Program Library Research Articles

Towards a Model for Assessing Student Learning Outcomes

This poster will illustrate the preliminary investigation results from an ongoing qualitative study of the assessment of student learning in master’s-level programs in Library and Information Science (LIS). The preliminary investigation explored the current practices and methods of learning outcomes assessment in MLIS programs. The websites of fifteen American Library Association (ALA)-Accredited MLIS programs in the U.S. selected as a geographic sample were reviewed along with publicly available program presentations and self-study documents prepared for ALA Committee on Accreditation. The review indicated that these MLIS programs employ a diverse range of methods for assessing student learning outcomes, including capstone courses, e-portfolio/portfolios, surveys, independent studies, field studies, internships, and practicum courses. As the next step, an exploratory survey followed by interviews will be conducted with some of the faculty in these fifteen MLIS programs to examine the success and effectiveness of current learning assessment methods. The survey responses will be analyzed and coded according to emerging categories for ease of interpretation. Then, the results of the survey and interviews will be utilized to construct models for assessing student learning based on best practices.

Preparing Library and Information Science (LIS) Students for Scholarly Communication Librarianship

A growing number of academic librarians have been responsible for scholarly communication (SC) roles and responsibilities, and other related services. Previous studies (Finlay, et al., 2015) show an increase in job opportunities for librarians with SC expertise. Eighty-four percent of the students in the Hollister (2017) study described the SC as either relevant or very relevant to their career goals. However, a recent search (2021) within ALA accredited programs in Library and Information Science (LIS) reveals that only 6 out 48 offer a course in scholarly communication, and no program offered a course on related areas. Given a growing demand for wide range of SC services it is imperative for LIS programs to prepare students for these emerging new roles and responsibilities. To that end, I developed a course on SC and other related concepts based on the North American Serials Interest Group (NASIG) core competencies for SC librarians and the SC common responsibilities identified in previous studies (Hackstadt, 2020). This study will explore the extent to which the course addresses the core competencies for SC roles and responsibilities. The study will employ a self-assessment survey designed to measure the difference in students’ knowledge pre and post course completion regarding the SC core competencies. The NASIG core competencies for SC librarians align with roles and responsibilities of SC librarians as described in previous studies. Therefore, the focus on NASIG core competencies makes the results from this study broadly useful for instructors of SC courses.

Youth Services: Empowering Community, Inclusion, and Active Citizenship through Libraries

The ALISE Youth Services Special Interest Group (SIG) presents a panel that explores the ways in which youth services and programs in libraries empower community, inclusion, and active citizenship. The session will begin with presentations of six papers (10 minutes each) and conclude with a themed question and answer at the end of the session, transitioning to open conversation. Attendees will be invited to share their own works in progress and developing ideas on these topics and youth services more broadly during the open discussion portion of the panel. This panel and discussion will connect presenters and attendees in conversation about current trends, future goals, research and pedagogical priorities, and youth and community needs with regards to youth services. 
 The panel brings together six presentations reporting on work at a variety of stages, including late-breaking research as well as long term projects in later stages. These presentations include research from Cahill, Sartin Long, and Adkins focusing on library services for young children with disabilities, reporting findings from focus group interviews seeking to identify ways that libraries can and should be serving young children with disabilities and their families. Farmer’s presentation discusses how diverse populations are targeted by fake news and how librarians can help them express their voice to speak to power. Excitingly this year’s panel also has strong representation of doctoral students. Koren will present work developed with Dywer, Acosta, Bonsignore, and Santacruz focusing on how they used the design thinking process to co-design programs alongside young people from communities impacted by issues of power. Petrella will share the preliminary findings of her doctoral research on ways pre-service school librarians are taught about race, racism, and whiteness in their school library professional programs. Salib will share work developed with Abbas and Agosto, detailing their Institute of Museum and Library Services funded Navigating Screens project which seeks to understand the ways parents desire to connect with other parents in their communities to talk about managing family use of digital media. Finally, Zalot will discuss the mislabeling of the Seuss books’ removal as an act of censorship and how the term is often incorrectly deployed to describe books that are evaluated in new contexts.
 The breadth of these presentations, techniques, and goals demonstrate how wide ranging the relevance of youth services is to libraries, librarianship, and library and information science (LIS) research and education. This panel will examine how youth services programs and services can support inclusion, nurture active citizenship, and develop community, and prompt an open conversation about how the LIS field can better support these priorities with an emphasis on next steps, research trajectories, teaching innovation, and community building.

“No One Told Me”

Libraries are being called upon to assist with a variety of social problems including everything from housing and food insecurity to disaster recovery. In response, some public libraries have called on social workers to help. These developments beg the question of whether information professionals are being prepared for the realities of public library careers. This presentation reports findings from a series of 28 interviews with public librarians and branch managers to explore their views on how library and information science programs can ensure that students are prepared to respond to their community’s social service needs. Findings reveal that the inclusion of social work interview skills, de-escalation training, knowledge of social service resources, and instruction on how to collaborate with and supervise social workers would better prepare students for the realities of working in public libraries.

A qualitative study on rural residents’ everyday-life information practices and the roles of rural libraries

The purpose of this study is to explore people’s information practices in rural communities and their uses of libraries in everyday life. A qualitative approach with individual interviews was conducted. In the interviews, the researchers worked with participants to draw two information maps to explore their ways of interacting with information. One map was Savolainen’s Information Source Horizons Map, and the other map was the Information Trust Map that the researchers created similar to the horizon map. Preliminary findings revealed themes on sources and attitudes toward information depending on situations, ranging from not caring about information sources in monitoring everyday life information to verifying sources for schoolwork or health-related situations. Findings also showed participants commonly perceived libraries as book repositories, and compared libraries with Google in terms of information providers. Factors influencing people’s trust in information were also identified, for example, whether or not online platforms afforded two-way communications. Additionally, a comparison between the Source Horizon Map and the Information Trust Map showed those sources that were frequently used were often the ones that were least trusted. This study is currently work-in-progress, with the plan of conducting additional interviews. This study will contribute to the gap in the literature on small and rural libraries. The findings of this study will have practical implications for developing public library services and programs in rural communities.

Educating pre-service school librarians about race, racism, and whiteness

The racial makeup of the field of school librarianship is overwhelmingly white, standing in stark contrast to the racial demographics of today’s K-12 student population in our nation. Studies of white educators working with racially minoritized students show many detrimental effects, including deficits-based thinking and lowered academic expectations, highlighting how vital it is that pre-service school librarians learn about topics of race, racism, and the effects of whiteness in their school library preparation programs. Set within a framework of Critical whiteness Studies, my doctoral research investigates the structural and individual factors that influence the ways that today’s pre-service school librarians are taught about topics of race, racism, and whiteness. My methodology includes interviews with school library program coordinators, course instructors, current school librarianship students, and recent graduates of school library programs, as well as document analysis of course syllabi, educator preparation standards, and other relevant texts.

The Library as a Public Space for Children

Many US-based public libraries experience an influx of semi or unsupervised children and teens in their spaces afterschool. Though some public libraries have adopted after school homework centers and invested in other library-staff led programming, little is known about how school-aged children are collaborating together to shape shared public spaces under looser adult supervision and direction, using their various social and cultural identities to define the space they are in. This proposed study utilizes Placemaking theory and will be bounded by one recurring, unstructured, drop-in afterschool public library program for children. Insights from this study could potentially point to how, if at all, children are creating community, learning from each other, and engaging with the world in loosely supervised public spaces away from family and school, potentially informing better design of the library as a public space for children. Findings could also illuminate ways for informal learning practitioners to create more meaningful connections with children in afterschool spaces, support positive peer culture formation, and facilitate opportunities in a way that supports children’s autonomy free of the more neoliberal constraints of a formal school setting. This works-in-progress poster is specifically soliciting feedback regarding issues of consent and assent for research with latchkey children in public library spaces.

Exploring the User Experience of E-Thesis System: An Evaluation Using UX Honeycomb Method

This research article discusses the evaluation of the e-thesis information system in the Library and Information Science program at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang. The background of this research is that the system is relatively new and is supported by several preliminary surveys conducted among users, most of whom are unfamiliar with the use of this e-thesis application system. The research population was taken from all students of the Library and Information Science Department in the 2018 and 2019 academic years, with a research sample of 50 students. The honeycomb method was used as the analysis tool for the evaluation, which emphasizes how UX can go beyond just usability aspects for users. The assessment aspects in the honeycomb method include useful, usable, desirable, findable, accessible, credible, and valuable. The research results showed that the overall average value of the e-thesis information system was 4.10, indicating that the e-thesis system is considered good in terms of its use. The highest score of 4.23 was found in the useful aspect, indicating that students agreed that the e-thesis information system could solve user problems and meet their needs. The lowest score of 3.93 was found in the accessible aspect, which needs improvement for future development of the information system. Indicators that need attention for improvement include less appealing design and the need to enhance capabilities. Suggested improvements include visual design, an advance search button, display of two thesis advisors, UI refresh, minimizing errors, and detailed schedule display on the homepage. Improving the existing features according to the research conducted can have a wide impact on the use of the information system and can be used continuously without errors.

Readiness of Public Libraries in Developing a Financial Literate Individual

Financial literacy (FL) is an important ability needed by any individual to understand, evaluate, and communicate business and financial information. Having accurate financial information increases one’s competency to be financial literate. It is regarded as a common and basic life skill that libraries can develop for their users. Using purposive sampling, this study ponders into the status and challenges of eight public city libraries in the Philippines in terms of providing FL education and how they can potentially share a role in developing the economy of a country. Public libraries’ readiness to serve their users can be observed in terms of their collection, web presence, services, and programs. The level of financial knowledge and competencies of city librarians were also assessed. A look into the available professional development programs for public librarians in business and finance librarianship was reviewed.

Assessing the preparedness of university libraries for digital preservation

This study was carried out to assess the preparedness of libraries for digital preservation programs in terms of the availability of financial, technological, human resources, and policies and procedures. The sampling frame comprised of central libraries of 70 public sector universities and DAIs established till 2010. Out of the 70 targeted institutions, 63 participated in the survey with a response rate of 90%. Due to a lack of normality in the data, non-parametric tests (Mann Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis H) were applied for exploring significant differences and variances between different groups. Overall, a passive level of preparedness was observed for digital preservation in these libraries. A lower level of preparedness was noted in terms of policies and procedures related to digital preservation (M = 1.79, SD = 1.039), training opportunities (M = 1.98, SD = 0.944), and skilled human resources (M = 2.07, SD = 1.110). The availability of funds for acquisition of technological infrastructure (M = 2.59, SD = 1.364) was the only area where libraries had a good level of preparedness. Libraries of Islamabad Capital Territory and the Punjab province showed better preparedness than libraries in other parts of the country. The study has theoretical implications for researchers and practical implications for university libraries, higher education administrative bodies, and university and library administrators.

Members of County Assembly (MCAs) Perception Towards Kakamega County Assembly Library Services, Kenya

The purpose of the study was to find out the perception of Members of County Assembly (MCAs) towards Kakamega County Assembly library and services, find out promotional strategies by Kakamega County Assembly to enhance usage of the library by MCAs and to establish the challenges encountered in enhancing the usage of Kakamega County Assembly library and services. The study was ground upon access, capacity and environment framework and adopted a descriptive research design. The target population was 91 MCAs, 3 library staff and the clerk of the county assembly whereas the sample size was 77 respondents. Simple random sampling technique was used to select MCAs whereas purposive sampling was used to select the library staff and the clerk of the county assembly. Questionnaire were used for data collection from the MCAs and the library staff. Interview technique was used to collect data from the clerk of the county assembly. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences and presented graphically and in tabular form. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically and presented through narrations. The findings established that while the general perception of the MCAs towards library services and resources at Kakamega County Assembly (KCA) was not favorable, they acknowledged the importance of the library. The study recommended that KCA should ensure all services are centrally provided within the same precincts for ease of MCAs to patronize library resources and services. The study also recommended that KCA should engage in rigorous marketing strategies for library services including but not limited to opportunistic approach, presentations, library tours, producing a leaflet or a guide about services in the library and induction programme for new MCAs. Lastly, the study recommend that KCA should consider rolling out remote access services to facilitate the technologically savvy MCAs to patronize library resources and services without necessarily being physically present in the library. This study contributes to the body of knowledge particularly in as far legislative libraries in the county assemblies in Kenya is concerned. Furthermore, the study makes a significant contribution to the literature on parliamentary and legislative libraries that is very limited.

A Preliminary Analysis of Outreach Librarian's Knowledge and Skills

ABSTRACTLibrary services go beyond knowledge gatekeepers in the current information‐rich environment and provide outreach services to their communities. This paper analyzed 85 job postings from ALA Job lists that included the term “outreach” and analyzed job titles, duties, and qualifications in a 3‐dimensional plot. Implications for information science education are also discussed. Findings from this study may help library and information science programs strive to adapt their curriculum to meet market needs.

Do public libraries impact local labour markets? Evidence from Appalachia

ABSTRACT This paper investigates the effect of public library programmes and participation on unemployment and labour force participation in Appalachia. Appalachia is an economically distressed area, mostly rural, and with a sustained lower level of labour force participation and a higher level of unemployment. As public library programmes can be cyclical to business cycles, that is, labour market outcomes, I use public library staff and the amount computers available as instruments. While ordinary least squares (OLS) estimates show no effect of adult or children’s programmes and participation on local labour market outcomes, spatial econometric estimates provide evidence of direct and indirect effects of adults programmes and participation on labour force participation.

Going qual in: Towards methodologically inclusive data work in academic libraries

Data literacy and research data services are a growing part of the work of academic libraries. Data in this context is often presumed to mean only numeric data or statistics, leaving open the question of what role qualitative research plays in services and programming for research data and data literacy. In this paper, we report on the results of interviews with academic librarians about their understanding of data literacy, qualitative research, and academic library infrastructure around qualitative research. From the interviews, we propose a model of data literacy that incorporates both interpretive and instrumental elements. We conclude with suggestions for incorporating qualitative data and analysis methods into academic library programming and services around data literacy and research data.

Visual Literacy Education in LIS Programs: A Survey

This 2022 study follows up on a 1999 study of visual literacy education in American Library Association-accredited library and information studies programs. Using the Association for College and Research Libraries’ Visual Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education, the article analyses those standards vis-à-vis current educational offerings in professional librarianship programs to discover if these program offerings are properly preparing a visually literate workforce.

Вычислительный эксперимент – обезразмеривание уравнений, вычислительная устойчивость и тестирование программ

From the stages of the computational experiment, the stage of non-dimensionalization of the initial equation (system of equations) of the problem is considered - the replacement of its variables by the product of the corresponding dimensionless quantities by their units of measurement with subsequent transformations. Such a transition from a physical model to a mathematical (dimensionless) one makes it possible to obtain software implementations for research. A critical evaluation of its complexity is carried out and possible errors in the results are evaluated. At the same time, new versions of software are formed. Object-oriented programming tools and version control systems (for example, git) allow you to create versions of software tools adapted to different conditions of their use and for different types of users. Parallelization of work on versions is carried out. At the same time, for further software implementation, the set-theoretic language of formulas with partially recursive functions is effective. To implement versions with large amounts of calculations and data, high-performance computing systems based on software and hardware acceleration, parallel information processing and cloud architectures are used. As a rule, a difference model of the problem and iterative methods for solving it are constructed for a program version. Computational stability conditions are usually stipulated in modern instructions for standard program libraries. For new algorithms, it is necessary to analyze the stability of difference schemes based on the refinement of their spectral properties and the use of functional analysis methods. For storage and subsequent application of the results of computational experiments, it is advisable to use modern databases. As a kind of computational experiment, testing of alpha and beta versions of programs and their releases is also considered.

Digital Literacy Programs in Support of Diverse Communities – An Australian Public Library Approach

ABSTRACT Public libraries play a vital role in developing and facilitating digital literacy programs for diverse communities. Digital literacy skills are important because they enable access to information and engagement with government and support services that are increasingly provided online. This paper reviews literature and library programs world-wide to identify good practice in developing and facilitating digital literacy programs. It also presents our findings from a case study illustrating the practice of Hume Libraries, an Australian public library recognised for its leadership in digital literacy programs in support of diverse communities. Results from the review alongside interviews and a focus group with Hume Libraries staff informed the development of a framework to support the successful development and facilitation of digital literacy programs for diverse communities. The framework presents tasks in a checklist format for practitioners to consider when they develop, facilitate and enhance digital literacy programs for diverse communities.

Embedded Library Support within TAFE and Dual Sector Courses for Improved Learner Support and Visibility: An Emerging Opportunity

ABSTRACT Embedded librarianship is largely unexplored in the Australian TAFE and dual TAFE/University sectors. This paper discusses an embedded library program piloted at Holmesglen Institute and the results of a ‘learner survey’ of learners within participating courses. It argues that an embedded library program presents an emerging opportunity within TAFE and dual sector libraries to introduce an additional learner support service to provide highly targeted information literacy skills building and research support. The pilot program was introduced within the Institute’s fashion and hospitality higher education courses with the aim of breaking down barriers for learners accessing library support. It also aimed to increase the visibility of the library, its services, and resources. Results from the learner survey indicated the embedded program contributed to the cohorts’ strong awareness of their liaison librarian, their expertise, and the support they could provide. Learners additionally noted they felt comfortable to approach their liaison librarian if they needed extra help and overall were happy with the support provided through the program. Lessons learnt including recommendations, challenges, considerations, and modifications are discussed to encourage other librarians to begin the embedded conversation within their institution.

The Linear Algebra Mapping Problem. Current State of Linear Algebra Languages and Libraries

We observe a disconnect between developers and end-users of linear algebra libraries. On the one hand, developers invest significant effort in creating sophisticated numerical kernels. On the other hand, end-users are progressively less likely to go through the time consuming process of directly using said kernels; instead, languages and libraries, which offer a higher level of abstraction, are becoming increasingly popular. These languages offer mechanisms that internally map the input program to lower level kernels. Unfortunately, our experience suggests that, in terms of performance, this translation is typically suboptimal. In this paper, we define the problem of mapping a linear algebra expression to a set of available building blocks as the “Linear Algebra Mapping Problem” (LAMP) ; we discuss its NP-complete nature, and investigate how effectively a benchmark of test problems is solved by popular high-level programming languages and libraries. Specifically, we consider Matlab, Octave, Julia, R, Armadillo (C++), Eigen (C++), and NumPy (Python); the benchmark is meant to test both compiler optimizations, as well as linear algebra specific optimizations, such as the optimal parenthesization of matrix products. The aim of this study is to facilitate the development of languages and libraries that support linear algebra computations.

Self-Focused Attention, Awareness and use of Social Media as Determinants of Social Well-Being of LIS Postgraduate Students in Nigerian Universities

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of self-focused attention, awareness and use of social media on the social well-being of library and information science postgraduate students in universities in Nigeria. The study employed a survey research design of the correlational type. The study population comprised 919 LIS postgraduate students from 16 universities offering library and information science programmes at the postgraduate level. A total enumeration technique was used to cover all the 919 postgraduate students, 742 respondents filled and returned the questionnaire, given a response rate of 81%. The study established that self-focused, awareness and use of social media had a joint effect on the social well-being of the respondents. Also, there was a significant joint effect of self-focused attention, awareness and use of social media on the social well-being of the respondents. The study further revealed that the level of social well-being of the respondents was moderate. The study concluded that LIS postgraduate students’ social well-being levels should be improved through self-focused attention, awareness and use of social media. Therefore, lecturers, heads of library schools, health and university management are advised to pay attention to the social well-being of the students so that they can function effectively in any academic setting and society.