The academic library has experienced overall growth and decline based
on demographics, technology, and convenience, yet several problems face
academic libraries today including: perceived relevance, market share,
and competition. The purpose of this study was to explore marketing
activities and library usage in HBCU libraries. The following research
questions were explored: To what extent, if any, did information use
cause gate counts, reference transactions, and print circulation statistics to
grow or decline in HBCU libraries between 2000-2008? What specific
marketing activities were employed by HBCU libraries to influence
information needs, information seeking, and information use amongst
patrons? To what extent, if any, is there a relationship between
marketing strategies and information behavior as indicated by print
circulation statistics, gate counts, and reference transactions? Is there a
significant difference in information use as indicated by print circulation
statistics, gate counts, and reference transactions based on total student
enrollment?