Taking pro-action: A survey of potential users before the availability of wireless access and the implementation of a wireless notebook computer lending program in an academic library

摘要

Purpose – The purpose of the article is to gauge reaction to the implementation of a wireless laptop lending program in a university library before it actually became operational and wireless access itself became available. Design/methodology/approach – This online survey consisted of 22 multiple choice questions that all Monmouth University students and employees were invited by e-mail to answer. Findings – The vast majority of responses came from students, and most of them were ready for wireless access in the library and across campus. Several re-emphasized in text their desire to log-on to the network with their own laptops. Research limitations/implications – The survey ran for only two weeks, and yet, because tabulation was done by hand, a response rate ten times greater would have made our method impracticable. Practical implications – This kind of survey is comparatively easy and fast to implement. It lends itself to follow-up surveys to measure the success of a wireless computer program or other technological development, including the possible effects on user attitude. Originality/value – This study was original in that it took place just before a wireless laptop-lending program was activated. Tightly focused online surveys with a limited number of questions can help librarians anticipate issues not considered or sufficiently emphasized earlier, or quickly assess the impact wireless access is having.