Library Users Research Articles

An investigation into the unveiling of information-seeking anxiety among agriculture university library users

PurposeThis study aims to explore information-seeking anxiety (ISA) among undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD students at Dr Babasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, located in Dapoli, Distt. Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. The research focuses on evaluating the intensity of ISA, understanding its underlying causes and identifying potential strategies to reduce its effects, particularly within the context of an agricultural university.Design/methodology/approachThis research intends to examine Information seeking anxiety (ISA) among undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD students at Dr Babasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth located in Dapoli District, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. This research intends to examine and investigate the intensity of ISA among students at an agriculture university, its root causes and possible methods to reduce its effects. The research adopts quantitative surveys with qualitative secondary sources to achieve a comprehensive understanding of ISA among students. A standardized scale was used as the primary data collection tool to assess participants’ levels of ISA. A total of 122 students participated in the study, completing the survey and providing valuable data for analysis.FindingsThe findings reveal a range of ISA levels among students, indicating the presence of varied information skills and abilities. This underscores the need for well-structured information literacy programs tailored to address these disparities. A significant gender-based difference in ISA was observed, with female students exhibiting lower anxiety levels in relation to “integrated elements 3” at a significance level of .05 (t = 1.327). Interestingly, the study found that the students' rural or urban backgrounds did not significantly impact their ISA levels. Additionally, various integrated elements within the information seeking anxiety scale were found to be interconnected, contributing to the overall anxiety experienced by students.Research limitations/implicationsThe study highlights the importance of designing and implementing targeted interventions to address ISA in academic settings. These findings suggest that tailored information literacy programs could be effective in reducing ISA among students. Future research could build on these results by examining ISA across different disciplines and institutions, thereby contributing to the development of broader, more generalized strategies for mitigating ISA in diverse educational contexts. Individuals may not accurately recall or report their anxiety levels, potentially affecting the study’s findings. This study’s findings may not be generalizable to all agriculture university users due to factors such as the specific university setting, student demographics and agricultural disciplines represented.Practical implicationsThis study provides actionable insights for academic institutions, particularly agricultural universities, in developing targeted information literacy programs. These programs can be designed to address varying levels of ISA among students, enhancing their ability to effectively seek and use information. Additionally, understanding the gender differences in ISA can guide the creation of more inclusive resources and support systems, ultimately improving the overall academic experience and reducing anxiety-related barriers to learning.Social implicationsThe research highlights the broader societal impact of ISA, particularly how it can affect students’ academic success and overall well-being. By addressing ISA through tailored interventions, institutions can contribute to reducing educational inequalities, especially in rural and underrepresented communities. This can foster a more equitable learning environment where all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive academically and socially.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the relatively underexplored area of ISA within the context of agricultural universities. By combining quantitative and qualitative approaches, the research offers a comprehensive understanding of ISA, its causes and potential solutions. The findings provide new insights into how gender and integrated elements of ISA influence anxiety levels, offering valuable contributions to the field of library and information science, particularly in specialized educational settings like agricultural universities.

Using Immersive Planning Tools to Reimagine Virtual Libraries

Immersive technologies (e.g., Virtual Reality) can both reproduce existing spaces or help bring imagination to life. When considered in relation to the needs of the users, these technologies can facilitate rewarding experiences that encourage repeated usage. However, poorly motivated experiences may result in expensive mistakes. One rewarding experience has been through the creation of immersive sound planning tools to help Professionals of the Built Environment (e.g. urban plannersand designers) consider sound in their work (Yanaky et al., 2023). Using a user-centered design process, we developed a Virtual Reality planning tool, City Ditty. A first evaluation indicated that users, regardless of their experience, could complete both a sound-awareness learning phase and implement their own soundscape designs in under an hour. Feedback was positive, suggesting value for its use in public consultations and participatory approaches towards creating healthier, inclusive, and sustainable communities. Could City Ditty be used to help rethink and prototype new forms of virtual libraries? Libraries host a wealth of information and contribute community space. They also act as community hubs for classes, games, storytelling, community events, etc. Yet, digitally reproducing a navigable 3D library space without consideration for the medium will reproduce the inconveniences of existing spaces, while failing to take advantage of the new medium. Could similar methodologies help engage library users to conceptualize together the future of virtual libraries? How might different users want to utilize immersive virtual libraries? We place this discussion in the context of a hype cycle for emerging technologies to understand potential timelines for change.

The Current Situation of Japanese Copyright Law Regarding Internet Transmission of Library Materials – The Amendment to the Copyright Act in 2021

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic prompted Japan to review Art. 31 of the Copyright Act in 2021, which pertains to limitations on copyright for library usage. As a result, access to library materials via the internet became legally permissible within certain limits. Specifically, the amendment allows (1) the National Diet Library to transmit rare or out-of-print materials to individuals on the internet; and (2) libraries and similar facilities to provide users with public transmission services (transmitting portions of copyrighted works to users for research or study purposes). This article introduces the revisions made to Art. 31 in the 2021 amendment, explains the current situation regarding internet transmission of library materials in Japan, and explores future issues. Transmission via the internet is not subject to physical or locational constraints. The provision of library materials via the internet will thus involve considering how to position and organize the relationship between the individual transmission service for rare or out-of-print library materials by the National Diet Library and public transmission services by individual libraries.

Further Reflective Conversations: Medical Library Usage in the Context of Career Transition

ABSTRACT This article is a literature driven reflection about a radiologist’s experience of using health libraries in England’s National Health Service, as a consultant after returning from a Clinical Fellowship in New Zealand. It is a collaboration between a Consultant Interventional Radiologist and two Academic Librarians. It attempts to reflect on the lived experience of the radiologist and locate that experience within the wider Library and Information Science (LIS) context. Findings include new suggestions about how librarians can support staff in career transition and apply their experience of the COVID-19 pandemic to forge pragmatic relationships within the health care community.

Rehabilitation of Heritage Buildings in Conflict Zones: A Case Study of Al-Khader Library in Gaza Strip and Its Impact on Sustainable Development

Rehabilitating heritage buildings is a common practice in developed countries. In contrast, developing countries experiencing conflict lack the financial support and qualified experts to restore heritage buildings. This article focuses on the restoration of the al-Khader building in the Gaza Strip, part of a UNESCO project aimed at preserving historical buildings. This study aims to explore the challenges and impacts of the adaptive reuse of the al-Khader building as a children’s library for the local community and to explore the impact of this project on sustainable development and its importance locally, as well as the role of this building restoration and rehabilitation through Quintuple Helix dimensions. Qualitative methodology was used, including field observation and interviews, to present the project stages during restoration in 2016. The interviews were conducted with library users, employees, and visitors to evaluate their experience in 2019. The research revealed that the restoration process faced several challenges, including a lack of experience and professional workers in conservation work. Despite challenges, the building’s transformation positively affected heritage preservation and the local community, aligning with 11 Sustainable Development Goals—directly with 7 goals (SDGs 4, 7, 8, 11, 12, 16, and 17) and indirectly with 4 goals (SDGs 1, 5, 9, and 13). The findings emphasise the role of the library’s rehabilitation in contributing to the success of the Quintuple Helix in economic and civil society systems and the need to enhance the consideration of government, education, and environmental systems. Finally, this project, which external donors funded, increased awareness among local people of the importance of heritage buildings. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the current status of the building is unknown. This study, therefore, serves as necessary documentation of the building as it was in 2023 and prior.

The effect of concept mapping in nursing education on critical thinking motivation: A path analysis

BackgroundThe integration of concept mapping into nursing education represents a pivotal strategy aimed at enhancing critical thinking skills, which is a necessity in navigating the complexities of healthcare. This educational tool's role in stimulating students' analytical abilities and motivation towards critical thinking has become increasingly relevant in preparing nursing professionals for the dynamic challenges of their field. ObjectivesThe aim of this study is to examine how the implementation of concept mapping affects critical thinking motivation among nursing students, investigate the relationship between them, and support its use as an innovative educational strategy in the field of nursing. DesignThis study was conducted using a descriptive and exploratory design. MethodsThis research was carried out between May and June 2023, involving 435 nursing students. For data collection within an online classroom framework, the study applied a trio of tools: the Student Descriptive Information Form, the Scale for the Effectiveness of Concept Maps in Nursing Education, and the Critical Thinking Motivation Scale. The analysis of the compiled data was undertaken utilizing SPSS version 25.0 and JAMOVI software, with statistical significance set at a p-value of <0.05. ResultsEngagement in social/scientific activities, library usage, and book reading habits were positively correlated with higher scores on both the Critical Thinking Motivation Scale and the Scale for the Effectiveness of Concept Maps in Nursing Education. Notably, concept mapping significantly enhanced critical thinking motivation among the participating students, as evidenced by the path analysis (β = 0.758, R = 0.563, p < 0.001). ConclusionThe findings underscore the significant role of concept mapping in elevating critical thinking motivation among nursing students, suggesting its strategic inclusion in nursing curricula to meet the evolving demands of healthcare education in the twenty-first century.

Digital information repackaging: best practices from university library website managers

Purpose This paper aims to explore the digital information repackaging process from the perspective of library website operators. The digital info repackaging process consists of analysis, synthesis, editing and presenting. Design/methodology/approach Interviews with 17 library website operators regarding their experience in information repackaging. The library website observation also conducted to gather the data on information repackaging. Findings Librarians who manage library websites repackage digital information using a process of user analysis, content analysis, editing and transforming and translating. Librarians who are in charge of repackaging usually collect, check, group and present information based on the raw data and information. Librarians rarely did criticize or argue the information. They just deliver it in the pact and attractive format. In the future, librarians can add critical comments on their digital information content, such as give recommendation, provide point of view, add some suggestion or make comparison. Practical implications This paper can provide an overview of the process of repackaging digital information carried out by university libraries which can be provided by libraries via websites. Apart from that, it is hoped that the presence of this research can help librarians in carrying out the process of repackaging digital information. Originality/value This paper can add to the scientific development of information science and library studies related to the field of information repackaging, especially in the repackaging of digital information in creating website content to efficiently meet the information needs of university library users.

Bibliographic Culture as a Factor of Security of Trusted Public Internet

The article deals with the problem of security of search in modern public computer-network resources of reliable, complete sources, their qualitative bibliographic description. The relevance is due to the “digital transformation”, the rapid spread of computer-network technologies since the 2010s to all sectors, as well as everyday life; a sharp and significant increase in the number and variety of electronic databases (libraries); turning the majority of humanity into daily active users. Objective international and national diseases of growth of standardization, streamlining, structuring of databases, development of indexing systems and search public network services, means of verification of electronic documents have manifested themselves.Since 2014 and even later from 2022, the problem was exacerbated by the reduction of international cooperation in computer-network technologies, anti-Russian sanctions of unfriendly countries, violation of Russian legislation by global digital corporations, leapfrogging strengthening of cybercrime and information confrontation in the Internet. The possibilities of attackers who, by exploiting vulnerabilities, reduced the access of mass users to reliable electronic documents in cross-border Internet communications increased. The opportunities caused by the relativistic understanding of truth, fabrication and broadcasting of falsified information, fake news, disinformation, use of new means of “social engineering” (fraud, manipulation of consciousness) that threaten citizens and national interests of Russia have increased.The novelty of the study lies in the integrated application of theoretical and cultural gnoseology (culture of cognition) and methodology of information security (countering deliberate attempts to mislead). The comparative analysis revealed significant differences between Russian state electronic libraries, document management systems, registers and services and non-state, as well as foreign public Internet resources and services. The result of the study is the conclusion about the importance of the prevalence of essential interests of mass users of Russian public libraries and electronic services. Recommendations on the preferability of applying this experience in the creation and modernization of Russian public non-state digital databases, libraries, services, as well as the development of standardization on its basis are formulated.

Enhancing User Satisfaction through Effective People Marketing Strategies in University Libraries

This research article investigates the relationship between people marketing strategies and user satisfaction within university libraries in central Uganda. Given the increasing competition among academic libraries for user engagement and service delivery, understanding how people-oriented marketing approaches can enhance user satisfaction becomes crucial. The objectives of this study are: to analyze the people marketing strategies employed by selected university libraries, assess user satisfaction levels, explore the relationship between marketing strategies and user satisfaction, and determine the influence of these strategies on the overall satisfaction of library users. A mixed-methods approach was used, involving quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Findings indicated a positive (0.185-0.509) and significant (P≤0.01) correlation between effective people marketing strategies and higher user satisfaction levels. Staff availability (12.463, P≤0.009), capacity to guide users (3.583, P≤0.000) communication skills (0.605, P≤0.001), effective rapport with users (37.351, P≤0.058), and support in utilization of new technologies (3.283, P≤0.007), among others, were the major determinants of user library satisfaction. The study therefore emphasized the need for library administrations to adopt comprehensive marketing approaches focusing on interpersonal relationships and user-centric services.

Beliefs and Ethical Perceptions of Book Theft as Predictors of Bibliokleptomanism among Library Users

Beliefs and Ethical Perceptions of Book Theft as Predictors of Bibliokleptomanism among Library Users

Effects of Electronic Surveillance System on Security and Theft in Four Central University Libraries in U.P.

The study focused on impact of electronic surveillance systems on book theft and mutilation in Central Universities ,U.P. In this study, electronic surveillance is the use of modern technological security devices to detect book security and theft in Central Universities ,U.P. Descriptive survey design was used as design of the study. The population of the study was library users drawn from the Libraries in four Central Universities in U.P. Sample size for this study was made up of entire population. Research instruments was Questionnaire and interviewed guide developed by researchers. It was recommended among others that there should be policy on theft and vandalism, detective bar-code machines should be provided; installation and maintenance of electronic surveillance system, provision of adequate resources and photocopying services to check book security and theft.

Strawberry Volatile Organic Compounds for Targeted Metabolomics: The AMDIS Strawberry User Library from Korean Germplasm

Strawberry aroma, crucial for determining quality, involves complex volatile compounds which are challenging to identify. This study explores strawberry aroma analysis using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and the Automated Mass Spectral Deconvolution and Identification System (AMDIS). Central to our research is the creation of a bespoke strawberry Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) user library using AMDIS, specifically for analyzing strawberry aromas. The library contains VOCs from 61 strawberry cultivars, integrating information on 104 VOCs, including mass spectra, retention index, chemical class, CAS number, formula, odor threshold, and odor description. This custom library significantly outperformed a commercial library by reducing potential false hits by 200, decreasing the size of report files by over 96%, and, most importantly, shortening AMDIS analysis processing time from 31 s to 9 s, representing an approximate 71% reduction. Further, the study demonstrates the library’s practical application by contrasting the aroma profiles of strawberries harvested in winter and spring. This comparison revealed significant VOC variations depending on seasonal temperature changes, offering insights into environmental influences on strawberry aroma. In conclusion, this research marks a significant advance in strawberry aroma quality analysis. The strawberry VOC library developed in this study is expected to greatly aid targeted metabolomics and flavor research in strawberry breeding.

The Influence of the School Library on Mathematics Learning Achievement of Grade III Students in the First Trimester at Escola Básica Central 3º Ciclo Vasco da Gama Manatuto in the 2014 Academic Year

The library is one of the contributing factors or a supporting tool in the educational process at schools, ranging from elementary to higher education levels. A school library is any library organized within a school, where it is essential to have books that support and serve as references for students. The school library plays a vital role in supporting the educational process, providing essential resources for students to enhance their knowledge and complete assignments. This study explores the impact of library usage on the mathematics achievement of Grade III students at Escola Básica Central Vasco Da Gama Manatuto during the first trimester of the 2014 academic year. The research questions focus on whether the library influences mathematics achievement and if students who use the library perform better than those who do not. The study involved 112 students, with a sample of 56, and utilized parametric statistical analysis. The results showed a significant influence of library use on mathematics achievement, with a determination coefficient of 36.72%, meaning that library utilization contributes significantly to students' performance in mathematics, while the remaining 63.28% is influenced by other factors. The t-test results confirmed that students who used the library performed better in mathematics than those who did not. Based on these findings, the author suggests that students should be encouraged to utilize library resources effectively, the government should prioritize the development of school libraries, and librarians should provide welcoming and supportive service to students.

Library user digital profiling: The structural and functional approach. (Part II)

Library user digital profiling: The structural and functional approach. (Part II)

LIBRARY AUTOMATION IN UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES LIBRARIES IN INDIA AND ABROAD

Library automation has become integral to managing and enhancing library services in universities and colleges worldwide. This study examines the application and impact of library automation in higher education libraries in India and abroad, focusing on technological advancements, implementation challenges, and the comparative benefits of automation across different institutional contexts. Library automation aids in streamlining processes, reducing human error, and improving user access to vast information resources. This case study analyzes various library automation systems, evaluates their effectiveness, and assesses how these technologies impact library users and staff in academic settings.

INFLUENCE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION LITERACY SKILLS ON LIBRARY USE AMONG STUDENTS OF TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

This study examines the influence of information and communication technology and information literacy skills on library use among students of tertiary institutions in Borno state. The study was guided by three (3) objectives and three (3) research questions. A survey research design was adopted for the study and seventeen thousand five hundred and seventeen (17,517) registered library users were used as target population. While, the sample size for the study was one thousand and eighteen (1,018) users drawn from the target population using Krejcie, and Morgan (1970) table for determining sample size. Systematic sampling technique was used to ascertain the respective sample of the study. Thus, 1,018 copies of questionnaire were distributed to respondents and response rate recorded was 742(73%) which was used for data analysis. Data were gathered through self-designed questionnaire and were analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency count and percentages. Findings indicated that the level of information literacy skills among students of tertiary institutions in Borno State is low and majority of respondents agreed that their little ICT skills and literacy are impactful on their library usage. Based on the findings, it is recommended that more ICT awareness and training should be acquired by the students, especially from their institutions.

LIBRARIANS’ EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND PROFICIENCY AS CORRELATES OF ELECTRONIC COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT IN UNIVERSITIES IN NORTH-CENTRAL, NIGERIA

The study examined librarians’ emotional intelligence and proficiency as correlate of electronic resources collection development (ERCD) in universities in North-central, Nigeria. The objectives considered were to: find out the relationship between librarians’ proficiency and ERCD in university libraries in North-central, Nigeria; and determine librarians’ emotional intelligence and ERCD in these university libraries. Correlational research design was used. The total population for study was 400 librarians. Multi-stage sampling procedure was adopted to stratify the university into Federal, State and Private Universities. Questionnaire was used to collect data. SPSS was used for the quantitative analysis and result were presented using frequency, mean, and standard deviation. The result of the study showed that proficiency skills in database, social media, online public access catalogue, e-document and e-book delivery, data management, storage of electronic resources, e-processing, and e-ordering by librarians has a relationship on electronic resources collection development in university libraries. The findings also revealed that librarians possessed self-awareness skills, self-regulatory skills, motivational skills, empathy skills, and social skills, and it has influenced the ERCD in the studied university libraries. The study concluded that addressing the identified deficiencies in proficiency, and emotional intelligence can lead to a more effective and efficient electronic resources collection development, thereby improving the overall academic and research experience for library users. Therefore, the study recommended that training that will boost the emotional intelligent of librarians by the management should be done regularly.

Casting a Wider Net: Podcasts to Promote Reading for Library Users

The article examines the growing role of podcasts in readers' advisory services, emphasizing their potential to engage users with literature and foster a love of reading. As podcasts gain popularity, particularly among younger audiences, they present a unique opportunity for librarians to recommend nonfiction podcasts about books and reading. Unlike audiobooks, podcasts offer shorter, more accessible listening experiences that can introduce users to new titles, support leisure reading, and create a sense of community. The article explores various podcast formats, including book recommendation shows, book club-style discussions, and deep dives into individual books, highlighting their appeal and utility. It argues for integrating podcast recommendations into librarians' practices to enrich the readers' advisory process and connect patrons with literature in innovative ways.

EFFECTS OF LIBRARY ORIENTATION PROGRAMME ON THE USE OF LIBRARY RESOURCES BY NEWLY-ADMITTED UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF TAI SOLARIN UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, IJAGUN, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

This study investigated the effect of library orientation programme on the use of library resources by newly admitted undergraduate students Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun state Nigeria. Library orientation is a core programme of the academic libraries that emphasized on educating, enlightening, and assisting the users to guide, identify, know and utilise the library information resources and services efficiently. To achieve the objectives of this research, the study was guided by three objectives, three research questions and three hypotheses. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study and data was gathered through the instrument of a questionnaire. A total of 200 copies of the questionnaires were randomly distributed for equal representative of students across the institutions. Data were analysed using frequency, percentages and t-test for independent sample mean. The study concluded that a well-organized library orientation will inculcate confidence in users, encouraging them to use the library effectively. Hence the goal of library orientation is to make library users proficient in research as well as lifelong learners. Library orientation should be given more priority in the institutional library in order to sensitize more students and portray their attention to the available resources and services that can be of immense benefit to them in the course of their studies.

APPLICATION OF SOCIAL INFLUENCE OF UTAUT AND STUDENTS’ CHARACTERISTICS ON UNDERGRADUATES’ USE OF E-RESOURCES IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY GUSAU, ZAMFARA STATE, NIGERIA

As teens and young adults, undergraduates are susceptible to the influence of others. This study was aimed at examining social influence, a construct of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), students’ characteristics of age, level of study and course of study on undergraduates’ frequent use of e-resources at the Federal University, Gusau, Nigeria. The study adopted the descriptive research design. The population was 4,640 registered library users for the 2022/2023 academic session, spread across 200, 300 and 400 levels; excluding 100 level. Purposive sampling method was used to select 320 students across the faculties and a sample size of 280 students across the levels was selected using a simple random sampling technique. A self-structured questionnaire was administered to the 280 students in the library out of which 268 were returned and 260 (81.25%) were found usable for the analysis. Descriptive statistics was used for the analysis (cross tabulation, frequency, simple percentages) and presented in tables. The hypotheses were tested using chi-square. Analysis was done using SPSS version 26. The findings revealed a moderate use of e-resources by the students, and also showed that social influence has a positive significant influence on students’ frequent use of e-resources. The study recommended that the stakeholders should intensify efforts to encourage students so as to make more use of the e-resources.