Library Professionals Research Articles

Prospects for the development of the library network in Dagestan in 1950s: a gender approach

In the modern society government authorities pay quite a lot of attention to the development of the socio-cultural sphere in the country. Despite the fact that at the end of the 20th - beginning of the 21st century, libraries began to take on the functions of abolished cultural centers due to a significant reduction in the network of socio-cultural institutions. The functions of information centers have been added to the traditional functions of an educational nature, preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage, providing access to national and global information networks and databases. Today, modern library science presents new analytical capabilities for the study and analysis of library communications. One of these is a gender perspective, which looks at the norms and cultural symbols that men and women bring to the library profession. The purpose of the research is to study this aspect in the socio-cultural sphere at the regional level, which allows us to trace the uniqueness of general processes within individual national republics. To achieve this goal, the task has been formulated to reflect the history of the development of the library network in 1950s in the region using a gender approach. In the research methods of comparative historical analysis were used, as well as the principles of objectivism and historicism, which provided the opportunity to analyze various episodes and phenomena from a historical point of view. When studying the questions posed, the author has come to the conclusion that Russian historiography today has almost no research devoted to the study of the development of librarianship through the prism of gender stereotypes. This study is an attempt to highlight the development of librarianship, with an emphasis on women's experiences in this profession.

Impact of Social Media in Blogging

The rapid evolution of social media platforms has significantly transformed the landscape of blogging, creating a dynamic interplay between content creators and their audiences. this research explores the nuanced and evolving impact of social media, with a specific focus on the influence of instagram on fashion blogging engagement. The study delves into recent algorithm changes on instagram and their repercussions on the visibility, content strategies, audience building, and monetization efforts of fashion bloggers. The purpose of this study is to educate scientists and library professionals about social media and its potential use in the course of doing research. In addition to providing a fundamental overview of social media to aid in decision-making regarding its use for academic and research objectives, the paper also assists by providing a detailed description of a few tools from the vast array that are available. This work also demonstrates how social media might alter the ways in which academics can create new routes for faster information dissemination through blogging and blogs, as well as new kinds of communication. Keywords:- Social media, blog, blogging, Twitter, microblogging.

«LIBRARY PROFESSION STUDIES» IN THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS

The article characterizes the significant aspects of the academic disci-pline «Library Profession Studies» studied at East Siberian state institute of culture by the graduate students majoring in 51.04.06 «Library and Infor-mation Activities», profile «Theory and Methodology of Library and Pedagog-ical Activities». The emphasis is made on theoretical aspects, problems of pro-fessionalism of the library personnel, features of course application of the li-brary specialist’s professiogram and psychogram, library mythology, librarians’ professional self-awareness and the role of the specialist’s personality in the library profession.

From silent spaces to smart spaces: Leveraging IoT-based innovative services to enhance library system performance using SEM approach

The Internet of Things (IoT) has emerged as a disruptive technology with enormous potential to alter various fields, including libraries. However, research on IoT uptake in libraries still needs to be more extensive, especially in Pakistan. This research aims to fill that vacuum by exploring the variables driving IoT uptake in Pakistani libraries and assessing its effect on library services. A quantitative approach was used, with data collected from Pakistani libraries using a survey technique. The poll specifically addressed librarians and administrators to understand their views on the IoT adoption advantages they see. We designed a theoretical framework combining the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) paradigm and adding two variables: digital transformation and innovativeness. A total of 341 responses were gathered, providing insightful data on the IoT adoption trends in Pakistan. The research examines the connections between numerous variables impacting IoT uptake in libraries using advanced statistical approaches like SmartPLS-based partial least squares structural equation modeling. The findings reveal several vital factors influencing the adoption of IoT in Pakistani libraries. The study emphasizes the significance of solid management practices and the effective use of technology resources in facilitating the successful implementation of the Internet of Things and ensuring enhanced library services. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a comprehensive perspective on IoT adoption in Pakistan. It addresses a considerable knowledge deficit regarding the implementation of IoT in libraries, concentrating specifically on the Pakistani view. The findings of this study are beneficial for library professionals, researchers, and policymakers, as they enable them to make informed decisions and drive successful IoT adoption initiatives in Pakistani libraries.

Global perspectives: library professionals' views on multimedia books in airlines

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the potential impact and passenger perceptions of integrating multimedia books within airline services, aiming to elucidate the evolving landscape of in-flight entertainment and reading experiences.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative research methodology was used, using a structured questionnaire distributed to presenters at the International Federation of Library Associations.FindingsAnalysis revealed varying passenger interest in multimedia books, with approximately 57.7% displaying engagement, while 40.4% demonstrated limited interest or none. However, a notable majority (60.6%) preferred multimedia books over traditional print books during flights. Furthermore, 90.4% perceived a positive impact of multimedia books on flight reading experiences, leading to increased satisfaction (81.7%) and a high likelihood of recommending airlines offering such content (91.3%).Research limitations/implicationsThe study's limitations include a specific focus on International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) presenters, potentially limiting broader generalisations. Further research might explore the preferences of a wider demographic range and incorporate qualitative aspects to deepen understanding. Airlines could leverage multimedia books to enhance passenger satisfaction, attract diverse audiences and foster cultural inclusivity within in-flight entertainment.Originality/valueThis study contributes insights into the evolving landscape of in-flight entertainment, emphasising the significant potential and positive impact of integrating multimedia books within airline services. It underscores the importance of catering to diverse passenger preferences and enhancing overall satisfaction during air travel.

Perceived Risks of Social Media in the University Libraries of Pakistan: An Empirical Investigation

Purpose The research on social media adoption and use is on the rise in Pakistan. However, researchers did not focus on investigating the risks associated with social media use for library services. So, this study examines perceived risks of library services through social media in the university libraries of Pakistan. Also, suggest possible solution to overcome the observed risks. Methodology Using a structured questionnaire, a national-level survey was conducted. Respondents of the study were professional librarians designated as Head or Chief or University librarian representing their organization. The study was conducted in an organizational perspective and required a single response from each organization. The questionnaire was distributed among 181 university librarians working both in public and private sector university libraries in Pakistan. However, valid responses were 124 (69%). Findings The Pakistani university libraries are using social media platforms for library services. However, the research findings reveal that there are several risks to offering library services through social media. Among the responded libraries, the libraries that do not use social media platforms for service delivery feel riskier compared to the libraries that offer library services through social media. It is also found that there is no formal policy on social media usage in the libraries. Practical implications The research findings provide valuable insight to university administration, library social media users, and developers on how to consider the identified risks while designing state-of-the-art library services through social media. Also, the study findings may be easily generalized at national level due to the coverage of the whole population. Originality This is a novel study that explores the perceived social media risks associated with using social media to offer library services. Also, the study is first attempt that covers whole population through a census survey in an organizational perspective.

An assessment of professional competencies and skills required for library professionals of management institutions in Kerala (India)

PurposeThis study aims to explore various skills of library professionals working in management institutions of Kerala State, India.Design/methodology/approachA survey method was used by distributing online questionnaire as a data collection tool. The questionnaires were distributed to the library professionals working in management institutions in Kerala State, India.FindingsThe study’s results revealed that the library professionals were competent with managerial, communication and interpersonal skills. Conversely, they were lacking skills in statements such as institutional repository, web 2.0 and social networks. Their familiarity level with reference management tools, research and academic ethics, electronic publishing and management of open-access resources, were also not satisfactory. They need knowledge of other ICT skills such as designing and maintaining in-house databases, video conferencing tools, advanced troubleshooting creating and managing metadata, handling RFID technology and knowledge in solving issues while organizing webinars. Based on the findings, the study has suggested some recommendations which will enable the government/institutions to take appropriate measures to improve their skills.Practical implicationsThis study will enable the policymakers to identify in which area the library professionals are weak and develop a strategy and framework for increasing the level of their skills.Originality/valueThis study provides the views of the library professionals working in management institutions in India and warrants the library professionals to enhance their skills, especially on research ethics and publications and ICT skills.

Exploring Metaverse Literacy: Immersive Technologies in Library Environments

This study aims to assess the familiarity, understanding, and perceptions of immersive technologies such as Virtual Environments (VEs), Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR) among library professionals in India. It seeks to determine the importance of Metaverse literacy for librarians, explore their attitudes toward integrating Metaverse concepts into library services, identify potential benefits, and examine perceived barriers hindering the adoption of Metaverse technologies in libraries. A quantitative research approach was employed, involving a stratified random sampling method to gather data from library professionals across various universities and colleges in India. Familiarity with VEs, AR, and VR technologies was high, with mean scores above 4.0 for most items, indicating respondents’ strong interest and understanding. The importance of Metaverse literacy was emphasized, with high mean scores (above 4.2) on its significance for enhancing library services and user engagement. Critical barriers identified included cost (mean = 4.13), lack of expertise (mean = 4.01), and privacy concerns (mean = 3.51). The results underscore the need for targeted training programs and resource allocation to support adopting immersive library technologies. Adopting Metaverse literacy in libraries can help bridge the digital divide and promote digital inclusion.

Understanding equity and diversity needs among health library professionals in Canada: a survey.

Objective: The Canadian Health Libraries’ Association (CHLA/ABSC) Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Task Force conducted an EDI survey in 2023. In addition to gathering information about the demography, education, and employment of health information professionals working in Canadian institutions, the goal of the survey was to assess the support, education and leadership needs of the association in matters relating to diversity and inclusion. Methods: A survey was created based on EDI surveys conducted previously by similar associations, with additional questions relevant to health information professionals in Canada and CHLA/ABSC’s role in matters of EDI. The survey, consisting of 31 questions and employing a variety of formats, was translated into French and administered via SurveyMonkey. It was distributed through email and other channels over the course of two weeks in January 2023. Results: One hundred and sixty-six health information professionals completed the 2023 survey. Most (83%) were CHLA/ABSC members and sixty-three percent were members of CHLA/ABSC chapters. Most were employed in full-time permanent positions (91%) as librarians (67%) or in administration/management positions (16%). Nearly half worked in post-secondary institutions (42%) and half worked in hospital libraries (43%), and most have access to professional development funds from their employers (84%). Most of the respondents do not belong to a visible minority group (86%), do not consider themselves to be of Indigenous ancestry (96%), do not consider themselves to have a disability (72%), and do not identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (79%). Fifty-nine percent were aged between 35 and 54 years old and sixty-eight percent had less than fifteen years of experience. Slightly over half (54%) reported a salary between $65,000 and $99,999. Respondents indicated that they felt welcome and included (78%) and treated with respect (84%) at CHLA/ABSC events, that there were opportunities within CHLA/ABSC for them to participate at levels they felt comfortable with (82%) and that they felt comfortable sharing their personal perspectives and experiences within CHLA/ABSC (65%). Conclusion: The survey illustrates that CHLA/ABSC consists of a very homogeneous group of professionals. While the majority of members felt welcomed, respected, and were given opportunities to participate in association work and activities, there is definitely room for improvement. Generally, respondents felt that CHLA/ABSC should continue to listen and improve its EDI work by engaging and collaborating with members to deliver current and relevant networking and CE opportunities.

Information and library services for library users: Innovative approaches and vectors modifications

The relevance lies in the in-depth analysis of the problems of development and transformation of library and information services, as well as in the changed user requests and information needs caused by the information development of society. The purpose is to explore the benefits of using the latest technologies and services in information services in the context of research by Ukrainian library professionals; to analyse the dynamics of library development and its modification in the system of user service. The study used general scientific methods (analysis, synthesis, generalisation) and approaches: socio-cultural, socio-communicative, and systemic. The current challenges of informatisation of society and the rapid expansion of the volume and content of information resources raise the issue of revising the methods of work in the field of reference and bibliographic services for libraries. This requires the development of scientific principles of modern activities of reference and bibliographic services aimed at providing information to users and based on a systematic approach to the formation, organisation and use of reference and information resources. Also, in the study of trends in the use of cloud services as an innovative tool in libraries in the era of digitalisation, which has become an effective means of expanding the possibility of remote access to library collections, resources, promoting the storage and analysis of data for more convenient user service. The results of the study may be important for employees of methodological and bibliographic departments, Internet centers in libraries, and can also serve as a basis for a more detailed study of specific aspects of this topic by library practitioners, teachers and students studying in information and library specialty programs. They can also be useful for replenishing the information base on the organisation and development of reference and bibliographic services in libraries

APPRAISAL OF RESOURCES AND SERVICES OF LIBRARIES IN COMMERCE COLLEGES OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR

The aim of the study is to explore current status of resources and services in libraries of commerce colleges public and private sector in the Sargodha division. There are 51 (17 Government + 34 Private) colleges of Commerce in Sargodha Division. The researcher personally visited all colleges so, the response rate was 100%. Survey method was used to gather the required data. The study is quantitative in nature. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data under consideration of research objects and got answer of the research question. The results of study provide important information in reaching the conclusion and making appropriate decisions. The majority of libraries have insufficient resources so, the services which depends upon the proper resources are not up-to the mark and standards. the main reason behind was the non-availability of library professionals and, less interest of administration and lack of interest of library users in libraries were core problems as found in the study. The results of study offered important clues to future researchers for conducting their research on the similar issues in diverse contexts.

Modeling as a research method: a library science discourse

Significant changes in the library industry resulting from its transformations require new models of activity and are characterized by a lack of systematic scientific research on the use of the modeling method in library science theory and practice. This determines the relevance of identifying the state, directions of use and generalizations of the method in library science discourse. Using the semantic analysis of the documentary flow of publications in professional library science journals by keywords, the article analyzes the documentary flow of publications that reflect the results of scientific Ukrainian research and illustrate the representation of modeling in librarianship by conditionally selected generalized thematic clusters. It is concluded that the outlined areas of modeling processes and phenomena in the library science discourse indicate that significant changes in the library industry as a result of its transformations are the subject of attention of Ukrainian researchers, and the results obtained can serve as a significant scientific and methodological basis for further research. In the absence of systematic research and educational and methodological support in the form of textbooks and manuals on modeling in library theory and practice, the existing scientific heritage can be generalized and translated into the educational process of training applicants for master's and doctoral degrees as a proven tool and result of scientific knowledge, for the acquisition of competencies defined by the Standard of Education in the specialty "Information, Library and Archival Affairs".

Selection of Library Materials in the University Libraries of Pakistan: A Survey of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Selection process is naturally at the heart of collection development. Sound book selection policies and practices devised from the information needs of the users’ community play a fundamental role in the development of strong collection. This current study was an attempt to investigate the selection policies and procedures adopted by, the activities and behaviors exhibited by, and the outcomes produced by the university libraries of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The study adopted a survey method and included all those well-established public and private sector universities, which were chartered by the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and recognized by HEC, till 31st December, 2012 in the province (Public = 17 and Private = 9, Total 26 universities). The population of this study was the senior library professionals working in the central libraries of the main campuses of all the universities of the province. Findings of the study show that university libraries of the province adopt a variety of methods for selecting library materials including selection through purchase committees, centralized selection by the central libraries and decentralized selection. However, centralized selection procedures with faculty influence is more prominent and dominating in all the universities of the province. The study suggested a dire need of collaboration between faculty and library professionals for effective collection development in the university libraries of Pakistan.

Exploring the landscape of librarianship in the Philippines: Establishing the profession’s population parameter estimates

This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the librarian profession in the Philippines through an extensive examination of various population parameters. Focusing on demographics, professional landscapes, educational attainments, affiliations, roles, challenges, aspirations, and the financial landscape, this research seeks to create a holistic picture of the current state and future prospects of librarianship in the country. Utilizing a descriptive approach, the study gathers data from a diverse range of libraries across the Philippines. The demographics section analyzes age, gender, ethnic background, and geographical distribution, offering insights into the workforce composition. The professional landscape assessment includes an exploration of employment types, roles within libraries, and job statuses. Educational attainments are evaluated to understand the academic backgrounds and continuous professional development engagements of librarians. The study also delves into the librarians’ professional affiliations and the roles they play in their communities and organizations. Moreover, the research provides an in-depth analysis of the financial landscape, including salary structures, benefits, and economic challenges faced by librarians, thereby shedding light on the economic sustainability of the profession. The study’s findings are intended to serve multiple stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, and professional organizations. For researchers, it offers a rich dataset for hypothesis formulation and gap identification in literature. Policymakers can utilize the insights for tailoring policies to the specific needs of the library sector. Professional organizations can leverage the findings to align their programs and initiatives with the actual needs of librarians.

A Comparative Case Study of Mentoring in the Library Profession in Botswana and Trinidad and Tobago

Mentoring is a dynamic and evolving experience despite cultural, social and environmental influences in the library profession and the organization. The needs of each society and institution determine the criteria for the programme. Minimal information exists in the Caribbean and some areas of Africa on informal and formal mentoring programmes in the library profession. This paper is a comparative study into mentoring in Trinidad and Tobago and Botswana for members of the library associations. The study confined its scope to library professionals. An electronic form which contained a total of nine (9) questions, with some questions having appendages to them, derived from the research objectives was disseminated for a comprehensive comparative analysis of the two societies. The findings revealed similar information in both countries on the need for mentoring in the information profession. Librarians in both countries are not conversant with the concept of mentoring and mentoring programmes that boost library professionals. This study will raise important issues that relate to mentoring programmes for information professionals in this career field.

Online information retrieval self-efficacy of library professionals: a predictor of patrons’ satisfaction in university libraries

PurposeThe primary purpose of this study was to check the online information retrieval self-efficacy among library professionals in predicting the satisfaction of patrons within universities’ libraries.Design/methodology/approachThe study was grounded on Bandura four sources of self-efficacy, encompassing mastery experience, vicarious experience, social persuasion and physiological states. To accomplish this, a meticulously designed questionnaire was administered to collect data from library professionals employed in universities libraries recognized by the Higher Education Commission in Punjab and capital city of Pakistan (Islamabad). Following by the validation of assumptions, researchers conducted a multiple linear regression test to predict the outcomes of the dependent variable by using the independents variables. Additionally, a comparative evaluation was carried out among all the independent variables to determine their respective contributions to satisfaction of library patrons.FindingsThe results emphasized the distinct and substantial significance of three variables, physiological states, social feedback and mastery experience in predicting the satisfaction of library patrons. Nevertheless, vicarious experience did not demonstrate a significant influence on the satisfaction of library patrons. Furthermore, influence of physiological states on the improvement of library patrons’ satisfaction was relatively higher compared to other three self-efficacy sources. In conclusion, research established the essential role of online information retrieval self-efficacy in enhancing the satisfaction of library patrons.Practical implicationsThe findings of the study can form a solid basis for devising academic programs to train the library professionals for effective utilization of various information systems and databases. These programs play an important role in improving the self-efficacy of library professionals, ultimately refining their skills in online information retrieval.Originality/valueIn essence, this study provides insights into the factors which are pivotal in effective information searching process, ultimately leading to increase the satisfaction level of library patrons which has not been previously researched in Pakistan as well as the world context. Moreover, the study significance lies in contribute to academic discourse, its potential to transform and promote the library services and as well as empower library professionals in delivering the satisfying and efficient experience for library patrons in the current digital age.

Global research trends in research data management: A bibliometrics approach

With an increasing interest in RDM services in libraries and information organizations, research on RDM has evolved dramatically in recent years. This study aims to investigate how RDM research evolves globally and to provide an understanding of how RDM research differs by countries. Through bibliometrics approaches, this study analyzes a large set of RDM research publications to provide a comprehensive landscape of the RDM research field. The findings from the examination of 403 articles extracted from the Web of Science database successfully demonstrate the global trends of RDM research, showing how RDM research has spread from North American and European countries to Asian and African countries. The analysis of RDM research topics from the three top publishing countries—Germany, USA and the UK—reveals that different countries focus on different topics and that research topics change along with other factors, such as the adoption of a standard. The bibliometrics analysis on the topic trends show that there were five major research topics which are identified as the fundamentals and practices of library services, and the research data sharing topics. There was a clear distinction of the interests in RDM research until 2018 and after 2019. The findings show that the distinction was impacted by the new appearance of the FAIR Guiding Principles in 2016. The findings of the study successfully identify major trends in RDM research topics and different trends by countries based on their interests and circumstances. From these findings, researchers and library professionals in RDM services can gain a good understanding of current interests in RDM services and identify needs from these research trends to improve their services.

Academic integrity and copyright literacy policy and instruction in K-12 schools: a global study from the perspective of school library professionals

This study examined the policies and instructional practices related to academic integrity and copyright literacy in K-12 schools through the lens of school library professionals. Since school librarians play a key role in promoting academic integrity and copyright literacy in schools, they were chosen. An online survey was administered to school library professionals in 85 countries using a mixed methods approach, yielding 569 responses. The results revealed that many K-12 schools lack policies on academic integrity and copyright, and there is variability in the perceived value, implementation and teaching of these literacies. While most school library professionals reported teaching academic integrity and copyright literacy in their schools, implementing effective pedagogies remains challenging. Collaboration between school library professionals and teachers, along with the use of multimedia resources, were identified as potential strategies for practical education and instruction. The study highlights the need for greater attention to be given to these literacies in K-12 education and calls for the development of policies, necessary support and effective teaching methods to ensure students are knowledgeable and well-prepared for higher education.

In memory of A. V. Sokolov – a scholar, educator and pedagogue

The article is a tribute to outstanding Russian scholar, Arkady V. Sokolov. The author discusses his contribution to library science, bibliography, informatics and social communications, and his pedagogical activity. The author cites Sokolov’s disciples highly appraising his pedagogical efforts. He possessed the gift of polemist and orator, had an artistic streak. He respected his opponents which was reflected in the style of discussions. The author appeals to his colleagues’ reviews – O. P. Korshunov, Y. N. Stolyarov, A. N. Vaneev – with whom Arkady Sokolov debated in professional periodicals. The author analyzes the discussion he had with Sokolov on the issues of crisis in library education. He concludes that Arkady Vasilyevich Sokolov was a true scholar, educator, pedagogue, intelligent person, and his disciples must preserve and transfer his legacy to the young library professionals.

A design space for event-centric displays in public libraries

We present a design space for displays in public libraries; more specifically public displays related to events taking place in the library. The design space is developed from the perspective of the librarians and is intended to support libraries in rethinking, developing, and employing displays to communicate and support the events they host. It is based on a study of 18 concepts co-designed in eight participatory workshops scaling participation to a total of 88 professional librarians. By analyzing the concepts through inductive and iterative analysis, we have defined a design space consisting of 12 aspects, categorized in four themes: interaction-, content-, event-, and display-centric. We argue that the design space can both serve as (1) an analytical tool for understanding and categorizing information displays and identifying overarching design considerations and (2) a generative framework to inspire design across a wide variety of libraries.