Abstract:

The Main Library of the University of Science and Technology in Bydgoszcz joined in 2017 the first nationwide survey of user satisfaction of scientific libraries. The entire library services and the following elements of the library were evaluated: printed collections, electronic collections, opening hours, equipment, housing conditions, employees, loan rules, information services, educational offer, the use of computers and the Internet in the library, the use of copying devices and website.

The aim of the conducted evaluation studies was to determine the satisfaction index, which will allow to determine the level of user satisfaction with the library services. Benefits for the library resulting from participation in the study include, among others identification of areas of functioning that need improvement, the possibility of preparing activities aimed at changing the image of the library, effective planning of its activities or the possibility of comparing the results of research with other libraries with a similar profile.

The evaluation study was conducted based on the evaluation criterion - effectiveness. The implementation of the research allowed to formulate answers to key evaluation questions.

In accordance with the evaluation standards and the requirements of the implementation of evaluation studies, the survey carried out for the needs of the study was based on a questionnaire which was carried out by the management department of the Main Library. The analysis of statistics on the use of UTP e-resources in 2015-2017 was made. In the first stage of the evaluation, an analysis of the available documents, which are essential for the proper functioning of the Main Library, was analyzed, including a detailed analysis of the library user satisfaction survey conducted by the Main Library in 2017. The study included an individual free interview with the director and deputy director.

The research indicated that the Main Library in the use of electronic resources ensures the effectiveness of the operation in a low degree, while in the scope of printed resources in a very low one, respectively. However, it can be noted that the number of logins to the bases is systematically growing, eg to the WoS database in 2015 the number of logins was 5541 and in 2017, 8541, and the number of logins in the analyzed period increased by 49% to the EBSCO database. On the other hand, the number of downloaded files from electronic magazines was decreasing. The library offers access to 10 magazines and so in 2015. about 81 thousand downloads, and in 2017, 63 thousand downloads. The research indicated that the number of trainings conducted in 2016 was 34, and in 2017, 44 trainings. This enabled training of 1732 people and 2011 persons respectively. Considering the team's involvement, it can be concluded that promotional activities are carried out systematically but require clarification and referral to appropriate groups of potential recipients. The research also showed that conducted evaluation study in the scope of the Main Library's activity indicated the necessity to make changes. For proper functioning, a strategy should be created for the University's Main Library. The prepared strategy should be the result of consultation with the entire team of employees. The library should respond to the needs of employees and students to all kinds of information to minimize the dissonance between what it can offer and the readers' requirements.

Keywords:

Evaluation, evaluation criteria, library, electronic and printed resources.