Spatial Regression Analysis of Factors Affecting the Accessibility of the Public Libraries

Abstract

Public library accessibility directly affects library usage, and the disproportionate distribution of accessibility is a decisive factor limiting the equitable provision of library services. In this regard, this study analyzed the spatial accessibility of public libraries in Metro City of Busan, South Korea and identified the factors affecting accessibility of public libraries using spatial regression analysis. As a results of the analysis, the accessibility of public libraries in the Busan City, South Korea showed large deviations by region. Also, spatial distribution of public libraries had no correlation with the settled population and use of public transportation, and location of public libraries was inefficient, in terms of social equity. The results of this study will assist to understand the spatial accessibility of public libraries in Busan, to identify factors that affect the accessibility. Moreover, this study is expected to be utilized as data for releasing disparities of the spatial accessibility and selecting new location of public library in Busan, South Korea, since, for the sustainable development of public libraries, it is desirable to apply a spatial regression analysis.