Here in the Duke University Libraries, we want to know what people really think of us. Every few years, we survey the student body to understand how and why they use the library, and to get feedback on existing and potential library services, collections, and spaces. The surveys also help us identify services that students aren’t necessarily aware of, and to empower library staff with data to use in decision-making.
This year, approximately 2,100 Duke students responded to our call for feedback, divided almost evenly between undergraduates and graduate students. They also offered some 1,500 free-text comments for us to mull over. Their responses were occasionally flattering (“The Music Library staff are among the warmest, most friendly, and genuinely helpful staff I have ever worked with”) and frequently frank (“The desks are dirty and I have to carry wet wipes with me”).
What follows are a few of the more interesting highlights and insights. Over the next few months, we will be taking a deep dive into the survey data and ultimately use it to make service enhancements, expenditures, and other library improvements. Feedback is what helps libraries grow, and the more input we get, the better we’re able to renovate, rethink, and improve our offerings for the next class of Blue Devils. When libraries and students work together, everybody wins!
More Fun Facts from the Survey
When asked “Where do you typically start searching for sources for a research paper or project?” humanities students are the least likely to start with generative AI (71%: Never)
40% of male students frequently or always start with AI in searching for information, compared with 23% of females and 18% of nonbinary students
73% of students surveyed have never scheduled a one-on-one research consultation with a librarian, but those who have reported high levels of satisfaction
12% of students surveyed frequently or always come to the library to take video calls, while nearly half of all students do this sometimes
Roughly half of all students surveyed never socialize or eat in the library
Changes We Made in Response to Past User Surveys
New solo study spaces: Students asked for more solo study spaces, so we added four reservable study carrels and two soundproof booths.
Artwork that reflects our student population: Students asked for improvements to the artwork in our spaces to better reflect the diversity of the Duke community. We formed a visual diversity committee and completed several projects to feature new artwork in our spaces.
Demystifying interlibrary loans: 30% of students didn’t understand how to use this service, so we made major changes to the interlibrary requests form to make it easier for users.
Increased textbook lending: Students asked for more textbooks to be available from the library. We purchased textbooks for the 100 highest enrollment classes at Duke and made them available for three-hour checkout at the library.
Easier access to online articles and research materials: Students asked for help getting access to library resources while off campus. We collected helpful tools and instructions into a single, clear page. And we licensed the New York Times and The Atlantic for all students, including full website and mobile app access.
All-gender restrooms: Students asked for more publicity around the all-gender restrooms in the libraries. We created new signage to direct people to them.