GBC librarian encourages students to share feedback in research help survey.
George Brown College (GBC) students are can influence the future of library research services, by taking part in the Library Research Help Survey.
The goal of the survey is to evaluate the students’ satisfaction with the services now available.
Another goal is to identify potential areas in which improvements can be implemented.
Rebekah Glendinning, a librarian at GBC, highlighted the pivotal role that student feedback plays in optimizing library services.
“The nature of research is changing, and we want to make sure we are offering the best support possible,” said Glendinning.
Currently, the library offers a wide array of research help services, such as one-on-one librarian consultations, an online chat service, and research workshops, to name a few. However, Glendinning notes there are many students who are unaware of these resources.
“One big problem is not knowing what services are available and how to access them. Some students may not even realize we have research help, so part of this survey is about understanding how we can promote our services better.”
GBC has been expanding its library collections. For instance, it has incorporated an Indigenous resources collection, which is available in all campuses.
Although the survey’s attention is primarily directed to research help, students are encouraged to get in touch with their assigned program librarian with any suggestions for additional books or complementary materials.
Moreover, the survey is designed to deal with academic research needs. Students in search of resources such as audio-visual materials or novels should contact their designated librarian, who can provide guidance on accessing these materials through GBC’s collection or even external sources.
Glendinning said that while it is not the first time that a technology survey is being carried out at GBC, this is indeed the first comprehensive research help survey in recent years. The feedback will inform potential changes, such as longer hours, more online backing for students, or additional group consultations.
“The feedback will help us identify gaps in our services and figure out what students need the most,” she said. “For example, do they prefer more in-person consultations, or do they want better online access? This survey will help shape our direction.”
Various outreach efforts have been put in place to incentivize participation, including class visits, posters, and the library website. The survey will be open until the end of March. Participants will be entered into a draw to win one of three $25 gift cards.
“It doesn’t matter if you’ve never used the library before—we still want to hear from you. Even if you don’t know what we offer, your feedback will help us understand what students need,” said Glendinning.
Students can take the survey and enter the prize draw by visiting: https://www.georgebrown.ca/news/2025/library-research-help-survey.
