Student perceptions of academic and social effects of working in a university library

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the positive and negative effects of working in an academic library, as reported by college students.

Design/methodology/approach

Through surveys and interviews, student workers shared their perceptions of how employment in a university library affects their academics, social life, engagement with campus life, professional skill development, and emotional/psychological states.

Findings

Results indicate that the library job is seen as a generally positive part of the students' college experience, particularly in the areas of skill development and academic performance. However, neutral, mixed, and negative effects exist as well.

Research limitations/implications

Findings may not be generalizable due to the limited number of participants and their employment in a single department. Future research could include students in other departments, libraries, or universities. This study employed a single survey and interview, capturing a snapshot of student perceptions. A more longitudinal approach could examine how the attitudes and perceptions of working students change over time as a result of their employment.

Practical implications

This study presents suggestions for how librarians, faculty, staff, and administrators can promote working students' academic success and professional development.

Originality/value

This paper contributes a new perspective to the current literature on the academic and social effects of library employment. By gathering student perceptions via surveys and interviews, this research provides one of the first analyses of the experiences of library student workers as shared in their own voices.

Citation

Jacobson, H.A. and Shuyler, K.S. (2013), "Student perceptions of academic and social effects of working in a university library", Reference Services Review, Vol. 41 No. 3, pp. 547-565. https://doi.org/10.1108/RSR-11-2012-0075