Technology Lending Survey

The NC State University Libraries offers a technology lending service where users can borrow devices ranging from laptops and chargers to virtual reality headsets and podcasting equipment. As we expand the Libraries’ already extensive collection of technology available to borrow, we wanted to find out more about the technology wants and needs of our users. We were particularly interested in the users of the Hunt Library. Do those users  have unique or specific needs?

In order to gain a deeper understanding of our users’ wants and needs, we formulated several types of questions for an email survey. First, we gauged users’ impressions of a few specific devices that the department had been considering purchasing. We also collected open-ended feedback to find out what other devices users wish they could borrow and why. Furthermore, we evaluated user expectations regarding borrowing periods. Here is what we found:

Of the specific items the Libraries was considering purchasing, which were users most interested in borrowing?

We presented seven items we were considering. Of those, respondents were most interested in borrowing a phone backup drive, silent timer watch, and solar power supply.

What other devices and tools do users want to borrow?

Participants expressed interest in many different devices, ranging from karaoke kits and noise-canceling headphones to tool boxes and inflatable projector screens.

Interestingly, however, many participants requested items that are already in our tech lending collection. Some of these devices include laptops, tablets and Kindles, and gaming devices.

Participants who said they used the Hunt Library were most interested in borrowing monitors, keyboards, and cameras, all of which are available to borrow.

For how long would users want to be able to borrow these devices?

Participants reported very different borrowing period expectations. The most common responses ranged from a few days up to two weeks. Several participants expected durations up to a full semester. Many participants suggested that different devices may require specific borrowing limits. For instance, a computer monitor may be needed for a semester, while something like a solar power supply may only be needed for a day. (Many of our devices do have different borrowing periods based on use patterns, ranging from eight hours to four weeks.)

How did users find out they could borrow technology from the Libraries?

Respondents reported having found out about tech lending at the Libraries from a wide range of sources. Word of mouth was the most common, with 30% of participants reporting that they found out this way. Other popular sources included the Libraries website and the Ask Us desk. Interestingly, however, 16% of participants said they didn’t know they could borrow devices from the Libraries until taking this survey.

Interview insights

We contacted two students for follow-up interviews and a mini-usability test. These users had very different strategies for finding tech lending information. One relied heavily on Google, and the other navigated through the Libraries' website. Yet, when tasked to find specific items, they were both successful.

Next steps

The survey results and interview insights, along with staff expertise and circulation statistics, are informing planned improvements to the Technology Lending Service. Our goals are to make tech lending more intuitive and easier to use, decrease barriers to access, promote the service more effectively, and get students the technology that they need.