Library Environment Research Articles

PyLOM: A HPC open source reduced order model suite for fluid dynamics applications

This paper describes the numerical implementation in a high-performance computing environment of an open-source library for model order reduction in fluid dynamics. This library, called pyLOM, contains the algorithms of proper orthogonal decomposition (POD), dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) and spectral proper orthogonal decomposition (SPOD), as well as, efficient SVD and matrix-matrix multiplication, all of them tailored for supercomputers. The library is profiled in detail under the MareNostrum IV supercomputer. The bottleneck is found to be in the QR factorization, which has been solved by an efficient binary tree communications pattern. Strong and weak scalability benchmarks reveal that the serial part (i.e., the part of the code that cannot be parallelized) of these algorithms is under 10% for the strong scaling and under 0.7% for the weak scaling. Using pyLOM, a POD of a dataset containing 1.14×108 gridpoints and 1808 snapshots that takes 6.3Tb of memory can be computed in 81.08 seconds using 10368 CPUs. Additioally, the algorithms are validated using the datasets of a flow around a circular cylinder at ReD=100 and ReD=1×104, as well as the flow in the Stanford diffuser at Reh=1×104.

Revolutionizing library systems with advanced automation: A blueprint for efficiency in academic resource management

The advent of advanced automation technologies has the potential to revolutionize library systems, particularly within academic institutions, where effective resource management is essential. This paper outlines a comprehensive blueprint for integrating automation into library operations to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and user engagement. Key technologies discussed include Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML), which streamline processes such as cataloging, circulation, and inventory management. The implementation of RFID facilitates self-service checkouts and real-time inventory tracking, significantly reducing the time spent on manual tasks, thereby allowing library staff to concentrate on enhancing user experiences and curating resources strategically. Furthermore, AI-driven chatbots provide personalized recommendations, improving user satisfaction and ensuring that patrons receive tailored support. This blueprint emphasizes the role of automated digital repositories and intelligent content indexing systems, which accelerate cataloging and ensure timely access to scholarly materials. By automating information retrieval processes, libraries can reduce wait times and improve the overall accessibility of resources. Data analytics are also pivotal, enabling libraries to monitor usage patterns, optimize resource allocation, and forecast future demands, ensuring alignment with academic priorities. Moreover, the paper addresses challenges related to automation implementation, including financial constraints, data privacy concerns, and staff training requirements, proposing solutions such as gradual implementation and interdepartmental collaboration. Ultimately, the transition to advanced automation not only enhances operational efficiency but also boosts academic productivity by making resources more accessible and user-centered. This strategic move toward a digital-first library environment signifies a profound transformation in academic libraries, promoting an agile approach to resource management. As institutions increasingly adopt these technologies, they position themselves at the forefront of educational innovation, effectively integrating academic resources into the digital learning landscape.

Development and Performance of ZnO/MoS2 Gas Sensors for NO2 Monitoring and Protection in Library Environments

The presence of harmful oxidizing gases accelerates the oxidation of cellulose fibers in paper, resulting in reduced strength and fading ink. Therefore, the development of highly sensitive NO2 gas sensors for monitoring and protecting books holds significant practical value. In this manuscript, ZnO/MoS2 composites were synthesized using sodium molybdate and thiourea as raw materials through a hydrothermal method. The morphology and microstructure were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The ZnO/MoS2 composite exhibited a flower-like structure, with ZnO nanoparticles uniformly attached to the surface of MoS2, demonstrating advantages such as high specific surface area and good uniformity. The gas sensitivity of the ZnO/MoS2 nanocomposites reached its peak at 260 °C, with a sensitivity value around 3.5, which represents an improvement compared to pure ZnO, while also enhancing sensitivity. The resistance of the ZnO/MoS2 gas sensor remained relatively stable in air, exhibiting short response times during transitions between air and NO2 environments while consistently returning to a stable state. In addition to increasing adsorption capacity and improving light utilization efficiency, the formation of hetero-junctions at the ZnO-MoS2 interface creates an internal electric field that effectively promotes the rapid separation of photo-generated charge carriers within ZnO, thereby extending carrier lifetime.

Users’ perspectives of public library for a knowledge-based society: Implications for developing countries

Rationale of Study – In today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world, knowledge has become a commodity and a capital that provides the basis for a knowledge-based society (KBS). Public libraries, however, are trying to stay relevant as a knowledge hub in such societies by expanding their roles in local communities. This research investigated the relationship among demography, accessibility, environment,digitalisation, and the library’s perceived role in a KBS. Methodology – Following cross-sectional quantitative research design, data was collected from 112 respondents using a structured questionnaire survey on the premises of the Pabna Government Public Library in Bangladesh. The 9-item scale showed acceptable internal consistency (α = .713) and using SPSS 25, descriptive analyses, Chi-square test, and Spearman correlation were carried out.Findings – The role of a public library in terms of readership and awareness in the community had a statistically significant (p-value <0.001) positive correlation with accessibility (ρ=.334) and library environment (ρ=.513). At the same time, a negative association was observed with respondents’ level of education (ρ=-.265, p-value <0.01). However, a weak relationship existed between profession andperception of the library environment (ρ=.186, p-value <0.05). Implications – In similar developing country contexts, libraries must attract diverse users beyond educated youths and create a conducive library environment where it becomes a part of their community. Public libraries can consequently stay relevant and contribute to building a KBS. Originality – This paper reports the findings of an original study regarding users’ perceptions of public libraries in KBS from a developing country perspective.

Robots in Public Libraries: An Empirical Analysis of Current Applications and Future Opportunities

ABSTRACT The paper investigated the current application of robots in public libraries with specific consideration of its future opportunities. Three (3) objectives guided the conduct of the study. The study employed a qualitative research approach. The population for the study comprised librarians who have been certified by the Librarian Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN) and worked at public library boards. Thematic analysis and content analysis techniques were adopted for this study. The study found that robots bring various advantages, including increased operational efficiency and streamlined access to information, as well as interactive educational opportunities and heightened user involvement. The findings indicate that embracing robotic technology enables public libraries to establish more accessible, dynamic, and user-focused environments, fostering an atmosphere of innovation and technological progress within the realm of information services. It could be concluded that the integration of robots in public libraries plays a vital role in modernizing and improving library services to meet the evolving demands of library users and communities. However, library stakeholders must address potential obstacles, including financial limitations, technological preparedness, and user acceptance. Prioritizing the training of staff, fostering community involvement, and establishing clear policy frameworks enables public libraries to effectively navigate the challenges related to incorporating robotics, ensuring a smooth transition toward a technologically advanced and user-focused library environment.

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) as Catalysts of Educational Transformation in the Higher Education Sector of Sri Lanka: A Systematic Literature Review

This systematic literature review evaluates the transformative effects of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in Sri Lanka’s higher education and library services. It explores how MOOCs democratize education by broadening access to previously costly and limited educational infrastructure and integrating them into library practices for enhanced access and professional development. The review synthesizes various sources to assess MOOC utilization, challenges like low completion rates, inconsistent quality, and digital divides. Strategic improvements are proposed to align MOOCs with educational and socio-economic goals in Sri Lanka. The findings highlight MOOCs’ current uses, barriers, and potential as supplements to traditional education, aiming to optimize learning outcomes and support educational transformation in both academic and library environments.

Examining Diversity and Equity in LIS Education: A Syllabus to Reading List Analysis

To determine how effectively the Master of Library and Information Science curriculum at Indiana University - Indianapolis is addressing the new ALA core competency related to social justice, we analyzed all the course syllabi and are now in the process of analyzing all course readings, using various text analysis methods. We found the initial review of syllabi to lack the level of granularity that would have revealed the different kinds of diversity and equity issues in the curriculum. Additionally, courses we know for certain that covered topics related to social justice, the syllabus alone indicated otherwise. For these reasons, we decided to examine the readings that comprised the entire curriculum. With 68 courses and over 3000 readings to date, gathering the data for analysis has taken several months of time. Metadata and PDFs of course readings were stored in Zotero and extracted from there for analysis. Terminology, as identified from the study that examined all ALA-accredited LIS program course descriptions, will be used to frame the textual analysis (Dill, Grote, & Hardin, 2023). We will present the topics and trends identified through bibliometric analysis, topic modeling, and visual analysis of the citation data. This analysis will shed light on areas of strength and for improvement within curriculum with the goal of preparing students to effectively work in socially just library environments.

Information Brokerage Skills: a Necessity in the Digital Library Environment

As digital technologies continue to revolutionize the information landscape, the role of information professionals has evolved significantly. In the digital library environment, information brokerage skills have become a necessity to bridge the gap between users and the vast amount of digital information available. This seminar explores the critical role of information brokerage skills in digital libraries, emphasizing their importance in information retrieval, evaluation, curation, user support, and information literacy instruction. It also examines the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age and discusses how information professionals can leverage their expertise to enhance the digital library experience for users. By embracing the challenges and opportunities of the digital age, information brokers play a pivotal role in shaping the future of digital libraries and promoting information literacy in the digital era. In conclusion, information brokerage skills are indispensable in the digital library environment. Information professionals, equipped with information retrieval expertise, curation abilities, and information literacy instruction, enhance the digital library experience and empower users in navigating the digital information landscape

Organizational Impostor Phenomenon: Theoretical Foundations and Practical Implications

This article develops a new application of the concept of Impostor Phenomenon (IP) to entire organizations, as opposed to individuals, and outlines the ways in which library environments may be particularly susceptible to experiencing IP. Considering organizational challenges through the lens of IP may help libraries to overcome perceived obstacles and better celebrate collective successes. The authors use the mechanism of Organizational Anthropomorphism (OA) alongside sensemaking and systems thinking to develop the concept of Organizational Impostor Phenomenon (OIP), and then provide a practical guide for identifying possible signs of OIP and introduce strategies to address OIP in the library setting.

Information market, educational and library environment in the contemporary digital setting: New trends and expectations (The annual paper delivered at the Eighth World Professional Forum “The Book. Culture. Education. Innovations” (“Gelendzhik-2024”))

The author reviews and analyzes the status and prospects for the educational and library technologies and information market within the digitalized community. The increasing AI role, its advantages and drawbacks in education and publishing are discussed. The library behavioral models under the new circumstances are evaluated. The libraries’ role in education support and user services is emphasized.

From Knowledge Management (KM) Theories to Practices: The Strategies to Implement Best Practices in Academic Libraries

The critical role of knowledge management (KM) is facilitating the smooth operation of academic libraries and fostering professional growth. While substantial research focuses on defining knowledge management, exploring its theoretical frameworks, and underscoring its relevance within academic library environments, there remains a paucity of empirical studies addressing the practical implementation and subsequent effects of KM practices. This article seeks to bridge the gap by delineating effective strategies for the adoption of KM best practices, alongside a reflective examination of the lessons learned during the process within a university library’s IT department.

Conditions for Creativity and Innovation in the Work Environment of Academic Libraries in the United States and Canada

Creativity, the development of a new product, idea, or problem solution that is valuable within the local context, is vital to innovating, problem-solving, and facilitating change. An individual’s ability to be creative largely depends on whether their environment supports creative work. This study explores how academic library employees in the United States and Canada perceive their work environment to better understand whether current academic libraries facilitate creative work in relation to management practices, organizational motivation, resources, and outcomes. The study finds that academic libraries fall at or below the median in all four categories.

Impact of information security awareness on information security compliance of academic library staff in Türkiye

Information security compliance means that library staff follows the rules, guidelines, and principles related to information security and implements the security measures provided in the library. This ensures the protection of sensitive information stored and processed in the library environment. This study examined the impact of information security awareness in academic libraries on information security compliance. In a descriptive survey design adopted in the study, the survey data of 136 personnel working in academic libraries in Türkiye were analysed. The findings revealed that information security awareness has a positive and significant impact on information security compliance (R2 = 0.983, β = 0.991, t(136) = 19.267, p < 0.05). The study concluded that information security awareness is necessary to ensure information security compliance in academic libraries. Consequently, there is a clear need for policy and training programs to enhance information security awareness and compliance among academic library staff. The findings of this study will not only contribute to the literature in the field of information security but also provide an important foundation for improving practices in this area. Therefore, it is important for academic libraries to develop effective policies and training programs to increase awareness of information security and promote staff compliance.

Library design, amenities, and services for enhancing the reading experience

This study explored user perspectives on library design elements, amenities, and services that can potentially enhance the reading experience. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire with 537 students. The majority of respondents (86.8%) reported enjoying reading in library environments. Regarding design aspects, having an integrated layout with shelves, chairs and tables cohesively arranged in the reading room was most appealing. Users also favored the presence of other readers and collaborative table designs. Group-study rooms were viewed positively, with 51.2% strongly liking the option to use them and perceiving benefits for learning. While opinions were divided on introducing food services, most supported adding new technologies like 3D printers, art galleries, and museum exhibits. Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations between enjoying library reading and preferences for shared reading spaces with other users (p = 0.024) and group-study rooms. In conclusion, fostering a sense of community, scholarly exchange, and integrated space conducive to focused reading emerged as key factors for enhancing the reading experience in libraries.

"It's not just teaching for the sake of teaching anymore": a quality improvement project for online instruction in a hospital library.

Medical libraries had to swiftly change how instruction services were provided in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This article describes a Quality Improvement (QI) project to assess one hospital library's move to virtual instructional services. Information was gathered via a survey to Canadian hospital library workers and a focus group with internal staff with instructional responsibilities. Moving to online instruction increased audience attendance and garnered positive feedback, however library instructors report experiencing uncertainty about quality and effectiveness of online instruction. The article concludes with a description of planned actions to improve online instructional services in an urban research and teaching hospital library environment.

LIBRARY SKILLS REQUIRED BY THE PARAPROFESSIONAL STAFF IN USER SERVICES DEPARTMENT

This paper provides a review on the library skills that are required by the paraprofessional staff in user services department, explore the specific types of paraprofessional staff for user service department, and their roles. The study put together comparatively the user service information resource and service delivery responsibilities and the information utilitarian service support roles of the paraprofessional library staff and examines that, the more befitting type of paraprofessional library staff for user services are the “page”, “library aides”, and “library Services Assistant”. The types of responsibilities of user services paraprofessional staff was examined to be the middle level complementary roles in a way that relates to ‘user assistance’, and ‘library support’ in user management, information retrieval and access, shelve management, circulation desks services, reading area management and close access information services, among others. It also examined the library skills required by the user service paraprofessional library staff, who are expected to have the soft library – skills, hard library – skills, and the library information technologies use – skills, among others. The study concludes by stressing the existence of differing practices in the labelling paraprofessional library staff as “library support staff”, “library nonprofessional”, “not-certified” or “non-licenced librarians”, “post-secondary school” or “diploma certificate holders” in consistently, as well as confusion in their schedule of responsibilities. The study suggests the need for library regulatory agencies/parastatals and the libraries themselves to review the existing library staffing pattern/nomenclature and responsibilities to suit the current changing library environment, development in knowledge acquisition and certificates, changing users’ information needs and seeking behaviour and the changing trends in information services, among others.

Sentient libraries: empowering user expeditions with emotional artificial intelligence

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.

A Hybrid Improved SAC-IA with a KD-ICP Algorithm for Local Point Cloud Alignment Optimization

To overcome incomplete point cloud data obtained from laser scanners scanning complex surfaces, multi-viewpoint cloud data needs to be aligned for use. A hybrid improved SAC-IA with a KD-ICP algorithm is proposed for local point cloud alignment optimization. The scanned point cloud data is preprocessed with statistical filtering, as well as uniform down-sampling. The sampling consistency initial alignment (SAC-IA) algorithm is improved by introducing a dissimilarity vector for point cloud initial alignment. In addition, the iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm is improved by incorporating bidirectional KD-tree to form the KD-ICP algorithm for fine point cloud alignment. Finally, the algorithms are compared in terms of runtime and alignment accuracy. The implementation of the algorithms is based on the Visual Studio 2013 software configurating point cloud library environment for testing experiments and practical experiments. The overall alignment method can be 40%~50% faster in terms of running speed. The improved SAC-IA algorithm provides better transformed poses, combined with the KD-ICP algorithm to select the corresponding nearest neighbor pairs, which improves the accuracy, as well as the applicability of the alignment.

Peningkatan Kemampuan Literasi dan Numerasi di SDK Maubesi II Kabupaten Timor Tengah Utara

This community service activity aims to improve literacy and numeracy skills for students at Maubesi 2 Catholic Elementary School, Insana Fafinesu District, North Central Timor Regency. This community service is carried out in several stages, namely coordinating/communicating with the TTU Regency Education and Culture Office and the target school, conducting initial observations, designing a work program and discussing it with the school, implementing the work program and evaluating the implementation of the work program. The community service methods used are communication, observation and implementation of work programs and evaluation. Based on the results of the community service carried out, it was found that there was an increase in literacy and numeracy skills as demonstrated by the increase in reading, writing and arithmetic skills of students at Maubesi 2 Catholic Elementary School. This was realized through the availability of learning media that was able to arouse students' interest in learning, mentoring. and structuring the classroom and library environment so that it influences enthusiasm for learning and participating in learning.

E-LIBRARY SYSTEM

Abstract- This research paper explores the transformative role of electronic libraries (e-libraries) in modernizing access to information and enhancing user experiences. With the proliferation of digital technologies, traditional libraries are increasingly embracing digital platforms to expand their reach and services. Through a comprehensive literature review and empirical analysis, this study investigates the key factors influencing the adoption and utilization of e-libraries by both patrons and library professionals The research delves into the technological infrastructure, usability features, and content diversity offered by e-libraries, examining how these factors contribute to improved accessibility and user satisfaction. Additionally, the paper explores the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition from physical to digital library environments, including issues related to digital literacy, privacy concerns, and digital rights management .furthermore, the study investigates the impact of e-libraries on information-seeking behaviors, learning outcomes, and community engagement. By analyzing user feedback, usage statistics, and qualitative data, the research aims to identify best practices and recommendations for optimizing e-library services to better meet the diverse needs of patrons. Index Terms – Frontend development HTML ,CSS,JavaScript ,Backend development Java , Database management MySQL