Abstract:
Ageing of population has become a global phenomenon and it could be observed in
Sri Lanka too. This growing segment of the older adults' last phase of life is recognized
to afford new challenges- declining health and opportunities - more redundant spare
time during retirement. A public library is a suitable place available for them to
effectively and efficiently spend spare time; however, they face challenges while
accessing these services. Therefore, this study investigates the challenges senior
citizens confront while accessing services and how libraries can address the issues
faced by them. Three public libraries, namely Colombo, Kotehena, Sri Sucharitha in
the Colombo Municipal Council limits, were selected based on the proportion of
elderly population density. Two qualitative methods - in-depth interviews and focus
group discussions, were used to gather information from administrators and users of
these three libraries. Thematic analysis was done of the transcribed interviews by
using Nvivo software. The result revealed that most senior citizens are happy to spend
time in libraries as it is a vibrant place that reduces their loneliness and mental stresses.
Nevertheless, they have encountered issues when they use these libraries - locating
information in the lending division, dependency due to physical health conditions,
lack of awareness of the library services apart from regular. Further, the study found
that public libraries have opportunities to manage those challenges through their
resources—user education and assistive technology programs, enhance mobile
services, resources and infrastructure facilities liaison with relevant authorities and
marketing the services to expand seniors' services.
