Keeping an Open Mind

Comments from study participants

I think that OER is an important subject matter. Public libraries, like other types of libraries, have the challenge of prioritizing their goals based on their user populations, stakeholder demands, and more. I would be curious to learn more about which public libraries are actually prioritizing OER.

I feel it is important to share resources especially in a public library environment. When developing a program and resources, I am already being paid through my employment. I therefore feel it is important to share my resources and program freely.

Key Findings

1. Awareness: Respondent awareness of OER is moderate, with 77% of respondents reporting at least some awareness of OER.

2. Adoption: Adoption of OER in public libraries is low, with only 16% of respondents stating that their library used OER.

3. Creation: 18% of respondents have applied a Creative Commons license to their own work, with multiple respondents attributing their use and creation of open content to the importance of accessible education in public libraries.

4. Perceptions: Librarian respondents who use OER are generally satisfied with them as valuable additions to the library’s collections.

5. Barriers: Awareness and adequate professional support were the two greatest barriers to OER use.

6. Interest: Respondents’ interest in OER was extremely high, representing a rich area for further education, development, and research.

More From Our Blog

• Connecting the Commons

• Unlocking OER for Public Libraries