Chinese academic libraries serving international students and scholars: An assessment of three case studies

The authors of this study assess the attitudes and perceptions of academic librarians at three university libraries in China regarding library services for international students and scholars. The study directs particular focus on librarians at Shaanxi Normal University in Xi’an, Fudan University in Shanghai, and Wuhan University of Technology, China, and follows logically upon a study conducted in 2008 that explored the perceptions of international students at two Chinese universities regarding the effectiveness of library services and collections for their research needs. In particular, this study documents information about Chinese academic librarian perceptions regarding services for international students and attitudes toward future outcomes. The ultimate goal of the study is to lay a foundation for developing strategies for improving library services and resources for international students and scholars in Chinese academic libraries in particular, which in turn can serve to improve services for international students world-wide. The results support the assumption that academic librarians in China are strongly interested in improving services for international students and scholars while continuing to face challenges and trying to find ways to fulfill the information needs of international students and scholars.

Research highlights
► We assess the attitudes and perceptions of academic librarians at three university libraries in China regarding library services for international students and scholars.
► The results support the assumption that academic librarians in China are strongly interested in improving services for international users.
► The findings from this study can be used to stimulate discussion about and facilitate improvements in library services for international students and scholars in both China and U.S.