IMPACT OF LIBRARIES ON SHOPPING CENTRES - A PERPECTIVE OF LIBRARY SHOPPERS

Abstract

The recent retail industry has undergone intense competition due to the introduction of real estate investment trusts (REITs). Hence, shopping centre management is under pressure to add value to these shopping centres. The issue which arises is: do libraries fulfill the role as commercial tenants, especially in this competitive business environment. This study aims to examine the impact of libraries on shopping centres from the perspective of library shoppers. The survey on shoppers took place outside three libraries, namely Library@Orchard, Pasir Ris Community Library and Choa Chu Kang Community Library in December 2005. The library shoppers are interviewed on their consumption patterns and shopping behaviour in libraries and shopping centres. To study their shopping behaviour, quantitative measures such as descriptive statistics and bivariate tests are adopted. It is discovered that most people do multi-task shopping, and trades such as book stores, food courts/restaurants and supermarkets benefit from the presence of libraries in the mall. To conclude, libraries can work closely with the property managers to enhance their positive spill-over effect to other tenants. It can help to improve business during lacklustre periods for the shopping malls. The libraries can target the younger group of library users and improve facade and facilities to attract more library users.