Equity at stake? Fostering social justice in Pakistani academic libraries

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to distinguish between information management (IM) and knowledge management (KM) and present the findings of small‐scale research conducted to investigate KM practices in academic libraries in East and Southern Africa, and discussing the importance of KM and suggest the way forward.Design/methodology/approachThis research was undertaken in 20 university libraries in Africa using a questionnaire survey to investigate the current practices in university libraries in Africa to discover whether these libraries are practising KM or IM.FindingsThis survey results seem to suggest that currently most participating libraries are practising IM. A majority of 65 per cent of the participants considered themselves information managers.Research limitations/implicationsThis survey have had some limitations: one, all the participants were University librarians; two, due to the unavailability of contact addresses, the survey could cover only eight African countries. Future research should include a broader spectrum of participants to have an in‐depth knowledge related to KM.Practical implicationsThis paper has practical implications for those who are not fully aware of the importance of KM, how KM can be used to gain a competitive advantage; to break financial and technological constraints; and to satisfy escalating user needs.Originality/valueNot much has been done in Africa to explore KM practices in University libraries, this paper contributes towards filling that gap and adds to KM literature in general and offers empirical support to KM concept. This paper discusses the benefits of KM and offers several recommendations to facilitate KM practices in university libraries in East and Southern Africa.

Social justice is the process by which significant social institutions determine the distribution of fundamental rights and responsibilities and the allocation of the advantages of social cooperation. Social justice values (such as equity, diversity, and inclusion) are less focused in academic libraries and particularly in a developing world. This study addresses the gap and explore the major challenges and strategic pathways to foster EDI in academic libraries in Pakistan. A qualitative research approach with phenomenology design was used that based on ‘lived experience’ of the participants and what common emerged from the data. An interview method was employed and data were collected from 18 library directors. A thematic approach was employed, and the data were analyzed utilizing Nvivo software (version 14 plus). The findings revealed that EDI practices in academic libraries lacked inclusive services, resources, infrastructure, accessibility, and spaces, especially for differently abled and marginalized library users. Among all these solutions, the key strategy is creating awareness, training, and capacity-building for LIS professionals to learn, understand, and develop the required skills to promote an equitable library environment for diverse library users.

Background: The preservation of digital resources in academic institutions in South Africa is an imperative because of the proliferation of digital resources and the realities of the digital revolution. The study focused on digital preservation practices within academic libraries in South Africa. A number of studies were undertaken in the field of preservation in South Africa and they focused on the preservation of cultural heritage, preservation of electronic government and preservation of public digital information. The major gap in the literature reinforces the need to closely examine digital preservation practices in academic libraries in South Africa. There is a need to understand the extent of preservation of digital resources in various contexts in order to guarantee access to them for future generations. This will improve our understanding of the preservation of digital resources in academic libraries in the wake of the digital revolution. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate digital preservation practices in academic libraries in South Africa in order to suggest solutions for effective digital preservation. Method: The survey research method was used for data collection. Twenty-seven academic institutions in South Africa were surveyed. Data were analysed through the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Results: The findings revealed that academic libraries experienced difficulties in preserving and sustaining their digital resources because of the absence of established standards, policies and procedures, inadequate resources, as well as a lack of skills and training. They also had difficulties with limited funding and collaboration efforts, and the threat of technological obsolescence because of the constantly changing software and hardware, poor technology infrastructure and legal issues. Conclusion: All these challenges have created the need for best practices and solutions to facilitate the long-term preservation of digital resources in the academic libraries. Recommendations were made on the basis of the results.

The aim of this study was to assess the collection development practices in academic libraries in Tanzania. Specifically, the study examined the collection development practices and factors that influence these practices. The study involved four academic libraries and employed both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and analysis. Primary data were collected through informant interviews, observations and questionnaires methods. The study involved 44 library staff who filled in self-administered questionnaires. The study discloses that collection development practices and particularly evaluation and weeding or deselection are rarely conducted at these academic libraries. The findings further reveal that collection development practices in academic libraries in Tanzania are constrained by inadequate funding, lack of skills for hybrid collection management and lack of collection development policy catering for both print- and electronic-based information resources. On the basis of the findings, the study recommends that academic libraries should establish a comprehensive collection development policy and introduce professional development programmes to library staff for efficient management of hybrid collections.

The study examined the relationship between quality performance and employee innovation for total quality management in academic libraries. The study focused on academic libraries in Ghana. Relevant literature was reviewed on TQM practices, employee innovation, and quality performance. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and a quantitative approach. The research protocol was a questionnaire. The study sampled 213 and retrieved 208 responses representing 97.6% of the valid sample size for the study. The study established that employee innovation and quality performance are critical components for TQM practices in academic libraries. The correlation analysis established that employee innovation had a significant relationship with total quality management while quality performance also demonstrated a significant positive relationship with total quality management. The study revealed that employee innovation and quality performance are significant components for TQM practices in academic libraries. The study serves as a new source of documented information for academic libraries regarding TQM practices. Also, the study is a pillar for enriching the existing literature on employee innovation and quality performance as critical success factors for TQM implementation in academic libraries.

PurposeThis study aims to develop a model for integration of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in resource sharing practices for enhanced service delivery in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria. Seven objectives guided the study; ICT-based resource sharing practices in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria; ICT infrastructure for resource sharing; ICT needs of librarians for resource sharing practices; stages of ICT integration in resource sharing; perception of librarians towards ICT-based resource sharing; challenges to integration of ICT in resource sharing practices; design a model for the integration of ICT into resource sharing; all in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria.Design/methodology/approachThe research design adopted for this study is the mixed research design containing the “descriptive survey” research design and the “research and development, R&D.” The population of the study is 164, comprising all of the librarians in federal universities in Southeast Nigeria. All of the librarians of the five federal universities will be involved in the study. Hence, there was no sampling. The instrument for data collection is a structured questionnaire.FindingsThe findings of the study revealed that 88.8% of the librarians use ICT to boost the volume of resources; while 74% of the librarians were positive in all responses pertaining to ICT-based resource sharing practices in the libraries. The study also revealed that ICT infrastructures in the library for resource sharing are highly available and applicable; while computers and internet networks are the most needed gadgets for the operations. Libraries in Southeast Nigeria are in the applying and transforming stages of ICT adoption at a 69.7% response rate; while the librarians have a strong belief and understanding that a lot can be achieved in resource sharing through ICT; and would recommend such. Poor electrification, inadequate funding and unavailability of some ICT technologies were equally identified as challenges. The study conclusively developed a resource sharing model, the Southeast Federal University Library Connect; accessible at https://southeastfeduniconnect.njh.com.ngOriginality/valueThe research study is one of the few types of research that has developed a functional model for resource sharing in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria.

Academic libraries have in tandem, gradually assumed a superior role in a nation’s development. Academic library policies and practices over the world have therefore advocated holistic research data management in a physical and virtual landscape. These dynamics have posed challenges and consequences for socio-economic development for academic libraries in Ghana. This study analyses and assesses research data management policies and practices in academic libraries in order to develop a strategic and comprehensive framework that depicts real time coordination among stakeholders for socio-economic development, thus asetting a strong agenda for national development in Ghana. Using ethically professional research methods, this study adopted the purposive sampling techniques to select its sample size, scooped both quantitative and qualitative data from survey-based secondary data sources and modifies existing research data management theories and models to unravel and explain its findings. The Ghana Library Board (GLB), the Consortium of Academic and Research Li-braries in Ghana (CARLIGH), and the Ghana Library Association (GLA) are key policy formulation agencies in Ghana’s academic library industry with a goal of negotiating licensing agreements and play leadership roles to re-inforce research data management. Poor level of collaboration between researchers and librarians, lack of research data management skill, lack of technological innovation and financial constraints are key challenges of academic libraries in Ghana. Surely, academic libraries in Ghana have ex-hibited potentials for revitalizing research data management in the areas of health, education, employment, land and housing, governance, water and sanitation, agriculture, energy, urbanization, youth and gender studies, and the environment. The recommended national research data management policy framework with an embedded enterprise wide research management information system will assure the world’s academic library industry of an effective RDM strategy that drives global development, hone the expertise of academic libraries in Ghana and direct their research data management strategies.

Objective – In this study, we investigated the utilization of crowdsourcing practices among academic librarians in Nigeria, encompassing all 36 states across the 6 geopolitical zones of the country. Methods – We employed the descriptive survey design. The target population consisted of academic librarians who were members of the national professional online group of the association known as the NLA where scholars shared professional thoughts and advancements. Results – The findings revealed a high level of awareness about crowdsourcing among academic librarians, with their experiences spanning various areas such as knowledge discovery and management (RII = 0.76), broadcast search (RII = 0.63), the distribution of human intelligence tasking (RII = 0.62), and peer-vetted creative production (RII = 0.59). In terms of the extent of practice, electronic document exchange services received the highest relative importance index score (RII = 0.73), followed closely by e-payment platforms (RII = 0.73). The findings also indicated that crowdsourcing is considered beneficial for collection development (RII = 0.68) and is perceived to be useful in the procurement of new items for the library (RII = 0.67). However, the study identified inadequate institutional support (RII = 0.91) as the foremost challenge impeding the adoption and implementation of crowdsourcing practices in academic libraries in Nigeria. Other challenges included inadequate electricity supply and unstable Internet network systems in Nigeria which has hindered full deployment of crowdsourcing in academic library settings in the country. Conclusion – This study emphasized the importance of the adoption and implementation of crowdsourcing practices in academic libraries in Nigeria. Addressing challenges related to institutional support, electricity supply, and Internet connectivity is crucial to creating an enabling environment for successful crowdsourcing initiatives.

Purpose At the turn of the twenty-first century, academic libraries revived their tradition of working with readers, which resulted in a surge of publications in this area. However, the nature and thematic coverage of these publications has not changed dramatically in the past 18 years, signaling little advancement in the reach and scope of this professional activity. This paper aims to address the following research problem: What do citation patterns reveal about reading research and practice in academic libraries and do they point to interdisciplinary research and the presence of an evidence base or do they carry a mark of an inward disciplinary orientation? Design/methodology/approach This is a qualitative exploratory study, also involving descriptive statistics, that uses bibliographic and citation analysis as a method. Findings The study discovers a disconnect between the diversity of interdisciplinary research cited in the published work on reading in academic libraries and the sameness of respective professional practices; it describes a relatively small community of reading researchers in academic libraries, emerging as leaders who can change the direction and scope of reading practices; and it highlights a preference of academic librarians for relying on interdisciplinary knowledge about reading over building on the readers’ advisory experience of public librarians. Originality/value Translating the incredible wealth of interdisciplinary reading knowledge possessed by academic librarians into practical applications promises to advance and diversify reading practices in academic libraries. One method that could aid in this effort is more intentional learning from the readers’ advisory practices of public librarians.

Ethical practices among information professionals in academic libraries are vital for effective and equitable service delivery. Such practices involve ensuring equal access to information, maintaining data accuracy, protecting user privacy, and safeguarding intellectual property. However, gaps remain due to limited resources and insufficient training, resulting in inconsistent ethical standards. This study investigated the awareness and implementation of ethical practices in academic libraries through a cross-sectional design involving 136 respondents. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed across selected libraries. Results showed that most information professionals exhibited high awareness of equal user treatment, data protection, and adherence to service standards. Nonetheless, there was limited awareness regarding advising users on the difference between accessible and restricted resources, indicating areas needing targeted intervention. Statistical analysis using chi-square tests (χ2 = 117.9, df = 3, p = 0.000) demonstrated significant variation in awareness across ethical dimensions. One-way ANOVA further revealed notable differences in the extent of ethical practice execution (p < 0.05). The study concludes that while overall awareness is strong, specific aspects like verifying information accuracy and intellectual property protection require enhanced focus. It recommends that library management develop clear ethical guidelines and implement ongoing training to standardize and strengthen ethical practices.

Rationale of Study – This study investigated the extent and nature of knowledge management practices among Ghanaian academic libraries.Methodology – To achieve the aims of the study, an exploratory survey research design was employed. The study was mainly qualitative, with data collected from thirty-one (31) head librarians of the selected academic libraries using interviews. Data collected were analysed using the thematic approach.Findings – Findings showed that the extent and nature of KM by academic libraries were bifurcated, given that the academic libraries had to deal with knowledge from two streams. One is knowledge gained through professional library practices and the second deals with knowledge from the academic community, including both student and faculty research. The findings also showed that with regards to the knowledge management practices employed by libraries to manage knowledge in academic libraries, mentorship, coaching, peer assistance, refresher courses, open access, conferences, orientation programmes and brainstorming were some of the KMP used in the academic libraries of Ghana.Implications – The way forward for academic libraries to fully embrace KM is for academic institutions to properly equip their libraries with modern technologies.Originality – This is one of the few studies exploring KM practices in academic libraries in sub-Saharan Africa.

This work is a continuation of work done in Edo State, which aims at strengthening digitalization practices in academic libraries. The research looked into digitalization techniques in academic libraries in Delta State, and descriptive research design was used for the investigation. The population consists of academic library workers. Simple random technique was utilized to choose four schools in Delta State, with 40 library employees serving as the study’s sample. Self-created questionnaire was used. It was created in a closed-ended format of Yes or No. The instrument’s dependability was determined utilizing Cronbach’s Alpha. The data was evaluated using simple percentage statistical technique. The findings demonstrated that academic libraries’ digitization practices boosted access to library items, effective preservation of library materials, improved library service, quick retrieval of documents, and improved library exposure. Despite the benefits, librarians in academic libraries confront hurdles in developing successful digitization practices. Alternate power supplies, such as high-capacity generators and usage of solar electricity, are required to address the country’s unpredictable power supply. Furthermore, libraries should seek out professors on their campuses who are developing or utilizing novel technologies such as those outlined in this write-up and begin employing them, to test them in collaboration with other instructors and students.

Purpose – The purpose of this chapter is to examine the changing talent practices in academic libraries, the environment in which they occur, and the ways in which library and information science (LIS) programs can prepare new librarians to work with the variety of professionals they will be encountering as they enter the workforce. Design/Approach – The chapter draws on research about hiring and management practices in academic libraries, disruption theory, and the current state of higher education. Observations made by commentators in the library science field about professionalism are considered, and opportunities and threats to the profession posed by professional nonlibrarians are discussed. Findings – Academic libraries are increasingly hiring professionals from disciplines outside of LIS to fill current and emerging knowledge and skill gaps. LIS schools cannot expect to fill all of these gaps, as programs would become unwieldy. Therefore, the professional nonlibrarian provides unique opportunities for librarians that enable them to focus on areas where their knowledge and expertise can best move the profession forward and augments and complements the work librarians are doing. Originality/Value – This chapter provides a more nuanced viewpoint about what constitutes professionalism in academic libraries and encourages LIS programs to prepare students for the changing talent landscape by embracing the skills that other professionals bring to accomplish the library mission.

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of leadership styles on collection development practices in academic libraries within Ekiti State, Nigeria.Design/methodology/approachThe research used a survey research design, using a questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument. The study encompassed 86 library personnel selected from six academic libraries in Ekiti State.FindingsThe study’s findings revealed a notably high level of engagement in collection development practices within the academic libraries under investigation. In addition, the library managers exhibited a blend of leadership styles, with the democratic style being the most frequently used, followed by autocratic and laissez-faire styles. Furthermore, the research identified a significant influence of leadership styles on collection development practices, with evidence suggesting a collective impact when considering various leadership styles together.Social implicationsThe study implies that effective leadership plays a crucial role in realizing the overarching objectives of academic libraries, and a well-informed leadership approach positively impacts the library’s ability to meet its collection development goals and serve its academic community effectively.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by shedding light on the intricate relationship between leadership styles and collection development practices in academic libraries. The identification of a predominant democratic leadership style and its implications on library practices provides a nuanced understanding of leadership dynamics in this context.

The study investigated the attitude of library personnel towards preservation practices of academic libraries in Niger State, Nigeria. The study adopted a survey research design. The population comprised 387 librarians and paraprofessionals in seventeen academic libraries in Niger State, Nigeria. Total enumeration method was used. A structured and validated questionnaire was used for data collection. Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients for the constructs ranged from 0.77 to 0.84. A return rate of 81.4% was achieved. Descriptive and inferential (simple and multiple regression) statistics were used for data analysis. The finding indicated attitude of library personnel had a significant influence on preservation of information resources in the libraries (Adj.R2 = 0.076, F (1, 314) = 26.825, p &lt; 0.05). Attitude of library personnel indicators: positive attitude (β = 0.222, t(312) =3.535, p &lt; 0.05) and negative attitude (β = 0.094, t (312) = 1.516, p &lt; 0.05) positively and significantly influenced preservation practices of information resources. The study concluded that attitude of library personnel have affect preservation practices in academic libraries. The study recommended that the management of academic libraries in Niger State should create awareness through training for librarians to foster positive attitudes towards the preservation of information resources. Library management should have disaster preparedness management plans and preservation policies to secure the library resources against deterioration.