Library and Information Science Commons^™

Hispanics In The Academic Library, Kellian Clink

Library Services Publications

Based on a study of the students' own voices, outlined are responsive actions academic libraries can take to make Hispanic students feel more welcomed and comfortable. Since use of libraries is positively related to student retention, it is important that we understand our own students' experiences and recommendations.

• Invite resident hall staff to host library sessions
• Train and invite peer (other Hispanic students) tour guides for patrons
• Roaming reference service
• Bilingual brochures (separate ones for them and their parents)
• A poster that showed which staff have different languages

Libraries And Hispanic Students: A Study, Kellian Clink

Library Services Publications

Purpose -This study describes Hispanic students’ use of the academic library and their perceptions of factors that impact their use and satisfaction with it.

Design/Methodology -Using the literature as a springboard, a survey was created and modified to understand Hispanic students’ perceptions of the academic library. The participants were recruited by the University’s Institutional Research team, which could reach out to students who self-identified as Hispanic.

Findings - Generally speaking, Hispanic students are comfortable in this particular academic library, and felt that librarians and staff were available and kind. They are less comfortable asking for research help, largely …