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Article
Publication date: 17 August 2010

Elisha Ondieki Makori

The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of marketing of information products and services in university libraries in Kenya.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of marketing of information products and services in university libraries in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilises literature surveys of currently published articles and the researcher's professional experience.

Findings

Marketing is a basic and essential management process for promoting information products and services in university libraries in Kenya, but it is not given the attention it deserves and/or is poorly coordinated. Marketing avails university libraries the unique opportunity to provide quality, and demand‐based and user‐oriented information products and services.

Research limitations/implications

The paper used mainly literature surveys of currently published articles and the researcher's professional experience.

Practical implications

The paper offers reasons, strategies or initiatives and recommendations on how to make university libraries the destination for the user population. In this respect, university libraries should be proactively involved in marketing of information products and services to the user population.

Social implications

University libraries in Kenya should involve themselves actively in marketing and promotion of information products and services to the information audience. This helps to create awareness among the user population leading to increased use of information products and services in the libraries.

Originality/value

The paper highlights various marketing initiatives of making university libraries in Kenya the destination for the user population. Also, the paper explores recent innovative strategies for marketing information products and services. Marketing helps university libraries to: market and promote information products and services, provide innovative products and services, understand the needs and demands of the information audience or user population, plan service provision, and provide efficient and effective information products and services.

Details

Library Review, vol. 59 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0024-2535

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 October 2008

Rita John‐Okeke

This article seeks to discuss the need for a web‐based information delivery system in academic law libraries in Nigeria. It highlights the benefits of harnessing interactive web…

877

Abstract

Purpose

This article seeks to discuss the need for a web‐based information delivery system in academic law libraries in Nigeria. It highlights the benefits of harnessing interactive web technologies to provide the kind of information which legal scholars and researchers need to find the law, interpret the law and apply the law to solve societal problems.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature survey was carried out to support the proposal for a web‐based legal information service in Nigerian academic law libraries; visits to the websites of universities that have law faculties were also made.

Findings

Most of the libraries in law faculties, law schools and legal institutes are not utilizing web technologies such as blogs, Wikipedia, really simple syndication feeds, instant messaging, streaming media, podcasting and tagging. Lack of IT skills, finances, and government support are the major problems facing these libraries.

Practical implications

It should sensitize Government, library schools, library associations and information professionals to the challenges of ICTs.

Originality/value

Web‐based information delivery is relatively new in Nigerian libraries. This work will serve as a reference source.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 25 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 March 2010

Kristine Pabērza

This paper aims to present a methodology, early findings, possible applications of results and lessons learned from the research study “Public libraries: value, trust and

3503

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a methodology, early findings, possible applications of results and lessons learned from the research study “Public libraries: value, trust and satisfaction”, which has been conducted within the public library development project ‘Father's Third Son’ in Latvia.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used (although the findings reported here are largely drawn from the quantitative study) drawing on various theories of information behaviour and use‐oriented information service evaluation.

Findings

The study gives a good picture of user information needs in Latvia, the sources they use to fulfil them and the role of public libraries within this picture, especially in relation to cultural and recreational interests and public support for public libraries in terms of potential funding. The public library influence on people's leisure hours and their support for education are highlighted. The advocacy implications of this work are reviewed.

Research limitations/implications

Although this report is confined to the early stages of the study, the work was conducted on a substantial scale.

Originality/value

The work reported here provides new evidence of library use and appreciation in Latvia. The later results of this study, combined with evidence gathered by other participants in the Global Libraries initiative, will provide a commanding view of the significance of public libraries across a range of countries.

Details

Performance Measurement and Metrics, vol. 11 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-8047

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 October 2003

Annette Skov and Helli Skærbak

The article addresses the development and present state of information literacy activities in Danish institutions of higher education. It outlines the national policy on…

1506

Abstract

The article addresses the development and present state of information literacy activities in Danish institutions of higher education. It outlines the national policy on information literacy, emphasising the crucial role of the Danish Electronic Research Library (DEF). The importance of integrating information literacy sessions into the curriculum is highlighted together with an examination of the barriers that make integration difficult. Strategic alliances and new forms of liaison schemes are presented followed by a description of learning resource centres and Web‐based tutorials and e‐learning activities. The important role of professional groups in setting the agenda for information literacy discussions and knowledge sharing is recognised; and finally, the paper outlines the various educational opportunities open to library school students and academic librarians engaged in teaching information literacy.

Details

Library Review, vol. 52 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0024-2535

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 November 2021

Titilola Aminat Bayero Abdussalam, Janet Oluseyi Adewara, Jamiu Wankasi Abdulraheem, Tunde Toyese Oyedokun and Tawakalitu Raufu Balogun

Funding issues is observed to be the major stumbling block for the development of digital libraries in Nigeria. Hence, this paper aims to explore issues in obtaining and

1237

Abstract

Purpose

Funding issues is observed to be the major stumbling block for the development of digital libraries in Nigeria. Hence, this paper aims to explore issues in obtaining and allocating funds for digital library development.

Design/methodology/approach

The review is an explorative report of the state of affairs of digital library development in Nigeria with the associated fundraising issues.

Findings

Digital library initiatives are coincidental development with transformational change in the technology-driven world of global information distribution. The desire of the information users to have better-unrestricted access to information becomes the hallmark of digital content development and web-based information services. The goal of making information accessible globally to large and diverse information users was achievable with the development of a digital library that provides enhanced information services, improves access and usability of digital information resources.

Originality/value

The library of the future has already materialized in form of digital library services, but the cost of developing a digital library is not foreseeable cheap, and if Nigerian libraries are to achieve digital library service goal, alternative sources of finance need to be sought after through fundraising scheme from friends of the library, rental services, consultation fees and collaboration effort on library consortia as well as advocacy for open access initiatives.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 38 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 April 2013

Elisha Ondieki Makori

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in handling and supporting information services and activities in…

5906

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in handling and supporting information services and activities in Kenyan university libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized a survey research design to collect data, ideas, opinions, views and suggestions from the respondents drawn from various university libraries in Kenya. Collecting data and getting in‐depth information from the respondents was done using a web‐based structured questionnaire, document analysis and participant observation.

Findings

The findings from the study show that few university libraries in Kenya are using radio frequency identification technology to handle and support information services and activities. The study also found various problems hindering the adoption of the technology, such as a lack of information communication technology (ICT) policies, lack of a business approach, limited market opportunities, lack of lobbying or negotiating skills, inadequate funding and budgeting, and lack of ICT competencies and skills. The study recommends that library ICT professionals, information professionals and other stakeholders should make tireless efforts to implement and use RFID technology with the view to building, strengthening, improving and supporting information work and activities in university libraries.

Research limitations/implications

The study involved RFID technology, a relatively new and emerging innovation in university library and information systems, especially in the Kenyan context. The study also involved university libraries in Kenya that provide and support the fundamental functions of their respective universities.

Practical implications

Fundamentally, library ICT professionals, information professionals and other stakeholders need to take appropriate measures to address issues affecting the use of RFID solutions. There is a need to empower university libraries and information professionals with the right mix of ICT knowledge and skills necessary in the modern information environment.

Social implications

Across the world, university libraries are increasingly adopting and implementing RFID solutions in order to handle and support information work and activities. Of critical importance to the discussion is the extent to which university libraries in Kenya are using this technology to handle and support information work and activities effectively and efficiently. Proper management of library operations and services is necessary in university library and information systems.

Originality/value

The focus of the study was to assess the extent to which university libraries in Kenya are adopting and using RFID systems in information work and activities. This research is useful in providing a point of reference for university libraries and information professionals, increasingly going for similar solutions in Kenya and Africa in general.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 31 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 July 1994

Michael Afolabi

Identifies the various careers associated with library and informationscience. Apart from the existing information careers described, alsoidentifies new related areas. Notes that…

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Abstract

Identifies the various careers associated with library and information science. Apart from the existing information careers described, also identifies new related areas. Notes that a re‐training programme is necessary if library and information science graduates are to fit into the new information‐related jobs and that African departments of library and information science should review their training objectives and curricula to cater for information‐related jobs other than the training of librarians. Submits that library jobs are becoming increasingly difficult to come by and points out the need to prepare the library and information science graduate for other equally profitable and exciting areas.

Details

New Library World, vol. 95 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0307-4803

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 September 2014

Atul Ashokbhai Bhatt

The purpose of this paper is to ascertain the law faculty members’ information needs and seeking behaviour to provide library resources and services in a better way. Libraries

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to ascertain the law faculty members’ information needs and seeking behaviour to provide library resources and services in a better way. Libraries play a very important role in supporting legal education and legal research. The past decade has brought about a sea of change in the relationship between library and user. Information technology enabled new products and services, and the availability of online information resources has changed the provision of services in legal academic institutions. In this context, library professionals working in a legal academic library are required to have a sound knowledge of the information needs, perceptions and information-seeking behaviour of legal academicians and users to ensure solid collection development, to provide effective library services and to satisfy the needs of library users. Librarians are professionally committed to update a core, qualitative and need-based collection for the optimum utilization of the resources for the greater satisfaction of the user community.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used questionnaire-based survey methods. A questionnaire was designed and administered to the law faculty to investigate the information-seeking behaviour at the Institute of Law, Nirma University (ILNU). The study is limited to faculty members of ILNU. Data were collected through the surveys based on a well-structured questionnaire and personal interviews. An in-depth literature search on topics related to the research work was also carried out.

Findings

The results of this research showed that law faculty members used a range of information sources to pursue their teaching, research and academic work. When they use print resources, many respondents preferred books/reference books, law reports, statutes and journals. The study also revealed that a number of respondents preferred to use Information and Communication Technology-based library resources in comparison to print resources, with most of them stating that they have very good computing skills. This use may be due to availability, advancement and promotion of legal e-resources. HeinOnline is the most preferred online database, followed by Westlaw India and Manupatra. It is also noted that most of the faculty members have reported that Internet-based items are preferred over conventional documents for teaching and that the Internet has expedited the research process; thus, overall dependency on Internet access has increased.

Practical implications

The findings of the paper will help library and information science practitioners working in academic law libraries to address the key factors which influence users’ intention to seek information and to intensify their performance to meet user needs and perceptions. Results will also be useful to them in collection development.

Originality/value

The paper is relevant and useful to those who are interested to know the trends of information needs and determine the information-seeking behaviour and users’ perceptions for library resources of legal professionals. This study is also useful to librarians who are professionally committed to update a core, qualitative and need-based collection for the optimum utilization of the resources for the greater satisfaction of the user community.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 32 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 April 2011

Veeramani Marimuthu and Vinayagamoorthy Paraman

Library professionals today need to acquire knowledge and skills in information and communication technology as the services of more and more libraries are now centering on…

1508

Abstract

Purpose

Library professionals today need to acquire knowledge and skills in information and communication technology as the services of more and more libraries are now centering on information technology (IT), especially in educational institutions. Application of IT in academic environment in Kuwait has increased gradually in the recent decades. This paper is designed to measure the use of IT in the academic libraries of Kuwait and to establish some co‐relation between quality in libraries and use of IT.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a survey method.

Findings

The significance of IT lies in its role as a catalytic agent. Today there is no area, which has not been influenced by IT. IT mainly helps to provide timely information and facilitates real‐time access to remote databases. The importance of information lies in its accessibility and utilization by users for productivity and decision making. Technology remains one of the primary drivers of change in the ways that people work, seek information, communicate, and entertain themselves. In an academic environment, no unit has been transformed by technology than the library.

Practical implications

The libraries need to reorganize their physical space to make technology‐enabled resources both more readily available and widely used. Library and information professionals should add new IT skills to their current capabilities in order to help users overcoming their anxieties about the new world of networked and digitized information, and assist them to navigate through it. In this regard college librarians have to be serious in developing their own proficiency and must find out how to develop their professional competency in general. Since the users are more prone to online and electronically delivered services, the growing role of the librarian in colleges would lie in information counseling, training, advising users on services and information products appropriate to their needs and how best to use them. This is a time that necessitates innovative ways of thinking about services, collections, information access, and also our roles as academic librarians. Being prepared to manage changes can furnish us with the ability to flourish.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the use of hardware and software facilities in academic libraries. It also highlights the access of networks, information services and problems in IT applications. The analysis of the data represents the extent and the level of IT application applied by the librarians at academic libraries in Kuwait.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 28 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2006

Toby Leigh Matoush

To provide an overview of innovative information literacy programs at San Jose State University King Library which may serve as models for future academic library information

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Abstract

Purpose

To provide an overview of innovative information literacy programs at San Jose State University King Library which may serve as models for future academic library information literacy programs.

Design/methodology/approach

New and innovative information literacy programs at the San Jose State University King Library are discussed and analyzed. These programs include freshman and transfer student literacy programs and a proposal for campus dormitory information literacy.

Findings

Analyzes innovative and multi‐faceted character of San Jose State King Library information literacy programs. Discusses successes, lessons learned, and ongoing challenges of the freshman information literacy program and presents goals and objectives of the transfer and campus dormitory information literacy programs.

Practical implications

This paper may serve as a guide for both academic and joint‐use academic and public libraries interested in assessing or expanding their information literacy programs.

Originality/value

This paper discusses innovative information literacy programs within the context of a merged or joint‐use academic and public library and will be of value to both future joint‐use libraries and academic libraries interested in expanding and evaluating their information literacy programs.

Details

Reference Services Review, vol. 34 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0090-7324

Keywords

11 – 20 of over 75000