Publications and Research
Document Type
Book Chapter or Section
Publication Date
2022
Abstract
While surveys tend to be the most frequently used research method in libraries, focus groups are growing in popularity in library research. Using focus groups as an assessment tool can be an interesting and informative way to gather information in a student-centered process. During the 2019–2020 academic year, the A. Philip Randolph Library, which serves the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC), City University of New York (CUNY), ran a series of focus groups in hopes of gathering qualitative data pertaining to student use of the library space. In the past, the library faculty and staff have used a variety of methods to assess their services and their space, including observational studies and surveys. The most recent period of using focus groups is an attempt to expand upon past assessment methods to incorporate broader student voices. This chapter will explore whether focus groups are an effective method for evaluating physical library spaces and whether the BMCC library space meets the needs of its exclusively commuter patrons.
Comments
Walker, S & Thompson, J. (2022). Assessing User-Centeredness with Focus Groups: A Study of Commuter Students in a Community College Library. In J. Pinkley & K. Casey (Eds.), The Community College Library: Assessment. ACRL.