Reading Habits

Some library users have a "regular day" to visit. They might also have a "regular set" of favorite authors, a favorite genre, or a guideline like "New York Times bestsellers". Others might visit only in quest of specific information. Some young readers are using "Accelerated Reader" to direct their choices, others look for favorite characters like Franklin or Clifford.

We know less about how or whether the materials that leave the library are used. Physical condition is a partial clue.

The copy of "The Berenstain Bears and Too Much Junk Food" returned this morning has been loaned 110 times since the library automated in the summer of 1993. It is frayed around the edges and has other signs of regular use since it joined the collection 17 years ago. CDs and DVDs show physical signs of use in the form of small scratches & smudges which can be polished away.

We also have no firm knowledge of where such uses take place. Some CD audiobook users mention long commutes, and players in cars. Does anyone have a book rest like the ca. 1880 recumbent reader in patent no. 230,750.