Aggregate‐Level Analysis of Information Behavior: A Study of Public Library Book Circulation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Information behavior research to date has mainly focused specific cases or representative surveys at the individual level, because each individual has unique contexts that shape their behavior. However, they have not fully benefited from aggregate‐level analyses due to mainstream theories' focus on a contextualized understanding of information. To address this gap, we adopt the theory of local information landscapes, that focuses on the material aspects of community dynamics, and analyze national‐level aggregate data on book circulations in public libraries across South Korea. By examining the relationship between socioeconomic status and public library book circulation, we discuss the potential to develop scalable theories and relevant data‐driven approaches in information behavior research.