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1 – 10 of over 25000
Article
Publication date: 6 February 2017

Joy M. Perrin, Le Yang, Shelley Barba and Heidi Winkler

Digital collection assessment has focused mainly on evaluating systems, metadata and usability. While use evaluation is discussed in the literature, there are no standard criteria…

1722

Abstract

Purpose

Digital collection assessment has focused mainly on evaluating systems, metadata and usability. While use evaluation is discussed in the literature, there are no standard criteria and methods for how to perform assessment on use effectively. This paper asserts that use statistics have complexities that prohibit meaningful interpretation and assessment. The authors aim to discover the problems inherent in the assessment of digital collection use statistics and propose solutions to address such issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper identifies and demonstrates five inherent problems with use statistics that need to be addressed when doing assessment for digital collections using the statistics of assessment tools on local digital repositories. The authors then propose solutions to resolve the problems that present themselves upon such analysis.

Findings

The authors identified five problems with digital collection use statistics. Problem one is the difficulty of distinguishing different kinds of internet traffic. Problem two is the lack of direct correlation of a digital item to its multiple URLs, so statistics from external web analytics tools are not ideal. Problem three is the analytics tools’ inherent bias in statistics that are counted only in the positive way. Problem four is the different interaction between digital collections with search engine indexing. Problem five is the evaluator’s bias toward simple growing statistics over time for surmising a positive use assessment. Because of these problems, statistics on digital collections do not properly measure a digital library’s value.

Practical implications

Findings highlight problems with current use measures and offer improvements.

Originality/value

This paper identifies five problems that need to be addressed before a meaningful assessment of digital collection use statistics can take place. The paper ends with a call for evaluators to try to solve or mitigate the stated problems for their digital collections in their own evaluations.

Article
Publication date: 6 September 2011

Emily Symonds

The aim of this paper is to discuss the application of a web‐based tool as a remote asynchronous usability testing method based on an assessment of an academic library's digital

3063

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to discuss the application of a web‐based tool as a remote asynchronous usability testing method based on an assessment of an academic library's digital collections website.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines the selection of an asynchronous remote usability testing method, the reasons for the selection of SurveyMonkey, an evaluation of its effectiveness through an assessment of the digital collections web site, and the potential for its application in future usability studies.

Findings

SurveyMonkey can be employed as an assessment tool with advance planning by evaluators to capture the responses and opinions of users. Overall, it is a cost effective and time‐saving option for small assessment projects.

Research limitations/implications

This was an informal study where a specific product, SurveyMonkey, was tested with the purpose of evaluating its effectiveness as a remote asynchronous assessment tool through its application for a specific website usability study. The assessment was not compared to other testing methods, and the tool was not evaluated through formal methods.

Practical implications

Libraries and other organizations can look to free, or low‐cost, web‐based tools as an alternative to more traditional methods, such as focus groups, when evaluating services.

Originality/value

The paper describes the creation and implementation of a web‐based usability test for a library website using a specific product. It looks at the effectiveness of the assessment tool based on cost and time requirements, in addition to the benefits and disadvantages of conducting remote usability testing.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. 29 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 2014

Nesba Yaa Anima Adzobu

Although user needs assessment is an intrinsic element of service quality delivery in digital libraries (DLs), not much has been written on this topic in the context of African…

1650

Abstract

Purpose

Although user needs assessment is an intrinsic element of service quality delivery in digital libraries (DLs), not much has been written on this topic in the context of African universities. This is understandable as academic digital libraries in Africa are rather nascent. Even so, the most frequently-used needs assessment methods do not directly involve the users. This study aims to assess priority setting by academic library administrators and the needs of patrons of digital collections of a public university library in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of official university documents and interviews with digital library patrons at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in Ghana were carried out between September, 2011 and January, 2012. Five research questions were asked: what are the current conditions of the UCC digital library project, the user communities and their needs, what are the priorities set by the university administrators and library leaders at the UCC and the state of technological readiness in place and what are needed by the UCCDL. Also, what is the extent of collaboration by interested parties in the UCCDL?

Findings

Three general digital library user communities were identified, that is, UCCDL staff- this community was composed of experts in both digital library systems and content, characterized as heavy users of the existing systems, as knowledgeable about articulated (formalized) user needs, and able to devote short (usually less than two hours) amounts of time to individual's needs. Next, are scholars and other visitors to the UCCDL – this community was characterized as having high levels of domain expertise and knowledge of library systems. They are also able to devote large but specific amounts of time (days or weeks) to their individual information needs. Visitors/Prospective users- this community was characterized as having varied levels of domain expertise and low levels of library systems knowledge. They are able to devote only short periods of time to their information needs or explorations. These user communities are influenced by diverse preferences, experiences, and knowledge structures.

Practical implications

Academic libraries are increasingly advocating local user studies as a way to provide the digital library services that are relevant to the culture and user population of the academic institution. Replicating digital library user studies at the local level can provide information for improving existing services or developing new ones.

Originality/value

In African public universities, there is little earlier research on digital library user needs assessments or DL priority-setting by academic library administrators.

Details

Collection Building, vol. 33 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0160-4953

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 November 2010

Marilyn Von Seggern, Alex Merrill and Lihong Zhu

Internet sites about geographical locations attempt to articulate and convey “sense of place”, a concept that relates to the unique identity and meaning attached to place. This…

1124

Abstract

Purpose

Internet sites about geographical locations attempt to articulate and convey “sense of place”, a concept that relates to the unique identity and meaning attached to place. This paper aims to review the variety of resource types, metadata sources, and navigation features that are used by “sense of place” web sites to communicate with and involve the user. Assessment of place‐based digital collection sites is discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

Current place‐based sites were reviewed to show the diversity and range of content as well as metadata options, applications for users, and web features that make the most of location‐specific foci.

Findings

Place‐based sites present many types of resources and use geospatial, interactive, customization, and other tools to enhance the content, assist the user in finding resources, and develop “sense of place”. Assessment of such digital collections is being done but could be used more extensively to improve the sites.

Practical implications

Identifying and discussing place‐based digital collections will serve to highlight a specialized type of site and collection. Attention to the enhancement of “sense of place” internet sites could further geographical and geospatial interests, education, and web applications.

Social implications

“Sense of place” sites provide information about places that have unique history, environmental sensitivity, or special meaning. Digital content is readily available for educational purposes and can be a contribution point for shared history and experience.

Originality/value

This paper will be of value to those interested in digital collections primarily focused on a geographical location and how web applications can build on the content to convey “sense of place” to users of the site.

Details

OCLC Systems & Services: International digital library perspectives, vol. 26 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1065-075X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 17 January 2022

Ayla Stein Kenfield, Liz Woolcott, Santi Thompson, Elizabeth Joan Kelly, Ali Shiri, Caroline Muglia, Kinza Masood, Joyce Chapman, Derrick Jefferson and Myrna E. Morales

The purpose of this paper is to present conceptual definitions for digital object use and reuse. Typically, assessment of digital repository content struggles to go beyond…

2027

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present conceptual definitions for digital object use and reuse. Typically, assessment of digital repository content struggles to go beyond traditional usage metrics such as clicks, views or downloads. This is problematic for galleries, libraries, archives, museums and repositories (GLAMR) practitioners because use assessment does not tell a nuanced story of how users engage with digital content and objects.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews prior research and literature aimed at defining use and reuse of digital content in GLAMR contexts and builds off of this group’s previous research to devise a new model for defining use and reuse called the use-reuse matrix.

Findings

This paper presents the use-reuse matrix, which visually represents eight categories and numerous examples of use and reuse. Additionally, the paper explores the concept of “permeability” and its bearing on the matrix. It concludes with the next steps for future research and application in the development of the Digital Content Reuse Assessment Framework Toolkit (D-CRAFT).

Practical implications

The authors developed this model and definitions to inform D-CRAFT, an Institute of Museum and Library Services National Leadership Grant project. This toolkit is being developed to help practitioners assess reuse at their own institutions.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is one of the first to propose distinct definitions that describe and differentiate between digital object use and reuse in the context of assessing digital collections and data.

Details

Digital Library Perspectives, vol. 38 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2059-5816

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 September 2004

Elizabeth Yakel

Over the past decade, a variety of digital imaging projects have been carried out in archives, libraries, and museums. This paper discusses the difficulties in moving from a…

1551

Abstract

Over the past decade, a variety of digital imaging projects have been carried out in archives, libraries, and museums. This paper discusses the difficulties in moving from a series of digital projects to a digitization program, and the ensuing transformation in thinking from digital objects to digital assets that needs to occur. It also discusses the problems archives and museums face in managing, preserving, and providing continuing access to these digital assets and potential models for their long‐term management.

Details

OCLC Systems & Services: International digital library perspectives, vol. 20 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1065-075X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 May 2017

Sara Mannheimer and Conor Cote

For libraries with limited resources, digital preservation can seem like a daunting responsibility. Forming partnerships can help build collective knowledge and maximize combined…

1262

Abstract

Purpose

For libraries with limited resources, digital preservation can seem like a daunting responsibility. Forming partnerships can help build collective knowledge and maximize combined resources to achieve digital preservation goals. This paper aims to provide guidance to help libraries with limited resources achieve digital preservation goals by forming partnerships to build collective knowledge and maximize combined resources.

Design/methodology/approach

In 2015, librarians from four Montana institutions formed the Digital Preservation Working Group (DPWG), a collaboration to increase digital preservation efforts statewide. The group’s immediate goals were to promote digital preservation best-practices at each individual institution, and to learn about and support each other’s work. The group’s long-term goal was to implement a shared digital preservation service that would fill gaps in existing digital preservation efforts.

Findings

Beyond the cost savings gained by sharing a digital preservation service, the members of DPWG benefitted from shared knowledge and expertise gained during the partnership. The group also functioned as a sounding board as each institution built its digital preservation program, and it became a system of support when challenges arose.

Practical/implications

This paper proposes a five-point plan for creating digital preservation partnerships: cultivate a foundation of knowledge and identify a shared vision; assess the current digital preservation landscape at each institution; advocate for the value of digital preservation activities; implement shared digital preservation services; and sustain group activities and establish structures for ongoing support.

Originality/value

The activities of DPWG provide a model for institutions seeking to collaborate to meet digital preservation challenges. This paper shows that by implementing a structured plan, institutions can build and sustain digital preservation partnerships, thus positioning themselves to achieve digital preservation success.

Details

Digital Library Perspectives, vol. 33 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2059-5816

Keywords

Content available
Article
Publication date: 2 March 2015

Heidi Hanson and Zoe Stewart-Marshall

271

Abstract

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 32 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Content available
Article
Publication date: 18 October 2011

411

Abstract

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 28 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Article
Publication date: 6 August 2020

Bibi M. Alajmi and Madiha Kaisar

Using the Association of Research Libraries' SPEC KIT 303 library assessment framework, this study examines and evaluates academic libraries' efforts toward establishing a culture…

Abstract

Purpose

Using the Association of Research Libraries' SPEC KIT 303 library assessment framework, this study examines and evaluates academic libraries' efforts toward establishing a culture of assessment.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative questionnaire is employed to collect data. The sample comprises 70 library staff working in eight academic libraries in public and private universities in Kuwait.

Findings

The findings document a readiness to create a culture of assessment in Kuwaiti academic libraries, though this was greater in private universities. Resources to develop this culture, such as assessment and analysis methods and the requisite skills and knowledge, are available, but commitment from academic leaders and plans for a shift toward culture of assessment were not evident. Overall, participating academic library staff acknowledged the value of developing a culture of assessment, but this seems not to be an institutional priority

Practical implications

The methodology and findings address gaps in library and information science education and library management on creating a culture of assessment and suggest future research avenues.

Originality/value

Library assessment is a core function of libraries, but guaranteeing the continuity and consistency of related activities requires an organizational culture that facilitates and supports such assessment. While many articles have focused on the requisites for building a culture of assessment in higher education, few, if any, have assessed academic libraries in the cultural context of the Middle East.

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