Bridging the research-practice gap in librarianship: Exploring the mediating role of library societies

Abstract

The advancement of librarianship requires close communication and collaboration between research and practice communities. A long-standing divide between the two communities in China exists and has been exacerbated in recent years. The role of the Library Society of China (LSC) in mediating the gap and encouraging collaboration was explored. A case study approach was adopted, with a total of twelve library researchers and practitioners interviewed using semi-structured interview scripts. A thematic analysis of the interview data pointed to eleven critical factors clustered into three main themes: identity creation, relationship building, and group practice. Conceptualization of the findings indicated that practical strategies can be formulated for three prioritized critical factors: identity acceptance, mutual engagement, and continuous dialogue. Although the case setting was the LSC, the findings may provide useful indications and insights for library societies in other countries.