[Eril-l] Primary Research Group Releases New Study on Academic Library Facilities Management

[Electronic Resources in Libraries discussion list]

*New survey reveals widespread gaps in space planning, limited use of
utilization data, and uneven adoption of measurement tools across academic
libraries*

Primary Research Group has released a new research report, *Survey of
Academic Library Facilities Management: Space Use Plans, PartTwo,* offering
an in‑depth look at how academic libraries plan, measure, and manage
physical space in an era of hybrid study environments.

Based on a nationwide survey of academic libraries of varying size, age,
and institutional type, the report examines space planning practices,
utilization measurement methods, data‑driven decision‑making, zoning
policies, and signage effectiveness. The findings reveal a sector in
transition—balancing growing demand for collaborative space with limited
planning frameworks and largely manual data practices.
*Five Key Findings from the Study*

1.      *Nearly half of academic libraries operate without a space plan.*\
*44.44%* of libraries report having no current space plan, while only
*15.56%* have one updated within the past two years, leaving more than *70%
without a current, actionable planning framework*.

2.      *Utilization data informs decisions—but rarely drives them.*\ Just
*17.78%* of libraries say seating and space decisions are guided by
utilization data “to a great extent,” while over *40%* rely on it only
moderately.

3.      *Manual headcounts remain the dominant measurement method.*\
*77.78%* of libraries rely on manual sweeps or headcounts, far outpacing
advanced approaches such as occupancy sensors (*8.89%*) or Wi‑Fi analytics (
*2.22%*).

4.      *Most libraries describe their space as hybrid—but often
fragmented.*\ A majority (*51.11%*) describe their space mix as balanced
between quiet and collaborative use, while *40%* report strong variation by
floor or zone. 1

5.      *Only 40% have clearly defined and enforced zoning policies.*\
While quiet and collaborative zones are common, just *40%* of libraries
report having policies that are clearly defined and consistently enforced.

Overall, the study finds that larger, multi‑branch, and newer libraries
demonstrate stronger planning capacity and more consistent data use, while
smaller and space‑constrained institutions rely more heavily on anecdotal
judgment.

To view a table of contents, excerpt and participants list, follow this
link:



https://www.primaryresearch.com/AddCart.aspx?ReportID=881
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