Evaluating equity in public library services

Abstract

Reports results of research conducted by the Centre for the Public Library in the Information Society, Sheffield University, Department of Information Studies, to develop a tool for evaluating the social impact of public library activities. The project included an examination of equity or fairness in the distribution of services in relation to objectives. The study involved library staff, elected members, focus groups of local residents, users and non users of public libraries in the City of Newcastle upon Tyne and the County of Somerset, UK. The methodology used in the study has been published in detail elsewhere ( IFLA Journal, 25 (2) 1999, 90-6). Barriers to equity were found to be related to: physical barriers; geographical barriers; economic barriers. The data shows that both Newcastle and Somerset library services are administered fairly, with only isolated examples where equity had to be counter balanced with efficiency considerations. In terms of equity of access to services, both library authorities had policies to improve access for people with disabilities, although there was a call for a more user focused approach by the focus groups. Problems in Somerset, resulting from rural isolation, were overcome through a comprehensive network of services. Problems in Newcastle, resulting from economic barriers, were helped through policies directed at priority groups and areas.