This past spring, UTSA Libraries conducted LibQUAL+, a nationally recognized survey to assess library services at UTSA, and a record number of students, faculty, and staff provided feedback, giving high rating to library services across all campuses.
Over a four-week period from mid-March to mid-April, the survey collected 3,442 valid responses from students, faculty, and staff across the UTSA community. Using a nine-point scale, LibQUAL+ asks users to indicate their minimum acceptable service level, their desired level of service, and their perceived level of service for each area. A statistical analysis is then conducted to evaluate how well UTSA Libraries is meeting user expectations.
“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.”
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.
UTSA Libraries performed significantly better than peer and ARL institutions.
| Library | Year | Perceived Mean |
|---|---|---|
| UTSA | 2025 | 7.68 |
| Texas State | 2025 | 7.45 |
| ARL Libraries | 2024 | 7.39 |
| UT - Dallas | 2025 | 7.17 |
| ARL Libraries | 2023 | 7.11 |
Consistent with previous surveys, user interactions with library staff were among the highest-rated aspects of the experience. Respondents often 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 21st-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.”
The 2025 survey set a record for engagement, with 3,442 valid responses and 1,661 open-ended comments from the UTSA community. Participation surpassed the Libraries’ 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 notably strong, with 3,307 student surveys submitted—far above the goal of 2,860. Faculty involvement also exceeded expectations, with 114 responses compared to a goal of 80.
Student and faculty feedback emphasized the Libraries’ essential role in academic achievement and campus activities.
One student wrote, “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. ❤️”
While another student commented, “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.”
The Libraries will utilize both quantitative data and comments to inform future planning, investments, and improvements. The results also serve as a useful benchmark against peer institutions nationwide.
“We have the very best library, librarians, and staff that I could ever have hoped for,” wrote one faculty member. “Our librarians clearly love their jobs and enthusiastically meet our needs and our students’ needs. It is an incredible treasure. Please persist.”