A case study into the implementation of RFID at the Pilkington Library Loughborough University

The aim of the study was to examine the implementation of RFID at the Pilkington Library. This was the first time the entire process had been examined, pulling together both qualitative and quantitative data. The study examined internal Library statistics on issue figures, sick leave, staffing costs and enquiries. It also used pre-existing Library user survey data and an internal training survey. These were combined with interviews with Library staff to gain their impressions of the implementation process. All these data streams combined to create a longitudinal case study over a period of two years, so that an impression was gathered of RFID both in its infancy and as it matured. The study concluded that implementation was an undoubted success: issue targets were exceeded within three months, staffing costs were reduced ahead of schedule and enquiries increased. The user survey proved popularity amongst users and staff interviews provided proof of positivity towards RFID. It is important that major initiatives are assessed to evaluate success. Having done so, other libraries could use the success of Loughborough to support their own arguments for investment. It also makes it more likely that the Pilkington Library will gain further investment from the University as they can be seen to provide excellent value for money. The study's main limitation is that it is based at one library. It would be worth examining the processes involved at other libraries to establish common themes or to assess whether the Pilkington Library's experience with RFID is an anomaly

Capturing the student user experience (UX) in York and Loughborough University Library buildings

Purpose – In higher education libraries, the concept of the user experience has increased in profile and importance. The concept of the “student as customer” has generated much debate but there is general agreement that universities need to be more successful in meeting student expectations. A key strategic area for university libraries has been to adapt and improve their physical spaces to ensure that they are still relevant for today’s students. York and Loughborough University Libraries have both undergone building refurbishments and both are committed to monitoring and reviewing services and spaces. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – There were various constraints which very much influenced the methodology. These included: avoiding survey overload no resource allocation an acknowledgement that the methodology employed needed to combine rigour and validity with a pragmatic approach to data collection. A joint project team was established of representatives from each university. A questionnaire created on Google Forms was administered by staff with individuals in the library and entering the data onto a iPad. Findings – Findings provide evidence of use across a range of users along with valuable information on who is using our library spaces and for what purpose. Originality/value – This research is a rich contribution to the evidence based around student’s learning in universities. It benefits from the expertise and knowledge of two university libraries. As university’s continue to develop learning spaces, this work will enable further investigation around what makes a successful learning space and what makes the library a destination of choice