A survey of inquiries received at Newcastle upon Tyne Polytechnic Library

Abstract

Results are reported of a survey of all inquiries received at Newcastle upon Tyne Polytechnic Library during one week. Analysis was designed to show whether enough—and appropriate— staff were available in relation to the population served. The rate of inquiry work was assessed and the type of inquiry was compared for different service points. Subject and general inquiry staff answered a proportion ( 20 per cent) of general and subject inquiries respectively. Some 10 per cent of inquiries took more than five minutes to answer. Comparison was made with a previous survey and showed a growth in volume and some change in the nature of inquiries.