Distance Library Research Articles

Demystifying the way libraries support distance learning: a bibliometric analysis of scholarly communication in distance libraries

PurposeThe 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/approachThe 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.FindingsThe 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/valueDistance 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.

Beyond the pages: unleashing holograms and holographic technology in Caribbean academic libraries

PurposeThis paper is intended to spark discourse on the impact of holograms and holographic technology on libraries and the possibility of their usage in Caribbean academic libraries for assisting users, especially those from the physically challenged community, as well as distance library users.Design/methodology/approachA thorough assessment of literature was done of all academic and higher institution libraries across the English-speaking Caribbean to determine the effective use of holograms and holographic technology in Caribbean libraries. Literature from several developed countries was studied, paying keen attention to the emerging holograms and holographic technology and the plausibility for inclusion and exploitation by academic libraries.FindingsRevealing the possibilities for fostering great levels of efficacy, as well as saving time and reducing the possibility for inefficiencies in the system through smoother check-in and check-out while offering more accountability.Research limitations/implicationsThis research focused primarily on holograms and holographic technology that can assist libraries and their users in the near future. It further attested to the need for there to be greater consideration for physically challenged individuals and their access to material from the library.Originality/valueThis paper is the genesis for discussion surrounding holograms and holographic technology in the English-speaking Caribbean. It sought to bring awareness to the possible uses of holograms while exploring the practical implications of its use in libraries across the English-speaking Caribbean.

Efficiency of remote access services by global libraries

In the context of modern challenges and increasing demand for digital services, questions of remote library work, the use of interactive technologies aimed at the development of education, science, and civil society are quite relevant. The purpose of this study is to explore the global experience of remote access utilization in library activities, the historical peculiarities of the formation and development of distance library services in European and North American countries, the characterization of its effectiveness and prospects for its application in Ukraine. During the research, methods of generalization, comparative, and source analysis were applied. The features of remote access functioning of global libraries are highlighted, its effectiveness, advantages, and disadvantages are revealed. The development of information technologies and their impact on publishing, library attendance, scientific activities, exchange of experience, etc., are characterized. Trends in the development of global libraries are identified. It is established that for most European libraries, the priority direction has become digitization and opening access to books, press, documents, archives. It is found that remote access accelerates scientific research. In the second decade of the 21st century, there is a growth in online visits to library collections. The development of remote services provision by Ukrainian libraries is highlighted, as well as the main trends in this process in the context of the RussianUkrainian war. The importance of copyright protection in the context of remote access provision is disclosed. One of the measures was the introduction of electronic lending (e-lending), which involved receiving payment for the use of copyrighted materials. It is found that remote access to library databases will face a number of challenges related to copyright protection. The results of this study have practical value for libraries, research institutions, educational institutions, local government bodies in the context of implementing remote access to sources, materials, and books. The research materials are important for further scientific research in information and library science, document and information communications, public administration, and administration

The library's influence and impact on learning: a case study from The Open University (UK)

PurposeThe Open University (OU) in the UK has been providing distance learning since 1969. The purpose of this case study is to outline the impact that The OU Library in the UK has had on student learning outcomes by embedding academic literature and digital and information literacy (DIL) skills materials in the curriculum.Design/methodology/approachThe case study presents an overview of the university context, including how the curriculum is developed. It discusses the role of the library in this process, outlining how librarians work with academic staff to embed skills and literature in the curriculum. Unique in-house technical solutions are presented to aid future approaches to providing distance library services.FindingsThe impact of the library on university education is discussed. Findings from qualitative research are presented, outlining the value the university places on the role of the library as an educational partner. Quantitative research studies are also presented, outlining the positive relationships between library content access and training attendance with student success.Practical implicationsAs universities are considering their distance-learning offerings post-COVID-19, it is hoped that this case study will help both library and university administrators examine the role of their libraries in this strategy.Originality/valueA case study on the approach The OU Library takes to support education in its broadest sense has not been published before.

Critical evaluation and use of digital information sources by distance library students from the Federal University of Bahia

Introdução: O aumento da busca por formação em nível superior na modalidade a distância reflete a demanda social por aprendizagem mediada por tecnologias, corroborando para criação de documentos digitais, recursos educacionais abertos, metodologias de ensino apropriadas ao ambiente virtual, aumentando a possibilidade de acesso à graduação em diferentes domínios do conhecimento. Objetivo: Nesse contexto, este trabalho tem por objetivo analisar os níveis de competência em informação, conforme os conceitos do Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education, da Association of College & Research Libraries, dos estudantes do curso de Biblioteconomia na modalidade a distância, e suas habilidades em pesquisa no contexto digital. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo de caso, com abordagem quali-quantitativa. O universo corresponde aos 173 estudantes matriculados nos quatro polos do curso na Bahia (Santo Amaro, Juazeiro, Vitória da Conquista e Ilhéus), e tem como instituição acadêmica o Instituto de Ciência da Informação, da Universidade Federal da Bahia. Resultados: Os resultados apontam que os estudos acadêmicos e profissionais são a principal motivação para as pesquisas realizadas em ambiente virtual. A competência para avaliação crítica da informação se evidencia, sobretudo, no âmbito da qualidade da informação. Conclusão: Para o desenvolvimento de competências em informação, em relação à avaliação de fontes de informação, deve-se considerar um projeto pedagógico do curso orientado à formação crítica em informação, e a formação continuada dos estudantes em nível superior.

Desperate Times Call for Desperate Measures: A Comparative Analysis of Services between Traditional and Distance Libraries in COVID-19 Era

The Library and Information Center (LIC) of Patras’ University and the Hellenic Open University Distance Library and Information Center constitute two academic libraries that serve two different academic institutions types. By the time of the first phase of the outbreak (spring 2019) they attempted to respond multidimensionally to the emerging needs, aspiring tο a seamless provision of services. Currents’ research primary objective is to record and compare their actions identifying any differences in their crisis management behavior. The study offers an overview of services offered by libraries that have limited resources and presents their attempt to remain effective under any circumstances.

The One Size Does Not Fit All Approach: Case Studies in Modeling Embedded Librarianship

The pandemic and resulting shift to remote work stressed the importance of distance library services. As librarians explored different modes of engagement, embedded librarianship became increasingly important but also more complicated than before. While there is a wealth of literature on embedded librarianship, few authors agree on how to define it or discuss its specific challenges during the pandemic. This paper will present the experiences of two academic librarians working in different departments at the same institution, informed by the literature; the authors will highlight the complexity of embedded librarianship during this unique time while addressing challenges and offering recommendations.

The role of academic libraries and information specialists during times of health crises in Jordan: the COVID-19 pandemic case

PurposeCOVID-19 forced libraries and other institutions to either close their doors to users or change their services routines. At this time, the libraries should extend their efforts to meet the increasing demands of information services in terms of quantity and quality of information services. This study aims to explore the role and responsibilities of academic libraries during times of crisis from the staff perception in academic libraries in Jordan.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire was disseminated to 359 library staff who were working at the 10 public universities in Jordan; 295 questionnaires were suitable to analyze, with a response rate of 82.2%.FindingsThe results indicated the importance of increasing academic libraries – specifically academic libraries in Jordan – awareness about the vast and important role of libraries to support research and the public community by providing authentic information sources about the pandemic to increase public awareness about the pandemic, besides contributing to disseminating research related to the pandemic as well as producing related research. Libraries needed to adjust their collection and information services during the crisis as they looked for ways to support the users they serve. The results affirmed that access to information remains the social responsibility of librarians.Practical implicationsThe findings will provide insights for other academic libraries on how to react in a crisis and maintain its role as a reliable information source.Social implicationsDuring the health pandemic, people needed support in terms of getting easy access to authentic and reliable information. Libraries hold a social responsibility to the local community, such as awareness campaigns, posting videos on health practices and hygiene on it websites and social media.Originality/valueThis paper provides insights and practical solutions for academic libraries in response to global health pandemics. It will help academic libraries handle and cope with the challenges of providing distance library services over digital channels.

Digital preservation of information sources at academic libraries in Jordan: an employee’s perspective

Purpose Digital preservation requires new skills and collaboration among library staff to maintain long-term access to information resources. Digital content and digital technologies pose a serious challenge to information institutions to continue to select, preserve and access information resources. However, there is an urgent need to increase awareness of the new trends in the partnership between research communities and academic libraries; there is also a need for new digital preservation-related skills among librarians. Therefore, this research aims to investigate the benefits, importance, requirements and challenges of digital preservation in academic libraries in Jordan.Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire was disseminated to 150 library staff working at the 10 public universities in Jordan, with 133 questionnaires suitable to analyze with a response rate of (88.6%).Findings The results indicate a moderate perception of the benefits and importance of digital preservation, as well as the requirements and challenges in academic libraries in Jordan to carry out the digital preservation process. This indicated the importance of increasing the academic libraries' – specifically academic libraries in Jordan – awareness of the vast and important benefits of digital preservation to maintain long-term access to information. It was noted that factors such as sex, experience, educational level and specialization did not affect the results.Practical implications The findings will provide insights for other academic libraries on how to plan and develop preservation policies to maintain access to information.Social implications Access to information is a human right that contributes to the advocacy of sustainable development, and hence, digital preservation can facilitate long-term availability and accessibility to information.Originality/value This paper provides insights and practical solutions for academic libraries in response to technological development and the change requirements. It will help academic libraries handle and cope with the challenges of providing distance library services over digital channels.

The contribution of the distance library of the Hellenic Open University to adult education

Libraries in the context of open and distance education and adult education can make a vital contribution to the overall educational process of trainees providing services based on their users' needs. This paper investigates the contribution of the services offered to postgraduate students in the Education Sciences and Adult Education programs of the School of Humanities - Hellenic Open University (HOU) by their library. Our basic methodological approach consists of 214 postgraduate students, using the quantitative method and a questionnaire with closed questions. Based on our analysis, postgraduate students are mostly aware of the services offered by the HOU's library, however, they do not use them often. Moreover, despite the crucial role of HOU's distance library, our research showed that students are not satisfied with the services provided. As this study is the first in the last ten years to investigate the discussed subject, it provides the university administration a valuable lesson to improve the quality of the library tools.

The contribution of the distance library of the Hellenic Open University to adult education

The contribution of the distance library of the Hellenic Open University to adult education

A successful long-term relationship: Three years of LTI integrations in Canvas

As Florida State University transitioned to Canvas in 2017, the Distance Library Services team planned and implemented Springshare LTI, subject-specific Library Tools within the Learning Management System. These tools present invaluable teaching and learning opportunities for the libraries within digital classrooms and offer options for connecting students to library staff and services. With heightened interest from the distance library community in LMS integration, the goal of this paper is to examine an experience with LTI integration after three years of partnership. Furthermore, recommendations will be offered for other libraries interested in implementing LTI integrations in their LMS to support distance learning and on-campus populations.

A History of the Distance Library Services Conference

The Distance Library Services Conference was founded in 1982 by the librarians of the Off-Campus Library Services department at Central Michigan University. From its inception through its 18th conference in 2018, Central Michigan University planned and administered this conference for the benefit of librarians serving distance learners and faculty at their institutions. This article discusses the founding of the Distance Library Services Conference and its role as the library profession’s preeminent forum for the exchange of ideas on the topic of distance librarianship.

Dissection of c-AMP Response Element Architecture by Using Genomic and Episomal Massively Parallel Reporter Assays.

In eukaryotes, transcription factors (TFs) orchestrate gene expression by binding to TF-binding sites (TFBSs) and localizing transcriptional co-regulators and RNA polymerase II to cis-regulatory elements. However, we lack a basic understanding of the relationship between TFBS composition and their quantitative transcriptional responses. Here, we measured expression driven by 17,406 synthetic cis-regulatory elements with varied compositions of a model TFBS, the c-AMP response element (CRE) by using massively parallel reporter assays (MPRAs). We find CRE number, affinity, and promoter proximity largely determines expression. In addition, we observe expression modulation based on the spacing between CREs and CRE distance to the promoter, where expression follows a helical periodicity. Finally, we compare library expression between an episomal MPRA and a genomically integrated MPRA, where a single cis-regulatory element is assayed per cell at a defined locus. These assays largely recapitulate each other, although weaker, non-canonical CREs exhibit greater activity in a genomic context.

Delivering equitable distance library services to off-campus users at the University of the Free State in South Africa

Purpose The purpose of this study is to assess the perceived satisfaction of Advanced Certificate in Teaching students and facilitators regarding online library services offered by the University of the Free State (UFS) in South Africa. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a quantitative approach with open-ended questions that generated some qualitative data. Data has been presented using descriptive statistics in the form of tables, graphs and charts and thematic content analysis for some qualitative data. Findings All learners in this study were adults between 45 and 55 years of age. Of the respondents, 13% lacked online experience, while about 85% had never used online library services and 35% indicated that Google was their primary source of information. The majority of respondents indicated information literacy as a core function of the academic library. High data cost in South Africa came out as one of the major issues affecting distance learners as well as login and password frustrations. The study confirmed computer anxiety, physical discomfort, information overflow and prompt response as some of the perceived challenges and levels of satisfaction respectively of Advanced Certificate in Teaching students and facilitators regarding online library services offered by the University of the Free State (UFS) in South Africa. Practical implications The study revealed that a distance learning library policy is of the essence because it helps to put in place rules and regulations that guide the delivery of distance library services. Originality/value The offering of online and distance library services is a fairly new concept to the UFS library. This study bridges the gap between theory and practice regarding the perceived satisfaction of distance users on online library services and how to improve the current practice.

Distance library education in the era of globalization and information technologies: The experience and prospects

The current period is characterized by intensive informatization and globalization processes and stimulates building the single education space. At the same time, the ongoing transformations in the library area makes adjustments in the content of training librarians. The expanding information and technological environment requires libraries to adapt as fast as possible. The authors emphasize that building a complex library infrastructure is impossible without highly competent specialists. The authors suggest that distance learning is a promising trend in training library and information specialists in the single education space. They review the experience of distance learning in Kazan State Institute of Culture where it is introduced in several disciplines. The results of satisfaction survey are presented. The difference in the opinions of the full-time and off-campus students is demonstrated. Based on the survey, the authors conclude that most of the students are not ready to switch to distance learning. Main provisions for the highly efficient distance education, its main advantages and disadvantages are revealed. Introduction of distance learning is seen as essential for increasing efficiency of the Russian higher library schools.

It’s a Win–Win–Win: Using Human Peer to Peer Networks to Reach Learners Where They Are

In the Spring 2017 semester, an instructional designer, a writing center coordinator, and a director of distance library services initiated a pilot project for a seven-campus, eight-satellite center, public university system to cross-train virtual writing tutors in baseline research skills. This case study describes the collaborative pilot program’s progress, challenges, and lessons learned and grounds the process in peer learning theory, exploring its growing acceptance in academic libraries.

Uncovering the Evidence: Faculty Perceptions of Distance Library Services

ABSTRACTUsage statistics are a regular part of assessment but the lack of context leaves librarians pondering the reasons for fluctuations in use. Through development of an online survey, we examined faculty perceptions, knowledge, and use of distance library services to support online courses. Responses provided much needed context and helped to determine priorities and direction for services. While this survey was a useful marketing tool, results emphasized that the greatest need was for ongoing communication with faculty to increase awareness of services provided.

Practical Staff Management Techniques for Distance Education Coordinators

ABSTRACTThis article reports on the author's enrollment in the SuccessfUL Supervisor Series course. As a new distance education library coordinator the author sought out formal supervisor training to address staff misconduct and establish staff training initiatives for distance library service needs. Structured as a case study, the author discusses how the course content was applied using scenarios that detail the supervisory situations that the author was involved in and actions taken in each situation. Focused on communication and problem solving, this article offers practical staff management techniques for librarians that supervise staff in distance education units.

17th Distance Library Services Conference

Mark your calendars! The 17th Distance Library Services Conference will be held April 20 - April 22, 2016, at the Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Registration for the Conference...