2018 Library Survey (part-2): Students at VNU Dormitory

Objective of the study is to survey the needs of IU students residing at VNU Dormitory in accessing the library at late afternoon and night. 400 Survey Forms were delivered to IU students staying at the VNU Dormitory A (2 blocks). 118 completed forms received.

Survey conclusions & follow-ups:

There appears to be a growing demand for staying late on campus particularly in exam periods. Probably, recent changes in residence arrangments, public transportation, learning schedules, and canteen operation have made it feasible to stay longer on campus. The findings, therefore, suggest that the current opening-hour policy needs to be revised.

A number of students in this survey did indicate their intention to stay if the library expands its opening hours. But it is important to note that – at present – a large number of patrons still leave for home at around 4-5pm even in exam seasons. Besides, the concerns about personal safety and other issues might also affect their decision to access the library. The prospective library-opening-hour scheme, therefore, would probably benefit a certain user-segment only.

The opening-hour schedule, if revised, should consider the following factors:

• Differences in the needs for accessing the library in exam periods vs. in non-exam periods.
• Concerns about staying late at the univeristy, especially about walking back to the dorm at night given the security situation of the town.
• Needs in accessing the library 1-2 weeks prior to the fixed-exam-schedule in order to prepare for the exams.
• Needs from other user groups (students from other locations, staff, etc.)
• Costs for maintaining operation in low-patron periods.
• Library staffing.

For more details, please read the full report HERE.