[论文解读] Using LibCal Seats to Better Serve Students

François Renaville, Fabienne Prosmans|arXiv (Cornell University)|Jan 26, 2026

Educational Environments and Student Outcomes被引用 0

一句话总结

tldr: 本章分析列日大学的 LibCal Seats 预订模块，该模块于 2020 年部署以在 COVID-19 期间管理占用，并报告学生反馈积极，但存在一些可用性问题，促使改进。

ABSTRACT

This chapter examines the evolution of library services at the University of Liège (ULiège), with a focus on the implementation and assessment of the LibCal Seats booking module. Introduced in September 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this system was designed to manage occupancy and maintain social distancing. While initially a temporary measure, the seat booking service remains in use during peak periods. Drawing on survey data from 2022 and 2023, the chapter analyses user perceptions of the system. Results indicate strong student appreciation, particularly regarding stress reduction and equitable access to study spaces. Despite overall satisfaction, issues such as unoccupied reserved seats and an unnecessarily complex booking process emerged, leading to targeted improvements. This chapter highlights the importance of responsive, user-centred services in academic libraries. The adoption of the booking system helped address challenges such as overcrowding and "seat hogging," ultimately contributing to a more organised and accessible environment. The case study illustrates how technology can enhance library service delivery, offering insights for institutions seeking to optimise space management. The continued evaluation of the system reflects a broader commitment to adapting services in alignment with user needs and institutional priorities.

研究动机与目标

• Examine how LibCal Seats was implemented to address occupancy and social distancing during COVID-19.
• Assess user perceptions of the LibCal Seats system from 2022–2023 surveys.
• Identify benefits and challenges to inform ongoing service improvements in academic libraries.

提出的方法

• Describe the timeline and purpose of LibCal Seats deployment (Sept 2020).
• Analyze survey data from 2022 and 2023 about user experiences and perceptions.
• Identify issues such as unoccupied reserved seats and booking complexity from survey findings.
• Discuss improvements made in response to user feedback and implications for space management.

实验结果

研究问题

• RQ1 How did LibCal Seats impact occupancy management and social distancing at ULiège?
• RQ2 What are student perceptions of LibCal Seats in terms of stress, access, and fairness?
• RQ3 What usability or process issues were reported, and how were they addressed?
• RQ4 What lessons can inform future space-management and service-design in libraries?

主要发现

• Students showed strong appreciation for LibCal Seats, with perceived reductions in stress and improved equitable access to study spaces.
• The system helped address overcrowding and "seat hogging" in library spaces.
• Issues identified include unoccupied reserved seats and a booking process that some users found unnecessarily complex.
• These findings informed targeted improvements to the system and service delivery.
• The chapter underscores the value of responsive, user-centered library services during and after the pandemic.