Japanese Women in New Zealand: Their experiences and expectations as regular customers of Auckland Libraries

Abstract

Research problem Numerous suggestions have been made to improve library services for immigrants, especially for their initial stages of settlement. However, long-term residents have different expectations as regular library customers. In New Zealand, so far no researcher has investigated Japanese customers’ experiences and expectations regarding their local libraries.

Methodology Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted in Japanese, with Japanese women who were selected by criterion sampling. Guided by the principles of phenomenology, this qualitative research describes their experiences and expectations. It also analyses their perceptions based on the theories of acculturation and social learning.

Findings Most participants feel ‘at home’ in New Zealand, while maintaining their Japanese cultural values. Generally, how they use libraries now is significantly different from how they did as new users. The factors that motivate or restrict their library use are identified as their 1) traditional views and 2) sense of belonging.

Implications The suggestions made could be useful in reviewing policies and practices of public libraries. Further study is required for other language communities and this study could be used as a guide. The findings and discussion could be valuable for the practitioners and academics regarding immigrant customers’ perceptions.