Library Environment Research Articles

The Utilization of the Arts as a Method of Developing Love for Reading in a Library Environment

This paper examines the contribution of using the arts as an educational method to reading groups in a library setting. The aim of the paper is to highlight the extent and the ways in which the inter-artistic dialogue strengthens the reading interest of the minor or adult participants and cultivates their aesthetic education. More specifically, the work aims to highlight: a. which theoretical principles and educational methods effectively support the utilization of other art forms in the reading approach, b. what specific techniques are involved in the inclusion of inter-artistic comparison in the reading process, c. in which phases of the reading process they can be included with a greater impact on reading motivation and d. how artistic works are selected depending on the literary texts being interpreted, the characteristics of the members of the reading community and the library environment. In order to answer the research questions, the opinions of two groups of participants are used: a. 15 Library Science student participants from the “Literature” course (spring semester 2022) and 18 participants from the “Applications of Reading Literacy” course (winter 2023) who systematically participated in the weekly meetings. The participants, having familiarized themselves with a variety of techniques for approaching literature, answered which they consider most appropriate for each phase of reading (thus also for inter-artistic dialogue). Based on their responses, it appeared that the use of arts in library reading groups is the most appropriate method for enhancing reading interest in preparing the response and one of the most effective methods for further engaging in dialogue about the projects during reading procedure. Also, the use of inter-artistic dialogue is particularly important for the development of critical appreciation of cultural works, as a means of awakening creativity and developing the aesthetic education of readers of all ages.

Enhancing Reading Skills in an Academic Library: A Case Study of a Reading Groups

The paper investigated how Reading Groups in Academic Libraries can contribute to increasing library users' interaction with literature and improving language skills. A case study was conducted with the inclusion of creative writing exercises in a reading group. This initiative took place during the winter semester of the 2022-2023 academic year and involved Library Science students at a Greek University. The focus of the reading community was Franz Kafka's The Metamorphosis, targeting 12 students who had completed the Literature course of the 5th semester and volunteered to participate. The meetings were conducted within the Academic Library environment, aiming to familiarise participants with significant works of World Literature. Educational methodologies were employed based on reader-response theories, particularly Rosenblatt's Transactional Model, to underscore the creative engagement inherent in contemporary readers' interpretation of literary texts. After the conclusion of the program, students were asked to share their thoughts and experiences through open-ended questionnaires. The purpose was to evaluate how participation in reading groups at the library helped improve their language and reading skills, as well as sparked a deeper interest in exploring classic literature further. It was found that the reading group in Academic Libraries played a significant role in cultivating reading and language skills to students, as well as changing their attitudes towards literature. This paper filled a notable gap in the literature, particularly within the Greek context, regarding the role of reading groups in Academic Libraries as a means of bolstering students' reading capabilities.

You can go your own way: Conducting a signage audit in a health library.

The Library and Knowledge Services at the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust has been at its current location since 1975 and, in September 2020, it was deemed necessary to examine the library environment and assess the signage. The main objective was to conduct a methodical assessment of all the current library signage in order to improve the library environment, wayfinding, and clarity. A methodical signage audit was conducted by library staff, photographing signs, assigning them to categories, and creating a signage map. In total, 58 different signs were counted in the library. Of these, 22 signs were deemed satisfactory, 4 should be moved to a more appropriate location, 15 should be updated with a branded design and better messaging, and 17 were recommended for removal. The results demonstrated that there were three main areas where signage could be improved: reducing the quantity of signs, updating the language and design, and the use of ad hoc signage. By assessing the signs and assigning categories and types, areas were identified as problem points that were impacting the library user's experience and small changes were implemented to improve the library environment.

The influence of university library environment on student interactions and college students’ learning engagement

Over the past decade, learning engagement has received increasing attention from researchers. As a critical factor in college students’ academic achievement, learning engagement is significant in students’ long-term future development and social creativity. Present studies show that the overall level of college students’ learning engagement is low, which is highly unfavourable to educational quality and long-term development. There is no doubt about the position of the university library in academic circles. However, the influence of the university library environment on college students’ learning engagement has not been fully explored. The data in this study came from a survey of 45 Chinese universities. This paper investigates the relationship between the university library environment, students’ interaction, and students’ learning engagement. The results showed differences in Chinese college students’ learning engagement in liberal arts and sciences majors. The learning engagement of liberal arts majors is much lower than that of science students. We found that the library environment has an important influence on college students’ learning engagement. And the library environment can affect college students’ learning engagement through the intermediary role of interactive participation among students. In addition, for liberal arts students, the direct effect of the library environment on their learning engagement is more significant. However, for science students, the influence of the library environment on their learning engagement is more strongly intermediated by the students’ interaction. Therefore, future construction and renovation of library environments should cater not only to the diverse needs of different academic disciplines, especially liberal arts students who need special attention but also guide more students to interact friendly through the spatial characteristics of the library so as to improve the overall learning engagement of college students.

Human-Centric and Integrative Lighting Asset Management in Public Libraries: Insights and Innovations on Its Strategy and Sustainable Development

In an era of rapidly advancing lighting technology and evolving public library roles, this study introduces a groundbreaking strategy for human-centric and integrative lighting asset management. Embracing both visual and non-visual effects, “integrative lighting” aims to enhance users’ physiological and psychological well-being. Despite technological progress, notably with LEDs, current asset management often lags, relying on reactionary measures rather than proactive strategies. As public libraries transform into dynamic learning hubs, the significance of indoor lighting, impacting both physical health and holistic well-being, cannot be understated. Yet, many existing solutions are based on controlled lab tests, bypassing the diverse real-world needs of public libraries. Aiming to explore and develop human-centric and integrative lighting asset management strategies to optimize lighting environments in public libraries, this research offers a cohesive approach encompassing context identification, a management framework, and a maturity assessment model. Additionally, this study highlights the synergy between the role of the lighting asset manager, ISO 55000 principles, and these foundational strategies. This holistic approach not only reinvents lighting in public libraries but also aligns it with the broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), advocating for light as a conduit of comprehensive human betterment. The current study is primarily qualitative in nature. While this study is based on public libraries in Nordic countries, the implications and findings can be of interest and value to a broader international audience.

Undergraduates’ Perspectives on Promoting Pleasure Reading Facilities in University Libraries: A Case Study

Pleasure reading refers to free, voluntary, and non-goal-oriented reading that provides enjoyment or pleasure to the reader. The promotion of pleasure reading is not typically considered a priority in most university libraries. However, recent studies strongly suggest that pleasure reading can have significant, positive impacts on the overall performance of university library users. This study presents undergraduates' perceptions of pleasure reading facilities at the main library of the University of Colombo, as well as their expectations regarding the promotion of these facilities. The results of this study demonstrate a significant population of pleasure readers with diverse reading habits. Most pleasure readers are frequent readers (74.6%, n=209). Novels are the most popular type of reading material (77.5%), followed by non-fiction and short stories. Realistic fiction (33.3%) is the most popular genre among them, followed by fantasy and mystery. A majority of pleasure reading undergraduates have a very positive perception of the benefits of pleasure reading. The three most accepted benefits of pleasure reading were; pleasure reading helps to relax, gives enjoyment and helps to escape from routine work. Most of the participants believe that the promotion of pleasure reading should be a priority for a university library. Among all the facilities related to pleasure reading at the Main Library of the University of Colombo, most of the readers have rated the suitable library environment and the availability of a supportive staff. Pleasure readers prioritize suggested initiatives such as displaying new arrivals and implementing a Readers' Advisory Service to promote pleasure reading in the library.

Implementing Google Tag Manager (GTM) in library websites

PurposeThe purpose of this research paper is to explore and offer insightful information on the useful use of Google Tag Manager (GTM) in the context of library websites and to bridge the gap between GTM’s technical features and the practical requirements of libraries. It gives libraries the ability to use GTM’s capabilities to increase user engagement, data-driven decision-making and improve online services.Design/methodology/approachThis study reviews existing literature on GTM in the context of websites and libraries. The methodology involves identifying keywords and searching terms related to GTM, digital marketing, user engagement, Web analytics and library websites. Sources and databases were consulted, including library science journals, marketing journals, academic databases, publications on digital marketing and search platforms such as Google Books, Google Scholar, Google Search Engine, JSTOR and library associations like the American Library Association. Initial screening was done based on titles and abstracts, followed by a thorough-text review, categorization and synthesizing of the findings.FindingsGTM provides libraries with a potent tool to improve their online presence, customize user experiences and collect insightful real-time data. Libraries may harness GTM’s potential to better engage people and provide services by properly implementing it and maintaining it over time. It can be a flexible instrument that supports contemporary library services in the digital era. The findings of this study indicate that GTM technology may be used in library services; nevertheless, there are several barriers, such as librarians’ attitudes and technical abilities, that prevent GTM acceptance in library services.Originality/valueThis study covers the implementation of a free GTM tool in library websites that will help the library and information professionals to leverage the GTM in the library’s online presence. Furthermore, this study recommends that libraries and librarians should develop guidelines and policies for the critical adoption of a free GTM tool in the library environment, which will support improving the library’s user engagement and tracking of library website traffic.

МОДЕЛЮВАННЯ ЗАСОБАМИ МАТLАB УСТРУКТУРІ ПІДГОТОВКИ ФАХІВЦІВ ІТ-ІНДУСТРІЇ

In the article the problem of the use of information technologies is broken in teaching ofmathematical disciplines and importance of decision of tasks of design of processes and phenomenafor the future specialists of information technologies. It is marked that among basicкомпетентностей, that formed for such specialists: knowledge of basic classes and principles ofconstruction of models, methods of design of the systems; ability to choose and use the methods ofmathematical design for planning and exploitation of the systems, to develop the charts ofalgorithms for research and planning of the technical, technological, organizational, informativesystems; knowledge and ability to apply one or a few systems of design, planning, as ifprogramming. Thus future specialists of information technologies must skilfully use informationtechnologies, programmatic foods for the decision of design tasks, namely must have skills of designof various processes, phenomena, systems, and also able to realize these models facilities ofinformation technologies.In the article expediency of the use of application of Matlab package is reasonable for teaching ofmathematical disciplines at preparation specialists of information technologies. Features andstructural elements of environment of Matlab, functional possibilities and existent libraries, aremarked for the decision of design tasks. Among plenty of the presented libraries for visualization ofdesign in the system Matlab it is distinguished only a few, that can be used by the bread-winners ofhigher education for the decision of design tasks, namely: optimization toolbox, System ofidentification toolbox, Wavelet of toolbox, simulink it is Also marked that Matlab contains plenty ofprocedures and functions necessary to the engineer and research worker for implementation ofdifficult calculations and design of behavior of the technical, physical and economic systems.

Microsoft Copilot and Anthropic Claude AI in education and library service

Purpose This study aims to explore the collaborative potential of Microsoft Copilot and Anthropic Claude AI as an assistive technology in education and library services. The research delves into technical architectures and various use cases for both tools, proposing integration strategies within educational and library environments. The paper also addresses challenges such as algorithmic bias, hallucination and data rights. Design/methodology/approach The study used a literature review approach combined with the proposal of integration strategies across education and library settings. Findings The collaborative framework between Copilot and Claude AI offers a comprehensive solution for transforming education and library services. The study identifies the seamless combination of real-time internet access, information retrieval and advanced comprehension features as key findings. In addition, challenges such as algorithmic bias and data rights are addressed, emphasizing the need for responsible AI governance, transparency and continuous improvement. Originality/value Contribute to the field by exploring the unique collaborative framework of Copilot and Claude AI in a specific context, emphasizing responsible AI governance and addressing existing gaps.

Influence of the Implementation of Nigerian University Commission Library Parameters on Accreditation Readiness for Academic Programmes in Federal Universities of South-East, Nigeria

The study investigated the influence of the implementation of Nigerian University Commission library parameters on accreditation readiness for academic programmes in Federal Universities of South-East, Nigeria. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. The population of the study comprised 161 academic librarians in the five federal universities located in the South-East zone of Nigeria. These are; University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Michael Okpara University, Umudike, Federal University of Technology, Owerri and Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo. The census sampling technique was adopted for the study since the total number of academic librarians in the five universities was within a manageable size. The sampling method was considered appropriate because it allows statistical enumeration and participation of all members of the population in the study. Data was collected using questionnaire and analysed using regression analysis. Findings show that libraries are under staffed in most universities in the South East of Nigeria and the libraries had information resources to a great extent, but still needed to widen their services given the growing student population and new courses offered. The study therefore concluded that it is imperative for university administrators through the governing councils to employ more library staff in all cadres (professionals and para-professionals) as well as support staff. Also, the academic library environment should be made more conducive to attract clienteles to the library at all times and maintenance of furniture and equipment at libraries should be standardized, while upgrade and expansion services should also be done systematically.

Full-Fledged Access and Usability of Content in a Digital Cultural Heritage Library: Approaches, Paradigms, and Implementation

The current research presents an approach to the improvement of the librarian infrastructure via the integration of advanced technology and solutions aiming at an immediate, smooth, and continuous adaptation of the libraries in line with 21st-century needs. In particular, this article discusses the design and development of an innovative library environment ensuring descriptive cataloging, subject indexing, intelligent data searching, curation, and collection development aiming to meet the functional needs related to the increasingly growing users’ expectations. The effectiveness of the approach has been validated in the Regional Library “Peyo Yavorov”–Burgas, Bulgaria, an associated content provider in the Bulgarian National Interdisciplinary Research E-Infrastructure for Bulgarian Language and Cultural Heritage Resources and Technologies (CLaDA-BG). Testing of the system was made to assure its stability and reliability.

Utilization of blockchain technology for effective circulation control in university libraries in South-East, Nigeria

The study examined the utilization of block chain technology for effective circulation control in university libraries in Southeast, Nigeria. The study employed descriptive survey research design. The population of the study comprised of 472 librarians in 10 federal and state-owned universities in South-East, Nigeria. Total enumeration technique was used to study the entire population of librarians in the study area. Online structured questionnaire was used to collect the opinions of the librarians due to the constraint of distributing and accessing the respondents physically as a result of the ASUU strike. WhatsApp Groups of the various state chapters of Nigerian Library Association (NLA) in South-East Nigeria were used as method of sharing the link of the online questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using frequency count, mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed among other things that, there was no extent of utilization of block chain technology among the university libraries studied for record keeping, tracking of transactions of users, reservation of resources, charging and discharging of information resources in university libraries in Southeast, Nigeria as there was a mean score of 1.61 for keeping and tracking records of registered users. However, it was agreed that, utilization of blockchain technology will facilitate effective circulation control in the university libraries. Lack of awareness, technophobia, inadequate skills and competence and inadequate technological facilities are the major challenges associated with the utilization of block chain technology in university libraries. The study recommended among other things that; university management should organize in-house training of librarians in the use of blockchain technology. Also, adequate technological facilities should be acquired and the work environment in the university libraries should be conducive for librarians.

Librarians’ attitudes, work environment and service delivery in academic libraries in Delta State, Nigeria

The study investigated the relationship between librarians' attitudes, work environment, and service delivery in academic libraries in Delta State, Nigeria. Academic librarians play a crucial role in providing resources and supporting research, which underscores the importance of their attitudes and work environment. A positive attitude enhances job satisfaction and productivity, which in turn improves service delivery. The research utilized a correlational design with a population of 170 librarians from 23 tertiary institutions, including 11 universities and six polytechnics/colleges of education. The census sampling technique was employed, and data were collected using a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentages, mean, and standard deviation) and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Coefficient were used for analysis, with a criterion mean set at 2.50. Hypotheses were tested at a 0.05 significance level. Findings indicate that librarians in Delta State are generally satisfied with their jobs and view their work environment positively, which correlates with effective service delivery. Positive attitudes and supportive work environments significantly impact service delivery. The study concludes that improving librarians' attitudes and work environments is crucial for enhancing library services. It is recommended that academic libraries in Delta State focus on integrating librarian attitudes, work environment improvements, and service delivery strategies through interdisciplinary techniques and stakeholder collaboration.

Designing Inclusive Digital Learning Environments in Libraries for Patrons with Special Needs

Designing Inclusive Digital Learning Environments in Libraries for Patrons with Special Needs

Публичные библиотеки зарубежных стран: уроки пандемии

The article provides analysis of foreign countries public libraries response to COVID-19 pandemic. Best practices in key areas of their performance are determined. Main accents are placed on managing personnel, technical services staff operations, acquisitions and electronic collection development, expanding services to the greater community, collaboration with other community agencies: national, academic, special libraries, publishing houses. Public libraries activity during pandemic period helps personnel to rethink and interpret differently the value of information and communications technologies in everyday library performance. Digital inequality is considered as the main barrier for designing and updating library services for communities. COVID-19 affected the performance of public libraries in foreign countries, help to conceptualize their role and professional skills of library specialists in the context of digital transformations. The necessity for working out crisis management issues in the context of digital environment in public libraries is emphasized.

Investigating the adoption of digital Library by postgraduate students in Jordan: An Enhanced of UTAUT Model

The current study aims to determine the factors influencing the intention to employ digital libraries among postgraduate students in Jordanian universities. The data were gathered through questionnaires in the format of Google Forms. The questionnaires were distributed to postgraduate students enrolled in Jordanian universities with digital libraries, who were recruited via purposive sampling. A total of 261 responses were received, with 67 deemed unsuitable for the study analysis and subsequently excluded. Resultantly, 194 valid questionnaires were finalized for data analysis. The SMART-partial least squares (PLS) software was utilized to conduct structural equation modelling (SEM) to test the study hypotheses. This study discovered that the variables, namely performance expectancy, effort, and facilitating conditions expectancy, were significantly and positively associated with the outcome variable, which is the intention to employ digital libraries. Meanwhile, social influence was revealed to be insignificant. Performance expectancy also significantly mediated the correlations between technological readiness and the intention to utilize and between online self-efficacy and the intention to utilize. The present study focused only on potential users among postgraduate students at Jordanian universities with digital libraries. The findings contributed valuable insights into the academic sector, especially library management to enhance the rate of digital library or e-library adoption at Jordanian universities. Digital library managers and policymakers could leverage the findings to design pertinent strategies that increase user engagement within digital library environments. The UTAUT model was demonstrated to be capable of predicting users’ intentions of employing digital libraries and corroborated the mediation role of performance expectancy on the associations between technological readiness and the intention to utilize and between online self-efficacy and the intention to use.

An assessment of users’ satisfaction with the resources and services of Kebbi State Public Library

Regular assessment of users’ satisfaction with library resources and services is one of the strategic ways of determining the relevance of any type of library. This research assessed users’ satisfaction with the resources and services of Kebbi State Public Library. Survey research method was used. Questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection for the successful conduct of this study. Frequencies and percentages were used for data analysis. Out of the two hundred and fifty (250) copies of questionnaire administered, one hundred and eighty four were returned. The study revealed that a majority of the users of the library were students who used it to read their notes and textbooks to prepare for examinations. Seventy point six five percent (70.65%) of the respondents rated the collections inadequate while sixty five point seventy-six percent (65.76%) rated them outdated. Seventy three point thirty-seven (73.37%) of the respondents rated the library environment not conducive while ninety-nine point four six (99.46%) rated the library staff friendly. Although eighty point nine eight (80.98%) of the respondents viewed the collections as relevant. Seventy seven point seven (77.72%) were not satisfied with the resources and services of the library. In order to ensure sustainable users’ satisfaction by the library, the researcher recommended that the funding of the library should be improved; library governing board should be constituted; the library collections should be regularly updated and, adequate and qualified staff should be employed among others.

INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION RELATIONSHIPS AND LIBRARIES: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

This study uses the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method to explore the relationship between interpersonal communication and libraries, focusing on the role of librarian-user interactions in fostering a comfortable atmosphere and ensuring user satisfaction. Our research shows a positive correlation between effective interpersonal communication and success in the library environment. Our findings underscore the importance of librarians' direct involvement in achieving a high quality library through good interpersonal communication, thereby increasing user satisfaction. This research contributes valuable insights to understanding the dynamics of interpersonal communication within libraries, paving the way to improve communication strategies and enhance user experience.

공공도서관의 시각장애인 서비스 경험의 개선 방향

In recent years, public libraries have enhanced services for the visually impaired, yet challenges persist with the current barrier-free offerings. This study aims to investigate the experience of visually impaired individuals using public library services. Focused on five public libraries from the 'PISA International Library Construction Ranking,' the research involves surveys targeting the visually impaired to assess the current status and service design issues. Employing the AHP analysis method and service blueprint, the study proposes directions for improving public library service design. Research findings indicate a subpar service experience for the visually impaired, limiting their activities due to inadequate barrier-free services. By identifying their actual needs and utilizing the Service Blueprint, we provide practical design suggestions for creating a comprehensive barrier-free environment in public libraries.

Library and Knowledge Management in Times of Crisis: Search for Effective Models of Activity

In this issue, our contributors share their thoughts, ideas, and doubts, describing how they and their library teams have worked hard during the recent crisis years to develop, improve, or find effective models of operation to prepare for high-level negative events and minimise catastrophic consequences. Knowledge management is definitely about university libraries, which have shifted their role from accessing and managing information to accessing, sharing and managing knowledge. The papers describe the library experience of knowledge management in times of crisis as a combination of information, communication and human resource management. The crisis experience is considered in the context of the conference "University Library at a new stage of social communications development" 2023 as the experience gained in the working library environment of universities around the world, created in the rapidly changing, chaotic and often dangerous for people's health and life conditions of large-scale crisis events. By illustrating the challenges, surprises, and rewards we face in library and information science in different countries, we hope that the articles in this issue will provide us all with the motivation to keep going in a difficult period. At the very least, these articles will help readers to appreciate how our understanding of higher education librarianship continues to evolve in times of crisis.