Library And Information Science Research Articles

Empowering library and information science students as information literacy educators in librarianship professions: a study from Bangladesh

Purpose The purpose of this study is to develop a novel guided inquiry-based pedagogical practice embedded into regular library and information science (LIS) courses to improve LIS students’ information literacy (IL) in a developing country. Design/methodology/approach A guided inquiry-based pedagogical practice for IL instruction was introduced and embedded into two regular courses in an LIS school. The effectiveness of the new approach was evaluated in a longitudinal pre-test- and post-test-based teaching intervention with a control group. Findings All aspects of IL skills improved among the students participating in the teaching intervention showcasing the benefits of the inquiry-based pedagogical practice. In addition, the students in the intervention group learned the course subject content more in depth than students in the control group. However, no consistent learning benefits were achieved in IL knowledge, and only sporadic associations were found between IL knowledge and skills. Originality/value This study breaks new ground in IL teaching intervention in LIS schools. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first to apply an inquiry-based approach, embed teaching into more than one regular course, collect pre-test and post-test data to evaluate learning outcomes in IL knowledge and skills and control learning outcomes in subject contents.

Job Advertisements for LIS Positions: An Analysis of Requirements, University Curricula and Alumni Perspectives in Bangladesh

This study examines the job advertisements of entry-level positions in Bangladeshi libraries; and the course curriculum of the LIS (Library and Information Science) Bachelor and Masters degrees to identify whether the university prepared their graduates to meet these demanded skills in the workplace. Over six years from 2018–2023, 116 job advertisements were collected and scanned. The required skills in the advertisements were compared with the LIS course curriculum and results showed the courses mostly meet job requirements. As alumni, the early-career LIS professionals were also interviewed to have real-life experience, they expressed their lack mostly in practical tasks and proposed some recommendations.

Gender disparity in Indian library and information science journals: An analytical study

Objective. This study investigates gender disparity in research productivity in Indian Library and Information Science (LIS) journals, focusing on authorship patterns, professional engagement, prolific institutions, and regional productivity. Methodology. We analyzed 2404 articles with 4583 authors from ten selected Indian LIS journals (2014–2023). Author details, including gender, institutional affiliation, and authorship roles, were collected from biographical notes and recorded in Excel sheets. The analysis involved descriptive statistics and inferential tests (Chi-square tests and correlation analysis) using SPSS software. Findings. The study revealed a significant gender disparity in Indian LIS research, with male authors representing 71.81% of contributions and dominating first authorship roles (69.3%). Collaborative authorship patterns were also male-dominated, with male-only and male-majority teams prevailing. Faculty members of the University of Delhi and Aligarh Muslim University emerged as the top contributors. Female representation was more visible among research scholars in the KELPRO journal, which showed a balanced gender representation. Regional analyses showed that contributions from New Delhi, West Bengal, and Karnataka were the highest, with minimal representation from states such as Sikkim and Nagaland. Conclusions. This study highlights the persistence of gender disparity in Indian LIS scholarship and provides valuable insights into authorship dynamics, institutional productivity, and regional representation. These findings offer actionable recommendations for fostering inclusivity and gender equity in Indian LIS research.

Embracing AI in libraries: a strategic approach for India’s evolving library landscape

Purpose The information science community, including library science, has been a focus of significant discussions and research due to recent progress in artificial intelligence (AI), especially in large language models. This study identifies possible areas for application of AI in library routines and how it can enhance library operations, such as circulation, acquisitions, reference services, serials, digital resources and technical services. Design/methodology/approach This research methodically examines how libraries adjust to swift technological changes, with an emphasis on AI, generative language models like GPT, and the integration of Chatbots. Findings This study outlines strategies to increase library engagement amidst a technologically evolving landscape, highlighting the significance of aligning such innovations with the requirements of users and library missions. The findings offer crucial considerations for libraries in India contemplating AI integration, especially in relation to technological infrastructure, librarian expertise in AI and the establishment of leadership roles to oversee AI initiatives. Social implications This research provides a foundation for library boards and associations to shape informed policies supporting AI in academic libraries. As such, it plays a vital role in advancing the adoption of AI within the global library community. Originality/value The library and information science (LIS) field is increasingly drawing interest from researchers and experts regarding the use of AI. This study covers the incorporation of AI in different library sections and positively impacts the LIS professionals in these advanced endeavours.

Exploring the landscape of libraries on smart devices: a systematic literature review using PRISMA

Purpose The systematic literature review aims to highlight the transformative influence of mobile technology in reshaping library services for Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals and users. Design/methodology/approach The selection of relevant literature utilized the PRISMA-20 guidelines and a systematic literature review, wherein 39 articles were meticulously examined from a pool of 198. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to articles retrieved from the Scopus database and Google Scholar, focusing on data from 2018 to 2023 and excluding all the literature except journal articles. Findings The results demonstrate a significant awareness among LIS professionals and users regarding adopting mobile-based library services. Nonetheless, the adoption of mobile technology in libraries faces impediments from internal and external factors. These challenges encompass the need for coherent policies and practical issues such as insufficient financial resources, limitations in infrastructure, unpredictable electricity and Internet connectivity. The study also highlights concerns related to data security, the digital divide, a shortage of IT experts and inadequate staffing. The findings suggest that libraries must navigate this evolving landscape to provide improved and more accessible services to their users. Practical implications This study addresses a gap in the existing research by contributing to the literature on using mobile technology for accessing library services and resources. The findings aim to assist LIS professionals in developing plans, policies and strategies for implementing mobile-based library services. Originality/value The results of this study contribute to improving and expanding current mobile-based services in libraries, ensuring that information and resources are universally accessible “on the go environment.”

AI literacy of library and information science students: A study of Bangladesh, India and Pakistan

This study adopted an exploratory approach to investigate the nuances of AI literacy among Library and Information Science (LIS) students in South Asia namely Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. A total of 632 respondents from these countries participated in an online survey that explored their level of AI literacy and familiarity with AI tools and technologies, purposes of using AI tools, ethical perceptions and how AI-related contents were covered in LIS courses and programmes. The study results indicate that students are moderately familiar with AI tools, but the degree of their self-rated AI literacy ranges from basic to advanced. Students reported using AI tools for academic purposes, including information searching, summarising articles, generating ideas and writing academic papers. However, participant LIS students expressed concerns about the ethical usage of AI and Generative AI tools, particularly academic integrity and plagiarism in academic writing. The results underscore the need for more robust AI literacy education in South Asian LIS education programmes – and potentially globally – to deepen students’ understanding and critical engagement with AI tools and technologies. This would better equip them for emerging roles in AI-integrated library services, highlighting a key direction for curriculum development, training methodologies and policy initiatives within LIS education and library and information management profession.

Emerging Themes, Leaders, and Collaboration in Library and Information Science Research

Introduction: This study uses bibliometric methods to evaluate research articles within the library and information science (LIS) domain. The focus is to uncover trends and patterns in social network analysis related to LIS, particularly examining research collaborations and content within highly cited articles. By analyzing these aspects, the study seeks to identify influential authors, prominent research themes, and key contributors in the LIS field. Methods: A dataset of 14,517 articles published between 1954 and 2023 was extracted from the Scopus database for bibliometric analysis. The study concentrated on publications in the LIS domain, focusing on the journal Library Philosophy and Practice. Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) was used to identify clusters within the research field, while content analysis was performed to determine prevalent topics and disciplinary influences within the articles. Results: The analysis revealed that China is home to many of the most influential authors in the LIS domain, with the United States, China, and the United Kingdom identified as the top contributing countries to LIS research. Common research themes include information science, bibliometrics, academic libraries, information literacy, and LIS education. Two main clusters emerged from the MCA: one focused on information-related concepts and the other on bibliometrics and scholarly communication. Content analysis indicated a significant presence of topics from physics, computer science, and information technology within LIS research. Conclusions: This study highlights key trends and patterns in LIS research, with academic libraries, information literacy, LIS education, and librarians' roles identified as critical areas for future exploration. Expanding databases and refining keyword searches are recommended to enhance knowledge dissemination and educational adaptability in the LIS field. The findings aim to support LIS researchers, facilitate research planning, and promote global interinstitutional cooperation

Emerging Trends in Library and Information Science Research

This article examines the ongoing Library and Information Science (LIS) research, whose dramatic transformations it notes as a function largely of technological advancement, ongoing evolution in user expectation, and an emphasis on equitable information access. Innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and block chain are modernizing information management and library services as key areas of investigation. It also mentioned that there are user centered approaches to promote inclusivity and community engagement as well as ethical problems, including data privacy, algorithmic bias. The research also shows how libraries are vital to academic and professional research work, and how they must also disentangle themselves from social and ethical problems in the digital space. It also urges for a multidisciplinary perspective in LIS research, that is, to conduct collaboration with other fields for addressing the requirements of many different user communities. The ultimate goal is to foster future library practices that take advantage of the new opportunities presented, and professional landscape of LIS that ensures libraries are relevant and responsive to new societal needs.

Analysing the impact of academic policies and interventions on research productivity in Indian library and information science

PurposeThis study seeks to examine the progression of research productivity and patterns among Indian researchers in library and information science (LIS). This study seeks to better understand the transition from intrinsic to extrinsic research motivation, focussing on the influential consequences of governmental interventions. Additionally, the study aims to assess the effects of government regulations, such as University Grant Commission (UGC) guidelines and initiatives like National Institutional Ranking Framework, IQAC (An Internal Quality Assurance Cell) and UGC-CARE (Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics), on academic autonomy and the cultivation of a “publish or perish. The goal is to determine the effectiveness of these policies in driving research output within the LIS domain in India by analysing the relationship between publishing policies and research output.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected using the Scopus bibliographical database between 1976 and 2023 and yielded 2,853 records from 222 journals. To understand Indian researchers’ contributions to LIS, the dataset is categorized into three groups: Category A (all publications), Category B (excluding Indian journals) and Category C (excluding Indian journals and discontinued journals) to analyse trends over time. Statistical analysis was utilized using descriptive methods, t-tests, ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation and Microsoft Excel 2019 and Biblioshiny were used for visualization.FindingsThe study found a significant increase in top-tier journal publications, collaborative research and citations post-2010, corresponding with the adoption of UGC rules stressing publishing criteria for academic promotions. Library Philosophy and Practice emerged as the most chosen publishing source, while Delhi University and the University of Kashmir demonstrated outstanding research output. The study also emphasizes geographical discrepancies, the rise of newly established departments and a significant increase of authors publishing in different publications. Correlation analysis found strong connections between publication year, journal quartile, citations and author count.Research limitations/implicationsThe study acknowledges limitations, including potential biases in the Scopus database and search strategy adopted. The constraints might affect the applicability of the results. However, the insights acquired contribute to comprehending the dynamic research landscape in Indian LIS, guiding future research paths and academic policy decisions.Originality/valueThis study offers novel insights into the evolving dynamics of research productivity among Indian LIS researchers, elucidating the impact of government initiatives and academic policies. Examining patterns in publishing, preferences among academic journals and the behaviour of authors yields useful insights for policymakers, academic institutions and researchers seeking to improve research output and excellence in the field.

The text mining approach to investigate active areas of library and information science and discover emerging topics

Purpose This study aims to adopt text mining to discover emerging topics in librarianship and information science research in the last decade. Based on the number of citations obtained during the previous 10 years, the authors selected emerging topics in this study and evaluated the strength of their presence. Additionally, the authors determined if the trend was substantial over time and identified the active topics in library and information science (LIS) through the past 10 years. Design/methodology/approach All library and medical information studies were retrieved by the WC = “Information Science & Library Science” tag in the Web of Science. Python programming was used for data analysis. The topics were identified by combining the unsupervised deep learning algorithms TOP2VEC and the term frequency-inverse document frequency and also the Mann–Kendall trend test is used to determine whether the trend was significant over time. Findings Following text mining, the total data from 2012 to 2021 was 63,712. Eleven main topics were also extracted: academic education of LIS, acquisition and collection development, publishing articles, cataloging and classification, journalism, knowledge management, infometrics, social media, university ranking, information and communication technologies and information storage and retrieval. Knowledge management has experienced the greatest growth over the past 10 years. Originality/value This analysis reveals which fields are prioritized and which are neglected by the LIS. The findings of this study can help researchers discover newer topics, focus on less-seen subjects and prevent repetitive research in one area.

An exploration of introducing internships as an integral facet of distance learning in library and information science

Introduction: This case study examines the qualitative approach to the overall process, implementation strategy, and operational complexity behind internships in Library and Information Science (LIS) programs delivered through distance education. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), aligning with the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Data Collection Methods: A qualitative textual analysis was conducted on IGNOU's internship guidelines through primary and secondary data collected from the official websites, along with the author's personal experiences to provide internship insights. Data Analysis: Fundamental to this study is a textual analysis of the different aspects of the training, the essential things, and the responsibilities of the participants during their training. Results and Discussion: The internship program in LIS offers benefits like practical skills enhancement, increased employability, and application of theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Challenges include logistical issues, student engagement, and mentor support. Conclusion: The case study explores the new LIS internship programme, emphasising its benefits, challenges, and recommendations for success. It suggests streamlined processes, student preferences, and efficient communication with governing bodies to ensure a successful program. Recommendations include clear guidelines, adequate resources, and ongoing evaluation for success.

The Impact of Gender Stereotypes towards Undergraduate Preferences for Library and Information Science (LIS) Special Degree: Based on the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya

Gender roles typically encompass expectations and norms regarding behaviors, appearances, occupations, and societal roles associated with masculinity and femininity. Gender stereotypes refer to preconceived notions and expectations about the characteristics, behaviors, and roles associated with individuals based on their gender. It is a social construct that varies across cultures and historical periods. In the case of LIS, if it is stereotypically viewed as a female-dominated field, it may discourage male students from considering it as a career path due to societal expectations or perceived lack of masculinity associated with the profession. The main objective of the paper is to examine to identify the impact of Gender Stereotypes towards undergraduate preferences for Library Science (LIS) special degree. This paper emphasized the impact of Gender Stereotypes towards undergraduate preferences for Library Science (LIS) special degree in the Department of Library and Information Science. Method of the study is Descriptive research. Around 80% of female students select the LIS subject as a special degree rather than male students. Apart from the female students, there were a low percentage of male students who selected LIS as a special degree. The basic reason for that is the traditional mindset of the students. Because female students most seek their profession around their hometowns. These criteria show the awareness of the students of LIS subject and the nature of the gender stereotype in the LIS field. Especially these have shown the differences between the male and female students' perceptions and attitudes when selecting the subject as a special degree. This study gains the major fact that most of the trainers requested male trainees for the library training programs. Then, introducing what are the opportunities available for male and female LIS students, considering that, conducting related workshops can be introduced as the timeliest concern matters.

Comparative Study of Library and Information Science (LIS) Course offered by C.V. Raman University and Gopal Narayan Singh University

Comparative Study of Library and Information Science (LIS) Course offered by C.V. Raman University and Gopal Narayan Singh University

Influence of Preferences on the Use of Information Resources by the Library and Information Science Undergraduate Students in South-South, Nigeria

Background: The use of information resources by the Library and Information Science (LIS) undergraduate students in Delta State, Nigeria, was addressed based on diverse learning preferences, a critical factor potentially influencing academic success. Purpose: This research aimed to explore learning preferences among LIS undergraduate students and assess the influence on the use of information resources. Method: A correlational research design was applied, including 325 students selected through multi-stage sampling from seven state-owned universities in Delta, Edo, and Rivers states. Furthermore, data were collected through questionnaires, with 268 valid responses at an 82% retrieval rate. These were analyzed with descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, and mean) as well as inferential statistics (Pearson’s product-moment coefficient, and ANOVA), with a criterion mean of 2.50 and an alpha level of 0.05. Result: The results showed that the students had varied learning preferences, including verbal presentations (68%), physical interaction with materials (66%), and watching educational videos (64%). Preferences significantly influenced the use of information resources (Agg. x̄ = 2.83), with a positive correlation between these two variables (r = .907, p < 0.05). Additionally, a significant difference was observed between the education level of students and learning preferences (F = 2,265 = 1189.172, p < 0.05). Conclusion: The students were found to benefit majorly from the combination of traditional and modern teaching methods. Mutual collaboration between university librarians and coordinators of information resources with the faculty was recommended to ensure the correspondence of educational materials to learning preferences.

Education for sustainable library infrastructure in the digital age: Analysis of library and information science curricula in South Korea

This study aims to analyse the current state of library and information science (LIS) education in South Korea and identify educational challenges in building a sustainable library infrastructure in the digital age. As libraries’ role expands in a rapidly changing information environment, LIS education must evolve. Using topic modelling techniques, this study analysed course descriptions from 37 universities and identified 10 key topics. The analysis revealed that, while the current curricula cover both traditional library science and digital technology topics, focus on the latest technology trends and practical, hands-on education is lacking. Based on these findings, this study suggests strengthening digital technology education by incorporating project-based learning; integrating emerging technologies, such as data science and artificial intelligence; and emphasising community engagement and soft skills development. This study provides insights into improving LIS education to better align with the digital era’s evolving demands.

The public library “for all”? A typology of the ranging notions of “for all” in public libraries in Norway and Denmark

PurposeThis article explores the ranging notions of a public library for all and the related conflicts on for all and the principle of neutrality in Norway and Denmark.Design/methodology/approachA document study of four profession magazines in a ten-year period is conducted, focusing on the problematizations of for all using the WPR approach: What’s the Problem Represented to be? Theories on public sphere and democracy frequently applied in Library and Information Science (LIS) are discussed in relation to the ranging notions.FindingsThe analysis shows that although for all is used as an argument by both advocates and opponents of the principle of neutrality, there are different notions of who constitutes for all. In total, five ranging notions of for all are identified and presented in a typology, to serve as a framework to understand the conflicts concerning neutrality and the public library for all.Originality/valueThe typology offers a new conceptual framework for understanding the nature of the conflicts and why they appear. The analysis indicates a need to discuss the use of for all in order to engage in more nuanced discussions of the democratic role of the public library.

Documenting the research experiences and employer support needs of library and information science practitioners

This paper presents results of a survey of library and information science (LIS) practitioners, which explored their research activities and the support needed from employers for research collaborations and dissemination of results. Findings show that while LIS practitioners are actively engaged in research, there are significant gaps in the available supports offered by LIS employers across different library sectors. Dedicated time for research is limited, particularly in public libraries, for example, but when practitioners receive dedicated time, their research engagement and dissemination activities increase. The study also found that the type of LIS service significantly affects practitioners’ dissemination activities, with those working in national, state and territory libraries and special libraries, disseminating significantly more research results than practitioners working in other types of libraries. The findings point to a potential risk of a research dissemination divide in the Australian LIS sector, where the study was conducted. The study recommends enhancing the value placed on both conducting and sharing research related to employment or professional practice, to have a positive impact on library services and local communities. Encouraging presentations at conferences was identified as a valuable first step towards increasing LIS practitioners’ engagement with sharing research results, generally and writing up results for publication. Overall, these findings highlight the need for greater employer support and more targeted efforts to promote research engagement and dissemination among LIS practitioners.

Exploring the Library and Information Science Research Landscape in Namibia: A Decennial Reflection (2014–2023)

Namibia’s Library and Information Science (LIS) field has transformed significantly over the past decade, reflecting global trends and local challenges. However, research on trends and patterns in Namibia’s LIS remains limited. This study examined research trends and patterns in dissertations submitted to the School of Humanities, Society, and Development under Library and Information Science, Archives, and Record Management. It targeted 17 dissertations from 2014 to 2023, archived in the Institutional Repository, Ga-aisib 1 , meaning “wisdom” at the University of Namibia. Data were categorized by degree, year of completion, research methodology, and keywords. Using a mixed-method approach and statistical analysis software, the study identified trends and patterns by calculating frequencies, means, and correlations. Qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. This census study included all dissertations meeting the inclusion criteria, revealing students’ preference for qualitative research methods over quantitative approaches. Additionally, the outcomes indicated a gradual increase in research within Namibia’s Library and Information Science domain over the last five years, particularly in bibliometrics and user information-seeking behavior. Conversely, information confidentiality, intellectual property and rights, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems have received limited attention. This study provides distinctive insights as a primary overview of Namibia’s Library and Information Science research tendencies, offering directions for future investigations to identify research gaps and methodologies. This study’s significance includes identifying emerging areas, informing policy, facilitating collaborations, raising researcher awareness of evolving topics, and guiding future research directions in librarianship.

Analyzing Data Sharing Policies in Library and Information Science: Journal Metrics, Open Access Status, and Publisher Volume

The objective of this study is to explore the prevalence and characteristics of data sharing policies in library and information science (LIS) journals, focusing on their relationship with journal metrics, publisher volume (number of journals managed by the publisher), and open access (OA) status. The study examined the link between data sharing policies and journal metrics in LIS journals indexed in Scopus. Using secondary data from the SJR portal and qualitative data from author guidelines, the study revealed several key findings: First, a positive relationship existed between publisher volume and the presence of data sharing policies, with high-volume publishers consistently implementing such policies. Second, 50.2% of LIS journals lacked data sharing guidelines, indicating a significant gap. Third, journals that encouraged or required data sharing under certain conditions tended to perform better in metrics such as quartiles, h-index, and citation impact. Fourth, data sharing policies were more common in higher-ranked journals and were linked to better journal metrics. Fifth, higher-ranked journals were more likely to include details on data statements, DOIs, and repositories than lower-ranked journals. Lastly, non-OA journals were more likely to encourage practices such as including data repositories and supplementary files in submissions, compared to OA journals, revealing unexpected disparities. In conclusion, data sharing policies in LIS journals showed associations with journal ranking and publisher volume, with non-OA journals showing higher presence of certain data sharing practices.

Influence and collaboration in library and information science research: A university perspective

Objective. The objective of this study was to examine the influence and collaboration patterns within library and information science (LIS) research, with a particular focus on the contributions of universities over time. Design/Methodology/Approach. This study used bibliometrics and LIS network analysis to examine 14,517 articles indexed in Scopus from 1954 to 2023. The Bibliometrix R-package was used to identify publication trends, influential institutions, authors, and collaboration networks in the LIS field. Findings. The key findings indicated that Wuhan University was the foremost institution in LIS research, with notable contributions from Chinese scholars who were identified as the most influential authors in the field. The keywords “information science” and “information retrieval” emerged as common thematic areas, reflecting core research interests. The content analysis also revealed that LIS research had robust connections with fields such as physics, computer science, and information technology, underscoring an interdisciplinary trend. Originality/Value. This study offered original insights into the evolving landscape of LIS research, identifying both leadership in academic output and potential gaps in current research coverage. It underscored the necessity for future research to expand the scope of its database and refine keyword selection for more comprehensive representation. The findings contributed to the strategic development of LIS research and the fostering of international collaboration.