Photovoice: a creative method to engage library user community

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to generate awareness of and interest in the photovoice method, and help librarians to be more creative in examining user needs, perceptions and behavior and be more effective in conducting outreach to user communities.

Design/methodology/approach

Photovice is a qualitative method that combines visuals and narratives in exploring community issues. This paper reviews the photovoice method and discusses its implications in engaging library user communities.

Findings

Photovoice is rarely used in library research and practice and only three published studies reported the use of this method. The three studies were reviewed in this paper to offer ideas regarding the potential application of this method in the library profession.

Originality/value

This paper provides an overview of an innovative method and contributes new ideas to library outreach and user engagement.

Citation

Luo, L. (2017), "Photovoice: a creative method to engage library user community", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 35 No. 1, pp. 179-185. https://doi.org/10.1108/LHT-10-2016-0113