Public Library Visitors Survey in Moldova – Wave 3 – 2016

The survey covered both Novateca and non-Novateca library users, with a total of 1230 participants. The study was conducted on a representative national-level basis, covering all regions of the country, excluding the Trans-Dniesterian region. The survey found that the share of persons visiting the library at least once a week grew in 2016 compared to 2015, but remained lower than in 2014. Public libraries benefiting from the Novateca program continued to have more frequent visitors than non-Novateca libraries. Most library visitors of both categories considered practically all library services to be important or extremely important. The survey also found that the use of internet and computers was similar to previous surveys for both Novateca and non-Novateca users. However, there was a decreasing trend in the number of computer users among Novateca users, while the number of internet users remained stable. Significantly increased use of courses, trainings, borrowing of books, and other materials was observed among Novateca users. Internet accessibility from home increased, with a slight but steady growing pattern in the number of persons accessing internet from home for the first time. Novateca libraries remained the second most common place where respondents accessed internet for the first time, while non-Novateca libraries were rarely mentioned. The survey also found that public libraries were considered an important resource for learning skills to operate office equipment, use Microsoft Office applications, and navigate the internet. Three-quarters of Novateca visitors used digital technologies offered by the library, compared to half of non-Novateca visitors. The services offered by public libraries had a positive impact on the life quality of users, including saving time, improving communication, and increasing community awareness. The modernization of libraries through the expansion of services offered by them contributes to more intensive use of libraries and has a positive impact on the quality of human life. The report concludes that Novateca libraries continue to attract and maintain more loyal and satisfied clients, and are highly appreciated by the public. The expansion of the Novateca program to other areas of the country is recommended, taking into account higher standards of library infrastructure and human resources.