The College Collection: Using Academic Support to Conduct Public Library Surveys

Two Connecticut public libraries contacted professors at a local university and asked for help in designing surveys of their library users. This study contrasts two very different approaches used in the research projects: (1) relying on volunteers to conduct telephone surveys at virtually no out-of-pocket cost; and (2) using some professional help to conduct mail-out, mail-back surveys. The study invites library directors to look at an underused resource: professors at local colleges who may want to conduct research--for free or at a reduced cost--due to their professional needs or a sense of social responsibility.