Physical Library Research Articles

A Comparative Analysis of the Student Preferences for Digital and Physical Books in Library Usage

The study investigates student preferences for digital and physical library resources at San Sebastian College-Recoletos de Cavite, Philippines, amidst the evolving landscape of educational technology integration. Through a comprehensive analysis of survey data collected from Senior High School and College students, the research identifies significant trends in resource utilization patterns and their impact on academic achievement. Results indicate a preference for digital resources, although some students still value physical materials. Statistical analyses reveal discipline-specific variations in resource utilization and a positive correlation between the frequency of accessing digital resources and academic performance. The study underscores the importance of aligning library services with student preferences to optimize learning outcomes and foster digital literacy. Recommendations are made for tailored interventions to enhance resource provision and promote equitable access across academic disciplines

English Studies from Global to Nepali Context: Critical Debates, Challenges and Possibilities

This paper aims to present an analysis of the critical debates in the area of English Studies emerged from the time of its initiation and still going on, various challenges that this discipline has undergone, and its future prospects. Based on library research method, the analysis of the relevant online and physical library materials related to English Studies has been conducted. The findings show how English Studies has undergone the critical debates like whether English is the subject of colonial domination or socially progressive project, whether it has to give privileges to literary studies or creative writing, and whether it has to adopt a single standarised form of English or world Englishes. In addition to it, it shows that despite undergoing a number of critical debates and challenges due to either the ongoing process of departmentalisation or the African abolitionist movements, English Studies has become refined, updated and interdisciplinary area of study. Proper redesign and reformulation of English courses, incorporation of local art, culture and literature, adoption of new technology and vocational aspects etcetera could make it more relevant, effective and impactful in the days to come.

An Assessment of the Regulatory Framework for African Traditional Medicinal Practice in Nigeria

Traditional medicine (TM) by World Health Organization (WHO) is the totality of knowledge, skills, and practices based on theories, beliefs, and experiences indigenous to different cultures, whether explicable or not, used in the maintenance and preservation of health, whether physical or mental. African traditional medicine is the holistic healthcare system specializing on divination, spiritualism, and herbalism. In Nigeria, most indigenes rely on TM to meet their primary healthcare needs. WHO’s strategy for TM is to promote TM integration and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) into the healthcare systems of countries. Therefore, the aim of this study was to critically assess the regulatory framework for traditional medicinal practice in Nigeria. The research methodology was doctrinal approach, using expository and analytical research design. The main sources of data collection were literatures from physical library and e-library. This research found, among others, that there is need to have a working national framework for the safe practice of TM in Nigeria. Thus, this research recommended, among others, a distinct national framework for the practice of TM in Nigeria which will also establish a functioning regulatory institution in various states, thereby ensuring proper regulation and enlightenment in this milieu.

Mit uniwersalnej biblioteki i idea definitywnej książki: konteksty i kontrowersje

The article is aimed at describing two examples of man’s dream about totality. In the introduction, the author considers the concept of a universal library and definitive book. The first part includes an analysis of various existential conceptions of total library, and first of all, Borgesian, presented in his famous text “Library of Babel” as well as his concept of Aleph as a universal point with its access to the whole reality. Also, the catastrophic idea of a universal library created by Kurt Lasswitz is presented. The second part of the article is devoted to the concept of a definitive book. Here the famous text written by Borges “The Book of Sand” is considered. Besides the author presents the idea of universality included in the Enlightenment encyclopedias as well as the scientific Biblia project developed by Novalis. In the last part of the article, a comparison is made between the physical library and the virtual library.

Analysis of Health Workers’ Use of Libraries and Digital Platforms in Accessing and Sharing Health Information in Tanzania

Background Health information comprises valuable data and knowledge that supports healthcare delivery. Although libraries and digital platforms are valuable for providing health information, there is a lack of documentation regarding their use by health workers in Tanzania. This study sought to analyze health workers’ use of libraries and digital platforms to access and share health information. Method A cross-sectional study using a mixed research approach was conducted from August to September 2022 at primary, secondary, and tertiary health facilities in Kilimanjaro and Mbeya regions. Semi-structured questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data from 500 health workers from all selected health facilities in all regions. IBM SPSS version 21 was used to analyze quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Results Very few health workers (32.6%) used libraries while lack of physical libraries, limited time, and use of mobile phones hindered health workers from using libraries to access and share health information. Most of the health workers (56%) used digital platforms to access and share health information. Insufficient skills, lack of internet connectivity, and high cost of internet bundles limited health workers from utilizing digital platforms for accessing and sharing health information. Conclusion Many health workers do not use libraries and digital platforms to access and share health information. As a result, efforts should be made to increase the use of libraries and digital platforms among health workers to increase access to reliable and relevant health information to improve the quality of healthcare services.

Design and implementation of an interactive virtual library based on its physical counterpart

The rapid technological advancements and the widespread adoption of the internet have diminished the role of the physical library as a main information resource. As the Metaverse is evolving, a revolutionary change is anticipated in how social relationships are perceived, within an educational context. It is therefore necessary for libraries to upgrade the services they provide to keep in line with the technological trends and be a part of this virtual revolution. It is believed that the design and development of a Virtual Reality (VR) library can be the community and knowledge hub the society needs. In this paper, the process of creating a partially digital replica of the Limassol Municipal University Library, a landmark for the city of Limassol, is examined by using photogrammetry and 3D modelling. A 3D platform was developed, where users have the perception that they are experiencing the actual library. To that end, a perceptual study was conducted, to understand the current usage of physical libraries, examine the users’ experience in VR, and identify the requirements and expectations in the development of a virtual library counterpart. Following the suggestions and observations from the perceptual study, five key scenarios were implemented that demonstrate the potential use of a virtual library. This work incorporates the fundamental VR attributes, such as immersiveness, realism, user interactivity and feedback as well as other features, such as animated NPCs, 3D audio, ray-casting and GUIs, that significantly augment the overall VR library user experience, presence as well as navigation autonomy. The main effort of this project was to produce a VR representation of an existing physical library, integrated with its key services, as a proof-of-concept, with emphasis on easy 24/7 access, functionality, and interactivity. The above attributes differentiate this work from existing studies. A detailed user evaluation study was conducted upon completion of the final VR library implementation, which firmly confirmed all its key attributes and future viability.

Why Digital Preservation Should Be Treated as Public Policy

This persuasive position paper aims to discuss the public policy gaps in digital preservation identified by UNESCO and persuade the development of the current digital public policies. To evidence these gaps, the principal topics of digital public policies (digital strategy) from four countries were analyzed: Brazil, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The analysis evidence that these digital public policies are focused on the modernization of public administration and cybersecurity; they do not contemplate digital preservation. To support the position, current legislation in record management is indicated to connect the preservation of physical and digital documents. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is also used to persuade because digital preservation is an indispensable component of sustainable development. That is because today, large amounts of cultural heritage are created and only available digitally, and never “fixed” in a physical form, museums, archives, and libraries, also embarking on an epic journey to digitization and “no development is sustainable without considering culture.” Digital culture heritage must be available for future generations, and only digital preservation can guarantee that; therefore, digital preservation must be treated as a public policy.

Environmental Sustainability and Libraries

ABSTRACT The environmental sustainability of libraries is an important topic. While many librarians are concerned about this topic and believe that libraries have an important role to play in this area, there is still much work to do. Libraries should implement plans related to sustainability the considers all aspects of the library including the physical library building, outreach and instruction, collections (both print and digital), preservation, remote work, travel, disaster planning, and more.

LuminousBookWeb

Abstract: "LuminousBookWeb" is a groundbreaking library management system designed for an enhanced user experience. The system features a dynamic online catalog with keyword search, providing detailed book information, abstracts, and full PDF access. A streamlined booking system generates QR codes for physical library transition, integrating with a smart almirah that guides users to booked books using responsive lighting. This project redefines library interactions by seamlessly blending digital cataloging with a novel wayfinding mechanism, simplifying material retrieval, and offering an interactive and user-friendly library experience.

Unveiling the Molecular Mechanism of Diosmetin and its Impact on Multifaceted Cellular Signaling Pathways.

Diosmetin is an O-methylated flavone and the aglycone part of the flavonoid glycosides diosmin that occurs naturally in citrus fruits. Pharmacologically, diosmetin is reported to exhibit anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, oestrogenic, and anti-inflammatory activities. This comprehensive review was aimed to critically explore diverse pharmacological activities exhibited by diosmetin. Along with that, this review can also identify potential research areas with an elucidation of the multifactorial underlying signaling mechanism of action of diosmetin in different diseases. A comprehensive collection of evidence and insights was obtained from scientific journals and books from physical libraries and electronic platforms like Google Scholar and PubMed. The time frame selected was from year 1992 to July 2023. The review delves into diosmetin's impact on cellular signaling pathways and its potential in various diseases. Due to its ability to modulate signaling pathways and reduce oxidative stress, it can be suggested as a potential versatile therapeutic agent for mitigating oxidative stressassociated pathogenesis. The amalgamation of the review underscores diosmetin's promising role as a multifaceted therapeutic agent, highlighting its potential for drug development and clinical applications.

Development of Digital Collections In Libraries and Archives In The Development of Economic Science In Bandung

With the rapid advancement of technology, libraries can now be accessed digitally. A digital library is an online or digital-based library that provides access to various types of books, journals, articles and other reading materials. Digital libraries provide services that allow users to read, download, or even search for specific materials they need without having to go to a physical library. Digital libraries can be accessed from anywhere and at any time, as long as there is an internet connection. In recent years, digital libraries have become increasingly popular due to their practicality and easy access to information and knowledge. The aim of this research is to develop library collections digitally; Facilitate access to information and knowledge from anywhere and at any time. Providing more effective and efficient library services using digital technology. Increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of library collection management.

Towards User-Centred Framework for Reconfiguring Library Spaces in the Global South: Case of Kenyan Universities

In the global sphere, there is a trend that is gaining momentum in university libraries, and that is the shifting nature of the physical library spaces. The transition from print to electronic resources is among the issues influencing the shifting of library spaces. The change in pedagogy, where learning activities now lay emphasis on collaboration and group projects, necessitates new requirements in physical library spaces to rhyme with the new purposes and learning styles that better meet users’ needs. Unfortunately, the available library space reconfiguring frameworks are inclined to the global north, which may not be suitable for the global south countries such as Kenya. It is on this strength that this paper seeks to explore how to attain user-centred university library spaces in the global south that meet the needs and wants of the users. The main objective of this paper is to propose a framework for reconfiguring university library spaces. The paper intended to achieve this by exploring suggestions on additional spaces and facilities to be included in the library, identifying attractive spaces and features of a library, exploring projections of the future outlook of the library, and examining elements of a desirable model space for university libraries in Kenya. The methodology employed a pragmatic research philosophy and multiple case studies. Data was collected from students, academic staff, librarians and university librarians. The qualitative data was thematically analysed, while the quantitative data used descriptive statistics. Based on the findings, the study proposed a user-centred framework for reconfiguring university library spaces in Kenya.

Stop, Collaborate, and List ‘Em: Creating Local Metadata to Promote User Discovery of Minoritized Identities in a STEM Collection

Historical and modern scientific thought is dominated by the English language, colonized science, patriarchal norms, and Westernized “ways of knowing.” By making materials that lie outside that narrative discoverable (e.g., non-Western science, Indigenous/Aboriginal knowledge, women in science, etc.) we can assert that science is a global endeavor by representing diverse scientists on physical library shelves or ebook “shelves.” The Cataloging and Metadata Librarian and Science and Outreach Librarian at Furman University, a small liberal arts college, collaborated on a project to address discriminatory practices in the catalog records of a subset of the libraries’ STEM collection. Spurred by another project to update deprecated Cutters in Library of Congress call numbers, we assessed collection content with an eye to improve future collection development and created a local method for collocating DEI materials within an Alma consortium catalog. The intended goals of the project were to update the collection, improve metadata to increase discoverability, and develop an auditing process to use for other collections.

Biological Activities and Traditional Use of Hyptis suaveolens in Human and Veterinary Medicine: A Review

Hyptis suaveolens (H. suaveolens), known as Gros baume or sweet-smelling Hyptis, is an invasive plant from tropical regions widely used to manage human and animal ailments, such as bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases. This study aimed to synthesize a scientific research work on the use of this medicinal plant in the traditional pharmacopeia, as well as the biological and pharmacological activities already recognized in the literature. Information for this synthesis was collected from physical (libraries and documentation centers of universities in Benin) and reliable scientific databases, such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, which were queried based on the keywords related to H. suaveolens. This plant contains secondary metabolites in its aerial parts, such as leaves, and stems, which are rich in essential oils. From leaves to roots, all parts of this plant are of interest to both humans and animals to treat various pathologies. The most frequently cited diseases include asthma, panariasis, jaundice, hyperthermia, indigestion, stomach pains, nausea, colds, gall bladder infections, breast abscesses, hemorrhoids, oral-anal candidiasis, edemas, cramps, and skin infections The various aqueous and ethanolic extracts are evaluated by researchers and the biological activities are indicated in the literature. Those activities include the antibacterial, antifungal, larvicidal, antioxidant, anticholinesterase, insect repellent, and insecticidal effects. However, no toxicity resulting from the use of this plant has yet been reported in the literature. Research on H. suaveolens toxicity must be continued to gain a comprehensive understanding of its application in human and livestock health. This literature review allows the virtues and risks related to the traditional use of H. suaveolens in human and animal pharmacopeia. The various potentialities of this plant provide a lever for exploring its antiviral effects in traditional veterinary medicine in general.

Analysis of Library School Syllabi Reveals Poor Design and Limited Content about Disability and Accessibility

A Review of:Pionke, J. (2023). What are library graduate students learning about disability and accessibility? A syllabus analysis. Urban Library Journal, 29(1). https://academicworks.cuny.edu/ulj/vol29/iss1/2/ Objective – To analyze the disability and accessibility content of library sciences courses. As well as to determine the importance of teaching students about this topic throughout programs covered in the study. Design – Qualitative study involving the data analysis of syllabi. Setting – Selected library graduate school curriculum programs in the United States. Subjects – In total, 77 syllabi drawn from 49 institutions taken from the American Library Association listing of accredited library school graduate programs. Methods – The author used keyword searches to identify courses offered between 2017–2020 that contained content on disability and accessibility. Syllabi were available for 77 of the 145 identified courses. The author analyzed the sample set (n=77) for both content and structure. Main Results – Poor citation structure, disability accommodation statements, assessment, and a focus on digital accessibility were among the main findings highlighted. The author identified four major categories to explain and understand the content found on the syllabi; these descriptors were further broken down into sub-categories to explain the findings of each topic content area. Highlights of the results are: disability and accessibility topics and all related terms were ranked according to number of times they appeared, e.g. digital content, usability, web/internet, coding (22); instruction and information literacy (16); and specific demographics etc. (10); the organization and sequencing of when course content was presented - at the beginning, middle and end of the semester; citation currency– Two hundred syllabi were analyzed. One hundred and forty-one syllabi had fairly current citation dates falling between 2009-2018. Forty-eight had no dates and eleven had dates that were outdated (2008 or earlier); assignments – which measured the learning outcome of the said topic were reported in the following way: nothing assigned (67); 1 or more assignments (11); undetermined (3). Conclusion –The study underlies that a well-crafted syllabus effectively communicates the goals of the course – the importance of the topic structure about disability and accessibility in library schools’ curricula. The author identified numerous design flaws that impact how the content relays information about the course’s pedagogy. The data suggest the need for the following improvements on the syllabi: professional topic presentation, variety of formats in texts and materials and their access, citation currency and poor structure, assignments and organization sequencing of course content, a number of assessment focused observations on vague assignments or lack of examples provided, and the inclusion of disability statements. Some of the higher order concerns were: the ableist language contained, outdated language, and the lack of stated university-related disability resources for students. All of the aforementioned present an accessibility barrier for disabled students and may affect the general perception about the topic. The author recommends that stronger guidelines for LIS educators would be advantageous to students, encourage disability awareness and the best DEI practices. Further to this, libraries should implement and adapt a strategic plan that would help overcome accessibility barriers for patron delivery services. There must be an increased emphasis on teaching about accessibility that expands beyond forms of digital media. Providing equitable library services in all areas for the disabled populations in the physical library spaces is needed.

Staff Affection, the Key Factor in the Loyalty of University Students using Virtual Library Services that are Accessible by a Physical Access Space, in Developing Countries

Virtual libraries are essential in strengthening research and education, especially in universities in the Dominican Republic. Despite facing various challenges, they offer services in physical spaces. This study examines the relevance of system quality, service quality, information quality, and staff interaction on student satisfaction and loyalty toward these physical virtual libraries. A survey of 531 students was analyzed using SPSS and PLS-SEM. Findings show that staff interaction positively affects user loyalty, though not satisfaction. Additionally, system quality, information quality, and service quality continue to positively influence user satisfaction, which, in turn, affects user loyalty. This research deepens our understanding of staff's influence on user loyalty in developing countries' virtual libraries.

Role of Libraries in the Simultaneous Threats of the COVID 19 Pandemic and Flood in Kamrup Metro District of Assam

Corona virus disease or COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by a virus named corona which is said to be originated from China. In the year 2021 the virus has got spread all the over the world which has resulted many deaths of the people. Also the physical library services were stopped to minimize the COVID cases. In the pandemic situation the information exchange plays a very vital role. Accurate information is the key to handle the chaotic situation. Exchange of false information seems to be on the rise. It has created a situation of ‘infodemic’ as stated by the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). This has not only affected research work severely but has also created chaos among the laypeople. Flood event of the Brahmaputra River in the Indian north-eastern state of Assam coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. Kamrup Metro district of Assam being in the bank of river Brahmaputra faces a severe flood problem. Due to the poor drainage system the people living in the district suffers from the problem of flood. Diseases such as Dengue, Malaria and Japanese Encephalitis are likely to increase in stagnant water left by receding floods. Treatment of these diseases have been hindered by fear of the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions have hampered the efforts to destroy mosquito breeding sites and awareness-raising among at-risk populations.

Exploring Distinctions Between Library Users and Nonusers in a Public Research University

This study examines data from a survey conducted at a U.S. public research university, focusing on students’ behaviors and attitudes toward the library, both physical and online. The analysis categorizes student users and nonusers based on demographics such as full-time enrollment, first-generation status, college, and grade point average (GPA). Results indicate that first-generation students were most likely to never use the online library. Low GPA respondents visited the physical library most frequently, whereas high GPA students were more inclined to use e-resources. The discussion section includes suggestions for improving services and resources to support student success.

Making Space, Engaging Students

Reed College is a small liberal arts college located in Portland, Oregon. Students work and study on a mostly residential campus and the library has historically been the heart of academic and campus life. This relationship was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic as Reed shifted to online learning and library staff worked remotely. After more than a year, students and library staff returned to campus but other disruptions impacted student use of services and physical library space. A major seismic renovation closed a large section of the library. During this 18-month renovation, almost 40 percent of library seating and assigned desks were unavailable for student use. These major disruptions meant that both incoming and some upper-level students had no established relationship to the library beyond virtual interactions. It became evident there was a need to re-engage and re-energize students’ relationship with all aspects of library spaces and services.

Student Satisfaction with Physical and Digital Library Facilities in Higher Education Institutes

Student Satisfaction with Physical and Digital Library Facilities in Higher Education Institutes