The Impact of Technology on Library Interactions: A Study at the University of Florida Health Science Center Library

The University of Florida Health Science Center Library (HSCL) has been conducting an annual survey from 2012 to 2016 to gauge health sciences users' technology awareness and use, as well as their interest in using technology to engage with the library and its services. The survey aimed to identify trends and patterns in users' behavior, which would inform strategic decisions regarding library marketing, training, and service development.

The survey results showed that smartphone ownership was nearly universal among respondents, with a majority also owning tablets. While users were likely to check library hours, use medical apps, and access electronic resources from their mobile devices, they were less likely to engage with the library on social media platforms such as Facebook or Twitter. Notably, only a small percentage of users had used citation management tools like EndNote.

Reviewing the aggregate data allowed librarians at HSCL to gain insights into how technology impacts library interactions and make informed decisions about service development. The results also highlighted the need for libraries to adapt their programs and offerings to meet the evolving needs of their communities.

The annual review of survey results has enabled librarians to identify users' needs and interests, leading to incremental changes in services offered. For example, HSCL has developed targeted marketing campaigns to promote its electronic resources and services, as well as training sessions on citation management tools like EndNote Web. By staying up-to-date with emerging technologies and adapting their programs accordingly, librarians can better support the communities they serve.

Overall, this study demonstrates the importance of conducting regular surveys to understand users' technology needs and preferences, and using that information to inform strategic decisions about library services and marketing efforts. As technology continues to evolve, libraries must remain proactive in their approach to understanding user behavior and adapting their programs to meet emerging trends and patterns.

Uf library endnote web