What is one key strategy librarians use to encourage maximum use of print and non-print materials?

One key strategy librarians employ to encourage maximum use of print and non-print materials is the circulation of all materials with varied loan periods. This approach recognizes that different types of materials may be used for various purposes and lengths of time. By providing flexible loan periods, librarians can cater to the diverse needs of patrons, allowing them to take materials home for as long as they need to make effective use of them. This strategy not only promotes accessibility to a wide array of resources, such as books, DVDs, and digital media but also fosters a culture of exploration and discovery, motivating patrons to engage with materials that interest them.

Creating a quiet reading area helps promote an atmosphere conducive to reading but does not directly encourage the active usage of materials. Limiting access to certain materials based on age may restrict opportunities for exploration and learning, which is contrary to the goal of maximizing use. Hosting regular community events can certainly enhance community engagement and interest in library resources, but they function as outreach strategies rather than direct means of increasing the circulation and use of materials themselves.