The relationship between culture and public library use: non-Western students in Scotland

Abstract

Introduction: Individuals’ cultural backgrounds influence their use of societal resources, including those offered in public libraries. Well-established in library research are explorations of the benefits of public library use to new-comer communities, including migrant workers, immigrants, forced migrants, and international students. However, to date no research has been completed on why these communities use particular resources. Methods: The project outlined in this poster concerns international students from non-Western countries in Scotland. Using a mixed methods approach, the study presented will explore why international students from non-Western countries use specific public library resources, and the cultural factors that influence this use. Analyses: Findings will derive from thematic analysis of participant responses in interview and questionnaire data. Conclusion: An understanding of the perceived value of certain resources can assist in the effective tailoring of resources to serve new community members.