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1 – 10 of over 2000
Article
Publication date: 23 August 2023

Patrick Chijioke Igbokwe

The study examined capacity-building practices for librarians' effective library service delivery in Federal University Libraries in Nigeria.

Abstract

Purpose

The study examined capacity-building practices for librarians' effective library service delivery in Federal University Libraries in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

The design for this paper was a descriptive survey research design. Data was collected using a questionnaire from a total number of 178 respondents. Collected data were analyzed using mean scores and standard deviation.

Findings

The findings reveal that learning capacity-building practices such as rotating members of staff for wider experience exist in these libraries. Learning capacity-building practices contributes to effective service delivery by enhancing various library services. Results also show that there are challenges confronting learning capacity-building practices which include inadequate funding. For these libraries to perform to their highest potentials, their learning capacity needs to be built and developed.

Research limitations/implications

The major limitation of this study is the tendency of the respondents to fake their responses which may arise from their personal biases.

Practical implications

Therefore, university library management and university administrators should as a matter of urgency develop policies that will ensure that capacities are built for better service delivery or risk users losing interest in the library.

Originality/value

The study examined a vital dimension of capacity build, which is learning capacity building. The findings will help university administrators and library management to know the different learning capacity-building practices that exist in the various libraries and the extent to which these practices are important and relevant for effective service delivery. This will assist them in adopting relevant and adequate learning capacity-building strategies and guiding them in formulating effective capacity-building policies.

Details

Library Management, vol. 44 no. 8/9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 August 2023

Daniel Jr Soriano Balbin and Elizabeth Allan Lascano

The study aims to determine the extent of COVID-19’s impact on the libraries and information centers within Benguet. It identified the key differences in the effect of the…

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to determine the extent of COVID-19’s impact on the libraries and information centers within Benguet. It identified the key differences in the effect of the pandemic on each type of library: public, special, school and academic. It recalled and documented the challenges faced by libraries and librarians. It determined which aspects of their library were affected and how they were modified in terms of their policies, personnel, physical space, services, collection, infodemic response and marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used the qualitative descriptive method approach, specifically narrative research design and conducted online focus group discussions in which 14 librarians with managerial or supervisory functions participated. This method was used to explore the topic holistically by using qualitative inquiry. It best suited the purpose of fully understanding the experiences of libraries during the pandemic. The recorded online focus group discussions conducted through Zoom were reviewed and analyzed to identify key themes and responses from the participants. The themes identified from the thematic analysis were further validated with the participants through correspondence, chats or e-mails.

Findings

The findings showed that libraries were faced with challenges brought on by the lack of a written policy for the pandemic response, a lack of information communication and technology skills and resources, strict requirements on physical setup for pandemic compliance, budget cuts or realignments and delayed procurement, misinformation and users’ lack of awareness of the new services offered by the library.

Research limitations/implications

The study focused on the pandemic experiences of libraries and information centers in Baguio-Benguet, which was hailed as a model for local pandemic response, through the lenses of librarians with supervisory roles or functions.

Practical implications

Libraries could reflect on their experiences in this pandemic to plan for future strategies that would be best implemented in situations where face-to-face services are not allowed.

Originality/value

This study presented various best practices from different library institutions that could be emulated in the future. Many of these are still relevant regardless library services are going back to normal.

Details

Digital Library Perspectives, vol. 39 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2059-5816

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 August 2022

Md. Anwarul Islam, Rafia Sultana and Gunilla Widén

This study aims to investigate the sustainable development goals (SDGs) awareness of public librarians, their perceived understanding of public libraries to achieve United Nation…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the sustainable development goals (SDGs) awareness of public librarians, their perceived understanding of public libraries to achieve United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and identify the challenges affect the library adoption to SDGs.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a quantitative survey method was used to collect responses. The study population was all head of public libraries in Bangladesh. Seventy-one personalized individual e-mails with a link to a Web-based questionnaire were sent out to the public librarians (head of public libraries) inviting them to participate in this study. Fifty-nine responded to the survey, which was 83.09% of all population.

Findings

The findings revealed that public librarians working in different public libraries were generally aware of UNSDGs. The perceived understanding on the role of public libraries to achieve SDGs varies from SDG#1 to SDG1#7. However, most of the librarians’ responses ranked well in line with SDGs#1, #2, #3, #4 and #17, and they believed that their public libraries are doing well on some of these goals. Out of 17 SDGs, public libraries are working well on 7 goals. Lack of SDG-related activities, awareness, funds, implementation plan and unwillingness of the policymakers are challenges identified in this study.

Originality/value

There are not many studies on public libraries in Bangladesh, and the research areas are not diverse. There are only few studies in this area, and there is a need for different kinds of studies to reach a better overview and understanding when developing public library services to support SDGs. This could serve as the basis for a deeper study.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. 73 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 December 2023

Mojtaba Kaffashan Kakhki, Joel R. Malin, Farahnaz Naderbeigi, Iman Maleksadati and Hassan Behzadi

The purpose of the present study was to identify the conditions that affect the absorptive capacity (AC) of knowledge, discover its consequences and design an AC paradigm pattern…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to identify the conditions that affect the absorptive capacity (AC) of knowledge, discover its consequences and design an AC paradigm pattern in public academic libraries. To do so, AC was investigated at the levels of individual and organizational learning.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, to answer the three major questions of this qualitative-survey study, the views of 24 experts were examined using an in-depth semi-structured interview and grounded theory strategy. The data were collected using a nonrandom combined targeted sampling procedure (targeted and snowball) and analyzed based on Strauss and Corbin’s (1998) approach and utilizing MAX Qualitative Data Analysis (MAXQDA) software.

Findings

Throughout the grounded analytic stages, 121 open codes were identified. These were distributed around the AC axial category in academic libraries in terms of individual and organizational learning. The 33 axial concepts were then categorized into 16 selective general categories. The paradigm pattern was initially designed to explore the relationships between causal, intervening, strategies, context and consequences conditions. The transition from academic libraries to learning organizations, their increased functional value and the development of their innovation were identified as the consequences of AC development.

Originality/value

This qualitative research is the first in the field of Library and Information Science (LIS) to support AC both theoretically and empirically in terms of learning in academic libraries. This study thus not only addresses a key research gap in LIS but also provides significant insights and direction to interested librarians and researchers.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 8 September 2023

Rachel D. Williams and Lydia P. Ogden

This reflective chapter examines recent trends in social work–public library partnerships. The chapter begins by framing interprofessional collaboration between social work and…

Abstract

This reflective chapter examines recent trends in social work–public library partnerships. The chapter begins by framing interprofessional collaboration between social work and public libraries as a vehicle for the collective impact that can create lasting and sustainable change in communities. Next in the chapter is an overview of the current state of public libraries’ capacity to support individuals in crisis through community partnerships. Next is a description on how interprofessional collaboration can support public libraries in general and the importance of collaboration with social work more specifically. A presentation of the existing models of public library–social work partnerships and their impact on the role of public libraries in their communities follows, with a discussion of the services provided by public libraries, and how partnerships might change the nature of social work practice. Finally, the chapter concludes with a discussion of the barriers and challenges to these partnerships with an eye toward the future of such partnerships and developing their capacity to enhance the health and wellbeing of their patrons, and the safety and resilience of their cities and communities.

Article
Publication date: 8 August 2023

Sayantoni Barsha and Shamim Aktar Munshi

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of today’s rising technologies. AI is a commonly used technology in library services that have the potential to revolutionise the best…

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Abstract

Purpose

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of today’s rising technologies. AI is a commonly used technology in library services that have the potential to revolutionise the best offerings in the information age. With AI in libraries, users can explore the world of knowledge like never before with smart recommendations tailored to their needs. Overall, AI can enhance the library experience of both the users and library professionals with innovation and smart decisions. Hence, there is no doubt that AI and libraries have a close relationship; nonetheless, the usage and understanding of AI in library services continue to raise concerns, especially in the developing countries which this paper addresses. The purpose of this research paper is to review the current prospects and challenges of implementing AI in library services in developing countries. The primary objective of the study is to discern the pivotal predicaments and obstacles these nations face while implementing AI-based solutions and to propose pragmatic solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study adopts a qualitative approach, using content analysis techniques to glean meaningful insights. An extensive review of the extant literature on the subject was conducted, which was meticulously analysed to furnish the findings of this study. The review is limited to English language sources, and searches were conducted using various online academic databases.

Findings

The review reveals that the prospects of implementing AI in library services in developing countries are significant, with potential benefits including improved access to information, increased efficiency and productivity and enhanced user experience. However, the review also identifies several challenges, including the lack of infrastructure and resources, the shortage of skilled personnel, the absence of data privacy regulations, digital divide and the high cost of implementing AI-based solutions.

Practical implications

The review suggests several practical solutions to overcome the challenges faced by developing countries in implementing AI in library services. These include partnerships between libraries and technology firms, investment in infrastructure and resources, training and capacity building for library staff and the development of regulatory frameworks to protect user data.

Originality/value

This research paper provides a comprehensive review of the prospects and challenges of implementing AI in library services in developing countries. The study is original in its focus on the perspectives of developing countries, their problems and obstacles. The study also provides practical recommendations that can be used by library managers, policymakers and technology firms to support the implementation of AI-based solutions in developing countries.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 41 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 November 2023

Laksmi Laksmi, Muhammad Fadly Suhendra, Shamila Mohamed Shuhidan and Umanto Umanto

This study aims to identify the readiness of institutional repositories in Indonesia to implement digital humanities (DH) data curation. Data curation is a method of managing…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to identify the readiness of institutional repositories in Indonesia to implement digital humanities (DH) data curation. Data curation is a method of managing research data that maintains the data’s accuracy and makes it available for reuse. It requires controlled data management.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a qualitative approach. Data collection was carried out through a focus group discussion in September–October 2022, interviews and document analysis. The informants came from four institutions in Indonesia.

Findings

The findings reveal that the national research repository has implemented data curation, albeit not optimally. Within the case study, one of the university repositories diligently curates its humanities data and has established networks extending to various ASEAN countries. Both the national archive repository and the other university repository have implemented rudimentary data curation practices but have not prioritized them. In conclusion, the readiness of the national research repository and the university repository stand at the high-capacity stage, while the national archive repository and the other university repository are at the established and early stages of data curation, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

This study examined only four repositories due to time constraints. Nonetheless, the four institutions were able to provide a comprehensive picture of their readiness for DH data curation management.

Practical implications

This study provides insight into strategies for developing DH data curation activities in institutional repositories. It also highlights the need for professional development for curators so they can devise and implement stronger ownership policies and data privacy to support a data-driven research agenda.

Originality/value

This study describes the preparations that must be considered by institutional repositories in the development of DH data curation activities.

Content available
Article
Publication date: 20 March 2024

Yusuf Ayodeji Ajani, Adeyinka Tella and Rexwhite Tega Enakrire

Libraries are currently undergoing a significant transformation, emerging as dynamic advocates for environmental sustainability, surpassing their conventional roles as mere…

Abstract

Purpose

Libraries are currently undergoing a significant transformation, emerging as dynamic advocates for environmental sustainability, surpassing their conventional roles as mere repositories of knowledge. In today’s world, dominated by the growing climate crisis, these evolving institutions are poised to play a pivotal role in addressing climate change. However, they confront a range of challenges, including the need to establish sustainable operations, provide accessible climate information, engage diverse audiences and uphold ethical standards.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology used for this study involves an extensive review of literature. The authors analyze existing studies concerning green libraries and their role as catalysts for climate change action globally. This analysis draws from a variety of scholarly sources, encompassing articles, books and reports, to provide a comprehensive overview of the subject.

Findings

The findings indicate that despite the aforementioned challenges, libraries in developed countries worldwide have demonstrated noteworthy success through initiatives such as green building projects, community engagement programs, collaborative partnerships, expansion of digital resources, innovative climate literacy initiatives and a commitment to ethical stewardship. These achievements serve as a source of inspiration, fostering hope and spurring action as libraries empower communities to embrace environmental stewardship. They showcase the potential of libraries as catalysts for positive environmental change.

Originality/value

The originality and value of this research lie in its insights into the potential of green libraries initiative as a catalyst for climate change action. Ultimately, this study opens the door to untold literary exploration, revolutionizing the art of green library capacity in the ever-evolving technological landscape. To augment their impact, libraries are encouraged to broaden the scope of their climate education initiatives, expand their digital resources, cultivate strategic collaborations, prioritize ethical responsibility and implement thorough evaluation and communication practices.

Details

Collection and Curation, vol. 43 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9326

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 May 2023

Varun Gupta

This study aims to investigate how Citation Gecko technology might help libraries provide better research support services. The paper explains specifically how Citation Gecko can…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how Citation Gecko technology might help libraries provide better research support services. The paper explains specifically how Citation Gecko can help libraries provide more precise and thorough references, save time and enable methodical literature reviews and scoping studies amid the constantly evolving nature of research domains. The paper also considers how businesses and libraries can gain from implementing the technology.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper’s conceptual study of the function of librarians in assisting researchers – particularly in the setting of exhaustive literature reviews and scoping studies – forms the foundation of the piece. The authors talk about the difficulties in guaranteeing the authenticity and comprehensiveness of the literature review process and the significance of adopting tools like Citation Gecko to help with this process. The possible adoption of Citation Gecko in libraries is also forecasted using the technological adoption model paradigm.

Findings

Libraries that use Citation Gecko technology provide better research support services by providing accurate and comprehensive references, saving time and assisting systematic literature surveys and scoping studies. The tool is simple to use and does not require professional training due to its user-friendly interface and ability to produce references fast. Using Citation Gecko technology can enhance libraries’ capacities to support researchers, faculty and students in their research projects by making a significant contribution to systematic surveys and referencing efforts.

Originality/value

This study adds to the continuing discussion about how libraries may use technology to improve the services they provide to users who need research support. It had never been looked into how citation Gecko might help libraries with their reference and systematic review study offerings.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 4 August 2023

Paul Rosenstein

The academic library’s physical capacity and its service obligations to local users structured the traditional print collection. Largely freed of these constraints, the digital…

Abstract

Purpose

The academic library’s physical capacity and its service obligations to local users structured the traditional print collection. Largely freed of these constraints, the digital collection manager enjoys unprecedented freedoms but now contends with a collection susceptible to resource sprawl and scope ambiguity. This exploratory study aims to consider the possibility that intra-field social processes help to structure and routinize digital collection practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Lacking the constraints to which print collections are subject, electronic resource and digital library collections are more likely to reflect idiosyncratic institutional interests and therefore, to demonstrate significant variation. Evidence of homogeneity may suggest the influence of heretofore underexplored social structures. To determine the extent of such homogeneity, the author performed exploratory/descriptive content analyses on ten electronic resource collection development policies and six digital library collection development policies.

Findings

The data reveal among both the electronic resource and digital library collection policies significant uniformity. Content analyses demonstrate consistent themes (e.g. media, audience, selection priorities, etc.) and rhetoric. These findings lend support to the study’s central hypothesis regarding latent social structures. Analyses also reveal a set of unanticipated constraints unique to digital collection management.

Originality/value

Despite the breadth and maturity of literature addressing the Digital Turn in academic librarianship, relatively little attention has been paid to the social dimensions of collection management. This work represents an important corrective and suggests new theoretical approaches to the study of digital collection practice.

Details

Digital Transformation and Society, vol. 3 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2755-0761

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 2000