Library Environment Research Articles

LITERACY INCLUSION IN REALIZING DISABILITY-FRIENDLY LIBRARY SERVICES: A NARRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract: People with disabilities find it difficult to live independently and work like the general public. The lack of public service facilities, especially libraries, has not been able to provide easy access to literacy resources. The presence of literacy inclusion in library services is an effort to create a library environment that is friendly to people with disabilities. The purpose of this study is to find out how literacy inclusion can be a foundation for libraries to meet the needs of people with disabilities and develop services that are in accordance with the principles of inclusion. The research method uses narrative literature review. The results of this study underscore the complexity of literacy inclusion in the library context and view it as a concept that involves not only technical and service aspects, but also community engagement, identity formation, inclusive pedagogy, and advocacy.

Single Window Search System for Libraries using VuFind

The main objective of this study is to develop methods for enhancing the search capabilities of library collections by integrating various technological elements. Implementing this functional enhancement will provide users access to modern services and resources. The single-window search mechanism is created and built on the VuFind open-source discovery tool. The common access window has been created after properly configuring ILS-OPAC Koha, CONTENTdm, Digital Commons, DSpace, EPrints, Fedora, Greenstone, Omeka, and OPUS. It is based on LAMP architecture and uses Apache Solr, Tomcat, and Apache Tika to create indexes for easy document search through VuFind. This study suggests a new way to easily search and collect data from different domain-specific cluster tools using a single interface. This domain-specific framework provides an ideal environment for libraries to develop large-scale library discovery services. The originality of this paper lies in creating a prototype integrated framework to facilitate the easy installation and configuration of VuFind for integrating domain-specific software in both ILS and IDR.

The Aesthetics of Learning: Factors Shaping Art Spaces in High School Libraries

This study explores the diverse factors influencing the aesthetics of learning within high school libraries in Hanoi, Vietnam, highlighting the transition of these spaces from traditional book repositories to dynamic learning environments. Employing a structured questionnaire administered to 200 teachers and school administrators, the research utilizes multiple linear regression analysis to investigate the impact of physical layout, institutional policy, educational objectives, student engagement, technological integration, and cultural and community influences on learning aesthetics. The results reveal significant positive contributions from the physical layout, institutional policy, educational objectives, student engagement, and technological integration. In contrast, cultural and community influences did not show a significant effect, indicating a more complex relationship between local culture and educational aesthetics that may require deeper analysis. These findings provide valuable insights for educational policymakers and school administrators by underscoring the importance of strategic design and resource allocation in enhancing library environments to bolster learning outcomes. The study addresses a critical gap in the existing academic literature and offers actionable recommendations for optimizing library spaces' aesthetic and functional aspects to enhance educational effectiveness.

Social Media as an Effective Channel of Professional Communication Among Public Library Specialists

The purpose of the article is to study the role of social media in the process of professional communication among public library specialists. Research methods. The methods of analysis and synthesis were used, which contributed to a comprehensive understanding of the processes of using social media in public libraries in Ukraine. The scientific novelty of the article lies in the introduction of data on the peculiarities of using social media in public libraries of Ukraine as platforms for presenting their professional activities and improving their reputation, establishing and deepening professional contacts and creating professional collaborations, exchanging professional information and experience, and improving their skills. The article summarises the data on the activities of leading public libraries in Ukraine in using social media to promote their goals, attract readers and communicate professionally. The main trends in the use of social media for professional communication by public library professionals are identified. Conclusions. It has been concluded that the professional communication of public library specialists is a special kind of semantic communication that serves to transfer professional knowledge and is implemented in a specific library environment or library space. As a channel of professional communication, social media is a new promising type of organisational and production structure and at the same time an electronic resource. In the process of professional communication, public libraries of Ukraine use social media, which are not only platforms, access points to resources or the main interface of public libraries, but also a platform for presenting information and interacting among the professional library community.

A Qualitative Study on University Students’ Restorative Experience of the Library Space Environment

Currently, university students are facing high levels of stress and negativity. Creating a campus learning environment that promotes students’ physical and mental health and well-being has become a key focus of current research. There is now a wealth of research proving that the natural attributes of learning spaces are highly restorative for university students, both physically and mentally. In order to comprehensively clarify the characteristics of the library spatial environment that has a restorative effect on university students, this paper conducted semi-structured interviews with 50 university students and thematically analyzed the data obtained from these interviews. Ultimately, we identified five key themes: (1) Being away: students believe that studying alone is a way to escape social pressures, immersing themselves in their studies helps them forget everything around them, and the view from the window creates a sense of detachment; (2) Extent: students perceive the design of the library space as rich and orderly; (3) Fascination: many elements of the library spatial environment appeal to them and make them feel energized. The overall atmosphere motivates them to engage more actively in their learning; (4) Compatibility: the library spatial environment provides a variety of facilities that meet their learning needs, along with various types of spaces catering for different behaviors; and (5) Biophilia: Many interviewees mentioned the benefits of natural environments and timber, as well as their preference for spaces with a sufficient sense of enclosure and the ability to observe others. The first four themes were found to be closely related to the Attention Restorative Theory during the course of the study, while the last theme was mentioned by most of the students. The results of this study prove that library spaces can be described as restorative environments in the same way as natural environments, with both physical and mental restorative effects. Furthermore, the results of this study can also provide certain ideas for the design and renovation of the internal spatial environment of university libraries.

Work environment as predictors of perceived organisational performance of private university libraries in South-west, Nigeria

The library is the major source of information provider in the university community, which makes it a storehouse of information for intellectual development for staff and students. The effective and efficient performance of any private university library personnel will greatly depend on the work environment of the private university library which can be conducive or unconducive for them to perform their task. To this effect, this study investigated the influence of the work environment on organisational performance of private university libraries in South-west, Nigeria. Two research questions were answered while one hypothesis was tested at 0.05 alpha level. The study adopted survey research design of the correlational type with the study population of 430 librarians from 30 private universities established as at 2021, in the six states of South-west, Nigeria. The study used total enumeration method to cover all the professional and para-professional library personnel. A validated questionnaire was used for data collection. The Cronbach alpha was used to compute the reliability coefficient of the instruments as follows: Work environment (0.730) and organisational performance (0.885). Sample of 378 questionnaires were retrieved and used for data analysis using descriptive statistics, while inferential statistics was used for data analysis. Findings revealed that the state of work environment of private university libraries in the south-west is conducive. Result from the finding indicated that there is large organisational performance in the private university libraries, the result also revealed that there is a significant relationship between work environment and organisational performance of private university libraries in South-West, Nigeria (r=.513, n=378, p (.000)<.05) and Psychological work environment (r=.449, p(.000)<.05), has the highest influence. Hence, work environment influenced/enhanced organisational performance of private university libraries in the study.

A Review on the Development of Library/Office Assistant Robots

In today's rapidly evolving landscape, the integration of assistive robots in libraries is gaining momentum. This review paper scrutinizes the evolution of library assistant robots, emphasizing their significance in enhancing operational efficiency and user experiences. Drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, we examine various methodologies employed in the development of library assistant robots, encompassing both hardware and software components. From line-following mechanisms to sophisticated hand gesture recognition systems, the methodologies explored showcase a diverse array of approaches to address the unique needs of library environments. Our contribution lies in comparing and contrasting different approaches and technologies utilized in the development of library assistant robots. By synthesizing insights from multiple research endeavors, we offer a comprehensive overview of the advancements in this field, highlighting key technological innovations and their potential implications for future developments. Keywords— Library Assistant Robot, Pattern Recognition Robots; Visually-Guided Grasping.

University students' satisfaction with library services and resources using the Kano model

Student satisfaction is essential for developing an engaging and active library environment that promotes usage and shapes a favorable view of the institution. This study uses the Kano Model to investigate university students' satisfaction with library services and resources, focusing on basic, performance, and excitement dimensions. The goal is to enhance understanding of user satisfaction in academic libraries. The study surveyed 300 university students randomly selected from four State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the Philippines using a researcher-created survey tool. The results showed that students were generally satisfied with the basic aspects of library services and resources. However, they expressed neutral satisfaction with performance aspects and dissatisfaction with library resources. Similarly, satisfaction with the excitement aspects of library services was neutral, but there was dissatisfaction with the excitement aspects of library resources. These findings provide valuable insights into the complex dimensions of university students' satisfaction with library services and resources, helping institutions improve the quality of their educational library services.

Development and Application of a Nano-Gas Sensor for Monitoring and Preservation of Ancient Books in the Library

Monitoring the gas composition in library environments is crucial for the preservation of ancient books. In this study, TiO2 NTs/CNTs composites were synthesized via a hydrothermal method and utilized as nano-gas sensors for NO2 detection. The surface morphology and element composition of the samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Additionally, the gas sensitivity of the prepared TiO2 nanocomposites was evaluated at different temperatures, both with and without ultraviolet light irradiation. The results demonstrate that the synthesized TiO2 NTs/CNTs samples exhibit a large specific surface area due to their titanium dioxide nanotubes (TiO2 NTs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) composition. Moreover, these samples display excellent gas sensitivity under ultraviolet light irradiation at temperatures of 120 °C. Compared to uncomposited and non-ultraviolet light irradiated samples, the sensor response rate is significantly improved, enabling effective monitoring of NO2 gas in library environments conducive to preserving ancient books. Overall, our findings highlight that the developed TiO2 NTs/CNTs nano gas sensor holds great potential for monitoring and safeguarding ancient books.

Teamwork in Libraries

This research paper examines the dynamics of teamwork in library settings, with a particular focus on addressing challenges related to cultural diversity through effective communication and collaboration. The study explores cross-cultural communication within library teams and proposes strategic solutions. Introducing the 1R (Respect) and 3Cs (Communication, Cooperation, Collaboration) framework, the author provides a guide for fostering successful teamwork. The paper offers practical insights and emphasizes the continual significance of these aspects to shape positive and collaborative work environments in libraries, ensuring the delivery of optimal services.

Scientific Communication Initiative at a Medical Military Library

Implementation of new scholarly communication library service in the digital age is characterized by the competitive forces between the old library information services and the ambiguity of future information services. This research analyzes the development process of scientific initiative and collaborative partnership in the military medical library environment aimed to enhance the quality of scientific communication and information skills in military residents and clinicians. The hindering internal and external forces and facilitators of developing and implementing scientific initiative service in the military medical library are evaluated. The environmental analysis was conducted to determine the scholarly communication needs in the scholarly military medical environment. The ambassador-based model was used for the development of scientific communication initiative (SCI) at the military medical library. The SCI consisted of two components: library information communication and scientific communication. This implementation in the military medical environment enhanced scholarly communication, research skills development, and information education. A collaborative Scientific Hub, and liaison partnerships with military graduate medical education program directors and clinicians enhanced the scientific communication and information skills in residents. The Ambassador model, used in the development of scientific initiative in academic and military environments, was valuable for developing and implementing specialized interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary information services in the academic and military environment. Higher education hierarchy, educational needs, organizational hierarchy, academic culture, and educational environment influence the implementation of information services in academic and military environments.

Exploring University Students' Library Engagement: Reading Habits, Preferences, and Gender Dynamics

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate university students' library engagement, emphasizing preferences, motivations, and reading habits, with an additional focus on gender dynamics. A total of 373 participants were involved in the research, and data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the participants' reading habits in different library sections, types of books read, and reasons for their preference for reading in the library. The Kruskal-Wallis test was employed to examine potential gender differences in these variables. The findings revealed variations in the frequency of students' reading activities across different library sections, with the main reading room being the most preferred section. The study also identified specific book types, such as personal notebooks and library textbooks, that were frequently read by students. Reasons for students' preference for reading in the library included the motivating environment, availability of book options, assistance from librarians, and fewer distractions compared to other places. The results of the Kruskal-Wallis test indicated significant gender differences in the ranks for certain library sections, book types, and reasons for reading in the library. These findings provide valuable insights into students' reading habits and preferences, highlighting the importance of creating diverse reading spaces, expanding book collections, promoting a supportive library environment, and enhancing librarian support. The implications of the study underscore the need for gender-inclusive services, thoughtful space design, and comprehensive collection development to meet the evolving needs of students and foster a reading culture in libraries.

Keterikatan Warna dan Emosi dalam Mebeler Bagi Pemustaka Tuli di Perpustakaan UIN Sunan Kalijaga

This study aims to investigate the association to furniture color and emotion for deaf users in libraries, who often experience limited accessibility. However, few studies have focused on the relationship between color-emotion associations to furniture and the experience of deaf users. The purpose of this research is to find out how colours is associated with furniture, which benefit the emotions and comfort to the deaf library user. This study uses qualitative research methods with in-depth interview techniques and participatory observation at the UIN Sunankalijaga Library in Yogyakarta. The findings of this study entailed how the uniqueness of colour was attached and functional with furniture. Major impact on emotions, where its produce a favourable experience for deaf guests. While in the library, the application of certain hues colour and design aspects provide a sense of comfort, relaxation, and concertration. The cool colours, such as green, which paired with neutral colours in furniture products or vice versa are shown to increase mood. Indeed, this study adds to our understanding of the psychological and social elements of deaf users' furnishings. Practical ideas for library managers and designers on how to create an inclusive library environment and fulfil the needs of deaf visitors through furnishing products that was generated.

Individual differences in service quality of university libraries in Bangladesh

This study measured the individual differences in the service quality of Bangladeshi university libraries by type of university, user and gender. A modified SERVQUAL (service quality) model was adopted for the academic library environment, which included 30 items under five dimensions with a 7-point Likert scale. The survey was conducted among 61 teachers, 50 researchers and 455 students from two public, two international and two private universities in Bangladesh. The individual differences in library service quality were calculated through an analysis of variance and independent sample t-test for the university, user and gender categories. The overall service quality was significantly different ( p < .001) among the users of the public ( M = 4.02), private ( M = 5.08) and international ( M = 5.10) university libraries, as well as between male ( M = 4.48) and female ( M = 5.01) users. Several statistical methods supported the sampling adequacy, reliability and validity of the adapted model, which could be used as a basis for further assessments of library service quality by different demographic groups, both locally and globally.

The Role of Book Production and Libraries in Shaping Reading Attitudes from the Renaissance to the Enlightenment: The Birth of Recreational Reader

The following paper presents an exploration of the history of books and libraries in conjunction with the development of historical reading practices, focusing on the culturally rich periods spanning from the Renaissance to the Enlightenment. The study combines literary theory and learning theories with a historical survey of the social and cultural milieu during the Renaissance and Enlightenment eras, which influenced the reader's perception of engagement with books and reading. More specifically, the article delves into: a) the interplay between publishing output, library functions, and reader-text dynamics, b) the impact of mass information dissemination on the reading skills prevalent in each era, using specific historical periods as case studies and c) the role of literary salons and the circulation of journals during the Enlightenment era in shaping the archetype of the recreational reader, as observed in contemporary reading communities, library environments and educational settings.

Digital Renaissance: Exploring Technological Trends and Transformations in Educational Library Environments

Digital Renaissance: Exploring Technological Trends and Transformations in Educational Library Environments

Examining the Advantages, Limitations, Opportunities, and Challenges of AI Implementation in Libraries

Libraries will benefit greatly from the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI), but they will also face substantial hurdles. It is therefore essential to carry out a thorough SWOT analysis that assesses the organization's opportunities, threats, weaknesses, and strengths. This abstract explores the potential uses, hazards, restrictions, and advantages of artificial intelligence in library environments. The study intends to provide useful insights into the strategic factors that libraries must take into account while implementing AI technologies by carefully examining these aspects.The study attention to the challenging terrain of integrating AI in libraries and stresses the significance of taking a comprehensive approach to fully utilize its potential while managing related dangers. Important tactics include improving system efficiency and tackling issues with algorithmic bias and privacy.Essentially, the goal of this study is to clarify the many ways that AI is being used in libraries. It emphasizes how important it is for libraries to thoroughly consider the effects of implementing AI and to create solid plans to maximize its benefits while avoiding any negative effects. By doing this, libraries can ensure responsible and ethical implementation processes while simultaneously positioning themselves to take advantage of the revolutionary prospects presented by AI.

User-centred collecting for emerging formats

ABSTRACT Since 2013, the UK legal deposit libraries have worked collaboratively to develop systems to manage born-digital publications, including a more experimental approach to content management for emerging formats. Within the content management lifecycle, access was identified as a key challenge. This paper provides an overview of the work conducted at legal deposit libraries to better understand access requirements for emerging formats, from a user's perspective and with a focus on web-based interactive narratives. It includes background information on UK non-print legal deposit and the characteristics that distinguish emerging formats from other collection items. It explores the findings from different workshops discussing user's needs and expectations when accessing born-digital collections in a library environment. It also considers how existing tools and methodologies, such as web archiving, can be adapted and built to support the collection of emerging formats. Finally, it delves into different research projects conducted at the British Library around archiving and performing quality assurance for interactive narratives, collecting contextual information, and lessons learnt from exhibiting born-digital content in a physical space.

An IoT-based low-cost architecture for smart libraries using SDN

In the evolving landscape of smart libraries, this research pioneers an IoT-based low-cost architecture utilizing Software-Defined Networking (SDN). The increasing demand for more efficient and economical solutions in library management, particularly in the realm of RFID-based processes such as authentication, property circulation, and book loans, underscores the significance of this study. Leveraging the collaborative potential of IoT and SDN technologies, our proposed system introduces a fresh perspective to tackle these challenges and advance intelligent library management. In response to the evolving landscape of smart libraries, our research presents an Internet of Things (IoT)-based low-cost architecture utilizing SDN. The exploration of this architectural paradigm arises from a recognized gap in the existing literature, pointing towards the necessity for more efficient and cost-effective solutions in managing library processes. Our proposed algorithm integrates IoT and SDN technologies to intelligently oversee various library activities, specifically targeting RFID-based processes such as authentication, property circulation management, and book loan management. The system's architecture, encompasses components like the data center, SDN controllers, RFID tags, tag readers, and other network sensors. By leveraging the synergy between RFID and SDN, our innovative approach reduces the need for constant operator supervision in libraries. The scalability and software-oriented nature of the architecture cater to extensive library environments. Our study includes a two-phase investigation, combining practical implementation in a small-scale library with a simulation environment using MATLAB 2021. This research not only fills a crucial gap in current knowledge but also lays the foundation for future advancements in the integration of IoT and SDN technologies for intelligent library management.

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.