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Article
Publication date: 15 February 2024

Susmita Saha and Md. Roknuzzaman

The major objectives of this study are to explore the perceptions of library practitioners towards IoT and to suggest directions for its proper application in university libraries…

Abstract

Purpose

The major objectives of this study are to explore the perceptions of library practitioners towards IoT and to suggest directions for its proper application in university libraries of Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducted an online questionnaire-based survey of library practitioners working at university libraries in Bangladesh in addition to an email interview with ten librarians. A sample size of 310 library practitioners was obtained using the convenience sampling technique for the survey. Non-parametric tests were performed to examine the differences in demographics and perspectives on IoT, as well as the potential benefits and challenges of IoT deployment in libraries.

Findings

A total of 178 valid surveys were completed, and the results indicate that 147 (82.6%) library practitioners have varied degrees of IoT understanding and positive attitudes about IoT applications in libraries. The study identified RFID, wireless technologies, cloud computing, mobile apps, artificial intelligence and semantic search as major IoT enablers. Tracking, book reservation, circulation, user identification, service marketing, selection of resources, information networking and resource sharing, etc. are the main areas of a library where IoT may be applied. The integration of IoT has the potential to transform conventional libraries into smart libraries. However, there are some challenges that Bangladeshi university libraries must overcome to take use of the prospects emerged from IoT.

Research limitations/implications

The study would encourage Bangladeshi librarians adopting IoT-based library and information services and provide guidelines for its successful implementation.

Originality/value

The study is a pioneering effort from Bangladesh’s perspective which portrays the original opinions and perceptions of library practitioners regarding IoT applications in university libraries of Bangladesh.

Details

Library Management, vol. 45 no. 1/2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 May 2018

Shamshad Ahmed, Arslan Sheikh and Muhammad Akram

Knowledge management (KM) is an emerging method of management. This study aims to explore the various aspects of implementing KM in university libraries of Pakistan.

1866

Abstract

Purpose

Knowledge management (KM) is an emerging method of management. This study aims to explore the various aspects of implementing KM in university libraries of Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire, and data were collected from 75 chief librarians and reference librarians of 48 university libraries of Pakistan. A total of 60 valid responses received and analyzed using SPSS version-21.

Findings

The results disclose that a majority of respondents are familiar with KM, and literature reading is the major source of their awareness. The Pakistani academic librarians believe that KM can be applied, in the reference services, resources sharing, networking and information literacy programs of libraries. While, need for professional training and KM education are also reported. KM can be implemented in libraries through, use of ICT, developing knowledge sharing culture and developing mentorship in organizations. A lack of staff training, lack of expertise in KM, lack of knowledge gaining and sharing culture, lack of understanding of KM concept and its benefits and a lack of IT infrastructure are the major challenges faced by library and information science (LIS) professionals. Communication skills, information management skills, IT skills, leadership skills, human resource management skills are identified as key skills for the implementation of KM.

Practical implications

This study provides a base to develop a KM strategy and implementation plan for academic libraries in Pakistan. It will facilitate to constitute an important step toward the management of intangible assets in Pakistani libraries.

Originality/value

The results of the study will unveil the perceptions of academic librarians toward KM. It will help to understand the relationship between KM and LIS. The study will also identify the challenges faced by librarians and skills required for the implementation of KM in libraries.

Details

Information Discovery and Delivery, vol. 46 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-6247

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 July 2013

Roknuzzaman and Katsuhiro Umemoto

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how and why library and information science (LIS) academics have responded to the advent of knowledge management (KM).

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how and why library and information science (LIS) academics have responded to the advent of knowledge management (KM).

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs an “experience survey” as a research strategy. Besides a review of scientific literature, this study conducts an e‐mail survey of 106 LIS academics of the world who have adopted KM education in their schools. A structured questionnaire comprising of both closed and open questions is used as the data collection instrument. The study analyses 57 filled‐in valid questionnaires following a mixed‐method approach of research.

Findings

The ways of knowing and degrees of understanding of KM concepts among the LIS academics are varied. Although KM is distinct from LIS, there exists a strong link between the two knowledge domains. LIS academics have positively responded to KM and considering its long root in LIS, they have argued for a serious consideration of the adoption of KM in LIS. The significant reasons for why the academics have responded to KM are the role of global knowledge economy, the natural evolution of the information field, interdisciplinarity, domain expansion, survival issues, and trends in technological innovations, etc.

Research limitations/implications

Many LIS schools do not come under investigation due to lack of their web accessibility.

Practical implications

It is suggested that LIS academics apply a holistic approach of KM and expand the knowledge domain of LIS by providing a sound understanding of the underlying concepts, theories, principles, techniques, and technologies of KM.

Originality/value

The empirical findings of the study are the original views and responses of LIS academics who are experienced in KM.

Article
Publication date: 6 August 2018

Sajed Abukhader

The purpose of this paper is to explore the connection between the various layers of roles and tasks of librarians with the various knowledge types and methods. Although there are…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the connection between the various layers of roles and tasks of librarians with the various knowledge types and methods. Although there are multiple benefits anticipated with knowledge management (KM) schemes in libraries, the practical side of it among Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals is not yet notable or evident.

Design/methodology/approach

Taxonomy building and Delphi method were two means of research deployed to achieve the declared purpose.

Findings

It was possible to achieve several steps into structuring a taxonomy but yet further work has to be accomplished in order to consummate the taxonomy. For this, means of group interviewing method along with perhaps sponsorship of association relevant to librarianship might be an appropriate approach.

Research limitations/implications

Delphi process was not possible to be fully exercised and completed due to limitations of limited number of participants as well the overwhelming feeling of participants had toward the unfamiliar content. It would have been more rewarding to have physical meeting in groups to overcome such limitations.

Originality/value

This paper lays the foundation stone of a multi-layer taxonomy for roles of librarians toward KM. The taxonomy also unveils a dimension that librarians often miss when discussing KM. It also models the categories of knowledge types for LIS. Thus, the LIS community is urged to contribute in the development of this taxonomy which could become the handbook of reference in KM for librarianship.

Details

Library Management, vol. 40 no. 1/2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 February 2013

Roknuzzaman and Katsuhiro Umemoto

The purpose of this paper is to examine how and to what extent knowledge management (KM) has been incorporated into the library and information science (LIS) curriculum.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how and to what extent knowledge management (KM) has been incorporated into the library and information science (LIS) curriculum.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is conducted using an e‐mail questionnaire survey of LIS academics world‐wide who adopted KM education in their schools. Based on a preliminary survey of 600 LIS schools' homepages, a structured questionnaire is sent out to 106 LIS academics via e‐mail. In total, 58 filled‐in questionnaires are received, of which 57 are valid for analysis. The analysis follows a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches of research with a primary focus on qualitative analysis.

Findings

LIS has assimilated the core content of KM based on the combination of varying proportions of major perspectives and skill‐sets of KM with an emphasis on information management and information technology‐oriented courses. The study also finds that LIS has incorporated KM following a partial adoption process through mutual borrowing of knowledge between LIS and KM.

Research limitations/implications

Many LIS schools, especially from non‐English speaking countries, do not come under investigation due to their lack of web accessibility.

Practical implications

This paper reinforces the curriculum renovation of LIS with the incorporation of KM. It suggests a strong interdisciplinary collaboration with other disciplines having KM interests, and the adoption of a balanced approach to KM that would consider wider audiences and market demand.

Originality/value

The study presents the practical experiences of LIS academics who adopted KM education. The study also explores the concept of “mutual borrowing of knowledge” between LIS and KM.

Article
Publication date: 23 October 2009

Roknuzzaman and Katsuhiro Umemoto

The main purpose of this paper is to explore library practitioners' views of knowledge management (KM) and its incorporation into library practice.

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Abstract

Purpose

The main purpose of this paper is to explore library practitioners' views of knowledge management (KM) and its incorporation into library practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on the review of literature available in secondary sources, and the result of interviews of ten library practitioners worldwide. The respondents are purposively selected from the participants' lists of two international conferences held in 2008. The interviews were conducted through e‐mail using a short, structured, and open‐ended questionnaire.

Findings

The ways of knowing and degrees of understanding of KM concepts among the library practitioners are varied. But the most library practitioners have focused on a shallow perception of KM for its incorporation into library practice – dealing with only explicit information and/or knowledge. This study also finds some of the reasons for responding to KM, e.g. increasing value of knowledge in the knowledge economy, role of information technologies, opportunities for improved library practices.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited in its scope, conducting interviews of only ten library practitioners worldwide, and hence, generalization may not be derived from the findings.

Practical implications

The paper suggests that library practitioners need to broaden their understanding, change their traditional mindset, and to apply a holistic approach of KM system design and library practice, focusing on both explicit and tacit knowledge.

Originality/value

The paper investigates the original views of library practitioners regarding KM in libraries.

Details

Library Management, vol. 30 no. 8/9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 November 2015

Shabahat Husain and Mohammad Nazim

– The study aims to explore the relevance of knowledge management (KM) education within library and information science (LIS) educational courses in India.

1038

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to explore the relevance of knowledge management (KM) education within library and information science (LIS) educational courses in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a quantitative research approach. A Web-based questionnaire survey was designed and distributed through FreeOnlineSurveys.com for the collection of data. A link for attending the survey was sent via electronic mail to the teachers (95 in numbers) of 65 LIS schools. A total of 43 responses (approximately 45 per cent) were received.

Findings

The findings show that there is a strong interest among LIS community towards the inclusion of KM education within LIS educational courses to impart the knowledge and skills related to KM among LIS students, and to facilitate their entry into the KM job market. Most of the respondents believe that a curriculum which embodies core elements of LIS, management and information systems and technology would best meet the needs of LIS students for their involvement in KM activities.

Practical implications

Findings of the present study may be used as the groundwork for the revision of current LIS educational courses as well as the revision of LIS curricula to impart the knowledge and skills-related to KM among LIS students for working in KM environment.

Originality/value

As no empirical study on the relevance of KM education to LIS professionals in India has been carried out before, this study closes this gap and provides a framework to modify existing LIS courses or curricula to fulfil the requirement of KM competencies of LIS students.

Article
Publication date: 13 November 2017

H. Frank Cervone

The current study aims to analyze the curriculum of selected knowledge management (KM) programs at universities in the USA, Europe, Australia and Asia within current and…

Abstract

Purpose

The current study aims to analyze the curriculum of selected knowledge management (KM) programs at universities in the USA, Europe, Australia and Asia within current and historical contexts to understand the scope and nature of the requirements in KM programs. By comparing the results from programs, a baseline understanding of what the overall requirements within these programs has been developed. This may provide benefits for the profession, as this baseline can provide a clearer understanding of the skills and knowledge elements that are present or absent in the current academic programs. In addition to better informing the KM community of what graduates of these programs may know, this information can provide a basis for academic program improvement and, ultimately, better use of KM in professional practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The basic approach in this study is a comparative analysis of curriculum in master-level programs in English that are focused on KM. In the current study, historical references to programs in KM were identified through prior research in the topic area. Current programs were identified through standard reference sources. The course titles and program descriptions for current programs are further analyzed using text analytics tools to understand the relationship of topics within and between programs.

Findings

The concept of KM as a distinct program of study appears to be stable but the number of programs is declining. The number of new master degree programs in KM has not significantly increased in the past 15 years, whereas many programs have been discontinued or have been reduced to the certificate/diploma level. Of the programs that exist today, we see that a greater variety in home locations of these programs which tend to imply coverage of the field is becoming increasingly diverse in its approach. Overall, it appears that the KM programs are moving toward transformation or integration with allied fields.

Originality/value

There has been very limited study of the curriculum within KM programs. Most of the research performed dates from 2010 or earlier. The current study adds a unique contribution to the literature by looking at earlier iterations of KM programs and compares those to the current state of the curriculum in KM programs and their successor programs in an attempt to understand how the field may be developing and changing.

Article
Publication date: 15 June 2023

Javaid Ahmad Wani and Shabir Ahmad Ganaie

The current study aims to gauge the association between HRM practices and performance in academic libraries in India.

Abstract

Purpose

The current study aims to gauge the association between HRM practices and performance in academic libraries in India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative approach to collect data. A total of 163 participants were included in this study. The sample was selected from 21 academic libraries. PLS-SEM, the main data analysis technique, was employed in the current research using the Smart PLS-4 software. The data for this study was collected through a survey conducted between March 1, 2022, and June 30, 2022.

Findings

The current study highlighted a significant positive correlation between HRM practices and performance. Moreover, the results indicated that job satisfaction mediates the relationship between training and performance among library professionals in academic libraries.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to the University Libraries in northern India. It was not possible to cover all the academic libraries, because India has a large geographical area; it is the seventh-largest country in the world, with an area of 3.3 million square kilometres.

Practical implications

Employees play a vital role in addressing these concerns in their pursuit of sustainability because they are integral elements of organisations and a significant source of competitive advantage. This may be achieved through good human resource management, which involves defining performance indicators, teaching employees to empower them to achieve organisational goals and recognising their accomplishments. This study has the potential to enhance scholarship, particularly in the domains of “human resource management” and library management. This study can also be used by future academics interested in organisational behaviour, organisational effectiveness, job satisfaction, commitment and performance appraisal.

Originality/value

This study could be used as an empirical standard in decision-making policies aimed at improving employee performance and enhancing the smooth implementation of library management.

Details

Library Management, vol. 44 no. 3/4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 August 2020

Muhammad Rafi, Zheng Jian Ming and Khurshid Ahmad

The study aims to expand the literature on evaluating the performance of professionals and academic libraries, rationalizing management and providing reliable services to the…

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Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to expand the literature on evaluating the performance of professionals and academic libraries, rationalizing management and providing reliable services to the academic community. The performance assessment model covers the four components (management competence, professional experience, financial add/projects and library services) in the context of the knowledge management model.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on quantitative data, the study defines a set of assumptions for testing the four components of performance evaluation within a knowledge management framework to develop appropriate and robust models for improving employee performance and library services. The structural equation model has been applied to sample data from 339 administrative librarians at 190 universities in Pakistan.

Findings

Statistical evidence confirms that the applicability of the proposed performance-based model enhances management competence, makes accurate decisions, develops professional skills and strengthens human resource organization and knowledge management techniques in developing the efficiency of academic libraries.

Practical implications

In the long term, academic leaders and policymakers value investment in the professional development of top library management as they participate in the decision-making process. Organizing training for service employees, supporting innovative research projects and providing library technology infrastructures ultimately improve academic performance and research when integrated into the knowledge management model.

Originality/value

So far, comprehensive literature on performance and knowledge management has been published separately. However, based on the key data collected by senior library administrators using the structured research questionnaire, the comprehensive performance evaluation research based on a knowledge management model is innovative to improve academic library services and close the literature gap.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. 40 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

Keywords

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