Iranian Young Adults’ Perceptions and Use of Public Library Services

Abstract

The main objective of this survey was to know young adults’ perceptions and use of<br><br>public libraries in Sabzevar, Iran. Research population included students aged 12 to 15<br><br>who were public library members and were using public library services several times in a<br><br>year. According to Cochran sampling size formula, the sample size was calculated 180<br><br>persons that were chosen by random cluster sampling technique. Required data was<br><br>gathered by a researcher made questionnaire and analyzed by descriptive and inferential<br><br>statistics using SPSS 20. The findings showed that the necessity of public library use was<br><br>more than moderate extent from the young adults’ perspective. The use of loan services,<br><br>reference services, and information services was more than moderate extent, while use of<br><br>extension services was less than moderate extent. The main reason for public library use<br><br>was use of library non-text books and educational aid books, and the main obstacle to use<br><br>public library was huge amount of home work and lack of time. Further, there was a<br><br>direct significant relationship between the use of public library services and<br><br>socioeconomic and cultural status.