Public library services and the Polish community in England: case study

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to review the needs of the Polish community (establishedrnand newly arrived Poles) and how those needs are met by the public library service.rnDesign/methodology/approach - A case study method was used in partnership with SheffieldrnCity Libraries. The methodology included interviews with library professionals and interviews andrnquestionnaires targeted at members of the Polish community.rnFindings - The Polish community are generally satisfied with the service they receive from libraries.rnThe needs of sections of the Polish community are different dependent on their time in the country.rnMain concerns were with regard to the collection and their desire for good quality Polish materialsrnincluding works by Polish authors (not just translations into Polish).rnResearch limitations/implications - This study is a single case study giving a snapshot of thernlibrary services to Polish users.rnPractical implications - This study highlighted the need for increased community engagementrnwith this particular ethic group. There is a need for collection development for this group of users.rnThis can be facilitated by co-operation with other libraries that are engaging in best practice and alsornspecialist services such as the Polish Library in London.rnOriginality/value - This study is of practical value to public libraries meeting the needs of thernPolish Community that is a growing and transient user group. There is little other literature thatrnconsiders the needs of Poles newly arrived in this country.