Reading Habits of Users of Pustaka

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

From the findings, it was concluded that: a) Library users were mainly Malays and students.
b) Many of them are forced readers with a positive attitude towards reading.
c) Self-encouragement drives their reading habits.
d) Academic Books and Newspapers are among the commonly used library materials.
e) English is the preferred language, especially among E-users.
f) Reading hours between 2-5 hours per week i.e. between 13 to 20 books a year.
g) Library visits of Once or Twice a month.
h) Library as a space for doing homework & assignments.
i) A high percentage of zero borrowing.

In view of the positive attitude towards reading, these forced readers have the potential to be nurtured as avid readers. Pustaka Negeri Sarawak, as reference libraries in that State of Sarawak, can tap into the potential by playing a more active role in “converting” these forced readers to become avid readers so that these forced readers can “acquire the reading habit to lead a rich and meaningful life” (Abdul Rahman Deen, Borneo Post, 24 April 2015). When officiating the ‘Let’s Read Together for 10 Minutes’ program held at the State Library on April 23, 2015, Dr Abdul Rahman Deen, a member of the State Library’s board of management, encouraged participants to read more and visit nearby libraries (Borneo Post, 24 April 2015). He added that a good reading habit enables us to share a vision for a developed nation as without knowledge, the vision will not become a reality. In light of the reading habits among the studied participants, Pustaka as the State Library in Sarawak may play a leading role to win over these forced readers so that they will develop into avid readers by collaborating with other public libraries under the local authorities including with DBKU, BDA, and MBKS. As libraries of today are confronted with the need to master many different roles – some traditionally associated with libraries, some are not. That is a lot to handle and cope with, but when the local authorities work together with Pustaka, our libraries may become places that will anchor community life and bring people together. As a roadmap to success, these are few strategies that can be adopted by Pustaka Negeri Sarawak.

Community Engagement
One of the ways to inculcate the culture of good reading habits is for Pustaka Negeri Sarawak to function as an integral part of community engagement. Hence, it can become an ideal place to offer numerous events and support programs in collaboration with school reading activities e.g. the Nilam project, PT3 assignments, and Form Six research activities. In addition, Pustaka Negeri Sarawak can engage retirees as volunteers for library reading programs e.g. Book Club and knowledge sharing. Pustaka Negeri Sarawak not only needs to serve the diverse community of today, but also keeps pace with the global challenges of tomorrow. Therefore, it is essential for Pustaka Negeri Sarawak to continue and enhance their community outreach programs, e.g.to assist with home libraries and book donations for community libraries.

Library Enviroment
Library users hope to see a more inviting ambiance in the library. The changing needs and desires of library users shall be considered by redesigning, reshaping, and retooling the function of library spaces (O'Neal, 2013). Not only the equipment, furniture, and layout must be functional and fit for a modern library in a high-tech age, but also, the interior must be aesthetically pleasing. An interior that is enhanced with functional and user-friendly layout e.g. cheerful colours and cosy ambiance can create experiences like memories, ideas, and emotions that will allow users to enjoy and continue to revisit the library. According to O'Neal (2013), library seating can also be built into the shelving and study areas. The children’s area can also be equipped with big and movable foam pieces for seating and play. Additionally, for the exterior, the entrance must promote and facilitate access to the library. There is a need to create a welcoming walkway to the main entrance of the Pustaka Kuching. The walkway to the entrance of the library should be inviting and offering easy access to the library.

Library Services and Technology
Users will always turn to the library if they know that the library can provide them with the services and technology they need. When the library is equipped with robust, high- speed, safe, reliable access to digital world, it will attract more patrons to the libraries. When people can bring their own smart phones, tablets, and notebooks, they will be more motivated to come to the library to use the unlimited high-speed internet. As reference libraries, Pustaka Negeri Sarawak can be a champion in providing excellent free internet services, state of the art computers with scanners and assistive technologies such as printers, fax, and copy machines. Patrons do not need to go to many different places for binding, scanning or even photocopying. The library can function as a one-stop center for library users. Finally, the management can revisit the library hours to accommodate the need for extra opening hours during examination weeks.

Full Report

The full report of this study is available at Sarawakiana.