OPAC Research Articles

Reconnoitering the Correlation between ICT Facilities’ Application and Capacity Building of Library Staff in University Libraries in South-South, Nigeria

Technology integration in library operations is fundamental to meeting information, literature and research needs of students, researchers and administrative staff of tertiary institutions. This study explored the correlation between ICT facilities application such as social media handles, internet, as well as online public access catalogue (OPAC) and capacity building of library staff in public university libraries in South-South, Nigeria. Correlational research design was used to examine the extent to which ICT facilities’ application correlate with capacity building of library staff. Three (3) each of research objectives, questions, and hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The population was 416 library staff from six public university libraries. The total enumeration sampling technique was used. Two sets of self-structured questionnaire instruments totaling 416 copies were used for data collection, out of which, 306 were retrieved and analyzed which represented 74% response rate. Face and content validity of the instruments were done. A reliability test was conducted which yielded the coefficients of 0.89 and 0.85 respectively. The research questions were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMC) while the hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance using linear regression statistics. Findings revealed a significant positive correlation between internet, social media handles application and capacity building of library staff, while applications of OPAC showed a feeble correlation with capacity building. Hence, the level to which ICT facilities’ application correlate with capacity building of library staff in the university libraries was insignificant, which by implication had negative effects on library staff services delivery. It was therefore recommended, among other measures, the implementation of a comprehensive ICT training programme to address gaps in ICT facilities’ application by library staff for effective utilization of all relevant technologies.

Optimizing the Utilization of Online Public Access Catalog as a Means of Information Retrieval in Libraries

This study aims to explore the optimization of the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) as an information retrieval tool in the Library of SMA Negeri 3 Medan, focusing on identifying the challenges and barriers to its effective use. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, utilizing interviews, observations, and documentation as data collection methods. Interviews were conducted with a librarian and three students, while observations focused on the practical issues related to OPAC usage. The findings reveal that the use of OPAC in the library is not optimal, with challenges including system integration difficulties, insufficient librarian training, and limited user familiarity. Efforts to enhance OPAC usage involve promoting OPAC awareness, increasing computer access points, and ongoing system maintenance. However, the effectiveness of these measures is hindered by technical and educational constraints, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to fully leverage OPAC's potential in improving library services.

Stunting Literacy Strategy of the Library and Archives Office: Increasing Public Awareness and Understanding

The purpose of this research is to provide a detailed explanation of the stunting literacy approach implemented by the Labuhanbatu Utara Regency Library and Archives Office to increase public awareness and understanding of stunting. This research uses qualitative analysis using the Miles and Huberman paradigm to gain insight into the librarian's point of view. Data were collected through interviews, observation, and documentation. The Library and Archives Office of Labuhanbatu Utara Regency implemented various initiatives aimed at increasing public understanding and awareness of stunting. These activities include improving literacy collection development by offering a variety of library materials, fostering partnerships with related organizations, and providing access to Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) services. Working with BKKBN, the Health Office, academics and health workers. Social promotion and campaign: Involves disseminating information through several media channels and organizing social campaigns. Devotion of local government Collaboration between various agencies Compilation of extensive literacy resources to address stunting. To achieve success, it is crucial to have active involvement and support from community members and leaders. Barriers Limited resources Limited availability of information Lack of collaboration among government organizations Recommendations Increase collaboration and synchronization among agencies Increase availability of information Improve librarian skills Conduct program monitoring and evaluation Conclusion Labura district has made great strides in improving understanding of stunting. These efforts deserve recognition and are expected to be continuously improved to achieve the goal of reducing stunting rates in Labuhanbatu Utara Regency.

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.

The Utilisation of Information Technology in Increasing Reading Interest in the Library of Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Imanuel (SETITEL) Telukdalam

This study aims to determine the utilisation of information technology in increasing reading interest in the Library of Imanuel College (SETITEL) Telukdalam. The research method used is qualitative research. Data were collected using triangulation techniques, namely observation, interviews and documentation. Furthermore, the informants in this study were students of the Imanuel Theological College (SETITEL) Telukdalam with the characteristics of informants, namely 4th semester, 6th semester and 8th semester students totalling 6 people. The technique of taking informants using purposive sampling technique. The results of this study indicate that with the use of information technology in the Library of "SETITEL" Imanuel Telukdalam College, which plays an important role in supporting the management and planning of automated library development in order to improve the quality of library services effectively and efficiently, meet the information needs of the academic community and support the teaching and learning process, one of which is the OPAC service which can be used as a medium for finding the required information sources. In addition, with the existence of information technology as a strategy or effort to increase student interest in reading at the Imanuel Theological College (SETITEL) Telukdalam through the use of library services such as: special reading rooms, provision of digital services, interior design, exhibitions and provision of information retrieval systems or OPAC (Online public access catalog).

Access of web OPAC through library automation in university libraries in Tamil Nadu: A study

This paper attempts to improve user satisfaction with the online public access catalog (OPAC) in the deemed university libraries in Tamil Nadu. The study investigates the OPAC link in the website. The library has a separate server for LMS, the number of computers allotted for OPAC in a library, computers allotted for OPAC, the level of automation, software used for automation, types of OPAC access in automation available, subscribed link in OPAC and types of search. The present study survey approach was used to distribute 1200 questionnaires and 998 questionnaires were received back and analyzed with specific objectives. This study focused on the user OPAC to check OPAC link on website availability are 68.43%, followed by the type of OPAC access in automation available at 58.31%.

Use of Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) for Research by Undergraduates in Developing Countries: A Viable Change Agent

Use of Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) for Research by Undergraduates in Developing Countries: A Viable Change Agent

Research and documentation in Italy at the dawn of the digital age

The Institute for the Study of Scientific Research and Documentation (ISRDS) was located in Rome. Among the many achievements of the ISRDS between 1968 and the beginning of the new century, this article focuses particularly on the Archivio Collettivo Nazionale dei Periodici (National Collective Archive of Periodicals), an online public access catalogue specifically devoted to periodicals. Now that its founder and director, Paolo Bisogno, has passed away and the ISRDS no longer exists, and even the headquarters have been converted to commercial and private use, it is time to ask what should be done, what actions should be taken and what research should be continued in order to safeguard an important part of European documentation history.

Academic librarians’ perceptions of mobile technology’s usefulness in library service delivery at universities of technology in South Africa

PurposeGlobally, mobile technology is a significant factor influencing how libraries are changing the ways of delivering services to today’s users. This paper aims to explore academic librarians’ perceptions of the usefulness of mobile technology in delivering library services and the efforts required for its successful adoption.Design/methodology/approachThe study was conducted within an interpretive paradigm. The research objectives were underpinned by the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology as a theoretical framework. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyses using NVIVO for thematic analysis.FindingsResults show that, in general, academic librarians support the use of mobile technology to provide services such as access to eBooks and Journals, Online Public Access Catalogue, Bookmyne application, information literacy consultations and training. Library managers, fellow librarians and users were identified as encouraging the adoption of mobile technology to enhance library services. The paper further confirms that the successful adoption of mobile technology requires some effort. However, due to some of the challenges presented in the study, a majority of respondents felt that their libraries are not yet ready to fully embrace mobile technology the way it is envisioned in today’s world.Practical implicationsThe study endeavours to address the divergence between students and academic librarians’ viewpoints regarding the application of mobile technology in the provision of library services.Originality/valueThis paper highlights numerous ways that academic librarians could adopt and embrace mobile technology, which can benefit both academic libraries and other institutions of higher learning. The knowledge presented in this paper could assist academic librarians in assessing their institutions’ vulnerabilities, challenges and strengths in using mobile technologies to provide library services.

A systematic literature review on the use of mobile phones to access library services and resources: challenges and benefits

Purpose This paper is a systematic review that aims to collect and review studies on library users’ smartphone use to access library services and resources. Another objective of the systematic review is to identify the challenges and benefits (reported in the reviewed literature) regarding using smartphones to access library resources and services. Design/methodology/approach The researchers searched the relevant literature from four databases: Scopus, Library and Information Science Technology Abstracts, Web of Science and Google Scholar. A total of 20 studies were selected, out of the 2,416 retrieved titles, for review in light of the PRISMA guidelines. This systematic review also used the quality assessment guidelines of Boynton and Greenhalgh (2004), to analyze the quality of the publications reviewed in the study. Findings The results highlighted that library users used smartphones to access a wide range of library services, including directions help, fresh arrivals, library news notifications, room and course reservations, library account management, circulation and the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC). The libraries offered their users multiple mobile-supported services related to searching for resources and account management. The challenges, as well as the benefits associated with the use of smartphones for accessing and using library services, have also been reported. Most reviewed studies scored high (9–13 out of 13) in the quality assessment. Research limitations/implications This research has some limitations. First, only the English-language research studies were included in the review. Therefore, it is possible that a significant study conducted in a language other than English was missed. Second, researchers performed a comprehensive search to collect the maximum number of relevant studies; there is a chance that an important study was missed during the search and retrieval process. Practical implications This research fills the research gap by advancing the literature on mobile device use for accessing library services and resources. The findings might help library professionals understand the current trends in accessing library services through smartphones. This also helps them plan the latest mobile-supported library services to meet the ever-changing demands of library users. Policymakers could also benefit from this research, as it could help them understand current trends in library services and facilitate them in making appropriate policies, funding allocations and implementing mobile services in libraries. Social implications The researchers found that the use of mobile phones to access library services and resources impacts society in a discernible way. It provides a rich environment as users access a wide range of library services, including directions help, fresh arrivals, library news notifications, room and course reservations, library account management, circulation and the OPAC without any hindrances or hurdles. Originality/value This is the first review, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, that has systematically collected and reviewed the literature on the topic under study. This study also shares the theoretical and practical implications of the research and future research directions for researchers.

The use of shadow libraries at Universitas Indonesia

Shadow libraries (SLs), such as Sci-Hub, Z-Library, and Library Genesis (LibGen), are online databases that provide content that is otherwise difficult to access (due to paywalls or other copyright controls) using unofficial methods of questionable legality. Interest in the SL phenomenon has focused on copyright infringement that occurs when a database provides library materials, for which access rights need to be purchased, without the knowledge of a given copyright owner. This study analyzes the use of SLs at the Universitas Indonesia (UI). The research uses a quantitative approach, with a survey distributed to 262 undergraduate students at UI. The frequency of SL use in academic activities of UI students is compared with the use of the UI Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC UI). The results show that most UI students have not used SLs. However, those who have used SLs report more positive impressions and higher levels of satisfaction compared with OPAC UI.

Mobile Apps–Based Applications in Libraries and Information Centers: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Future Research Agendas

Due to the worldwide rapid adoption of mobile-based applications in libraries to foster the delivery of information services on mobile devices of library users, there are vast and growing collections of peer-reviewed research and conference papers available in various online databases. Analyzing the literature related to mobile-based library services is one method to conduct future research to enhance library collections and services in the digital age. The primary goal of this paper is to review the most relevant literature in the field to better understand these previous research works, identify trends and to determine the research gaps for future studies. A comprehensive and systematic review of the literature on mobile-based applications in libraries and information centres of peer-reviewed research papers, and conference proceedings published in online databases (ProQuest-LISA and Web of Science) during the last seven years (2015–2022) was conducted for critical analysis and to address the present trends of mobile-based applications in these studies. We identified that many studies have described the use of mobile apps–based applications like Mobile Online Public Access Catalogue (MOPAC), Mobile websites, Mobile databases, WhatsApp, SMS, RSS, and Quick Response (QR) Codes in the enhancement of library collections and services around the globe. We observed that 75.93% of documents were published as research articles, and 42.59% of publications were identified under the two authorship patterns. Also, the authors investigated the current and future state of the research in this field by synthesizing the results of published high-quality experimental studies and systematic mapping studies on related disciplines. We hope that this study will be helpful for librarians and information professionals to better understand and implement the applications of mobile technologies for enhancement of library collections and services in the virtual world.

Awareness and Usage of Information Retrieval Functionalities Found in the Online Public Access Catalogue by Undergraduates at the University of Venda

Calls for a shift from the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) to discovery systems craft a need for recognising the information-searching behaviour of the current genre of library users. This study examined the undergraduate students’ awareness and usage of information search functionalities that are embedded in OPAC at the University of Venda (UNIVEN) in Limpopo Province, South Africa (SA). Quantitative data were collected using a Google Form questionnaire, the link of which was e-mailed to the participants to complete. A systematic random sampling method was applied to arrive at 563 respondents. The findings revealed that most respondents rated their level of awareness of OPAC as average. Although some were familiar with OPAC search functionalities, such as author-and-title search entries, and preferred using simple search options on OPAC, there were respondents who were not familiar with Boolean operators, truncation and wildcard symbols, proximity operators, and field search. The major variables affecting their information retrieval on OPAC were poor internet connection and their lack of skills in searching for information from OPAC. This study recommends that librarians promote the importance of using all OPAC functionalities and train undergraduates to improve their awareness and optimal usage of OPAC.

An investigation of linked data catalogue features in libraries, archives, and museums: a checklist approach

PurposeIn this study, the distinctive functional features of linked data (LD) catalogues were investigated to contrast with existing online public access catalogues (OPACs) and discovery systems using a checklist approach. The checklist was derived from a literature review and is composed of 10 items as follows: self-descriptive and dynamic content for resource description, linkage to external LD sources and online services, aggregation of knowledge contexts into knowledge graphs (KGs), URI-based link discovery, representation and query of LD relationships, URI-based serendipitous discovery, keyword recommendation, faceted limitation and browsing, visualization and openness of data.Design/methodology/approachTen functional features derived from the literature were checked against existing LD catalogues offered by libraries, archives and museums (LAMs). The LD catalogues were regarded as qualified subjects if they offered functional features that were distinct from current OPACs and discovery systems through URI-based enrichment and aggregation from various LD sources. In addition to individual organizations, LD union catalogues were also included. However, LD hubs, such as ISNI, OCLC WorldCat Entities, VIAF and Wikidata, were excluded. In total, six LD catalogues from LAMs were selected as subjects for examination.FindingsFirst, LD catalogues provide similar KG information through URI combination, and KGs also facilitate information serendipity, including social-document, intellectual, conceptual, spatial and temporal contexts and networks of corporate bodies, persons and families (CPFs). Second, LD catalogues have transformed the “seek first and browse later” paradigm into a “seek or browse” paradigm by refreshing the browsing function of traditional card catalogues with preview and new options to facilitate LD identification and discovery. Third, LD catalogues have refined keyword recommendation with the addition of the following fields: person’s title, CPF relationships, entity type and LD source. Lastly, a virtual union LD catalogue is offered.Research limitations/implicationsThe proposed checklist revealed the unique/improved functional features of LD catalogues, allowing further investigation and comparison. More cases from the fields of medicine, engineering science and so on will be required to make revisions to fine-tune the proposed checklist approach.Originality/valueTo the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study to propose a checklist of functional features for LD catalogues and examine what the results and features of LD catalogues have achieved and are supported by from ontologies across LAMs. The findings suggest that LD provides a viable alternative to catalogues. The proposed checklist and results pave the way for the future development of LD catalogues and next-generation catalogues and also provide a basis for the future study of LD catalogues from other fields to refine the proposed checklist.

Quality of reporting of randomized controlled trials of top 10 herbs prescribed in Thailand

IntroductionGiven the questionable quality of reporting of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of herbal interventions, especially in developing countries, this study aims to evaluate the quality of reporting of RCTs of the top 10 herbs prescribed in Thailand and published in Thai healthcare journals. MethodsA systematic search was conducted within five databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Thai Journal Online, Thai Index Medicus, and Online Public Access Catalog of Khon Kaen University for Thai and English herbal medicine intervention RCTs published in Thai healthcare journals. Reporting quality of RCTs was assessed by using adapted CONSORT Herbal Intervention and CONSORT 2010 comprised of 52 items. ResultsOf 1351 potential studies, 16 RCTs met the eligibility criteria. For the quality of reporting by each item of 16 included studies, 27 of 52 items were reported in at least 50 % of RCTs which data on participants, physical characteristics of the herbal product, similarity of interventions, baseline data, numbers analyzed, ancillary analyses, and generalizability were reported in all included RCTs when applicable. However, 20 items had less than 50 % reported in included RCTs. There were no included RCTs reported information on the participant flow diagram, registration, and protocol. Discussion/ConclusionsThe quality of reporting of Thai herbal invention RCTs published in Thai healthcare journals was suboptimal. Improvement in the reporting quality of Thai herbal RCTs was needed to provide a high level of evidence. Relevant Thai healthcare journals should encourage Thai herbal medicine RCT authors to follow the CONSORT statement and herbal medicine intervention extensions.

Exploring Students’ Utilization of Online Public Access Catalog in the Learning Common

This paper presents the results of a survey conducted to explore the usage of the online public access catalog (OPAC) at a higher educational institution in Pagadian City. The study randomly selected two hundred and forty (240) students from Saint Columban College as respondents from various departments. A qualitative case study design was employed to describe, analyze, and interpret the data collected. The researchers used survey questionnaires as the main instrument and ensured proper organization during their administration, including appropriate briefing and guidance. The findings indicate that the majority of library users rarely utilize OPAC services, attributing it to lack of awareness. Although some patrons have used the OPAC, there is room for improvement in promoting its use and increasing awareness among users. It is evident that students have a consistent need for library resources and are actively engaged in academic research or coursework requiring frequent access to library materials. The study further reveals that student participants are dissatisfied with the OPAC services and lack awareness about its functionalities. In conclusion, this study highlights the low usage of OPAC among library users and emphasizes the need to upgrade the current system to provide better services.

Perancangan Layanan Book Ordering Pada Perpustakaan Universitas XYZ

The development of information technology has had a significant impact on libraries as a source of information in higher education institutions. An issue was identified in the Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) system, where the shelf availability status of books was not provided, resulting in users spending ineffective time searching for the required books. In an effort to improve service efficiency and quality, the Library designed a book ordering service as a solution to meet user needs in accessing the required information sources. This study aims to design an effective information system for the process of borrowing books at the library. The design process includes analyzing user requirements, designing information systems, developing user-friendly interfaces, and implementing systems accordingly. Through the implementation of this book ordering service, it is expected that the Library can improve the quality of its services to better serve its users.

The Experience of Using Virtua Integrated Library System in Nigerian University Libraries

The paper explores the experience of using Virtua Integrated Library System by some university libraries in Nigeria for automating their operations throughout a decade. It also accounts for the challenges encountered by the libraries and reveals their switch over to other software. Survey method was used to collect data from systems' staff and librarians of the six universities that adopted Virtua software via self-distributed online questionnaire. Purposive sampling technique was employed to select the respondents. The findings revealed that majority of the libraries used Virtua for years more than any of their previous software. The initial source of funding the software and staff training was provided by the Carnegie Corporation and MacArthur Foundation. The modules implemented by the libraries include cataloguing, circulation, administration and Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) and serials control and acquisition were partially used. The system was friendly used by the university libraries with few challenges which included increase in subscription fees. At different periods of few years back, the libraries dropped the software and switched over to Koha and locally developed library system respectively. It is recommended that the University Management of the libraries should provide adequate funds to enhance the implementation of library automation software.

Changing Scenario of Information Needs of Library Users with Special Reference to Women B.Ed Institutions in Jhunjhunu City

Women B.Ed. Institution in Jhunjhunu city in Rajasthan state library being considered as knowledge hub caters to the information needs of diverse categories of users like library users, research scholars, scientists, teachers, etc. by providing access to wide variety of learning resources. Apart from print resources Women B.Ed. Institution in Jhunjhunu city in Rajasthan state libraries are increasingly adding electronic resources like E-Books, E-Journals, E-Theses, databases, E-Standards, Institutional repositories, consortia, online public access catalogue and other networked resources to their collections which have been widely used nowadays as primarily for teaching, learning as well as research activities. Since the Library users are not involved in any kind of research work thus presumed to make use of most resources of books/notes/ e-books to fulfill their academic need The present review study is being conducted to ascertain the kind of information resources mostly used by the Library users and further to know their changing scenario level about resources & services of the library. It is basically a systematic review of studies conducted in the past to know their changing scenario level; information needs behavior and attitude towards different resources used in achieving the academic goals

Digital Preservation Skills of Electronic Information Resources’ Management among Library Personnel in Selected Universities in Nigeria

Electronic information resources (EIR) management requires skills that are vital for digital preservation; thus, it is imperative that library personnel enhance their skills to cope with the demands of the modern electronic information age. Digital Preservation Skills of Electronic Information Resources’ Management among Library Personnel in Selected Universities in Ogun State, Nigeria. Simple random sampling proportionate to size was adopted in selecting 242 respondents (84.4%) out of 286 librarians, library officers, library assistants and support staff from nine (9) purposively selected university libraries in Ogun State. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on electronic information resources available in selected universities libraries and interview were used to triangulate the data collect with questionnaire data for the research questions. The EIRs preservation skills possessed by library personnel, the EIRs preservation strategies used by the libraries and how EIRs are managed in the selected university libraries. However, only 215 of the 242 questionnaires were found useful (88.8% response rate). Descriptive statistics, Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) and Ordinary Least Squares regression technique (OLS) were used to analyse the data obtained from the respondents. Results also reveal that e-journal 1.95), online public access catalogue 1.93) and Autoregressive Distributed Lag 1.60) were available in the university libraries. In conclusion, preservation skills and preservation strategies were the major determinants of EIR's management. Therefore, the study recommended that stakeholders and university administration should build the capacity of library personnel's digital preservation skills for enhanced management of EIRs.