Recreational Reading in University Libraries in The United Kingdom

Abstract

This article presents selected results from a study investigating the promotion of recreational reading in university libraries in the United Kingdom. An email questionnaire survey and follow-up interviews with a sample of respondents explored provision and attitudes toward recreational reading. The results suggest that recreational reading promotion is increasing in UK university libraries. Participants were positive about the benefits of recreational reading but they identified a number of barriers preventing them from increasing their activity including finance, staff time, and mission drift. The article concludes with recommendations for increasing recreational reading including the need for better staff awareness and training.