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Objective: In Croatia, comparative analyses of the financial investments in libraries and their value for the community and society are rarely conducted. Foreign studies confirm that libraries fulfill many social functions and significantly contribute to the well-being of the environments in which they operate. This is reflected through educational, cultural, creative, and entertainment content, digital transformations, as well as the achievement of social cohesion and inclusion. Using the example of the Zagreb City Libraries, this paper will present various comparisons of concrete data showing the direct and indirect benefits of public libraries to the community. Approach/Methodology/Design: The research was conducted using the desk method. Existing, publicly available statistical data (at national and local levels), the institution's business data, and publicly available market data on service prices were used. The value of library services and the library in the community can be expressed in several ways. Depending on what is to be shown, the value can be expressed (a) from the perspective of the individual or the entire community, (b) taking into account all library services or just a selected service, (c) per individual activity or, if it is an activity that is regularly conducted, for all meetings held in a chosen period. Results: The research confirmed the multiple values of the library, especially in the financial aspect. It was shown that the market value of just a portion of the services provided annually by the Zagreb City Libraries exceeds the annual investments in the institution as a whole. Practical implication: Fulfilling public interest and presenting value through concrete figures is the strongest form of public advocacy for the library. Promoting the library has become an indispensable part of operations because only in this way can the importance of libraries be highlighted. Therefore, this paper aims to highlight how this approach to valuing libraries can serve in public relations at several levels, from breaking stereotypes about libraries merely as book lending places to enhancing the institution's reputation in the local community and among its stakeholders - users, collaborators, politicians, founders, funders, and others. Originality: The proposed method of calculating financial value can also serve other libraries in advocacy with various political actors, financiers, or sponsors, and contribute to greater visibility and recognition within the local community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the paper is to present the results of research on the digital competencies of librarians working in public libraries in Croatia. Approach/Methodology/Design: The research was conducted during June and July 2023 through a survey using an online questionnaire. A total of 306 respondents participated, assessing their level of digital competency development. This includes confident, critical and responsible use and engagement with digital technologies for the purpose of learning, work and participation in society. Results: The research showed that most respondents understand the necessity of using digital technologies and realize that they must continuously adapt their knowledge and skills to changes in their environment. The DigComp framework was used in the study and librarians reported that they are most experienced in using digital technologies for browsing, searching, and filtering information, as well as in communicating information, thereby confirming the core of their professional activities. Additionally, the research revealed that respondents who engage in professional development with the help of ICT technologies are more confident in self-assessing their digital skills. These librarians will be better equipped to respond to the challenges they will face in the upcoming period, ensuring they can continue to meet user inquiries and assist users in their information searches. Originality: This is the first comprehensive study on the digital competencies of public librarians in Croatia. The research results can help library management plan additional training to improve librarians' digital competencies and help in the development of modernization of courses offered by the Croatian Training Centre for Continuing Education of Librarians. This will, in turn, lead to the development of new programs for library users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to present the development of the Bookmobile Service of the “Fran Galović” Public Library in Koprivnica in the context of developing mobile library activities in the Republic of Croatia. It also aims to highlight the social role of mobile libraries as important factors in shaping the cultural life of the places they visit. Their support of educational institutions with which they cooperate daily is irreplaceable. The paper presents the changes in the development of the Bookmobile Service of the “Fran Galović” Public Library in Koprivnica brought about by the acquisition of a new bookmobile (third in a row). The new bookmobile was launched in the first half of 2024. Its spatial organization and technical equipment are suitable for the needs of mobile library users in the 21st century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of this paper is to emphasize the importance of strengthening librarians' competencies in working with older adults, using the example of the „65 plus" project by the Zagreb City Libraries. Methodology. The research was conducted among librarians participating in the „65 plus" project from October 25th to November 5th, 2022, using a survey method and an online questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 28 open and closed-type questions and was completed by 38 respondents, representing 69 % of the target group. The research examined librarians' attitudes towards the necessary competencies for working with older adults, self-assessment of their competencies and sensitivity to the needs of older adults in general, the importance of lifelong learning and ways to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to work with this user group. Results. The research results show that the respondents consider themselves competent to work with older adults and believe that continuous education is necessary for providing quality service and development of new programmes, indicating that they are personally and professionally motivated to participate in the project. The most important general competencies necessary for working with older adults highlighted by the respondents are ethics, communication skills and the ability to adapt to new situations. The most important professional competencies are eff ectively providing information to meet user needs, the ability to teach users and the ability to provide and develop (new) services for users. Practical implications. The research results can help other public libraries in designing programmes, developing the competencies of their employees working in the reference and information service and improving services for older adults....Originality/Value. This paper presents the results of the fi rst research on the attitudes of librarians involved in the implementation of the „65 plus" project regarding the importance of various competencies and lifelong education for designing and implementing quality programmes for older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of this paper is to present example of good practice implemented by the Public Library „Petar Preradović“ in Bjelovar. In the context of Sustainable Development Goals, the library designed a local community based program „Go Green“ that includes workshops, exhibitions and lectures. The program emphasizes the important role that libraries have in promoting sustainable development and providing educational content for citizens. Approach/methodology/design. Relevant best practice examples show practical implementation of programs promoting sustainable development and designed for the entire local community. Practical use. Activities carried out through the „Go Green“ program are designed for the entire local community, not just library users. Based on the examples presented, other libraries can develop their own green programs with the aim of promoting environmental literacy within their local community. Originality. As part of the „Go Green“ program in 2022, „The Seed Library“ was launched as the first of its kind in Croatia within a public library. There is no previous mention of such activities in public libraries in domestic professional literature, making this paper useful for further research and education of librarians on green literacy through biological diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Main objective of the paper is to present availability and loan statistics of works written by Nobel Prize laureates in Literature from 2000 to 2022 in ten Croatian public libraries but also to determine and analyze time periods during which the works were published, type and language of published materials. Methodology. Authors conducted the research in February 2023 by literature search method of library collections and library catalogues. A quantitative analysis of data on the availability and loan statistics was collected from catalogues of ten public libraries in diff erent parts of Croatia. Data collected refers to the period from February 10, 2022 to February 10, 2023. Findings. Research results show that all libraries off er a significant number of titles and copies of literature in question meaning that it is available to library users regardless of the size of the place they live in. Results also show that libraries in bigger cities have more diff erent titles and copies of works written by Nobel Prize laureates in Literature resulting in increased loan statistics. They also have more diverse collections of literature in the languages and time periods in which they were published, and regarding the types of library materials. Practical implications. Library staff can use insights gained by this research to improve collections of works by Nobel Prize-winning authors. Social significance. The paper indicates the important role public libraries have in ensuring equal access to quality literature, creating equal and favorable conditions for learning and informing their users throughout Croatia. Originality/value. Research subject and results are presented for the first time from this perspective. Further related studies are suggested, one being on whether library size can impact various features of its collections. Also, authors presented a method of collecting data on loan statistics that can be useful to other researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goal/purpose. The goal of this research is to determine how much and in what ways public libraries from the area of Bjelovar-Bilogora County participate with their services and programs in the creation of cultural and touristic offers, whether their work is recognized by the local communities as significant for the development of cultural tourism, whether they are visible as interesting to tourist visitors, and to what extent they realize cooperative and partnership relations in the promotion of cultural tourism of their region. The purpose of this paper is to point out the importance of libraries as an equal partner in the local community that can contribute to the promotion of cultural assets. Approach/Methodology/design. The first section of the paper presents basic theoretical concepts and previous research into the potential of libraries in the development of Croatian cultural tourism. The features of Croatian cultural tourism are also briefly described, with special emphasis on the Bjelovar-Bilogora County. The second section of the paper presents the results of the research conducted among the public libraries of the Bjelovar-Bilogora County. For the purposes of the research, an online questionnaire was used, which was filled out by 5 directors of public libraries from the area of Bjelovar-Bilogora County. The participation of libraries in the development of cultural tourism in the area of Bjelovar-Bilogora County was checked with reference to services and programs interesting to tourists, to the visibility of libraries to tourist visitors, to the self-assessment of the tourist potential of libraries, and to cooperative relations in the promotion of cultural tourism. Results. The research has revealed that the public libraries of the Bjelovar-Bilogora County offer numerous services and programs useful and interesting for tourist visitors, but they are not adequately visible as providers of tourist content. There is a lot of room for improvement in the creation and maintenance of collaborative relationships in the development of public libraries in the direction of tourism. Research limitations. This research was conducted only at the level of public libraries of the Bjelovar-Bilogora County. To obtain more comprehensive results, it is necessary to conduct a more extensive research in other types of libraries, among library users, among tourist visitors, but also among other participants in the creation of tourist content. Originality. The paper presents the results of the first research on the participation of public libraries in the Bjelovar-Bilogora County in the development of the tourist offer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cilj. Svrha je članka, kao i motiv za provedbu ovoga istraživanja, utvrditi prikladnost strukture životopisa koji se unose u mrežni biografski leksikon Obrazi slovenskih pokrajin (Lica slovenskih pokrajina). Namjera je i ustanoviti kriterije ili strukturne elemente koji mogu pomoći pri odlučivanju koje će se osobe uključiti u mrežni biografski leksikon. Pristup/metodologija/dizajn. Za analizu strukture zapisa koji se unose u mrežni biografski leksikon, kao i za utvrđivanje kriterija za odabir osoba za unos u mrežni biografski leksikon, korištena je metoda analize sadržaja. Rezultati. Definirani su kriteriji za odabir osoba za upis u mrežni biografski leksikon Obrazi slovenskih pokrajin (OSP) i struktura životopisa na mrežnom biografskom leksikonu OSP. Zaključeno je i da je poželjno da redoslijed strukturnih elemenata bude nepromjenjiv. Također, zaključeno je da je za razvoj biografskih leksikona bitna i suradnja svih ustanova koje mogu pridonijeti kvaliteti biografskih leksikona. Ograničenja. Ograničenje istraživanja predstavljala je činjenica da svaku osobu čiji se životopisi uključuju u mrežni biografski leksikon OSP povezuju biografski jedinstveni podatci, isključivo vezani za život te osobe, pa je teško odrediti jedinstvenu strukturu elemenata. Također, prema našim saznanjima, nema istraživanja koja se bave strukturom životopisa u biografskim leksikonima. Originalnost/vrijednost. Rezultati istraživanja mogu pridonijeti kvaliteti unosa u mrežni biografski leksikon OSP, ali i u druge mrežne biografske leksikone. Kvalitetnija struktura životopisa i stručni kriterij za odabir osoba koje će biti uključene u biografski leksikon morali bi utjecati i na zadovoljstvo korisnika samim portalom. Ovaj je rad i poziv za daljnji istraživački rad na tom području.

Purpose/Aim: The main objective of this paper is to explore the occurrence frequency of book clubs as a program in Croatian and Slovenian public libraries and as a topic in professional and scientific articles in the professional journals Vjesnik bibliotekara Hrvatske and Knjižnica: Revija za področje bibliotekarstva in informacijske znanosti. Methodology/Approach: The initial hypothesis is that the book club is underrepresented as a topic of professional and scientific articles in professional journals, compared to its presence in practice. The occurrence frequency of book clubs in the practice of Croatian and Slovenian public libraries was investigated through an online survey called How did book clubs manage in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, conducted in 2020. The researchers additionally conducted a content analysis of contemporary professional articles published in Vjesnik bibliotekara Hrvatske i Knjižnica: Revija za področje bibliotekarstva in informacijske znanosti in the period from 2000 to 2020, which were at the time of the research available remotely. A total of 1024 papers were reviewed. Findings: The survey results have shown that at least 21% of Croatian and 37% of Slovenian public libraries had active book clubs in 2019 and early 2020. The content analysis of the articles found 12 articles that mention book clubs, of which only 5 deal with clubs as one of the main topics, thus confirming the initial hypothesis of this paper. Originality/Applicability: In this paper, for the first time, data on the representation of book clubs as the topic of professional and scientific papers in leading Croatian and Slovenian professional journals in the field of librarianship and information sciences are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The paper aims to identify appropriate structura l elements for writing annotations intended for young adults. We also wanted to identify if there are any differences between the annotations from the guides for reading quality youth books and the annotations from the portal Dobreknjige.si. Approach/methodology/design: For the purposes of this research the content method was used. Sixty annotations for young adults from the guides for reading quality youth books and sixty annotations from the portal Dobreknjige.si were included in the research. The coding scheme consisted of fourteen structural elements. They were divided into sentences and then the corresponding structural element or elements were assigned to each sentence. Findings: The annotations included in the research on average contained six structural elements. Most commonly, the annotations included the following structural elements: description of the literary work, characters, theme, circumstances of the origin of the literary work and other features related to the work, evaluation, and author. The differences between annotations from the guides and those from the web portal manifested mainly in the length of the annotations. Research limitations/implications: The research was limited only to annotations prepared by librarians. Practical implications: The findings of the research will be useful for librarians who publish annotations on the portal Dobreknjige.si, as well as for writing guides for reading quality youth books. Social implications: The annotations are also important because, among other things, they represent one of the ways in which we can present the world of literature to young adults or other interested public. Originality/value: The paper offers valuable insights into weather annotations should be adapted to certain types of readers, and is it possible to have a standardized form of annotations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The objective of this research is to explore if and in what way Croatian public libraries mark Banned Books Week, an event that celebrates the freedom to read, usually in the last week of September. Approach/methodology/design. First, by searching the websites of the libraries as well as their Facebook profiles, we identified the libraries that celebrate Banned Books Week. In addition, Google was also searched according to the precisely defined keywords. Furthermore, a content analysis of the identified news and announcements was carried out. The research was first conducted in October 2021, and then repeated at the end of September and the beginning of October 2022. The goal was to determine if any new public libraries have commemorated this event in the meantime. Findings. The research has shown that only twenty Croatian public libraries (out of 234) celebrated Banned Books Week, which is only 8.55% of all public libraries. The oldest posted news available online about the celebration of this event in Croatia dates back to 2011, which leads us to the conclusion that Banned Books Week has only been celebrated for the last ten years, and often without continuity. The event has been cele- brated usually very modestly, with only a few examples that are more creative. From the above, it can be concluded that Banned Books Week in Croatian public libraries is still not celebrated to a greater extent, and that this project has not fully taken root. Limitations. Since the total number of libraries in Croatia is very large it would be difficult to cover all libraries in one research, so this research has been limited to public libraries only. In addition, it is very likely that neither the selected ways of identifying libraries that celebrate Banned Books Week nor the chosen search strategies are the only possible ones. Practical use. The paper presents various possibilities and ways of celebrating this event. It is also an invitation to other libraries to join in the celebration of freedom of reading and open access to information. Social significance. The paper points to the important role of public libraries, as well as libraries in general, in the fight against censorship of the written word, advocating the idea of freedom of reading and intellectual freedom in general, and thus emphasizes their role in building and development of a democratic society. Originality/value. The value of the paper lies in the fact that it presents the research of a topic that is insufficiently represented in Croatia. So far, no similar research on the Banned Books Week in Croatia has been conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cilj je rada predstaviti rezultate istraživanja o potrebama nezaposlenih građana Osječko-baranjske županije u svrhu unapređenja spoznaja o poboljšanju službi, usluga, programa i aktivnosti narodnih knjižnica te utjecaja na kvalitetu života nezaposlenih građana. Istraživanje je provedeno kvantitativnom metodom slučajnog uzorka (N = 250). U članku je prikazana slika stanja prije globalne zdravstvene pandemije COVID-19, krize koja je utjecala na cijeli svijet. Prikupljeni podaci statistički su obrađeni u Statističkom paketu za društvene znanosti primjenom opisne i korelacijske analize između dvije skupine varijabli te su izraženi u postotcima. Najvažniji rezultati istraživanja pokazali su da ispitani građani imaju potrebu za učenjem u sastavu cjeloživotnog obrazovanja, ali da su se, s druge strane, u najvećem ukupnom postotku na ponuđene potrebe u knjižničnom prostoru, izjasnili da nemaju potrebe. Najizraženije potrebe ispitanih građana su potrebe za učenjem engleskoga i njemačkoga jezika; računalnim i tehničkim vještinama, potreba za usavršavanjem komunikacijskih vještina; usavršavanjem dodatnih socijalnih vještina kroz timski rad, upoznavanjem pravila poslovnog bontona, stjecanjem organizacijskih vještina, promocijskih vještina, učenjem neverbalne komunikacije ili govora tijela. Rezultat istraživanja pokazao je da, unatoč tomu što je dio ispitanika (41,6 %) član narodne knjižnice, i dalje ima različite potrebe u sastavu cjeloživotnog obrazovanja, a njihova im narodna knjižnica ne pruža mogućnost ispunjavanja. Pokazao je i to da nisu sve narodne knjižnice u Osječko-baranjskoj županiji otvorene za sve korisnike. Nezaposleni, društveno isključeni građani mišljenja su da narodna knjižnica može pomoći u razvoju zajednice, ali ne i nezaposlenima. = The aim of this paper is to present the results of the research on the needs of unemployed citizens in the Osijek-Baranja County with the purpose of improving the knowledge of advancing the services, programs, and activities of public libraries, as well as the quality of life of unemployed citizens. Research was conducted using the random sampling method (N=250). The article presents a picture of the situation before the global COVID-19 health pandemic, the crisis that affected the whole world. The collected data was statistically analyzed in SPSS, the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, using correlation and descriptive analysis on two groups and was thereafter expressed in percentages. The most important results of the research showed that the selected citizens have a need for lifelong learning, but that at the same time the largest percentage of them do not have the need to fulfill the named needs in a library space. Most pronounced needs of tested citizens are the needs to learn English and German; computer and technical skills, the need to perfect communication skills; perfecting additional social skills through teamwork, familiarizing oneself with workspace etiquette, gaining organizational skills, promotional skills, learning nonverbal communication or body language. The results show that public libraries do not allow a portion of the subjects (41.6%) to fulfill their needs, despite them having a membership to the public library and having different needs for lifelong learning. Likewise, results show that not all public libraries within the Osijek-Baranja County are open to all users. Socially excluded unemployed citizens believe that the public library can help develop communities and unemployed citizens alike.

Purpose: The aim of this paper was to examine the level of digital competencies of the professional staff of the City Library in Karlovac and determine the extent to which digital competencies of librarians are necessary for library work and how they improve library services. Approach/methodology/design: The survey was conducted during October 2021 by using an online questionnaire. The participants in the research were library employees from the "Ivan Goran Kovačić" City Library Karlovac. Twenty-six librarians participated in the research. Results: The research showed that most librarians of the "Ivan Goran Kovačić" City Library Karlovac felt the impact of new technologies and realized that they must constantly adapt their knowledge and skills to the changes in their environment. In the self-assessment section in the field of digital competences of information, most respondents stated that they are most experienced in browsing, searching and filtering information, and also storing and retrieving information, which emphasized the central role of users, since librarians must be able to satisfy their inquiries and help them in their search for information. It was also revealed that most librarians of the "Ivan Goran Kovačić" City Library independently develop their digital competencies, despite the existence of a system for professional advancement and continuing professional education of librarians. Value: The results of the research can be used by the library to plan additional education to improve the competencies of librarians, but also to form new programs for users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goal. The paper presents all aspects of the more than a decade long work of the Advisory Commission for Public and School Libraries of the Primorje-Gorski kotar County on informatization and networking of public and school libraries of the Primorje-Gorski kotar County with the aim of standardizing their professional work. Approach/methodology. The starting point is an analysis of the indicators of computerization of public and school libraries in 2009, which served as a basis for implementation of a well-planned and gradual networking that would follow in the next twelve years. The topic is explained from the aspect of legal tasks of the Advisory Commission for Public and School Libraries related to networking, cooperation with the founders, schools, libraries and librarians, project sustainability, methods and content of the professional work during and after the networking process, the achieved results, and the recent initiation of an even more functional connection through a new project. Results. The most significant results of the project are the extremely high percentage of the networked public and school libraries, the launching of the union catalog of libraries of the Primorje-Gorski kotar County, systematic and continuous development of libraries in the area for which the Advisory Commission is in charge, advisory monitoring and support by the Advisory Commission for Public and School Libraries and continuous education as well as the increase of the professional competencies of librarians through professional communication within the library network. Originality/value. The presented multi-year project of networking of public and school libraries under the jurisdiction of the Advisory Commission for Public and School Libraries of Primorje-Gorski kotar County can serve as a model for building a unique library network in those environments where this has not yet been achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of this research is to determine the attitudes and experiences of librarians employed in public libraries about the role of public libraries in dealing with information disorder and COVID-19 disinfodemic. Approach/methodology/design. For the purposes of the research, an online questionnaire with closed and open questions was used. The questionnaire was distributed to all Croatian public libraries. Findings. The results of the research have shown that the respondents, librarians employed in public libraries, are overwhelmingly interested in the information disorder issues and are open to additional education. However, almost half of the respondents rated their competencies for organizing and implementing a disinformation education program as low. The vast majority of respondents agree with the statement that public libraries should get involved and can greatly contribute to dealing with information disorder, but the attitudes about specific ways and responsibilities in dealing with information disorder show discrepancies. The respondents' opinions on the key obstacles to involving public libraries in dealing with the information disorder point to fifteen specific problems, including librarians' lack of education, the desire to preserve the perception of the library as an ideologically neutral place, lack of user interest, and various infrastructural problems. Originality/value. This paper presents attitudes of the librarians in the Republic of Croatia on the role of public libraries in the information disorder. The paper raises questions about the challenges of active involvement of public libraries in countering information disorder, among which are the professional competencies of librarians and ethical principles of providing information services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cilj. Cilj je rada bio ispitati u kojoj su mjeri filmovi koji su najbolje ocijenjeni od strane gledatelja, prema Internet Movie Database (IMDb) popisu, zastupljeni u zbirkama Gradske knjižnice Rijeka, Gradske knjižnice Marka Marulića u Splitu i Knjižnica grada Zagreba. Također, cilj je rada bio istražiti raznolikost filmova s IMDb popisa koji su dostupni u spomenutim knjižnicama, s obzirom na državu podrijetla i vrijeme nastanka filma. Metodologija. Korištena je metoda usporedbe kataloga odabranih knjižnica s popisom najboljih filmova prema ocjenama korisnika IMDb portala, jednog od najvažnijih mrežnih izvora podataka o filmovima. Istraživački podaci prikupljeni su tijekom 2021. godine. Rezultati. Rezultati pokazuju da istražene knjižnice imaju otprilike 50 % do otprilike 70 % filmova s IMDb popisa u zbirkama. Utvrđeno je da knjižnice u svojim zbirkama primjetno češće imaju filmove iz SAD-a s IMDb popisa, u odnosu na filmove s istog popisa napravljene u drugim državama. S obzirom na vrijeme nastanka filmova, ne postoje značajnija odstupanja između filmova s IMDb popisa koji su u knjižnicama i filmova na samom IMDb popisu. Praktična primjena. Rad sadrži prijedloge aktivnosti koji mogu doprinijeti izgradnji raznolikih filmskih zbirki. Originalnost/vrijednost. Rad ukazuje na važnost i mogućnosti jačanja raznolikih filmskih zbirki. U radu je predstavljena i istražena tema koja je slabo zastupljena u literaturi. Ključne riječi: filmske zbirke, Internet Movie Database (IMDb), kulturna raznolikost, narodne knjižnice

Aim. The research goal was to determine to what extent and in what way book clubs were affected by the COVID-19 disease pandemic. Methodology. The paper presents results of an online questionnaire survey conducted from November 10 to December 7, 2020. The research was conducted simultaneously in public libraries in the Republic of Croatia and the Republic of Slovenia. It was aimed at book clubs that were active during 2019 and 2020, as a period that included the time immediately before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results. In Croatia, out of 62 active book clubs before the pandemic, 33 (53 %) continued to operate during the pandemic. In Slovenia, out of the initial 47 clubs, 19 (40 %) continued with their activities. These clubs quickly adapted to the new circumstances and continued to work in the virtual space or by combining online communication and remote meetings with live meetings whenever possible. Regarding the application of the Information Communication Technology (ICT) tools, the identical processes have taken place in both countries: book clubs were more focused on maintaining contact with the existing members than on promoting clubs and attracting new members. However, the pandemic caused the complete termination of activities for some book clubs: in Croatia 47 %, in Slovenia 38 % of the surveyed clubs. Social significance. The paper contributes to the overall picture of the adaptation of the cultural sector to pandemic conditions and complying with the new requirements in order to communicate with its public. The paper identifies the impact of the pandemic on accelerating the process of applying new technologies for Internet communication. Originality/value. The paper offers a comparative analysis of the impact of the pandemic on the continuity of book clubs' activities in Croatia and Slovenia and how they have adapted to new circumstances. It is based on the hitherto unpublished research results on book club activities during the pandemic, with special emphasis on the use of ICT tools as possible aids to overcome the restrictions prescribed for live meetings as part of anti-epidemic measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. This paper presents the collaboration between the Marin Držić Children's Library and the Savica Library, two libraries of the Marin Držić Library network, a branch library of the Zagreb City Libraries network, and the students of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb in the implementation of three service learning projects within the Service Learning course at the Department of Information and Communication Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb during the 2020/2021 academic year. Approach/methodology/design. The first part of the paper describes the concept of service learning which integrates education with social responsibility. Then the differences between service learning, volunteering and student placements are listed. Afterwards, the goals of implementing service learning projects are enumerated as well as the benefits such implementation brings. The importance of critical reflection of the implemented projects is also highlighted. The second part of the paper describes the role of librarians in the partnership and presents the three student projects intended for primary school children: "Learning through fun: micro:bit workshops", "Minecraft and Glagolitic script", and "Mein Freund: micro:bit". All three projects are in the STEM fields of technology and engineering and were implemented online in accordance with the measures taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19 that were in force at the time of the project implementation. Findings. The implementation and evaluation of the presented projects have shown that the librarians, owing to their knowledge and experience, can be high-quality student mentors on service learning projects, but also that the students can help the libraries, as their partner organizations, to provide more innovative, high-quality, and diverse services to their users. Originality/value. The overview of service learning projects implemented in partnership with public libraries could serve as an incentive for other libraries that have not participated in the implementation of such projects to get involved in the implementation of service learning projects designed to meet the specific social needs of their local communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of this paper is to analyze the spatial distribution of libraries in the Republic of Croatia. To this end, the structure of the library network in the Republic of Croatia and the hierarchy of library centers (municipalities and cities that have a library) is presented, while the development of libraries and its usage are analyzed through selected indicators. A comparison of the development of libraries has been made according to macro-regions, counties and local government units. Furthermore, the current situation has been compared to the state of the library system in 1990. The collected data is analyzed and presented using graphical and cartographic methods. Based on the conducted analysis, it can be stated that the network of public libraries in Croatia is relatively well developed, but there are still some areas where further development can be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim/purpose. The aim of the paper is to point out the social impact of public libraries in the crisis situation caused by the COVID-19 disease pandemic in the context of their position within the contemporary concept of smart cities, whose starting point is that information, knowledge, digitalization and technology (intellectual capital) are drivers of the economy and overall social development. Approach/methodology. The benchmarking method is used. The Croatian practice in which libraries are, for the most part, not yet recognized as an integral part of the concept and strategy of smart cities has been compared with the library practice in Singapore, the world leader in libraries' involvement in the national strategy of a smart nation. The analysis of social media posts compares the business strategies used by the Singapore's and Croatian public libraries in public relations during the first wave of the COVID-19 disease pandemic in the first half of 2020. Their goal was to maintain the social impact of libraries after the closure of physical spaces during quarantine (lock-down) in order to continue to perform informational, educational, cultural and social roles and tasks in digital or electronic form. The subject of the comparison is the posting on Twitter from February to September 2020 in the case of libraries in Singapore, and two public libraries in Croatia on Facebook from March to September 2020. The two Croatian libraries operate in the two leading Croatian smart cities - in the category of large Croatian cities it is The Rijeka City Library, and the category of medium-sized Croatian cities it is The Fran Galović Public Library in Koprivnica. The results. The paper results provide new insights into the business operation of libraries in crisis situations in Croatia and abroad with regard to their place in the strategic-developmental and political-management concepts of their countries and communities. Practical implications. An insight into the activities of libraries during the COV-ID-19 disease pandemic is a contribution to the consideration of library practices in a crisis situation on the one hand, and a basis for planning systematic crisis management in Croatian libraries both nationally and locally. Originality/value. This paper, for the first time in Croatian library discourse, analyzes the importance of libraries in a crisis situation, and their position in the economic-developmental and political-management concept of smart cities / smart societies / smart nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The purpose of the article is to present the results of the research about science popularization activities in public libraries in the Republic of Croatia. Approach/methodology/design. A survey was used as a principal research method. An online survey was used, consisting of 15 questions (11 open type and 4 closed type). The research hypotheses were that the popularization of science activities are carried out regularly in public libraries in Croatia and that there are space, financial, and staff limitations that determine the way of carrying out the popularization of science activities. An invitation to participate in the research was sent to e-mail addresses of all public libraries in Croatia. Findings. The results of the research confirmed that the popularization of science activities are carried out in public libraries in Croatia. The research has revealed the existence of problems related to library management: limited library space, limited financial resources, and limited number of library staff necessary for a high quality popularization of science activities. All age groups were interested in such activities. The popularization of science activities were initiated by public libraries themselves and they were carried out in cooperation with the scientists from the Croatian faculties and research institutes, and the journalists. The topics covered in popularization of science activities cover broad spectrum of areas of human activities that can attract broad audience. A positive attitude towards public libraries as a place of popularization of science activities was confirmed. Limitations. Not all Croatian public libraries chose to participate in this research; more research is necessary to gain deeper understanding of the aspects of popularization of science activities including user surveys and interviews. Practical implications. Providing support to public libraries in planning future popularization of science activities based on the insights into science popularization activities. Joining efforts of public libraries towards institutions that are financing their work with the aim to improve conditions for carrying out the popularization of science activities. Social implications. Emphasizing the role of public libraries in the promotion of science and partnership and cooperation with the academic community and media. Originality/value. In the Republic of Croatia there is a lack of research in the promotion of science, especially about the role and cooperation of public libraries in this important social activity which brings science close to the general public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The City Library “Ivan Goran Kovačić” in Karlovac, in cooperation with the Administrative Department for Social Activities in the City of Karlovac, conducted a survey among professional associates on reading difficulties in primary school children. The aim of the survey is to collect data on students with reading difficulties in the Karlovac area. The insight was gained into the situation in city schools and an incentive to improve the cooperation between the Library Department for Children and Youth and primary schools through the planning of new forms of assistance to children with reading difficulties. The results of the survey indicate that the problem of reading difficulties is mainly noticed in the first and/or second-grade students, and thus the Library has identified this age group of children, their parents, and primary school teachers as target groups for education and programs encouraging the purchase of easy-to-read materials for school libraries. Motivated by the goals and actions of the National Campaign “I want to read too!”, programs of cooperation between Karlovac speech therapists and librarians as initiators, mediators, and organizers of inclusion of people with reading difficulties and dyslexia in the community were implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The objective of this paper is to present an overview and an analysis of the continuous foreign language workshops, free for all library members, which were held by the end of 2018 in the Zagreb City Libraries, in three networks of branch libraries: Vladimir Nazor Library, Marin Držić Library, Silvije Strahimir Kranjčević Library and the branch library Ante Kovačić City Library. Methodology. The data for this research were collected from the annual reports of the Zagreb City Libraries, scientific and professional papers, interviews with library directors and/or coordinators, followed by the data analysis according to the number of libraries that organize and conduct workshops, the number of the workshops and participants, type of participants (children/adults), languages taught, and the expertise of the workshop leaders. Findings. The research shows that in the period from 2011 to 2018, 1402 foreign language workshops were held in the named branch libraries, 839 for adults and 563 for children, with the total of 15,531 participants. The most represented languages were Italian (57.8%), English (35.8%), followed by German (5.1%), Russian (0.7%), and French (0.6%). The workshop leaders were volunteers or librarians employed in the libraries in which workshops were held. Most of the workshops were held by foreign language teachers (62.4%) and 37.6% by volunteers or librarians who are fluent in the foreign languages they taught. Social implications. Following the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development goals as well as guidelines and trends in public library management, the Zagreb City Libraries strive to be the place which supports the personal growth of the great number of people, primarily in acquiring essential knowledge necessary for gaining competitive advantage in the modern society, creating opportunities for social networking, and reducing social isolation. The workshops contribute to inclusion, equalize opportunities for participants of all economic groups, and provide access to non-formal but high quality education. The originality/value. Numerous libraries from the Zagreb City Libraries network have been organizing foreign language workshops for years. This is the first overview and the analysis of the workshops in four branch libraries, i.e. their networks, which could serve as a basis for further evaluation and a more detailed analysis, and encourage other libraries and institutions to organize and implement similar inclusive activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. This paper deals with the Green Library Movement in the Republic of Croatia, with an emphasis on public libraries in Croatia. After the introductory part about the green libraries, the central part of the paper presents the results of the research about green libraries in the public libraries in Croatia. The aim of the research was to determine the current situation and to examine whether the public libraries in Croatia are developing towards green libraries by examining the following three elements of a green library: the library building, the green operation, and library services. Approach/methodology/design. The introductory part of the article is based on the available literature about green libraries, while the central part presents the research that used an online questionnaire as a research method. The research aimed to include all public libraries in the Republic of Croatia. Findings. The research was carried out in 82 public libraries in Croatia and it has shown that the majority of libraries did not apply financially available measures for energy saving, although some principles of green operation were present in libraries (waste sorting, paper saving, printer cartridge saving). The results indicate a considerable interest of public libraries in Croatia in the development of green library services and that the majority of libraries include ecological topics in their activity plans. However, the research results also indicate the need for additional education of librarians about green library concept in order to motivate librarians to develop ecological awareness. In addition to the insufficient education of librarians about the concept of green libraries, the insufficient number of library staff is also a problem in the public library development in Croatia, as well as inadequate library space and facilities, and lack of financial means. Originality/value. The paper presents a comprehensive research about green libraries on the national level and its results are applicable in the future development of public libraries in the Republic of Croatia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to collect information from the professional and scientific literature, documents and records, and interviews with library directors in order to analyze facts and make a more comprehensive, systematic overview of the development of libraries in Zaprešić and its surrounding area from the foundation of the first library until the end of 2018. Approach/methodology. The approach was a systematic search of the professional literature and available documents. It was concluded that the information in these sources were insufficient and it was decided to prepare a questionnaire with the questions about the development and current status of the libraries, which was sent to the libraries in Zaprešić and surrounding area. All the libraries responded to the questionnaire. The survey covered all libraries in the Zaprešić area (public, school, and university libraries). Findings. A detailed analysis of the literature and responses of the library directors and librarians was performed and the development of libraries in Zaprešić and surrounding area was presented. The presentation was made according to the type of libraries and chronologically. The aim was to show the complete picture of all libraries from the beginning and to the present state and activities. The results have shown that the libraries cooperate very well and very often. Also, it was observed that in the Zaprešić area the libraries have always played a very important role in everyday life of the community in the past and present, and that they are keeping pace with the modern changes in society and the development of library profession. Originality/value. This paper offers the first systematic review of libraries in Zaprešić and surrounding area. During the research process, a number of mostly unknown or less known facts about the libraries were revealed which could be invaluable to future researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to present the event Sesvete Poetry Marathon which has been taking place in the Sesvete Library for the past twelve years as a part of the project Cultural Thursday in Sesvete. Approach. The introduction describes the reasons for developing the project Cultural Thursday in Sesvete. It is followed by the chronological overview and the launching of the event Sesvete Poetry Marathon. For the last five years, as a part of the Sesvete Poetry Marathon, a survey has been conducted to explore the satisfaction of the participants in order to continuously improve the manifestation. Results. The results of the survey have shown that there is a great interest for the Sesvete Poetry Marathon. The manifestation has gradually developed and changed in accordance with the users’ needs and interests and has been recognized among the participants who repeatedly visit the event every year. Originality. This paper presents the users’ needs analysis, the advantages and disadvantages of this specific library service and recognizes the possibilities to improve the manifestation in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of the paper is to briefly present the founding and development of the Public library “Juraj Šižgorić’’ Šibenik from its establishment to 1980s, especially in the context of the development of the Croatian librarianship and libraries, but also of general social and political circumstances. Approach/methodology/design. The first part of the paper describes the circumstances in Šibenik during the 20th century, at the time when the city library was founded and developed. The second and the third parts of the paper present the development of the Public library “Juraj Šižgorić’’ Šibenik in the context of the development of Croatian librarianship, from 1920s to the Second World War, and the third part describes the period from the war to the 1980s. The data were collected from the daily newspapers, available in digitized form, thanks to the digitization activities of the Public Library “Juraj Šižgorić’’ Šibenik, as well as the University Library in Split, and the data from the scientific and professional literature. The librarians from the Public Library “Juraj Šižgorić’’ Šibenik have published several papers about their library on different topics: contributions by deserving directors, creation and development of collections, the role of the library in the contemporary social and cultural life of the city. Findings. This paper gives an insight into the historical development of the Public Library “Juraj Šižgorić’’ Šibenik and its connection with social and cultural life of the city. Throughout its long history, the library has often faced many problems such as lack of space and fi nancial support, but has always strived to keep up with the contemporary demands and needs of the community. Originality/value. The development of the library has been viewed both in the social context and through the general development of libraries in Croatia. The paper may serve as a basis for further research, but it may also be the inspiration for writing reviews about the history of other libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The purpose of the paper is to present the Green Library for Green Zagreb project in the light of cooperation with associations, from the perspective of participatory governance in culture. Approach. The paper provides an overview of the cooperation between libraries and associations, in the context of programs aimed towards environmental protection and encouraging sustainable development, from the Green Library pilot project, implemented in 2016 in one library within the Zagreb City Libraries network, to the Green Library for Green Zagreb project, currently being conducted in 21 libraries. The term “green library” implies library programs and services aimed at informing users about sustainable development and the necessity of environmental protection as well as acquiring knowledge and skills to improve the quality of life. An overview of “green” programs realized so far through the cooperation between libraries of the Zagreb City Libraries network and various associations is based on the published papers and library reports on the conduction of the project, launched in 2017. Considering that the project reports are semi-annual, the paper explores the period from January 2017 to June 2019. Results. The overview of cooperation with many associations that deal with environmental protection and promoting sustainable development values demonstrates that it was established in all kinds of programs within the project. It is also apparent that cooperation with civil society organizations, built in the foundations of the project, guarantees quality and diversity of the programs and ensures that as many citizens as possible actively participate in the project. Originality. Apart from being the first overview of cooperation between Croatian “green” library programs and civil society organizations, the paper also points to the importance of pushing public-civil partnerships towards participatory governance. Thus, libraries become involved into conducting national, European and global cultural policies which highlight participatory governance as the basis of sustainable development in culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The first objective of this paper was to explore the presence, characteristics and practices of book clubs in the public libraries of large Croatian cities. The second objective was to explore the experiences of book club leaders and their recommendations related to successful activities of book clubs. Methodology. The survey method was used to accomplish the research objectives. Eleven book club leaders in the public libraries of the cities Split, Rijeka, Osijek, Zadar and Pula, were surveyed. Findings. These are some of the research findings: meetings in book clubs are held once a month, they last from one to two hours and the meeting place is usually in the library; the book club members are mostly women; there are certain libraries which do not have a book club for persons of certain ages; the most common activity that takes place in the meetings is book discussion, but other activities are also present from meetings with writers to board games and drawing; the main criteria for selecting books to read are user preferences and availability of books; in majority of reading clubs the members read mostly foreign literature. Practical implications. The paper provides various insights that may be useful to book club leaders, as well as for other interested parties, to improve or initiate book club activities. Originality/value. Essential aspects of the activities of book clubs in the public libraries of the major Croatian cities are presented. A topic that is seldom represented in domestic scientific or professional literature is explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The paper presents the inclusive library services in public libraries such as the Tin Ujević and the Novi Zagreb library networks, which are an integral part of the Zagreb City Libraries. The article focuses on the collaboration of public libraries and associations of persons with disabilities and children with developmental difficulties over a period of almost two decades. Approach / methodology / design. In the introductory theoretical part of the article, the role, tasks, and mission of public libraries are described, especially their orientation to groups of persons with disabilities and other similar vulnerable groups of potential users of public libraries. Furthermore, the collaboration of the two networks of public libraries, the Tin Ujević and the Novi Zagreb library networks, with 2 central and 10 library branches, and with a large number of associations of the persons with special (additional) needs over a period of almost 20 years is presented. The collaboration of the Tin Ujević library with the Association for Promotion of Inclusion is particularly prominent, while the Novi Zagreb library network - Sloboština library reports about their activities and the long-term cooperation with the Association of Cerebral and Pediatric Patients-CeDePe. Fidings. The many years of work and cooperation of these two networks of public libraries with individuals and associations of persons with disabilities show that inclusive library services are something that our libraries have been practicing for years and that there is a growing need for these services considering the goals of sustainable development of the Agenda 2030. Social implications. The Tin Ujević and the Novi Zagreb library networks are the promoters of peace, social awareness, social activity, and, as it is evident in this paper, they aim to be responsible and inclusive institutions at all levels. Originality / value. This is the first systematic overview of the work and cooperation of the two networks of public libraries, Tin Ujević library network and Novi Zagreb library network with a large number of associations of persons with disabilities. It may serve as an example of good practice and encourage other libraries to organize their inclusive library activities or improve the existing ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The paper aims to describe the County Network of Public Libraries of Koprivnica-Križevci County and its historical developement over the past twenty years. Approach/methodology. The network development is described chronologically since the establishment of the national county network system for public and school libraries, that is, from 1997 when the Croatian Law on Librares entered into force until today. Results. The paper presents the Public Library Network of Koprivnica-Križevci County, which today, in 2018, consists of five public libraries (three city- and two municipal libraries), and two mobile library services providing library services for 20 municipalities. The elaborate planning and the long-term systematic building of the county library network have made it possible to achieve a 100% coverage of all local self-government units with the core public library services. Originality/value. The implemented model of the county public library network in Koprivnica-Križevci County shows that, with quality laws and support from all levels of funding (local, regional, state), as well as with the professional support of the library community, a network of public libraries, which will provide access to library services for all residents of all local self-government units, can be created. The described activities and concept of establishing a full county library network or some of its elements can serve as a model for providing library services in other areas where these services are not yet available to the residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The purpose of this paper is to establish whether public libraries offer content and services exclusively for children on their Web pages and to answer the following research questions: what online services and what online content for children are available on Web pages of children libraries in Croatia. Approach/methodology/design. An analysis of Web pages of children libraries in all the Croatian public libraries available online (non-existent and non-available Web sites of the Croatian public libraries were not researched) was conducted. Out of the total of 193 available public libraries' Web sites, the criterion for selection of public libraries for further analysis was whether those public libraries were offering content and services for children on the Web pages of children libraries; 32 such libraries were identified and selected. The analysis was made by using the CIRRI model (Core Information Reference Research Instruction (CIRRI) Contents Model) designed by Kanazawa, Maruyama, and Motoki. Findings. The research shows that there are not many public libraries in Croatia that offer content for children on their Web pages. Of all visited and analysed Web pages, only 32 of them were intended to be used by children. Many of them were not regularly updated, they were hard to find on the Web sites of public libraries as they were not specially highlighted and serve only as an indicator of existence of children libraries and some of their permanent activities. Very few Web pages could satisfy the children's needs for information, knowledge, and entertainment. The analysis of the Web pages of the Croatian public libraries indicates that there is still room for significant improvement of the content itself and organization of that content and other resources for children, their parents, and educators. Practical implications. The results of the research are applicable in the process of design of future Web pages of public libraries using the existing online content and services for children as an example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. This paper presents the experiences of the Rijeka City Library in starting and realizing the Business Corner service - a service aimed at providing business information and e-services, as a support to citizens in coping with the world of business and entrepreneurship. It also analyzes the structure of the Business Corner users and their level of satisfaction with this service. Methodology. In the introductory part, the motivation for starting the service is described, with specific reference to the relevant international documents on which it is based. This is followed by good practice examples, both in Croatia and around the world. The Business Corner service is described through its aims, human, technological and other resources, contents of the service, and promotional activities. Through the analysis of the evaluation forms given to all participants and visitors of Business Corner events, the users structure has been outlined and their satisfaction with the service assessed. Results. The results have shown a great interest of the citizens for the contents that the Business Corner service offers to the local community. The trend shows a constant growth of interest. Women are more proactive in comparison to men (63%). 35% of the users are not Library members. As expected, 60% of the users are aged between 26 and 45 years. 55% of the users are employed, while 17% are unemployed. The users have shown great satisfaction with the choice of topics and the usefulness of information. Facebook is the most important communication channel, as far as the promotion of the service is concerned. Originality/value. By participating in the process of strengthening the spirit of entrepreneurship, the library is moving away from the usual practice, which is confirmed by the positive evaluation of the service by its users and the number of those participating in the project (associates and participants). Traditionally, public library programmes aimed at library users are focused mainly on education and culture. By expanding the service to include business and working aspects of life, the public library attracts the attention and evaluation of the public in the new way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The paper presents the educational workshops on the ways of using information and communication technologies organized in the Public library „Petar Preradović" in Bjelovar for the users of all age groups, carried out in the period from 2012 to 2018. It also addresses the issues of the role of public libraries in the context of user education and lifelong learning, as well as the competencies of librarians to carry out education and inform users on the programs implemented by the library. Methodology. This paper topic is based on the research of the relevant professional and scientific literature that is related to educational workshops and programs for the users in public libraries, research synthesis, critical thinking, and examples of good practice. Results. The research of the relevant professional and scientific literature and the analysis of the examples of good practice of the conducted workshops and evaluating their usefulness from the perspective of the participants, have shown that public libraries can successfully implement various forms of informal education that include lectures, workshops, courses, roundtables, etc., in cooperation with the local community, institutions, and associations in order to improve the information literacy of their users, but also to influence the wider development of society. Value. This paper highlights the value of informal education and lifelong learning in theory and in practice, i.e. it emphasizes the examples of good practice which should serve as guidelines for implementing informal education programs in libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to describe the 65 Plus project. The project 65 Plus started in 2008 at the Zagreb City Libraries with the goal of social integration of elderly people and their active integration into the social and cultural activities in their community. Approach: The first part of the article analyses the basic legal and professional framework for the library services for elderly people. The demographic changes in the world population are especially emphasised. The second part brings a detailed overview of seven different programmes within the project 65 Plus. Results: The 65 Plus programme overview shows that the number and the diversity of programmes help the quality of life and social integration of elderly people. It enhances the quality of living in elderly homes, sensitizes the public to elderly people's needs, emphasizes their knowledge, experience and wisdom, and helps them to see the library as a place where they can fulfil their information, cultural and educational needs as well as the need for recreation and company. Originality: Besides giving an overview of the activities for elderly people over the last ten years within the project 65 Plus at the Zagreb City Libraries, the paper emphasizes the importance of rethinking the existing and setting up new programmes for elderly people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of the research was to collect data about the strong and weak points in operation of the Bogdan Ogrizović public library (Zagreb City Libraries network). The research included all library activities that are most frequently perceived by the library users as the most important, such as library services, library materials, library space, ICT support, library staff, equipment, lights, work atmosphere, etc. Approach/methodology/design. The survey was used as the principal method of research. It was divided into two parts. The first part aimed at the users' expressing three wishes about what they would like to have in the library or about activities they would like to participate at. The second part consisted of seven questions (a combination of the closed and open type questions, with a possibility of adding their own responses to three of the seven questions). A convenience sample was used as a sampling method in the research. Findings. The research results have revealed the long-standing problems, like the lack of library space and the restricted acquisition of library materials due to financial restrictions of the library budget. The results also indicated the wishes of the library users for accessing the e-content and online library services as well as the wishes for a larger number and more versatile activities in the library. The library was also recognized as a brand precisely because of the many popular activities taking place in its premises. The problems confirmed in this research are the systemic problems, which could be solved only by a more intensive support from the library network this library belongs to. Practical implications. The results of the research are applicable for making improvements in the existing library services and in the process of designing future library services in order to achieve even better results in user satisfaction with library services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rad obrađuje problematiku promocije i promicanja čitanja u narodnim knjižnicama te se fokusira na važnost razlikovanja tih dvaju pojmova u praksi hrvatskih narodnih knjižnica. Pregledom literature pokazano je da je promocija čitanja u hrvatskim narodnim knjižnicama još uvijek nedovoljno istraženo područje. Postojeća istraživanja na temu čitanja uglavnom se bave čitateljskim navikama pojedinih korisničkih skupina, čitanjem lektirnih djela ili općenitim značenjem čitanja, dok PISA i PIRLS istraživanja donose rezultate standardiziranih testova vezanih uz čitateljske kompetencije. Stručni radovi donose prikaze provedenih projekata i opisuju primjere dobre prakse. Poseban značaj u tome ima nacionalna kampanja za poticanje čitanja Čitaj mi! Objavljenih istraživanja na temu promocije čitanja u Hrvatskoj nema. Prvi dio rada donosi definicije ključnih pojmova, promicanja i promocije te kratki pregled istraživanja, projekata i udruga organiziranih u svrhu promocije i promicanja čitanja. Drugi dio rada donosi rezultate istraživanja koji prikazuju načine i pristupe promociji i promicanju čitanja u hrvatskim narodnim knjižnicama. Istraživanjem se nastojao dobiti uvid u načine i postupke pomoću kojih osobe odgovorne za aktivnosti promicanja i promocije čitanja provode promociju čitanja u knjižnici u kojoj su zaposlene. Također je istraženo kako knjižničari percipiraju pojmove vezane uz promicanje, poticanje i promociju čitanja i svijest o važnosti promocije aktivnosti koje se svakodnevno odvijaju u knjižnicama. U istraživanju je sudjelovalo 35 narodnih knjižnica odabranih na temelju prijedloga i preporuke voditelja županijskih knjižnica. Istraživanje je provedeno metodom polustrukturiranog intervjua. Rezultati su pokazali da knjižničari često ne razlikuju (ili ne pridaju važnost razlikovanju) terminologije, da se najčešće koriste promocijom (ne svih) aktivnosti putem oglašavanja na Facebook-stranicama i mrežnim stranicama knjižnica, što je usmjereno mlađim korisnicima te oglašavanjem na oglasnim pločama u knjižnici, što je usmjereno prema starijim korisnicima. Mnogi provedeni programi prolaze nezapaženo u široj javnosti jer se ne promoviraju dovoljno, što je često rezultat nedovoljnog vremena knjižničara za obavljanje tog dijela poslovanja. Rezultati ukazuju i na nužnost edukacije i podizanja svijesti o važnosti različitih načina promocije čitanja kako bi poticanje i promicanje bilo vidljivije u javnosti.