Appendix IV - Survey Methodology

Online Survey
Several surveys were conducted online using Survey Monkey, an Internet-based software program. These consisted of the online version of the library use survey, the survey of organizational library users and the library census.

The printed in-library survey instrument used in the 2004 study was modified to permit respondents to answer the same questions as asked in the telephone version of the library users’ survey. A version of the survey in Spanish was provided. Links to the survey instruments were provided to the State Library and Archives and all public library directors for inclusion on the home page of their respective websites. Where inclusion on the home page was not feasible, library directors were encouraged to post signs containing the link and encouraging library patrons to participate in the survey. A link to the survey was also posted on the Haas Center home page. The library user online survey ran from November 13, 2009 until January 4, 2010 and a total of 2,094 completed or partially completed surveys were received.

The survey of organizational library users consisted of a series of questions designed to elicit usage patterns and the economic value placed on public libraries by businesses, public and private schools and university libraries. Links to the online survey were e-mailed to a listing of special libraries, school superintendents, public school librarians and media specialists and private school principals. The survey was conducted from November 13, 2009 until January 4, 2010. A total of 167 completed or partially completed surveys were received.

The library census consisted of questions designed to elicit additional data not regularly reported to the State Library and Archives. Links to the survey were e-mailed to the public library directors. A total of 19 surveys were completed.