Library System Research Articles

Transforming library systems in Africa: advancing literacy and cultural preservation through digital innovation

Transforming library systems in Africa is essential for advancing literacy and preserving cultural heritage in an increasingly digital world. The integration of digital innovation into African libraries has the potential to revolutionize access to information, promote lifelong learning, and safeguard indigenous knowledge. This review explores the role of modern technologies, such as digital archiving, e-libraries, and mobile platforms, in enhancing literacy rates and preserving Africa's rich cultural traditions. By transitioning from traditional, print-based models to digital systems, libraries can bridge the educational gap in underserved communities, offering wider access to educational resources and promoting literacy at all levels. Additionally, digitization facilitates the preservation of local languages, oral histories, and cultural artifacts, ensuring that future generations can engage with Africa's diverse heritage. The challenges of digital transformation in African library systems, including limited infrastructure, funding, and digital literacy, are also discussed. The review emphasizes the need for strategic investments in technology, capacity building, and policy frameworks to create a sustainable digital ecosystem. By harnessing digital innovation, African libraries can evolve into dynamic centers of learning and cultural preservation, contributing to both socio-economic development and the protection of African identities. This transformation is critical to fostering a more educated, culturally aware, and globally connected African society.

Demystifying Ambiguous Words in Request for Proposals of Information Systems in Japan

Disagreements in interpreting words in software requirements specifications (SRSs) can lead to project failure. Various approaches to identifying and preventing ambiguous words in SRSs have been proposed. Yet, it is unclear which ambiguous words are used in the actual SRSs and to what extent they need to be modified. This paper quantitatively analyzes existing SRSs to clarify (1) how many ambiguous words are included in SRSs and (2) how many of these words require correction. This paper targets the Request for Proposals (RFPs), which describe the initial requirements of 40 systems of local governments, libraries, universities, and hospitals in Japan. Ten ambiguous Japanese words were analyzed. The result shows that “juubun” (sufficient) appeared most frequently, and 42% required correction when this word was used. The result also indicates that the number of ambiguous words varied greatly among the RFPs and that larger RFPs did not necessarily contain more ambiguous words.

Exploring best practices in smart public library services: a survey

Purpose This paper aims to the integration of smart cities and technologies has had a profound impact on public library services globally. However, debates continue about how public libraries are incorporating smart technologies and tools, and what this means for their role in smart city development. This paper explores how public libraries are evolving to meet community needs by providing both physical and digital services. Design/methodology/approach The purpose of this study is to assess the role of public libraries in the smart cities and how they are aligning toward development of smart concepts, technologies, services such as contributions to smart city objectives, community impact, the digital divide, unique projects and readiness for future smart city advancements. So, the authors explored 11 public library systems of cities across the world implementing smart city projects. Findings The authors found that all the library systems offer extensive print and digital collections, sustainable buildings and a well-connected network of branches. They provide self-checkout services, makerspaces equipped with 3D printing and coding workshops and advanced recording and video editing technologies. Furthermore, these libraries function as community centers, serving diverse groups including children, women, the elderly and marginalized communities. They function as third spaces that foster lifelong learning and digital literacy. Originality/value Although smart cities face substantial debate regarding their features, tools and feasibility, public libraries have adapted and redefined their roles to become influential public institutions. They now play a crucial part in supporting vibrant and dynamic communities and neighborhoods within smart cities.

Paperless libraries: The trending way to go in the fifth industrial revolution

The idea that spurred the author’s interest in carrying out this study results from understanding a cashless society, where users of banking systems only move around with their ATM cards. With their ATM cards, they can access their money anywhere globally. This approach could resonate in libraries, where we now have a paperless society, having cost-benefit analysis in the era of the fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR). The 5IR has to do with humans interacting between technology or machines either to solve individual and organizational societal problems from a general or specific perspective. The interaction between humans and technology would assist in recognizing the synergistic in addressing the support for task accomplishment. The methodology applied is in two stages, first, a systematic literature review and second, interpretive content analysis of literature harvested from the database of Scopus. Findings revealed that technological advancements have enabled paperless libraries such that on-screen reading is increasingly prevalent, rapid development support through mobile computing, software, and internet/connections/Wi-Fi, multifarious electronic information retrieval among others. Furthermore, other findings were anchored on the relevance of paperless libraries in the 5IR, the functionality of paperless library systems, enhanced accessibility, and inclusivity, collaboration and connectivity, and environmental impact. Meanwhile, certain challenges and mitigation strategies were proffered. The study concludes that as we navigate this transformative era, the emergence of paperless libraries stands as a testament to the harmonious integration of technological prowess and human aspirations. Therefore, envision human-machine interactions be encouraged to bring about paperless libraries, considering the significance of AI and human-centric innovation.

Transforming Libraries: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising library services and enhancing user experience, creating a new era of efficiency, accessibility, and innovation. This editorial explores how AI reshapes the library landscape, ushering in a new generation of efficiency, accessibility, and innovation. The AI’s most notable contribution to libraries is the automation of routine tasks, cataloguing and organising; librarians can now rely on AI algorithms to streamline. It saves librarians valuable time engaging in intellectually stimulating activities and ensures a more accurate and organised library system. AI-driven systems can efficiently analyse vast amounts of data, leading to improved search functionalities and more seamless information retrieval for library patrons. Moreover, AI is instrumental in the personalisation of library services. Through machine learning algorithms, libraries can analyse user behaviour, preferences, and historical data to provide customised recommendations. This enhances the user experience by offering tailored suggestions for reading materials, resources, and services, making libraries more relevant and engaging for diverse user groups. Another essential role of AI in libraries is the development of virtual assistants. These digital assistants, powered by natural language processing and machine learning, can help library patrons navigate the catalogue system, answer queries, and even provide Realtime language translation service. Virtual assistants help libraries become more inclusive and accessible, reaching more audiences with diverse language backgrounds and information needs.

Generative AI-ChatGPT’s Impact in Health Science Libraries

This study explores the integration of ChatGPT into library services, as well as the perceived benefits and challenges associated with its utilization. Through qualitative research methods, including semi-structured interviews with eleven health science librarians, insights were gained. The findings highlighted the challenge of building trust in the reliability and accuracy of ChatGPT, emphasizing the need for evaluation, monitoring, and addressing data privacy concerns. Integrating generative AI ChatGPT into library systems was found to enhance efficiency and assist patrons, but technical challenges such as glitches and downtime were reported. Librarians recognized the importance of caution and transparency when delivering ChatGPT-generated results to patrons. Balancing efficiency with accuracy and security emerged as a critical consideration. This study contributes to our understanding of the integration of generative AI in health science librarianship, providing insights that can inform future research and guide practical implementations in this field.

Élő method based mobile TV recommendation system

AbstractStreaming services spread rapidly. Among these services there are the linear TV, video library or program review system, while the online platform offering these contents is called mobile TV. A recommendation system may not only keep existing clients, but may also generate further turnover, should it introduce new content to the users. In this paper a recommendation system based on the Élő point calculation method is addressed. It is detailed how the programs should be grouped into different dimensions and what type of categories should be considered. Further, the idea of punch cards is introduced. Besides, the user profiles are set. The match system introduced by Élő is applied to the present situation. The system is introduced at a local mobile TV provider with 20,000 users.

Power and Controversy: Controversy surrounding Material Challenges at a Public Library

This case study investigates material challenges in a public library system, a growing concern in the United States due to the politicization of topics like gender, sexuality, and race. Material challenges involve requests to remove or restrict library materials, with reported cases skyrocketing to 1,247 in 2023. These challenges not only create public controversy but also highlight disagreements within public library governance. In most cases, governance involves librarians, a board of trustees, and community members, but little research has explored disagreements among these actors. This study examines a specific public library system experiencing controversy around material challenges, focusing on the distribution and exercise of power among different actors. Data was collected through interviews, recordings, and documents, and analyzed using thematic coding, a meta-network framework, and a chronology of disagreement events. The study identifies legal authority, rights, and networks as the main resources mobilized in the controversy. Legal authority shapes the issues of disagreement, while rights and networks are used to counter this authority and influence the controversy's continuation. A model of resource mobilization in public governance controversy is proposed, highlighting the unequal distribution of legal authority due to a governance schema based on majoritarianism. Actors without legal authority use other resources to challenge this, which eventually continues the controversy. The study suggests that leveling legal authority could mitigate public controversy and contributes to understanding public library governance during disputes. It offers insights for library practitioners and community members on resolving such controversies effectively.

Latvian Research Libraries from the 1980s to the Present

Abstract This article explores the evolution of Latvia’s leading research libraries from the final decade of Soviet occupation to the present day. After the Soviet time, libraries have undergone great changes and have become modern, multifunctional cultural, educational, and research centres responding to the needs and expectations of society. The article focuses on the National Library of Latvia, centre of the Latvian library system since its foundation in 1919. The State Unified Library Information System has modernised the entire network of publicly accessible libraries. Twelve major libraries have been involved in developing the electronic catalogue. Work on the Latvian National Digital Library has been ongoing since 2006. The Latvian Government’s decision in 2002 to build a new National Library (opened in 2014) has also spurred on the renovation or construction of many other libraries in Latvia.

Natural Language Processing (NLP) Application For Classifying and Managing Tacit Knowledge in Revolutionizing AI-Driven Library

The rapid evolution of technology has transformed library systems, with Natural Language Processing (NLP) emerging as a pivotal tool for enhancing knowledge management. This study aims to examine how NLP can improve the classification and management of tacit knowledge within AI-driven libraries, addressing the challenge of handling large volumes of unstructured data. The objective is to explore how NLP can optimize the retrieval, organization, and access to tacit knowledge, thus enhancing decision-making processes in libraries. The research adopts a conceptual design, synthesizing existing literature and theoretical models, including Information Processing Theory and Constructivist Theory, to propose a framework that integrates NLP with traditional knowledge management practices. Methodologies include a thorough review of recent advancements in NLP technologies and their applications within knowledge management systems. The study’s findings demonstrate that NLP significantly improves the accuracy and efficiency of knowledge retrieval by automating the processing of natural language data. This allows better access to tacit knowledge, supporting more informed decision-making. The outcomes of the study are twofold: it enhances existing knowledge management frameworks theoretically, and it provides practical insights for libraries to leverage NLP for greater operational efficiency and improved user experience. The study also underscores the need for future research on the real-world application of NLP and its ethical implications, such as data privacy and algorithmic bias.

Bibliometric analysis of scientific publications on the websites of agricultural institutions of higher and additional education of the Russian Federation

The study of scientific activities of educational institutions of the agro-industrial complex is based on information from their websites and on scientometric indicators. Research work is reflected on all the studied websites and contains data on the topics of scientific research, the work of dissertation councils and data on patents and inventions. The electronic information environment is widely used, digital libraries are being developed, and links to digital library systems are provided. All higher educational institutions have scientific periodicals; the results of scientific research are presented in electronic form. Insufficient completeness of document archives, the spread of materials across the categories of the website, and limited availability of full-text databases are noted. An analysis of the publication activity of organizations was conducted on the basis of the Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI). According to the number of authors with publications in the RSCI, Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University, Kuban State Agrarian University named after I.T. Trubilin and Vyatka State Agrotechnological University are distinguished with 3219, 300 and 1520 authors, respectively. Publications of employees of the Kuban State Agrarian University, Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University, Omsk State Agrarian University named after P.A. Stolypin and Ryazan State Agrotechnological University named after P.A. Kostychev have a high citation rate in RSCI. When analysing the dynamics of the number of publications of educational institutions from 2019 to 2023, according to RSCI data, a general trend of increasing the number of scientific publications in agrarian universities was revealed.

A Paradigmatic Shift for Estonian Research Libraries: Thirty Years of Rapid Travel on the Digital Highway

Abstract In the ten years after Estonia regained its independence in 1991, there were many developments that continue to shape the work of libraries today: the establishment of the Estonian Libraries Network Consortium (ELNET), the implementation of automated library systems and the modernization of basic library work processes, library legislation, harmonisation of copyright law, the procurement of information resources necessary for the development and consolidation of Estonian statehood, economy, science and culture, the creation of conditions necessary for the preservation of the national heritage, and new developments in the preservation and digitisation of library collections.

Retraction Note: Optimization of book information search in intelligent library system management based on cellular network

Retraction Note: Optimization of book information search in intelligent library system management based on cellular network

A Case Study Analysis of Library Services for Adults Experiencing Chronic Homelessness in Harrison County, Mississippi

ABSTRACT The author partnered with the Harrison County Library System (HCLS) to create a multilevel program plan for expanding library services to the growing number of homeless people who seek refuge in the library’s facilities. The research for this program plan involved evaluating existing library resources such as collections, programming, and available staff resources; identifying the best practices for providing services to people experiencing homelessness; identifying staff perceptions of working with the homeless; and identifying potential partners for expanded service offerings. The author used document analysis to research data on the library system (IMLS 2021 and reviewed library policy to identify barriers to providing service for the homeless. The author applied qualitative and humanistic research methods involving personal narratives (scenarios) provided through two separate one-on-one interviews with the library director to discuss the library system in general, and one one-on-one interview with six library staff working in the three libraries with the highest use by people experiencing homelessness. This paper discusses the findings from this mixed methods research project and their application to expanding services for chronically homeless patrons who use the HCLS.

Exploratory Search and Beyond: A Study of Complex Search Scenarios within a Public Digital Library

ABSTRACTComplex search scenarios and exploratory search processes are understudied within the context of public digital library systems. While the literature indicates that exploratory search is effective when undertaking complex search scenarios, the primary focus has been on searching conducted by students, academics, or professionals. In this paper, our focus is on whether public library patrons use such approaches and whether they have developed other ways to pursue complex search scenarios. Using retrospective think‐aloud protocols, nine participants first pursued a complex search scenario of their choosing without intervention, and then narrated what they were thinking and doing while watching a recording of their search. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns within the data. Three themes were identified and examined in detail: exploratory search, planning, and pragmatism. The key finding is that while the exploratory search model matches some of the cognitive processes described by the participants, other processes were also employed. In particular, we identified both the metacognitive aspect of planning and the strategic decision‐making aspect of pragmatism. This work provides evidence of the need to expand the exploratory search model to include metacognitive and strategic decision‐making aspects.

“We Were Beaten Down”: Parents' Concerns about Children's Digital Media Use

ABSTRACTParents' concerns about children's digital media use were investigated using data from semi‐structured interviews with 17 parents of children ages five to 11 at three branches of a U.S. urban public library system. Data were analyzed using collaborative inductive thematic analysis and analyzed with the lens of culturally‐constructed anxieties about new media. The most common concerns included worries about exposure to inappropriate content, worries about digital media taking up time that children would otherwise spend engaging in more meaningful activities, concerns about safety and privacy, and worries about negative effects on children's behaviors, attitudes, and social skills. Further analysis showed parents' deeper concern for children's healthy development to underlie these narrower concerns. The authors conclude with the recommendation to shift the framing of discourse around parenting with digital media from risk protection to digital media education. Such a shift could raise awareness that framing children and digital media only in terms of risks is overly simplistic, and it could help parents come to understand that children's digital media use is not just risky but also an opportunity for children to derive educational and social benefits, and learn how to operate in a digital media‐dominated information ecosystem.

Building an Age-friendly Digital Service System for Chinese University Libraries

As the aging process accelerates and information technology rapidly advances, the differences between the elderly and the digital society are becoming more pronounced. This highlights the need to bridge the digital divide and improve the quality of life for older people. University libraries play an important role in this. This study builds on the successful implementation of the Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) digital capabilities framework in the United Kingdom (UK) to inform the design of digital services for Chinese University libraries. To improve these outcomes, university libraries need to prioritize three key areas: establishing a comprehensive strategic plan, developing a collaborative learning ecosystem, and innovative digital tools stirring together. Subsequent research will examine the efficacy of this system in a variety of settings and explore strategies for optimizing its visibility and effectiveness.

Technology innovation in library: a bibliometric review

Technological innovation is changing libraries and how libraries operate. This study presents a bibliometric analysis to identify key patterns and trends in research on technological innovation in libraries, based on the publication of papers indexed in Web of Science from 2019 to 2023. A total of 433 documents from 342 sources were analyzed using Biblioshiny and VOSViewer software. The results show an increasing interest in this research domain, despite a negative annual publication growth rate of -32.33% in recent years. The IEEE Winter Conference on Computer Vision Applications and the IEEE Symposium on Security and Privacy were the most productive sources. "Library" was the most frequent keyword found in 6% of documents, along with terms such as "model", "performance", and "system", highlighting the focus on developing and evaluating technological systems for libraries. The findings summarize the key topics, trends, and leading countries driving technology innovation research for libraries over the past five years. This bibliometric review provides insights to guide future research efforts in this area.

The authority file of names of agricultural organizations: Features and development

The experience of the CSAL in creating, maintaining and using the authority file of names of sectoral organizations is discussed. The characteristics of the authority file and information sources are given, methodological solutions for data generation are considered. The authority file is used to improve the quality of bibliographic entries by unifying access points, improving the processes of in- formation exchange and retrieval. Based on the authority file, the reference and information resource has been formed – the database “Authority File of Names of Scientific Institutions of the Agroindustrial Complex” is freely accessible via the Library’s website. The authority data on the names of scientific agricultural institutions include reference information and historical data, provide access to bibliographic information, connect resources within the single data network and enable to navigate the CSAL resources. The development of the authority file content and technology is reviewed. The content of the authority file is updated on the basis of the library collection and monitoring of data on organizations in external sources; besides, the new entries for the names of modern scientific agrarian institutions and agricultural institutions established in Russia in the 19th century are created. The OPAC-Global ILS replaced the earlier CSAL automated library and information system software, therefore the authority file was transferred into the new software environment.

The specifics of academic publishing (The case study of publishing departments of Ekaterinburg universities)

The authors examine the specific publishing activities of universities and formulate the main challenges for academic publishing divisions. Within the study, eight publishing departments of Ekaterinburg universities demonstrated the following problems: decreasing circulation against the increase in the number of students; partial reversal from proprietary publishing facilities, loading of publications and e-publications into the electronic library systems, degradation of publications, unfair paper reviewing practice, decreasing funding and number of commercial projects, old age of employees of publishing departments, displacement of correctors, overloading of editors, low salaries, pandemic and sanctions consequences (increasing prices for paper and expendable materials, disruption of supplies, hardware challenges, etc.). Based on the analysis of publishers’ structure and management principles, the authors conclude on the stagnation in university publishing. However, the authors insist on some potential for preserving and improving publishing activities, and suggest optional solutions for several publishing problems.