Document Type
Presentation
Abstract
Libraries often employ surveys to collect information about their users. However, studies have shown that surveys are less effective for targeting smaller populations. In contrast, qualitative approaches are well suited to capture the diversity of experience among small communities. The task of conducting and analyzing interviews can be daunting, as it not as straightforward as surveys. This presentation will review how qualitative research can be achieved using simple coding tools and adopting key project management practices.
My aim is to demystify focus group methodology by drawing from a recent study I conducted on postdoctoral fellows on how they engage with the campus library. Specifically, this talk will outline data management practices for qualitative data and feature the free, open-source software, Taguette (https://www.taguette.org/) for coding transcripts. Taguette is easy to use, without the steep learning curve of other qualitative analysis tools like NVivo. While Taguette is limited in the types of analyses that it can perform and lacks the polish of commercial platforms, the product works well for projects with relatively simple data. By employing these tools and practices, attendees can confidently add qualitative research to their library’s research toolkit.
Learning objectives:
- Learn best practices for managing qualitative data including the coding tool Taguette.
- Be inspired to use qualitative methods to assess the needs of different communities at your library.
Publication Date
4-10-2025
College or School
UAB Libraries
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Hertz, Marla, "Thinking outside the survey box: Using qualitative tools to gather feedback from unique library user groups" (2025). Libraries Professional Work. 17.
https://digitalcommons.library.uab.edu/libraries-pw/17
