Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
Summer 5-11-2017
Abstract
Life-long reading has positive effects on our lives and health. This study examines the ways in which adult library patrons read today. Using circulation statistics from four public libraries in the north suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, we explore the differences in reader preferences between traditional print reading (print book checkouts) and e-reading (eBook downloads). This data analysis provides insights on adult patrons’ use of public libraries today (i.e. the most likely genre to be checked out are fiction and the preferred reading method is print). This paper also offers some practical suggestion on libraries’ collection development, as well as readers’ engagement and retention as they relate to technological advancements on book format.