Users of Children Sections of Public Libraries: An International Reading Culture Research

Abstract

This study was designed for learning the patterns of utilization of the children sections of public libraries and understanding the functions and social structures that library users find in or bring to these sections. The study was designed as a qualitative case study for examining three public libraries (Erzincan, Essen & Niğde). Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 72 children and 43 adults in 3 weeks of observation period. Findings for each of three libraries are given under the headings of quality of spaces for children, social climate, and overall picture of activities for children as the “within-case”. As to the “across-case” are reached the themes; preschool children, a place like a bookstore, a place like a playground, and reading as a sub-skill for academic success. Considering the functions of libraries in years, it is necessary to involve experts, writers, teachers, and parents in the process as well.