17%, 67% of these are female and 33% males. 8.2.4. The majority of those who borrow sound recordings be longed to the 25-44 years age group. 8.2.4.1. Second to this were those from the 65-74 years age group. 8.2.4.2. In the 45-64 years age group, only about 3% of females borrow sound recordings. -86- 8.3. To read newspapers and magazines 8.3.1. The survey revealed that not many people actually travel to the library just to read newspapers and magazines. 8.3.3. This option was indicated by approximately 5% of people. This is in sharp contrast to the use of the Information Centre in Leicester city. There, nearly 50% of people make a visit primarily for this purpOse. <5> 8.3.4. In this section, it is difficult to come to any conc clusion due to limited data. -87- 8.4. Use of reference material 8.4.1. More than a quarter of the respondents indicated that they use the library for reference. This is given as 28%. 8.4.1.1. Canpared with the use of the Information Centre in Leicester city where 39% of readers use reference material, 28% of users in rural Leicestershire represents a significant number. <5> 8.4.1.2. Here, one has to bear in mind that travelling within the city is far easier than in the rural districts. 8.4.2. The survey showed that females make use of reference books rrore than males. It was a high percentage of 66% females against 34% males. 8.4.3. The 25-44 years age group emerges as the largest users of reference material. Nearly half of the respondents be longed to this age category while 25% belonged to the 45- 64 years age group, and 16% in the 65-74 years age group. 8.4.3.1. In the 65-74 years age group, the ratio between the sexes changes. Here it is predaninantly male users at 75%. who visit the library for reference material. -88- .' 8. 5. To ask for information 8.5.1. Approximately 21% of all users ask the library staff for inforrnation. 8.5.2. The survey showed that females ask the most enquiries, giving a percentage of nearly 78. 8.5.3. The age group that indicated the highest percentage of those asking for information was the 25-44 years at 44%. The 45-64 years age group revealed 22% in this, and 11% belonged to the 65-74 years age group. 8.5.4. It is interesting to note that a lot of elderly people need help. Almost all respondents over the age of 74 years indicated that they always ask at the library if they need information. -89- 8.6. Tb find out what's on 8.6.1. The option 'what's on' was elaborated to help people to understand what this involved. It included entertainment guides, local fetes and clubs, cinemas and theatres etc. 8.6.2. 12.79% of people indicated that they visit the library for this purpose. 8.6.3. Of the above figure, 82% were female and 18% were male. 8.6.4. The highest proportion of people to indicate in this option belonged to the 25-44 years age group at 66%. The 45-64 and 65-74 years age groups held the same percentage of 22, and 11% belonged to the age group of over 74 years. -90- 8.7. To study in the library 8.7.1. This option was basically aimed at students, both young and adults. 8.7.2. The response was rather poor. Only one person (female) indicated in this option, belonging to the 15-17 years age group. 8. 7 . 3 • However, it is ccmnon knowledge that many children and young students do make 'good use of study areas in the library. Also the majority of people are aware that the library is a good place for study as it has a quiet environment and helpful material is easily and readily available. 8.7.4. Not many questionnaires were answered by young people. Therefore, it is impossible to reach any solid conclusions regarding this aspect. -91- 8.8. Sch=l...ork in the library 8.8.1. Apart fran the previously mentioned sch=l girl, t...o more adults, one male and one female, indicated that they use the library to do sch=l...ork. 8.8.2. These belonged to the 25-44 years age group. It can be safely presumed that were perhaps teachers or adult students. 8.8.3. Leicestershire Libraries do a lot to encourage children and students to make full use of the library service and its facilities. Staff are always ready to help these ones, and are usually aware of projects and dissertations that are in progress in local sch=ls and colleges. It is also ...orth noting that Leicestershire Libraries always leave roan for improvement in this area of its service to younger members. -92- 8.9. TO visit exhibitions 8.9.1. Nearly 7% of people showed an interest in exhibitions and displays in their local library. 8.9.2. Approximately 83% of 1MOffien of whcm 66% belonged to the 25-44 years age group, indicated this. 8.9.3. Frcm this data, it is apparent that females of all types of occupation, mothers and housewives, do take an active interest and enjoy visiting the library to view other people's work of art or literature. -93- 8.10. To attend talks 8.10.1. In order to promote reading, many of the libraries in Leicestershire from time to time, organise talks on a variety of subjects. They invite local or national well known authors to talk about their work. 8.10.2. This option referred to this kind of activity. However, this was not elaborated in the questionnaire and, perhaps this is the reason for the poor response. 8.10.3. Only one female belonging to the 25-44 years age group indicated in this option. 8.10.4. This person could be a young mother or housewife who is particularly interested in library activities in the day time, or scrneone who scrneone who is a frequent visitor to the library who keeps abreast of the evening activities and usually attends them all with interest. These of course, are only suggestions. -94- 8.11. Use of other facilities 8.11.1. The 'facilities' mentioned in this option included such things as the photocopier, fiche and many other computer aids that are now widley available in many libraries in Leicestershire. 8.11.2. Approximately 14% of all respondents indicated in this option. 8.11.3. This figure was divided by 66% females and 34% males. 8.11.4. The survey showed that people between the age of 65 and 74 used these kind of facilities most giving a percentage of around 42. 8.11.5. However, most of the library facilities such as the photocopying service proved useful to almost all of the age groups. 8.11.6. People over the age of 74 did not indicate in this option. Although they are aware of the services offered by the local library, they perhaps do not need extensive use of them like others, and if they do, they usually receive help from home-helps, wardens, family or friends who will go to the library for them. -95- 8.12. To meet friends 8.12.1. This was the only option that was not indicated. 8.12.2. Although people often do meet friends in the library ·(or elsewhere) by coincidence, the. survey shows that no one uses the library as a social meeting place. -96- 8.13. To take away leaflets 8.13.1. Around 14% of the respondents indicated in this option. 8.13.2. A similar pattern emerges as in the rest of the survey in that 75% of these were female. 8.13.3. Most of those who indicated that they use the library to take away information leaflets belonged to the 25- 44 years age group giving a percentage of. 50. Approx imately 42% belonged to the 45-64 years age group and around 8% to the 65-74 years age group. 8.13.4. Interestingly, people below the age of 25 and over 74 years did not indicate in this option. 8.13.5. This kind of data however, depends on the kind of leaflets that are available at the library. Some are specifically designed for certain age groups or particular subjects, although, with all the information that is available, there should be something to interest everyone. -97- 8.14. Other reasons for visiting the library 8.14.1. At the end of the options given, there was a space left for people to write in any· other possible reasons why they may visit/use the library. 8.14.2. No one suggested any other reasons. Chart. 9 Primary reason for visiting library. by sex 90 80 70 I '" 50 x o Female 40 • Total 30 20 10 o To borrow To borrow To read To use To ask for To find To study To do To visit To attend To use To meet To take books sound newspapers reference informatio out what's school exhibition talks photocopie friends informatio recordings ete books n on work etc. r n leaflets Chart 9B Primary reason for visiting library Percentage of Males & Females in each category, 111 9' I \D \D .. I 11 61 o ILll. , 51 ~ F... l. 31 21 11 I To borrow To borrow To ,'id To US! 10 ask for To find out ID study ID do scbool la visit 10 attend To USI' To lIl'el To tatf books sound Dflf5paprrs rderence inforaatioD lII\at's on uork I'xhibition talks photocopil'r fripnds inForlwtion recordings ttc books etc. leaflets TABLE 9 ; PRIMARY REASON FOR VISITING UBRARY. ANALYSED BY AGE GROuP AND SEX ,,- Age Groups Primary reason 15 - 17 18 - 24 25 - 44 45 - 64 65 - 74 74+ Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female % % % % % % % % % % % % To borrow books 0 2.32 20.93 13.95 3.48 9.3 0 1.16 4.65 . 20.93 -----3.48 .------9.3 To borrow sound recordings 0 1.16 0 1.16 2.32 5.81 0 2.32 2.32 1.16 0 -~ To read newspapers elc 0 1.16 0 0 1.16 01--' 0 0 0 0 I 1.~ -----r------_._--;:::; .--~ - >-'o To use reference books 0 1.16 0 0 4.65 9.3 1.16 6.97 3.48 1.16 0 0 o - I To asll for information _0__ -' __ - 0 2.32 ------0 1.16 0 -----0 -----1.16 -,,----8.13 ._------116 3.48 2.32 1.16 ---- J2,find out whal's on 0 0 0 0 116 5.81 0 2.32 1.16 1.16 0 1.16 To sludy 0 1.16 0 0 0 0 0 0 ... .-J) ------,,---,--'------._----0 0 0 To do school work 0 1.16 0 0 1.16 1.16 0 0 0 0 0 0 To visil exhibition etc. 0 0 0 0 0 4.65 116 0 0 1.16 0 ------_. -..Jl J2,,allend lalks 0 0 0 0 0 1.16 0 0 0 0 0 0 To use pholocopier 0 1.16 0 o------0 ---.--4.65 ------. 0 ----2.32 4.65 1.16 0 ------0 To meet friends _..J! 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Oi---lJ6 --- Totake informalion leaflets 0 0 0 ~M __ ..ill _____ t~ 1.16 0 0 _J1 TABLE 8B : PRIMARY REASON FOR VISITING lJBRARY. ANALYSED BY SEX ~ _.. --_._---_.. _._. __ .. _------_._- Primary reason Male Female Tolal % % % ,....I To borrow books 89,5 ,....o - 24 -----76 ------,-- I To borrow sountr~cor~iDj;~ 33 67 17.44 ----_.-._------.~--,-----. To read newspapers elc 50 50 ------4,65 To use reference books 34 -----66 ---27,9 To ask for informalion 78 - 22 ------20.93 To find oul whal's on 18 82 ----12,79 To study 0 100 ----U6 To do school work - 33 67 3.48 To visit exhibition etc, 17 83 6,97 To attend talks 0----- 100 --_._----U6 To use pholocopier 34 66 14 To meet friends 0 0 0 To take information leaflets 25 --75 ------14 -102- 9. People seeking information Question six of the questionnaire concentrated on the kind of information that people seek from the local library. It also gave the respondents an oppcrtunity to acquaint themselves with what actually is available by the ten options provided, of which they could indicate as many as they felt necessary. The ten options included:- l. Local addresses 2. Business information 3. HELP information 4. Local government information 5. Tourist information 6. Sports information 7. Bus/Rail timetables 8. careers 9. Local history 10. Electoral register An analysis of the data follows. -103- 9.1. Local addresses 9.1.1. This option was classified by an exact explanation of local addresses available such as doctors, childrninders, clubs and societies, local and national associations etc. 9.1.2. This option was also helpful for anyone who was new to the area as this is often the kind of information that they need. 9.1.2.1. The demography of the area is changing rapidly due to Ml, M42 and M69 links. Perhaps an additional question as to how long the respondents had been living in their present home (broken into options ranging from less than a year to IIDre than five years), may have provided extra information in relation to the response to this option. and perhaps. the survey as a whole. 9.1.3. Nevertheless, the findings are interesting, Approximately 22% indicated in this option. 9.1.3.1. Analysing this by sex, 88% of these were female. 9.1.3.2. More than half of those who seek this kind of information belonged to the 25-44 years age group, giving a percentage of 52.63. -104- 9.1.4. The pattern that emerged fron the response also suggested that most young mothers and housewives use the library for this information requirement. -105- 9.2. Business information 9.2.1. This option was further elaborated to enable people to understand the range of information available on this subject. 9.2.2. Few responded to this option, giving a percentage of about 7. However this does reflect the national trend, in that about 7% of young people today are interested in setting up their own business. 9.2.3. Analysing the above figure by sex, an equal ratio. of both sexes is given. 9.2.4. 80% of the respondents who indicated in this option belonged to the 25-44 years age group, and 20% belonged to the 18-24 years age group. 9.2.5. It is evident from the response that younger people of both sexes seek business related information. from the library. -106- 9.3. HELP .• ! information 9.3.1. "HELP .• !" information is a relatively new developnent within Leicestershire Libraries. The material is extremely useful. Each book or pamphlet/leaflet is marked with a blue label with the word 'HELP' on its spine. All information in this section is for lending, and it covers topics such as welfare rights, consumer advice, law, money and health and safety. 9.3.2. 10% of all the respcndents indicated in this option. 9.3.2.1. The majority of people who used this quick reference material were women, giving the highest percentage of approximately 78. 9.3.3. M::>re than half of those answering this option, 56%, belonged to the 25-44 years age group. The figures were lower for those in the 45-64 and 65-74 years age groups, giving percentages of around 34 and 12 respectively. 9.3.4. It appears form the survey that young mothers and housewives take the most advantage of this information area. -107- 9.4. Local government information 9.4.1. Only about 7% showed any interest in this option. 9.4.2. The response to this option was entirely by females. 9.4.3. The survey indicated a relationship between age group and the type of government related information required. 9.4.3.1. Exactly half of the women that responded to this option (50%), were beteen 45 and 65 years of age, 34% were between 25 and 44 years, and about 16% belonged to the 18-24 years age group. 9.4.4. Mature women are generally more active in politics and its issues. 9.4.4.1. Younger women usually seek this kind of information for college projects and subject related material. 9.4.4.2. These conclusions have been noted by many librarians. -108- 9.5. Tburist information 9.5.1. Approximately a quarter of the respondents indicated that they use the library for tourist information. 9.5.2. Female users were in the majority; 80% females against 20% rrales. 9.5.3. 38% of the respondents to this option belonged to the 25-44 years and 45-64 years age groups. 9.5.4. It is easy to conclude that it is always younger people who seek a lot of tourist information. However another recent survey indicated otherwise. A quarter of the respondents to this same option were over the age of 74 years. <6> 9.5.4.1. One of the reasons for this figure could be that elderly people have the time and usually the money to enjoy travelling; they are reminiscent of the places that they have visited over the years. Many active senior citizens are members of clubs and societies that regularly feature outings and holidays. -109- 9.6. Sports information 9.6.1. One female belonging to the 25-44 years age group responded to this option. 9.6.2. It is therefore difficult to reach a conclusion from this data. It also leaves many questions: 1. Why was there such a poor response to this option? 2. Should the question have been elaborated? 3. Are people unaware of the sports related information found in libraries? -110- 9.7. Bus and railway timetable:-_information 9.7.1. Less than 10% of the respondents indicated in this option. 9.7.2. Females especially rely on the library service for. information on bus times and changes etc., as indicated by the 75% who replied to this option. 9.7.3. M:lst of the female respondents were between 65 and 74 years of age. 9.7.4. The survey revealed that in general those under the age of 25, and those over the age of 74, did not seek this kind of information. -111- 9.8. Careers information 9.8.1. Nearly 6% indicated in this option. 9.8.2. Of the 6%, all were female respondents. 9.8.3. The highest proportion of female respondents were between 25 and 44 years of age. 9.8.4. It is most likely that those who said that they seek this kind of information were, on the whole, mothers or house wives who were interested in returning back to work or seeking employment. Also mothers are usually interested in finding out careers information for their teenage children. -112- 9.9. Local history information 9.9.1. Approximately a quarter of the respondents indicated that they seek local history information frcrn the library. 9.9.2. Analysing this by sex the ratio proved to be 1:3 male and female. 9.9.3. People responded to this option from all the age groups. 9.9.4. The number of respondents varied in each age group:- 5% from the 18-24 group, 35% from the 25-44 group, 30% from the 45-64 group, 25% from the 65-74 group and 5% from the over 74 years age group. 9. 9 .5. t-bst people in North West Leicestershire proved to be interested in local history. Children learn about it at school as do many students, and if a person has lived in a certain area for a number of years it is usually of interest to them to read how things have changed around them. Also, by reading such information, it acquaints the reader of additional places of local interest which they can visit. -113- 9.10. The electoral register 9.10.1. Nearly 4% of all the respondents indicated that they use the library to consult local electoral registers. 9.10.2. Of those who indicated in this option, 100% were fewale. 9.10.3. Most of the respondents belonged to the 65-74 years age group, and the rest belonged to the 45-64 years age group. 9.10.4. Libraries are one of the few places where electoral registers are kept for general inspection (not for loan) . They can be used for one purpose only, that of finding out who, and at what number, a person lives in a particular street. Therefore, 3.4% of people using the library for this purpose in North West Leicestershire seems a good response. 9.10.5. However, it did seem unusual that males did not indicate in this option. Most business men and local political candidates find the· electoral registers to be of good use. -114- 9.10.5.1. Could it be that some are unaware of the avialability of such facilities in libraries? Could it be that some are content to use other facilities such as the telephone directories instead? / / TABlE 10 ; TYPE OF INFORMATION SOUGHT. BY SEX ; BY AGE ·------:S=-ex------·-·--·--- Age GrOUps -%)-.------._- 1'ype of inform ati on Male Female Total IB - 24 25 - 44 45 - 64 65 - 74 74+ % % % Ic:'Lo~cc:::al:....:a::.::d.=dr..:.:es:.::se;:,:s~----- ~-_-~ITI6 --8B --'22 -526 --52.63 ----26'j t----=-10::.:.:5:-1_--=5:.:=.~~ Business information 50 50 6.97 20 80 0 0 0 - --- I HElP' information' 22 7B 10 .____ O __ ~~ 34 12 __ ...Q >-' >-' lJ1 Local Government information 0 lOO 6.97 16 34 50 0 0 I Tourist information ----20 --8'0-- 24T--o ---38r---38 4 --_~ Sports information 0 100 l.!§ ___.Jl 100 0 0 0 Bus-Rail timetables ___ ~I---'-~I- 9 0 ___ J£~I-_ 25 62.5 0 Careers 0 100 5.B 0 100 0 0 0 Local history 30 70 _~ = -~ ==- 30 30 25 5 Electoral rel!ister 0 100 3.4 0 0 33 67 0 Cbart 10 Type of information sought. all respondents 25 20 15 10 5 o local addresses Business HElPI LocaL louri st Sports Bus-Rai L Careers local history ElectoraL i nformat i on information Goverrvnent information information timetables register i nformat i on -117- 10 The Mobile Library Service 10.1. Three questions were included in the questionnaire about the rrobile library service. The aim was to find out people's views of the service as a whole, how many use it, and to know how many people in North west Leicestershire were aware of the service provided. 10.2. The majority of the respondents (91%), indicated that they were aware of the service, while only 9% replied that they did not know whether their area was covered by the rrobile. This .response is not unusual. 10.3. It is clear fron the data that Leicestershire Libraries and Information Service has provided an excellent service in North west Leicestershire throughout the network of rrobile and static libraries. 10.4. Only a small percentage indicated that they knew little or nothing of the operating rrobile service in the area. 10.4.1. This could be due to the rrovements of people. Many people are rroving into the rural areas, and new. residents are usually unaware of the range of services available to them. -118- 10.5. This highlights the need for constant publicity and good outreach carrnunity work on the part of local librarians. 10.5.1. Leaflets are an efficient and cost effective way of publicising the route and timetable of the mobile library. They encourage people to take advantage of the service. 10.5.2. From time to time, local librarians can take advantage of local groups or events as an opportunity to give talks to promote library services, and to encourage people to make good use of them. -119- 10.1. Use of the mobile library 10.1.1. Table no. 11 shows the use of the mobile library analysed by sex and age group. The majority of users proved to be female - 73% against that of 24% males. 10.1.2. The highest proportion of female users belonged to the 25-44 yeaEs age group. After that, the figures in each group are lower. Only about 2% of females belonged to the 18-24 years age group. 10.1.3. It is evident from the data that older women make more use of the mobile library than younger females. This is more than likely due to the fact that they are able to visit their own l=al library, or visit larger libraries in the area for study and research. 10.1.4. Most of, the women from the 25-44 years age-group_are more than likely housewives or young mothers who find the mobile library service is the most convenient for them according to where they live in relation to the nearest library. -120- 10.1.5. Among female users the percentage went down with the increase of age, whereas among the male users the figures rose, especially in the 65-74 years age group. 10.1.5.1. This could be due to the fact that retired males usually spend a lot of time reading. Table 11 USE OF MOBILE UBRARY, BY SEX AND AGE GROUP ---- Age groups Unspecified ....I N.... Sex 18 -24 -25 -44 45 - 64 65 -74 74+ I % __%--0 ____ " % % % % - --,------Male 0 5.81 3.48 10.46 4.65 2.65 L----':..cc=~__'_____Female 2.32 ______23.25 22.09 15.11---"-'- __10.46'-'--'--'--- _____1.32_ Use of mobile library, by sex and age group 25 20 I I-' 15 N N o Male I IlIlII Felllale 10 5 o +------' 1 2 3 4 5 6 18-24 25-44 45-64 65-74 74+ Unspecified -123- 10.2. Rate of satisfaction 10.2.1. The second question in this section asked if people were satisfied with the service provided by the rrobile library. The vast majority of 62% indicated that they were satisfied. However, 24% of the respondents did not answer this at all. 10.2.2. It is difficult to conclude as to why so many people failed to reply to this question. I do not think it was because they were afraid to express their opinions, perhaps they did not feel a need to complete this part of the questionnaire. Table 12 RATE OF SATISFACTION OF RESPONDENTS Reasonably---UnspecifiedT I f-' N Satisfied Unsatisfied Satisfied Did not answer .r> I % % % % ---I---~------ 66.27 2.32 11.62 26.74 Cbart 12 Rate of Satisfaction of all respondents Unspecified/Did not iIIslI!r I I-' N U1 I Rusooably satisfied Satisfied 11.62l 66.21\ Uns,uisfitd -126- 10.3. Improvements The third question in this section asked for personal suggestions from the respondents on how to improve the existing IOObile library service. These are scrne of the views that were expressed:- 1. The need· for IOOre new books. (One reader conrnented on the fact that he had read all the books on the IOObile) . 2. A better selection and roore talking books needed. 3 . MJre fiction but fewer paperbacks wanted. 4. A request for roore non-fiction books, especially on the subjects of the Royal family, the home, fashion, knitting and cookery. 5. Of the fiction, IOOre stories set in the country were wanted. 6. Sane expressed a need for IOOre pre-school text books with bright, colourful pictures. 7. Carrnents were made about the time. People wanted to -127- know the exact times of the stopping points of the rrobile. 8 .. some wanted to change the time of their usual visit. They said that it would be rrore convenient if the rrobile visited after school hours. 9. A visit from the mobile at the weekend was also --,"' .. desirable. CHAPI'ER SIX -128- SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS 1. General response The majority of respondents were female, (approximately 75% against 25% males), and nearly all were over the age of 25 years. A poor response was received from those between 15 and 24 years of age. 2. Distance and use of library The survey showed that customer visits increased with the shorter distances from the. library. Most of the respondents lived within six miles of the library, while 17% lived rrore than six miles away. 3. Frequency of use It was clear from the findings that m~st pecple visited the library basically every two weeks, while a very small number (7%) only managed every rronth. A large proportion (31%), indicated that they never go to the library. -129- 4. Use of other libraries Apart frcrn using the Mobile Library, !tOre than a quarter of the respondents indicated that they visit other libraries in neighbouring counties including Nottinghamshire, Worcestershire and Derbyshire. 5. Occupation Among female respondents, most indicated that they were housewives, 18% were retired and the rest (21%) were employed. Of the male respondents, 18% were retired, and around 7% were engaged in full-time employment. 6. Reasons for visiting the library The greatest reason for visiting the library was obviously to borrow b::lOks .. A good number indicated that they also use the library for reference material, information and-, for borrowing sound recordings_ (approximately 25%). Around 14% of the people indicated that they take advantage of the facilities in the library and that they take away information leaflets. Another 12% indicated that they visit the library to find out 'whats on'. 7% of the respondents showed interest in library exhibitions and displays, -130- and 5% indicated that they go the library to read newsp3.pers and magazines. 7. People seeking information About a quarter of the respondents visit the library to find out local addresses, tourist. information and local history. Toe majority of these wc,-re female. Around 10% Jmostly young women) indicated that they take advantage" "of the HELP .. ! service, and another 10%, mainly the elderly, rely on the library for information on bus/railway timetables. A small number (6% and 7% respectively), showed interest in careers and local government information. Nearly 4% of the people used the library to check the Electoral Register, but the survey showed that in general, people did not use the library to seek sports information. 8. Use of the t-bbile Library The t-bbile Library is used regularly by all the respondents except for those between 18 and 24 years of age. More females than males use the service, but when asked whether they were satisfied with the service, 26% of the people did not state their opinion. However, for those who did, it was evident that [lOst were pleased and grateful for the services provided. CHAPI'ER SEVEN -131- CONCLUSIONS AND REcc:MMENDATIONS In order to improve the existing library services, the following suggestions have been reco~nded. These are based on the findings of the survey, and on the comments of the respondents. It is not obligatory to implement the sugg estions, but awareness of them would be useful, and adherence to them would be simple and inexpensive. Publicity A publicity campaign should take place regularly, at least once or twice a year. Leaflet distribution is an efficient way of highlighting library events and services. Also, every m~bile library route should have a timetable. Any changes in time should be notified to every household in advance. Stock Stock on rrobile libraries should be exchanged regularly and more frequently either with a bigger library or with other mobiles, as a .limited supply does not satisfy core readers. -132- Information The updating of information files should be a standard and constant procedure. People shol.ud be encouraged to give out information about their local eV~1ts, clubs and charities. Good relations with key village members (vicars, shop keepers, teachers, councillors etc) , plays a~ important role. This establishes the link between the library and the public. Modern technological aids such as computers should be employed to retrieve information. Psychologically, it will improve the 'library 'image', and will encourage people to impart information. <1> Personnel The librarian resp~nsible for the mobile library stock should travel regularly on the routes. This is the ~y way to get to know the com:nunity, their needs and aspirations. It also provides an opportunity for the public to directly express their views and concerns about the services. Mobiles should not work in isolation, but there should be coordinated team efforts between the Managers, Area Librarians, Librarians, drivers and library assistants. <2> -133- Minor improvements All the rrobile library vans should have an illuminated 'LIBRARY' sign. This will aid identification, especially on dark nights and in winter. On the outer wall of the van, a notice board of display window should be fitted where people can advertise their services or products. The ideal location for this would be either side of the van door. This would generate extra income and encourage attendance. Another possible suggestion is that all rrobile libraries could be fitted with a musical siren to announce its arrival. This would alleviate waiting time, especially on dark evenings. Mobile libraries should also have simple logos or slogans such as "WE KNCM ALL ABOl1r YOU, ASK US", to advertise information services. Every mobile library should be fitted with stabilisers and be used where possible. Adequate and efficient air-conditioning systems should be provided to maintain ==ect temperatures throughout the year. 'Grab-rails' inside the van would be of great use to the elderly and disabled. -134- Major improvements Although Leicestershire Libraries and Information Service maintains a fleet of thirteen rrobile libraries, it is strongly recommended to acquire at least one or two 'trailer' libraries. This would be advantageous as it would enhance the quality of library services in many (major) villages. Trailer libraries can remain for longer periods of time than ordinary rrobiles, perhaps for one or two days at a time. They can be manned and opened in the evening and at the weekend. Saturday activities can be arranged, and in the surrrner, librarians can take advantage of the space on these trailers to plan activities and special events for children. There would be sane disadvantages however. Due to the size of the trailers, access to minor roads would not be p)ssible. They require large sites to park, and unlike rrobiles, they would not be able to provide a housebound service, unless additional staff or volunteers were used. As to the design of the trailers, they should have a double glazed ceiling to allow maximum natural light. <3> Also, they should be fitted with many rrodern amenities such as a kitchen sink, mi=owave oven, a kettle and a separate toilet. <4> -135- Trailers should be designed in such a way that the staff can supervise the custaners easily. The best position for the issue desk for example, ~uld be directly opposite the door. In this way, the staff ~uld be able to clearly see the public getting on and off the vehicle. It ~uld also be a good idea if the trailers were equipped with a computer compatible with the main library computer systems. -136- REFERENCES <1> CLI\RKE, KESTER. M::>bilemeet seminar held at Leeds University'on 6th July, 1991. <2> LIVESEY, LOUIS. M::>bilemeet seminar held at Leeds University on 6th July, 1991. ,<3> & <4> ClARKE, KESTER. M::>bilemeet seminar held at Leeds University on 6th July, 1991. CHAPl'ER EIGHT -137- FlJl'URE DEVELOPMENT While developing future strategies, the Leicestershire Libraries and Information Service will have to consider the rapidly changing pcpulation of North West Leicestershire. As early as 1967, C.R. Eastwood has noted in his book - "Mobile Libraries" - "In villages near to urban areas there has been sane loss of hCl!TOgeneity due to improved transpcrt; village institutions such as sports and youth clubs, public houses and activities such as whist drives, dances and bingo, are now patronised by people frcm the towns, who often prefer the IrOre intimate atIrOsphere of the village." <1> This is true in the case of North West Leicestershire. Due to improved road links, many professional, affluent and retired people are IrOving in the area. These ones will make great demands of the library service. They foon part of what has been called 'adventitious'· popUlation, that is, people who live in the countryside by choice. This is no sense a criticism, as these 'offccrners' provide a wealth of knowledge and experience which can only benefit the countryside in the long run, and they often provide the leadership and initiative in village activities which has, -138- in the past, been the prerogative of the manor house and vicarage. The general educational standards of these people appear to be above average, which means that their demands on library services can be expected to be heavy. -139- REFERENCES <1> EASTI-rnD, C. R. M::lbile libraries and other public library transfX?rt', 1967. pg 14. -140- BIBLICGRAPHY 1. BUNCH, l\LI..I\N. Ccmnunity information service. London: Bingley, 1982. 2. CAMPBELL, COLIN. MJbile library route planning. London: Library Association, 1982. 3. EAS'IWXlD, C.R. MJbile libraries and other public library transport. London: Association of Assistant Librarians, 1967. 4. FOSTER, KATE. General household survey 1988. London: HMSO, 1988. 5. FRANK, M. Leicestershire village information files. Leicester: Rural Press, 1983. 6. HEWITT, A.R. Public library law. London: Association of Assistant Librarians, 1975. 7. KELLY, T. History of Public libraries in Great Britain, 1845 - 1975. lDndon: Library Association, 1977. -141- 8. LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL. North West Leicestershire industrial profile. Leicester: Leicestershire County Council, 1990. 9. LEICESl'ERSHIRE COUNI'Y COUNCIL. Unemployment bulletin. Leicester: Leicestershire County Council, 1990. 10. MAGUIRE, M.L.G. Library services for SIMll ccmnunities. London: Library Ass=iation, 1978. 11. NORTH WEST LEICESTERSHIRE TECHNICAL Cl)LLEGE. A history of Coalvil1e and district. London: Facsimile, 1988. 12. OFFICE OF POPUL1\TION CENSUSES AND SURVEYS. Census 1981 County rep:?rt. London: HMSO, 1981. 13. ORTON, G.I.J. Illustrated history of mobile library services in the U.K. London: Branch and Mobile Gr.oup, 1981. 14. POTl'EN, DAVID. User survey: AutUllrrl 1990. Leicester: Leicestershire Libraries and Information Service, 1990. 15. THCMPSON, T.W. Review of Leicestershir:e econany. IP-icester: Leicestershire Coun"1:y Council, 1989. -142- 16. WHICH? FEBRUARY. Public libraries. London: Consumers Association Ltd, 1990. 17. WXlLLBIT, STEPHEN. Alternative rural services. London: Bedford Square Press, 1981. APPENDIX -143- LIBRARIES IN NORTH WEST LEICESTERSHIRE 1. Coalville Library Area H.Q / Group H.Q High Street Coalville open 54 HPW LE6 2EA MJn - Fri Sat Tel 35951/2 9.30-7.00 9.30-4.00 2. Ashby-de-la-Zouch Library open 37 HPW Kilwardby Street Ashby-de-la-Zouch Tue Thur Fri Leicestershire 10.00-7.30 10.00-7.30 10.00-7.30 LE6 5FX Sat Tel 413346 10.00-1.00 3. Ibstock Library open 19 HPW Comnunity College Central Road MJn Thur Fri Ibstock 2.00-7.30 10;00,LOO 4.30-7.30 Leicestershire 2.00-7.30 LE6 1NL Sat Tel 60395 10.00-12.00 4. Measham Library open 19 HPW High Street Measham Tue Wed Fri Burton-on-Trent 10.00-1.00 10.00-12.00 10.00-1.00 Staffordshire 2.00-7.30 2.00-7.30 Tel 70460 "". . IUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSIT.Y. OF . .TF.CHNOLOG'i LOUGHBOROUGH I le information needs of the rural community in North-West Leicestershire ------ order to continue to provide and improve the services required by the local mmunity, a survey is being undertaken in your area. I would be grateful if u would spend a few moments completing this questionnaire • .e questionnaire, when completed, should be returned in the envelope ovided. please note that any information you give will be treated in the rictest confidence and once your comments have been analysed all forms will destroyed. Please tick appropriace box How far do you live from your local library? 0-2 miles ••••••••••••• D (l) 3-4 miles ••••••••••••• D (2) 5-6 miles ••••••••••••• D (3) more than six miles •••• D (4) How often do you visit your library? More than once a week ...... D (5 ) Once a week •••••••••••••••• D (6) Once a fortnight ••••••••••• D (7) Once a month ••••••••••••••• D (8 ) Occasionally ••••••••••••••• D (9) Never •••••••••••••••••••••• D (10) 3. Do you use any other libraries? Yes ...... D (ll ) No ••••••••••••••• D (12) If yes, please indicate which •.•••.•••' •••••••••••••••• ...... (13) 4. Do you use the library (you may tick more than one) To borrow books ...... D (14) To borrow records, cassettes etc •••••••••••••••• n (15) To read newspapers, magazines ~tc ••••••••••••••• (16) To use the reference books •••••••••••••••• LJ (17) To ask for some information •••••••••••••••••••• D (18) To find out "What's On" (meeting, theatre etc.). D (19 ) To study using your own books ••••••••••••••••• n (20) To do school work ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• LJ (21) To visit an exhibition or display ••••••••••••• D (22) To attend a talk or activity •••••••••••••••••• D (23) To use other facilities (e.g. photocopier) ••••• LJ (24 ) To meet friends ...... D (25 ) To take information leaflets ...... D (26 ) Other reasons ...... - ...... -...... -...... (26) - 2 - Please give the. title(s) of the newspaper(s) or magazine(s) you like to read in the library (27 ) ...... What sort of information do you seek from your library? (you may tick more than one) (a) Addresses, local or others (e.g. doctors, child (28 ) minders, clubs, societies, national associations etc.) ...... D ( b) Business information (e.g. how to set up a (29) business, information about other companies, n British Standards etc.) •••••••••••••••••••••••• ( c) HELP! information (e.g. welfare benefit<, (30) health, consumer "advice, housing etc.) ••••••••• ( d) Local government information (e.g. reports and (31 ) minutes of the Council meetings, planning etc.) n ( e) Tourist information (e.g. maps, events, holiday (32) guides etc.) ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• D (f) Sports information ...... LJ (33) ( g) Bus, railway timetables ...... D (34) (h) Careers ...... D (35 ) ( i) Local History •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• LJ (36 ) ( j) Electoral ·register ...... D (37) or specify any other information •••••••••••••••••••••••• (38 ) ...... If you cannot find the· information you need, do you ask the staff? Yes ...... D (39) No ...... D (40) - 1 - 8. What do you think could be done to improve the services? • •••••••••••••••••••••••••••• • e .••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ·...... ·...... ·...... 9. Is your area served by a mobile library? Yes ...... o (41) No ...... LJ (42) Don't know ...... n (43) la. If your answer to question 9 is yes and you use it, are you satisfied with the services it gives? Yes ...... U (44) No ...... D (45) Reasonably ...... LJ ( 46) 11. What improvements, if any, would you suggest? ·...... ·...... ·...... ·...... 12. It would be helpful if you could give us the following facts about yourself: Are you:- Male ...... [] (47) Female ...... D (48) - 4 . -.. -. •· ... l ...... Your age group:- under 11' ••••••••• D (49) 11 - 14 •••••••••• D (50 ) 15 - 17 •••••••••• D (51) 18 - 24 •••••••••• D (52) 25 - 44 •••••••••• n (53) 45 - 64 •••••••••• LJ (54) 65 - 74 •••••••••• LJ (55) Over 74 •••••••••• n (56) Are you:- Full-time housewife •••••••• D (57) Part-time employed ••••••••• D (58) Full-time employed ••••••••• D (59) Full-time self-employed •••• n (60) Unemployed ••••••••••••••••• (61) I I Retired •••••••••••••••••••• D (62) At school/college •••••••••• [ _. I (63) Other, please specify •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••. (64) ...... ' ..... - ..•..•...•••. Please insert your ~/village name and postcode- •••••• ~._ .. __ ...... ~ •.•• ~ ...... '" ...... 4 ~...... •••. (65) Thank you very much for helping us by completing this questionnaire: I should be grateful if you would return it within one week of receiving it. VG/sb/vgcomqlu February 1990 - 5 ____