Benchmarking in Knowledge Growth: Workable Best Practices for Innovation Assoc. Prof. Dr Arif Jawaid and Dr Parveen Kaur

Organisation of Presentation Objectives of the project Benchmarking research approach Conceptual Model (1, 2, 3) Face to face interviews Findings Recommendations

Introduction to the Study This study was embarked by Pustaka Negeri Sarawak (PNS) to explore the extent of library users’ reading habits and library provision in Sarawak, Malaysia. Specifically PNS’ aim was to investigates the ‘present state’ of library user’s reading habits in the urban and rural areas in Kuching, Sri Aman, Sarikei, Sibu, Bintulu, Miri and Limbang.

Methodology Main Objectives To identify the reading habits among users of public libraries To examine and identify the emerging needs of public library users To propose strategies for optimizing the use of the library resources Methodology Initial fieldwork: Literature review, benchmarking, visits to town and village libraries, informal interviews and discussions and document analysis. Eight libraries were visited in Sarawak. Formal fieldwork: Three interview schedules along with the prompt list (questionnaire) (January-March 2015).

Background of the Study Users Evidence from the Literature 1.Self of a person 1.1. passion for reading IFLA (2002) Gleed (2013) Rosenfeld (2007) Brozo et al (2007) Passion as motivator Reading for pleasure Increases literacy skill and achievement Adolescent girls more than boys 1.2. Interest in reading Hughes-Hassell & Shahriza and Hasan (2007) Rodge (2007) Belloni & Jongsma (1978) Variety of sources of reading Real experience Many complex skills Consistency in reading Life long learning 1.3.Language and Culture UNESCO (2012) Linda S.K (1995) Special attention to marginalised group Culture influence behaviour and communication pattern 1.4. Hobby Palani (2012) Table 1 : An Overview of Users’ Habits and the Extent

Jawaid’s Models

Figure 1: Conceptual Model to Generate Questionnaire for Head Librarian

Figure 2: Conceptual model to generate questionnaire for librarians

Figure 3 : An Overview of Variables Affecting Reading Habits

Self (Interest/ Hobby/ Passion) Findings Self (Interest/ Hobby/ Passion) Questions Response 1 Enjoy Coming to Library Yes (93%) 2 Purpose of Going Library Getting Info (71%) 3 Use Library Read Books of interest (81%) 4 Favourite Place Anywhere (59%) 5 Main Source of Information Reference (67%) 6 Reading Influence Self (81%)

Self (Interest/ Hobby/ Passion) Findings Self (Interest/ Hobby/ Passion) Questions Response 7 Reading on their Own Yes (97%) 8 Sharing Ideas Friends (88%) 9 Favourite Hobby Reading (73%) 10 Reason for Interest Pleasure (81%) 11 Procurement of Reading Habits Buy own (77%) 12 Read in Library 2-3 hours (58%)

Self (Interest/ Hobby/ Passion) Areas of Concern Findings Self (Interest/ Hobby/ Passion) Areas of Concern Questions Response 1 Frequency of Visit 1 x 1 week() 2 Reading Materials at Home N/paper and Magazines (66%) 3 Reading out of Library Sometimes

Self (Language and Culture) Findings Self (Language and Culture) Questions Response 1 Preferred Language Bahasa Malaysia (BM) (90%) 2 Reason Understand Better (88%) 3 Reading on Own culture Yes (94%) 4 Reading on Other Culture Yes (85%)

Overview of Recommendations Award for Users Award for Librarians Award for Head Librarians Award Schemes (of achievement, of excellence) Users’ reading habits Users’ reading frequency Users’ reading choices Scaffolding of the Users Proactive role Know the products Act as a teacher and promoter Library Services Improve connectivity Encourage the use of ICT ICT Support on reading process (SQRRR) on the use of ICT Training (for users, for librarians) Equal facilities Equal services Equating Rural-Urban Facilities Follow benchmarked libraries Maintain the infrastructure and services Physical Infrastructure Address users’ needs Accommodate users’ interests and levels Differentiated Reading Activities and Campaign

Thank you