Search results

1 – 10 of over 2000
Article
Publication date: 16 August 2024

A. Subaveerapandiyan, Sujin Butdisuwan, Bairaboina Lachaiah, Abid Fakhre Alam and Aravind R. Nair

This paper aims to explore the ethical perspectives surrounding adopting metaverse technologies in libraries. It focuses on critical areas such as privacy, security, intellectual…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the ethical perspectives surrounding adopting metaverse technologies in libraries. It focuses on critical areas such as privacy, security, intellectual property, accessibility and equity, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities these technologies present for library services.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a theoretical analysis of existing literature and ethical frameworks related to digital privacy, intellectual property and digital inclusion. Drawing on prominent theories and guidelines, this paper examines how libraries can navigate the ethical implications of integrating metaverse technologies into their services.

Findings

Integrating metaverse technologies into libraries presents significant ethical challenges, including protecting user privacy and security, managing intellectual property rights and ensuring equitable access and inclusion. Libraries must develop comprehensive ethical guidelines, invest in robust data protection measures and advocate for digital inclusion to address these challenges effectively.

Originality/value

This paper comprehensively analyzes the ethical implications of metaverse technologies in libraries, highlighting the need for tailored ethical guidelines and practices. It contributes to the ongoing discourse on digital ethics in library services and offers a framework for libraries to responsibly navigate the complexities of virtual environments.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 July 2024

Holt Zaugg

The purpose of this article is to describe how assessments informed changes to library spaces to improve students' experiences.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to describe how assessments informed changes to library spaces to improve students' experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

The article describes three changes to the library to improve students' experience within the library. For each change, describe the reason for the change, assessments prior to the change to inform decision-making and follow-up assessments to determine value.

Findings

In each instance, the assessment prior to the changes informed decisions that expedited the changes. The results were spaces that improved library spaces to improve students' library experiences and better meet their needs.

Originality/value

The purpose of the article is to describe the importance and use of assessment to assist with changes to library spaces and inform the value of those changes.

Details

Performance Measurement and Metrics, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-8047

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 July 2024

Md. Rifat Mahmud

This paper aims to explore the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in automating library cataloging and classification processes, exploring current applications, challenges and…

297

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in automating library cataloging and classification processes, exploring current applications, challenges and future possibilities. It aims to provide insights into how AI technologies are reshaping traditional library practices and their implications for the future of information organization and access.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a comprehensive review, analyzing recent research and developments in AI applications for library cataloging and classification. It covers traditional methods, relevant AI technologies, implementation challenges, impacts on library workflows and future directions.

Findings

AI technologies, particularly machine learning and natural language processing, offer significant potential for enhancing efficiency, consistency and depth in metadata creation and classification. However, implementation challenges include data quality issues, integration with legacy systems and the need for new skill sets among library professionals. The impact on library workflows is profound, necessitating a reimagining of traditional librarian responsibilities. Future developments promise more advanced capabilities in personalized discovery, adaptive classification schemes and predictive collection development.

Originality/value

This paper provides a holistic overview of AI’s impact on library cataloging and classification, synthesizing current research and future trends. It highlights the delicate balance required in leveraging AI to enhance library services while upholding core library values. The paper emphasizes the need for ongoing critical engagement with these technologies to shape the future of library services in the AI era.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 July 2024

Partha Sarathi Mandal and Sukumar Mandal

The purpose of this study is to investigate a practical strategy for integrating application programming interfaces (APIs) and standard interchange protocols (SIPs) within library…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate a practical strategy for integrating application programming interfaces (APIs) and standard interchange protocols (SIPs) within library and information services. This study will seek to determine how such an integration strategy can improve access to resources, enhance the user experience, optimize library operations and improve the overall efficiency of library services.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach to research will be used in this study. This study will be based on the review of relevant literature sources, case studies and real examples. The data analyzes to determine the practical application of SIP and API integration and identify the major methods, approaches and processes used by libraries to successfully implement integration projects.

Findings

This study explores that library and information services may achieve numerous benefits from API and SIP integration. The cases describe how libraries have managed to improve access, user experience, operational efficiency and general performance. Libraries have integrated APIs and SIP to create seamless search experiences, establish communication networks in real-time, and develop automated workflows and customer services. API and SIP integration will transform libraries in future.

Originality/value

The originality of this study is the focus of the API and SIP integration. While other authors have discussed the concept of integration from a theoretical standpoint, this study presents practical recommendations and implementation advice for librarians and researchers. This study uses real cases and examples to illustrate how libraries today have managed to improve their operations with the help of APIs and SIP integration.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 July 2024

Raghavendra B. Bonal

The study aims to forecast emotional artificial intelligence’s (EAI) trajectory in libraries, provide actionable implementation recommendations and outline potential research…

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to forecast emotional artificial intelligence’s (EAI) trajectory in libraries, provide actionable implementation recommendations and outline potential research paths. It seeks to establish ethical benchmarks, considering emotional well-being alongside informational needs. Understanding EAI in libraries becomes pivotal, envisioning libraries as empathetic, user-centric spaces.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses a multifaceted approach, intertwining comprehensive literature analysis, illustrative case studies and forward-thinking assessments. It combines foundational knowledge from various academic sources, integrating real-world examples of EAI implementations in library settings. The methodology goes beyond observational analysis, scrutinizing ethical quandaries and societal impacts. It comprehensively explains EAI’s role while delineating guidelines for responsible integration and future exploration.

Findings

Integrating emotional intelligence (EI) enhances resource curation, fosters inclusive virtual learning environments and elevates continuous service enhancement in libraries. It allows tailored recommendations, emotionally perceptive virtual assistants and adaptive responses to diverse emotional needs, reshaping libraries into empathetic spaces.

Research limitations/implications

Ethical considerations pose significant challenges, especially regarding privacy, security and fair usage of EAI. Libraries must mitigate biases and ensure equitable emotional services. Adapting to diverse emotional needs within library services requires a delicate balance between empathetic approaches and upholding ethical standards.

Practical implications

EAI revolutionizes user experiences, offering personalized, engaging interactions while ensuring ethical, inclusive library environments. Implementing EAI requires navigating biases and ethical complexities, demanding continuous refinement and using user-focused strategies.

Social implications

Integrating EAI redefines the library’s role, transforming libraries into emotionally perceptive hubs catering to users’ intellectual and emotional needs. It emphasizes fairness, trust and ethical conduct in providing empathetic, inclusive services.

Originality/value

This research pioneers the integration of EI in libraries, offering insights into ethical frameworks, bias mitigation and user-centric approaches. It envisions libraries as empathetic, responsive spaces, enriching lives through emotional understanding and responsiveness.

Article
Publication date: 3 July 2024

Bolaji David Oladokun, Yusuf Ayodeji Ajani, Nnenda W. Tom-George and Oluchi Cecilia Okeke

The purpose of this paper is to examine the challenges and opportunities presented by the Metaverse and Meta artificial intelligence (AI) for libraries in Higher Education…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the challenges and opportunities presented by the Metaverse and Meta artificial intelligence (AI) for libraries in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and to propose strategies for libraries to adapt and innovate in response to these disruptions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs a qualitative approach, drawing upon literature review and analysis to explore the disruptive impact of emerging technologies, including the Metaverse and Meta AI, on libraries in HEIs.

Findings

The findings suggest that the convergence of the Metaverse and Meta AI is reshaping library services, altering user expectations and transforming information retrieval and management. While these disruptions pose challenges such as bias in AI algorithms and privacy concerns, they also offer opportunities for libraries to enhance user experiences, foster collaboration and expand their reach beyond physical boundaries.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this paper highlight the need for libraries in HEIs to embrace change, prioritize user-centric design, foster innovation and promote digital literacy education. Following this, libraries will continue to fulfill their mission of supporting teaching, learning and research in the digital age.

Originality/value

This essay contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into the disruptive impact of emerging technologies on libraries in HEIs. The paper explores the intersection of the Metaverse, Meta AI and library services, as well as offers original perspectives on the evolving role of libraries in the digital era.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 March 2024

Carla Chalhoub and Ibrahim Farah

This paper aims to study the after-effects of the crises hit by the Lebanese population and the solutions implemented to alleviate the ensuing problems on resource sharing in…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to study the after-effects of the crises hit by the Lebanese population and the solutions implemented to alleviate the ensuing problems on resource sharing in Lebanese libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaire to academic libraries. Nine libraries in Lebanon offer resource sharing services; all nine are academic. A self-administered questionnaire was sent to these nine libraries; eight responded. A semi-quantitative approach was used to analyze the responses. The questionnaire was administered through Microsoft Forms. The form was designed to include dichotomous questions for the sake of quantitative analysis and a short answer format that allowed responders to provide additional details. American University of Beirut Data. The access services department at the American University of Beirut Jafet Library compiles on a daily basis interlibrary loan statistics. The compiled data were divided into two groups: duration of two fiscal years prior to June 2020; and from June 2020 to June 2022. June 2020 was used as a cutoff date after which the interlibrary loan initiatives in response to COVID-19 were implemented. The services that were analyzed were RSCVD, OCLC WorldShare ILL profiled groups, Emergency Temporary Access Service for HathiTrust members and Open Access Services from vendors.

Findings

Libraries in Lebanon were able to continue providing resource-sharing services with a minimal budget due to four major initiatives and through the help of the international resource-sharing community.

Originality/value

Limited publication about inter library loan in Lebanese Libraries. The pandemic hit economies worldwide; however, Lebanon got hit by three synergetic crises, and the initiatives were instrumental in drastically reducing resource sharing expenditure without affecting the interlibrary loan fill rate.

Details

Information Discovery and Delivery, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-6247

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 September 2024

Shakeel Ahmad Khan, Khurram Shahzad and Abida Perveen

This study aims to identify the status of virtual library system development in university libraries. It also attempted to examine the availability of virtual library services and…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to identify the status of virtual library system development in university libraries. It also attempted to examine the availability of virtual library services and reveal the challenges being faced by university librarians of Punjab province, Pakistan in providing virtual library services.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a quantitative research method by using a questionnaire to address the study’s objectives. In total, 62 university libraries in Punjab province, Pakistan were the population of the study. A purposive sampling technique was applied to gather the required data from the respondents.

Findings

Results showed that most of the study’s respondents are well aware of the potential benefits of virtual library systems in universities for the delivery of innovative smart services to library patrons. The libraries delivered different virtual library services to meet the diverse needs of the library patrons. The respondents faced the challenges of funding, expertise, technical support, leadership, strategic planning and training to adopt virtual library systems and services in university libraries.

Originality/value

The study has provided a framework based on empirical findings of the study to efficiently adopt virtual library systems and services in university libraries for the delivery of smart services to end users. It has provided pertinent theoretical and practical implications.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 September 2024

Paul Samwel Muneja

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of online e-resource marketing tools used by university libraries to market e-resources. The specific objectives of this study were to…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of online e-resource marketing tools used by university libraries to market e-resources. The specific objectives of this study were to uncover the e-resources that are showcased by university libraries, find out instructions posted by libraries to facilitate access and utilization of e-resources, examine marketing tools used, examine how current and relevant marketing messages and test the functionality of the marketing tools used.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory research design was used to assess the effectiveness of e-resources marketing tools. The study population included all public university libraries in Tanzania. The sample was purposively selected to include all publicly funded libraries as they work under similar management environments. Data collection involved the evaluation of online marketing tools using a matrix checklist.

Findings

It was revealed that most university libraries use websites for showcasing e-resources. The commonly used social media for marketing e-resources is Facebook followed by Instagram while Twitter and Ask a Librarian are the least used. The results further show that only a few universities provide instructions on how to access and use e-resources. The findings indicate that universities had active communication platforms for marketing e-resources. Furthermore, less than 50% of marketing messages are active and current. It is recommended that marketing e-resources should be integrated into the library’s plans and strategies and this should be informed by library policies.

Research limitations/implications

Given that, this study involved Tanzanian public university libraries, it is possible that the findings do not represent the same situation in all academic university libraries in the nation.

Originality/value

This study assesses the effectiveness of online tools used to market e-resources in university libraries in Tanzania. It reveals the e-resources that are showcased online, the instructions provided on how to access the e-resources and the functionality of the marketing tools. Unlike the previous research, which primarily focused on evaluating the Web-based tools in university and college libraries, this study focused on public libraries in the country. The results will not only contribute to the theoretical and practical understanding of the functionality of the marketing tools but also provide actionable insights to decision-makers in libraries in marketing their e-resources.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 23 September 2024

Leonidas Papachristopoulos

The purpose of this paper is to report on bibliometric research on the activities and services offered by distance libraries that serve distance learning institutions.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on bibliometric research on the activities and services offered by distance libraries that serve distance learning institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis of scholarly communication has always been a valuable tool for researchers and policymakers in order to understand trends, gaps and patterns in a specific field. In this paper, a bibliometric analysis has been applied based on a well-known bibliometric tool called “VOSviewer.” The articles that constitute the dataset of current research were drawn from two journals: the Journal of Library Administration and the Journal of Library and Information Services in Distance Learning.

Findings

The bibliometric analysis applied in distance libraries showed that the researchers in this domain are mainly introverts and need to prioritize engaging in the scientific research process over merely publishing good practices. Although there are a lot of libraries serving distance learning institutions (formal and non-formal), there is a notable lack of activity in the scientific publication field.

Originality/value

Distance libraries have played a significant role in supporting distance learning, and since distance education has become more important in the educational ecosystem, the analysis of its scholarly production would provide administrators, researchers and policymakers with insights for the next era of conventional libraries.

Details

Asian Association of Open Universities Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1858-3431

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 2000