In order to promote and support family reading, the public library must know the needs and characteristics of its users and potential users. The aim of this master thesis was to gain insight into family reading in the ethnically mixed region of Prekmurje and the role of local public libraries in this process. Through an analysis of existing family reading services and activities, our purpose was also to find out how the two public libraries in this region adapt to the specificities of the environment. 17 interviews were conducted with families in Lendava and its surroundings. The collected data were used to form four family personas that can help libraries prepare services and activities to promote family reading. The results showed that the families read regularly to their preschool children, know some of the positive effects of family reading, and have many books at home that they have acquired various ways. Almost half of the interviewed families read in both languages while the rest read in only one language. Families do not recognize the library as a supporter of family reading and have expressed a desire for additional services and activities. Regarding the services provided by the two public libraries, we found that they support the specific needs of the ethnically mixed environment only through library materials and not through other activities for the promotion of family reading.
|