Publications and Research
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-2022
Abstract
This article describes a wayfinding study conducted in an urban, academic library to better understand the experiences of multilingual student populations. The study, which incorporated traditional user experience methods and video ethnography, exposed communication obstacles and spatial challenges encountered by students of English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) when attempting information retrieval tasks. After outlining the methodology and examining qualitative findings, the authors discuss how study findings prompted a reevaluation of local practices, service models, and staff training protocols. Finally, the authors explore the potential for qualitative, empathy-based wayfinding studies to transform library practices and spaces.
Comments
Preprint of Almeida, N., Tidal, J. (2022). Library Wayfinding and ESOL Students: Communication Challenges and Empathy-Based Intervention. Portal : Libraries and the Academy., 22(2).