Search

Purpose. This research aimed to explore the openness of the citizens of Zagreb to the services of modern European and world public libraries in order to find out whether they are ready for such a library in Zagreb. Methodology: The survey was conducted using the online version of survey method, from 19th July to 19th September 2017, on a sample of 1,311 respondents. The questionnaire was composed of three parts. The first part of the survey consisted of 28 statements that covered the library services, space and design, shelving arrangement, additional services and additional benefits. In the second part of the survey, the respondents were allowed to comment freely. Demographic questions about gender and age of the respondents were set at the end of the questionnaire. Findings: The results have shown that it is generally very important for the respondents that a new library would offer services such as free wireless internet, access to databases and/or user access points. Women responded more positively than men regarding access to databases, availability of space for group and individual work, availability of a larger number of computers, self-servicing devices, etc. Statistically significant differences were found between different age groups of respondents. The most significant differences were between two groups of respondents - those aged from 16 to 24 years and the others aged from 55 to 65 years. The youngest respondents were more reluctant about the proposed new services and benefits, while the group of older respondents expressed greater openness to the novelties. The finding that younger respondents are more conservative about the new library services as compared to their 40 years older fellow citizens is a kind of surprise. Originality/value: In the campaign for the new building of the City Library in Zagreb, many protagonists have been changed over the last few years, many round tables and exhibitions have been organized, numerous forms and applications have been filled. Despite all this, the most important missing link were the citizens of Zagreb themselves. The Zagreb City Libraries invited citizens to express their opinions about what the new building of the City Library should represent, which services it should offer, and what contents it should have. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]