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Abstract

Use of public library resources is conceptually and historically linked to mass education and literacy. On the individual level, the impact of educational achievement along with other social and demographic factors on the rate of library use is the subject of study. A multiple regression and path analysis of survey data on a large sample of Illinois adults reveals three principal clusters of factors as important predictors of the rate of library use. Edu cation, both in number of years and plans for further education is the most powerful predictor, followed by family life cycle factors and urban residence. Commonly found factors of age, sex, and race had no independent effect on how often people used library resources.

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Patterns of Adult Library Use: a Regression and Path Analysis

Abstract

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