Recent survey results show UTSA Libraries ‘genuinely helpful’

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JULY 18, 2025 — The staff at UTSA Libraries are knowledgeable, courteous and genuinely helpful, according to students, faculty and staff responding to a recent survey.

During a spring semester survey aimed at assessing library services at UTSA, a record number of students, faculty, and staff provided feedback, giving high ratings to library services across all campuses.

“This survey provides valuable insight into how our community experiences the Libraries,” said Dean Hendrix, UTSA vice provost and university librarian. “We depend on the results to guide thoughtful improvements that address the changing needs of our users and ensure our services support our mission to promote research, teaching, learning and student success.”

“This performance affirms UTSA Libraries’ position as a national leader in delivering responsive, user-centered library services.”

UTSA Libraries consists of libraries at the main and downtown campuses, another in the Applied Engineering and Technology building, and UTSA Special Collections.

More than 3,400 students, faculty and staff participated in the study in March and April using a web-based survey known as LibQUAL+ offered by the Association of Research Libraries.

The survey sought feedback on library services, access to information and resources, and the physical environment and usability of library spaces.

Survey respondents gave UTSA Libraries 8.13 points out of 9 on their satisfaction with how they are treated at the library, and 7.9 points on satisfaction with library support for learning, research and teaching needs.

Library users rated the overall quality of service with 7.95 points out of 9.

User interaction with library staff was among the highest-rated aspects, according to the survey results, similar to previous studies.

Respondents frequently described staff as knowledgeable, courteous and genuinely helpful, and many emphasized the libraries’ welcoming and inclusive environment.

“This feedback confirms what I already know: UTSA Libraries and Museums staff are setting the standard for how 21^st century research support and student engagement should look,” Hendrix said. “Students, faculty and researchers feel seen, supported, and empowered. This performance affirms UTSA Libraries’ position as a national leader in delivering responsive, user-centered library services.” 

Record Participation

The 2025 survey set a record for engagement, with 3,441 valid responses and 1,661 open-ended comments. Participation exceeded a goal of 3,000 responses by 14.7%, reaching that target within the first 11 days of the four-week survey period.

Student participation was especially strong, with 3,307 student surveys submitted — well above the goal of 2,860. The faculty response also was high, with 114 responses, topping the goal for 80.

UTSA libraries promoted the survey through weekly prize drawings for tech gear, such as an iPad and Apple Watch, available to students.

In addition to providing a benchmark against peer institutions nationwide, the survey data will be used for future planning, investments and enhancements.

Respondents also provided valuable input through more than 1,600 comments. Here’s a sampling:

“I love going to the library. I am so much more productive there and I love the quiet study. My favorite spot on campus is the JPL.”

“I absolutely love coming to the library for any of my school needs! It is always the first spot my friends and I go to get work done while on campus.”

“We have the very best library, librarians, and staff that I could ever have hoped for. Our librarians clearly love their jobs and enthusiastically meet our needs and our students’ needs. It is an incredible treasure. Please persist.”

— Germaine Age Williams