The diploma seminar titled Mystery Library User is related to the market-research method of observation called Mystery Shopper. The purpose and goal of the seminar are to make research that is based on the method of observation by users an important element in evaluating the performance of public libraries. The research is mainly related to a reference conversation, the quality of which is important for a proper understanding between librarians and users. The diploma seminar also describes the market research method of observation – the Mystery Shopper, from which the research Mystery Library User originates. The survey was conducted in three Slovenian public libraries in February 2021. The results showed that librarians' responses are differed from the user's information needs – if this is inadequately defined, the librarian might dismiss the user. Librarians still offer too few possible services available to the users (interlibrary loan, e-resources, etc.). At the end of the reference conversation, the user may have the feeling that the librarian has helped him to some extent, but it depends on the librarian if and how they provided all the needed information during the conversation. Users often decide to return to the library based on previous experiences, therefore, these are crucial. As this is a pilot study, no major conclusions can be drawn. The research provides insight into the analysis of library services by users, which are crucial for the existence of libraries.
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