Abstract
During the Spring 2022 semester, the Research and Instructional Services department
at Duke University Libraries conducted a study to better understand the library and
campus experiences of military-affiliated students at Duke University. Overall, this
research study focused on qualitative data gathering, using two semi-structured interviews
and background research in the form of a literature review to help develop recommendations.
The goal of this study was to help improve Duke Libraries services and resources to
better meet the unique needs of the Duke military-affiliated student population, and
to better understand this group’s experiences within the Libraries. There were four
themes that appeared from the two interviews and background research: one, that military-affiliated
students are older than the average civilian student; two, the drive to “try it out
themselves first” before asking for help; three, the heavy use of online resources,
versus using the libraries physical space; and four, how the library website can be
confusing when first starting out. In the end, the study highlighted six recommendations
for the future (see page 12 for additional details): one, develop partnerships with
campus veteran and military organizations; two, create a library orientation and tour
for military-affiliated students; three, designate a military library liaison; four,
publish a military student LibGuide; five, design veteran-targeted training sessions;
and six, offer training for library staff.
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