KJCKorea
Journal Central

This study aimed to investigate the current status of the books acquired by direct loan for requested books of public libraries in Busan and to evaluate the usefulness of this collection by analyzing direct loan request and borrowing data. To facilitate the research, data on the collection and circulation, book purchase costs, and direct loan applications and approvals were gathered. The usefulness of the collection was evaluated by circulation analysis, as well as collection turnover rates and use factor analysis. The findings of the study revealed that librarian-selected books and direct loan books differed significantly in the number of books and circulation. In particular, the proportion of unborrowed books among the direct loan books was higher than that of the librarian-selected books. In addition, the analysis of collection turnover rates and use factor showed that the direct loan books were used more actively than the librarian-selected books. However, the correlation analysis indicated that the budget for the direct loan for requested books service and the number of books had little effect on the collection turnover rates and use factor. This suggests the need to establish clear guidelines for the selection, budgeting, and execution of the direct loan for requested books.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the views and perceptions of library staff, who play a central role in creating and advancing library policies at the local government level. These findings are intended to serve as foundational data, aiding local government authorities in developing informed library policies. Based on the survey of library staff perceptions, the study suggests that local governments should approach library specialization with a balanced view, focusing on enhancing both operational effectiveness and distinctiveness. The findings indicate that upgrading aging facilities through renovations should take precedence over constructing new ones. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of redefining public libraries’ roles and functions and establishing library policies that promote harmonious engagement with the local community.

This study investigated and analyzed the perception of public library librarians to propose the social role orientation of libraries for reclusive loners. As a result of the study, it was found that it was necessary to provide education to promote awareness of the object, expand awareness of the service area of the library, and develop specialized services as a customized support system.