Mapping the state of community libraries: An empirical study in Hubei Province.

This study aims to improve understanding of the state of the community library, to identify challenges in development, and to propose corresponding solutions. This paper uses questionnaires and semi‐structured interviews to investigate the development status of 164 community libraries in Hubei Province. The survey results show that community libraries in Hubei province grow rapidly in recent years. And some them have established close interactions with residents. However, they still face a number of challenges, such as shortage of collections, lack of funding, Lack of qualified library staff, limited programs, insufficient rules and regulations, and poor infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]