You Said, We Did - QUB Library Services Covid-19 Survey
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Library Services have explored new ways of delivering a safe and efficient service to our users.
For example, we have extended book return dates and cancelled outstanding fines, provided a temporary click and collect service from The McClay and Biomedical libraries, ripped up the rule book on borrowing and introduced an automatic renewals policy, and have continued to answer queries remotely via our new online Library Chat service.
Given these changes, we were keen to hear what our users thought of Library Services’ response to Covid-19, and a survey was conducted between 8th December 2020 and 4th January 2021 to measure user satisfaction. A total of 556 responses were received (74.6% undergraduates, 13.1% postgraduate taught students, and 12.2% postgraduate research students). 82% of respondents were either ‘very satisfied’ or ‘satisfied’ with how Library Services responded to Covid-19. The Library remaining open was regarded as the best thing about Library Services during Covid-19, with appreciation also for the way in which social distancing measures were put in place throughout the building. 84.4% felt that the social distancing measures in place at the Library were either ‘very good’ or ‘good’.
However, Library Services aims to continually improve the services we offer, and the survey also provided an opportunity for respondents to say what they think could be done better. You said you wanted to see the return of food and drink facilities, a space for eating, extended opening hours, and further enforcement of Covid-19 safety measures throughout the Library. As a result of this feedback, we have implemented the following:
- We relaxed our policy on eating in the Library so you can eat cold snacks at your desk.
- The Student Lounge area on the Ground Floor re-opened with vending machines available.
- A water fountain was made available in the Ground Floor lobby area.
- We extended opening hours on all Subject Floors in The McClay Library; Floors 1-3 now remain open until 10pm.
- It is now mandatory to wear a face covering in all areas, even when sitting at a study desk.
Latest updates and opening hours can be found on our website - www.qub.ac.uk/lib
Please remember only visit the Library if it is essential and always wear a face covering, even when sitting at a study desk.
If you have any feedback or questions, please contact library@qub.ac.uk