Library Practice Research Articles

Airport Common-Use Check-in Operations: A Novel and Efficient Model

This paper examines the capacity problems of common-use environment service improvement and airport passenger services in line with information technology (IT) issues. There are many time-critical processes in the airport terminal for the necessary airport passenger flow processes that IT service design aims to support it. Many flow processes can be designed under several functions while international, domestic, or general aviation cases. The current approaches have been based on the standard industrial methods based on the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) practices. However, this infrastructure library practices’ distinct general industrial foundations and airport time-critical processes could not fit customer expectations. This research offers an approach by adding a pre-layer with a user certification rather than fixing the problems on the ground. Although the proposed novel model does not conflict with the ITIL practices, it primarily develops the practices by coinciding with them a certificated training of end users to establish a positive passenger experience and helping the profitability of the airport. The offered model simulation results show that the Airport IT Service helpdesk and field team instantaneous utilization average was reduced from 96% to 28%, and the field team queue duration during the airport peak hours was 26 minutes to 2 minutes. This study demonstrates that the airport IT support service design should be reconsidered during its passenger service operation.

Data services and the librarian: Supporting early career researchers and online learners via the library

Library aid in research data creation and usage is an important component in preparing researchers for ethical careers. Librarians as research guides, curators and advocates for open access information have been a long-established practice for some academic libraries, and while the topic of data in libraries is frequently discussed, libraries are often without guidance on how to launch these services. This paper explores data services available to online learners offered by R1 and R2 university libraries that academic libraries investigating the inclusion of data services may consider for their own research communities. While the investigator is unable to identify a common framework among these research institutions, study results demonstrate a higher proportion of services and information available in online formats by R1 institutions over R2 institutions.

Shifting to a high impact practice-centered student worker staffed research desk: a Hispanic serving institution perspective

PurposeThe authors seek to demonstrate, from a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI) perspective, the importance of utilizing High Impact Practices (HIPs) for not only more meaningful student employment initiatives, but to benefit the campus community and prepare Hispanic students for success post-graduation.Design/methodology/approachEvaluation of current practices in academic libraries aided the design of the new staffing model, location and name. A survey of research desk student assistants was designed and implemented approximately one academic year after changes were executed. Survey data combined with follow-up interviews summarized the qualitative-focused assessment of the research desk's evolution and verified the validity of maintaining HIPs in libraries for Hispanic student success.FindingsThe transition of the reference desk to a student-staffed research desk was successful in that librarians were able to dedicate more time to other endeavors, such as campus outreach and collection development. The High Impact Practice (HIP)-focused desk model, along with new, customized onboarding and training materials, fulfilled their goals of giving student assistants meaningful employment on campus while also bridging the gap between the library and the mostly Hispanic, first-generation student population. An assessment from the student assistants' point of view helped them further analyze the new research desk model. They found that student assistants noticed the ease with which their peers approached the desk and how their skills learned on the research desk transferred to their classes and future careers.Research limitations/implicationsDue to the COVID-19 pandemic and the restructuring of library personnel the authors were unable to implement library patron surveys to evaluate the new desk model.Originality/valueMany academic libraries and partners have made the transition to student-staffed help desks or offer peer-to-peer tutoring or mentoring services. HIPs positively impact marginalized student populations scholastically, but no current studies discuss the effect on the Hispanic student population from an HSI perspective. This study illuminates the wholistic influence HIPs have on Hispanic student assistants, not only their work and peers, but the affect on their academic and personal lives.

Librarianship in The Era of Digital Divide: Review of Literature

Librarianship is an evolving discipline having its feet in partially every profession. It is the foundation upon which all other professions in the world over built their structure of existence. It is no longer news that the application of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) has revolutionized the practice of librarianship. This paper therefore, examined the place of librarians in the digital divide. Furthermore, the assumption that those who have knowledge of ICTs are adequately equipped with functional information than those who do not was also examined. Who librarians are and their responsibilities, effects of digital divide on librarianship practice, factors contributory to the digital divide and the challenges confronting the practice in the digital divide were highlighted. The paper concluded that training and re-training of librarians in the form of capacity building is inevitable if librarians will occupy their space in the digital era.

AWARENESS OF DIGITAL LIBRARIES IN SIVAGANGAI TOWN, SIVAGANGAI DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU: A STUDY

A Digital library, also called an online library, an internet library, a digital repository, a library without walls, or a digital collection is an online database of digital objects that can include text, still images, audio, video, digital documents, or other digital media formats or a library accessible through the internet. Objects can consist of digitized content like print or photographs, as well as originally produced digital content like word processor files or social media posts. Research and practice in digital Libraries (DL) has exploded worldwide in the 1990s. Substantial research findings have become available, libraries are actively involved in Digital Libraries projects and conference, journals and online news lists proliferate. In general, researchers view digital libraries as content collected on behalf of user communities, while practicing librarians view digital libraries as institutions or services. Future trends point toward the need for extensive research in digital libraries and for the transformation of libraries as institutions. This study is to analyze the awareness on Digital Libraries among the users in Sivagangai Town, Sivagangai District, Tamil Nadu

AI-Based Literature Reviews: A Topic Modeling Approach

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of topic modelling in conducting literature reviews using the opensource LDAShiny package in the R environment, with green libraries literature as a case study. To conduct the analysis, a title and abstract dataset were prepared using the Scopus database and imported into the LDAShiny package for further analysis. It was found that the green libraries' literature ranged from 1989-2023, with a sharp increase in research topics since 2003. The study also identified key themes and documents associated with green libraries research, revealing that energy efficiency, waste reduction and recycling, and the use of sustainable materials have been extensively discussed in the literature. However, further research is needed on the implementation of these practices in libraries, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on green libraries. The findings will be beneficial to researchers interested in using topic modelling for literature reviews.

On the Expediency of Improving the System of Legal Regulation of Information Relations in the Field of Librarianship in the Context of Cyber Law

An attempt is made to analyze new institutional formations in the system of information law — «Internet law», «cyber law», «digital law». Based on the study of the approaches of various authors, the ratio of these categories is presented. It is proved that digital law is a priority for the legal regulation of fundamentally new public relations emerging over the use of end-to-end digital technologies, while improving the system of legal regulation from the standpoint of cyber law seems more promising as a direction for improving the legal regulation of traditional information institutions that are incapable of rapid digital transformation.According to the results of the study, the author concludes that one of the traditional information institutions, the improvement of the system of legal regulation of which it is advisable to consider in the context of cyber law, is the institute of legal regulation of information relations in the field of librarianship. It is argued that this approach will make it possible to adapt the legal regulation of library and information activities to the digital environment for the period of introduction of end-to-end digital technologies into library practice, while maintaining a balance of providing library and information services in traditional and electronic forms

Developing librarians’ teaching practice: a case study of learning advisors sharing their knowledge

Increasingly, tertiary librarians are required to teach as part of their role. There is recognition that ongoing professional development (PD) is required in teaching and learning as this is not generally provided as part of formal library qualifications. Using an education design-based research approach, this collaboration aimed to enhance the teaching practice of liaison librarians to enable more consistent review, planning, and design of information literacy workshops. As part of a wider PD programme for liaison librarians at Auckland University of Technology (AUT), learning advisors developed and taught three workshops. The learning advisors were chosen by the library leadership due to their teaching expertise and adaptability. They provide embedded, academic literacy support for students tailored to specific assessment guidelines and marking criteria. The aim was to share examples of learner advisor practice underpinned by relevant theory and applied directly to an information literacy context. Liaison librarians were exposed to workshop strategies to develop appropriate learning outcomes, content, and pedagogical approaches for planning ongoing teaching. They had opportunities to assess and evaluate their current knowledge and skills and consider new approaches. These sessions enabled the team to go forward with shared knowledge to guide their workshop design to create more consistent, sustainable, and measurable content. Another outcome was the co-development of workshop design principles which have been applied to the redevelopment of workshops. As this process is replicable, the value of sharing knowledge and expertise between teams such as learning advisors and liaison librarians is worth exploring further.

Innovative library practices in the context of industry modernization: Experience of historical analysis

The main directions of modernization of library business and development of innovative activity of libraries under the influence of this process in the 90s and the decades following them are considered. The relationship of these basic vectors of development of the industry has not actually been the subject of special consideration. The article is an experience of system analysis of innovative practices of Russian libraries in the context of modernization as a global process of transformation of social development. The concept of "modernization of librarianship" is defined as a complex process that includes not only the computerization of the industry, but also its socio-cultural, institutional, managerial, functional and organizational transformations. The features of the initial stage of transition of domestic libraries to the path of modernization are characterized. It is noted that in accordance with the General trends of modernization, the domestic library business at the turn of the Millennium moved from linear progress, i. e. extensive development path to intensive, providing for qualitative transformations of the industry. The article presents external and internal modernization factors that influenced the innovative changes in the industry. The main trends in the development of library innovations are highlighted, which have enriched the implementation of the basic social functions of libraries in terms of content and technology: information, memorial, educational, cultural and educational, social and communicative. The article highlights the main trends in the development of innovations that affected the basic social functions of libraries: information, memorial, educational, cultural and educational, social and communicative. The article analyzes the socio-targets, tools and content of functional transformations of libraries. It is concluded that modernization, as the general vector of the development of the industry, is the main stimulus for library innovations, which, in turn, are its practical implementation in the processes of functioning of libraries.

Digital humanities practice in university libraries of Bangladesh

PurposeDigital humanities (DH) is a scholarly lens through which computing methods and technological tools are used for the research of humanistic disciplines. The purpose of this study is to identify the current practicing situation of DH in the university libraries of Bangladesh.Design/methodology/approachSurvey methods were used for gathering data using a well-structured questionnaire. The websites of different universities national and international organizations, and DH-related websites from different corners of the globe were also used for the gathering of data and information.FindingsThe findings revealed that there are some hindrances to practicing DH, such as lack of IT skills, funds and problems with intellectual property rights act practicing and provided some suitable suggestions for the advancement of DH in the university libraries of Bangladesh.Originality/valueThe outcome of this paper might be a valuable reference tool for researchers and professionals of the DH discipline. The insights and views of the respondents regarding computational tools and technologies obtained from this study are original and unique in nature.

Digital Initiatives in Academic Libraries: Challenges and Opportunities

Digital initiatives have become increasingly common in academic libraries, but inconsistent definitions, standards, and expectations limit and, in some cases, negatively impact the effectiveness of practitioners. This article explores the discourse surrounding professional titles and responsibilities in digital initiatives within North American academic libraries between 1990 and 2020. A review of job advertisements, position descriptions, and professional activities reveals ambiguously defined responsibilities, inadequate technical education, and limited opportunities for training. Current trends suggest digital initiatives will expand from traditional digitization and digital library projects toward more diverse and flexible digital project management. This change will require familiarity with software development, systems administration, and library practices. The implication for library science education is the need for course programming that reflects these trends.

The Heart of the University: Revisiting an Enduring Metaphor

One of the most enduring and controversial metaphors to describe the academic library is this: "The academic library is the heart of the university." For 150 years, librarians have both embraced and rejected this metaphor in equal measure. For some, the metaphor is old, dusty, and ignorant of contemporary library practices; for others, it endures precisely because of the place it affords the library at the center of the university. While it is understandable that these polarized views persist, is contestation the only possible outcome of this discussion? Subjecting the metaphor to a more critical analysis has the potential to rekindle an appreciation for it and to reveal other possible understandings hidden within its words. This paper draws on traditions of metaphor analysis to invite questions about how this metaphor might be construed and read differently. In doing so, the aim is to indicate why and how the metaphor remains vital, and to examine how it can refresh academic library scholarship and practice. Its future relevance lies not with the library as the heart of the university, but with the library engaged in the scholarly debate about what the heart of the university is.

Продвижение научных знаний и точки пересечения с библиотекой

The article examines the potential of the library as a possible active participant in the interaction of science and society. The situation with the library nowadays can be described as the search for its new niche in the readers’ space. The purpose of the article is to analyze the possibilities of libraries for the development of communications between science and society. The first part of the article presents the history and analysis of the modern participation of libraries in the communication of science and society, the second part analyses the potential of libraries in this process. The authors come to the following conclusion: libraries can become one of the conditions for rational communication between science and society, which should act not only in the usual system of documentary communication, but also in the system of data communication, interpersonal communication. Libraries should expand their role in the society: to be an intermediary and serve not only “scientist to scientist” communication, but also “scientist to the society” communication. The study showed that various forms both one-time and repetitive mass events of a popular scientific nature have not yet become systemic. The practice of libraries’ participation in other facets of communication between science and society (increasing public understanding of science; involving the public in science) is not yet visible at all. The weak influence of libraries on the development of communications between science and society is also evidenced by the analysis of their activities presented on their websites. This practice is confirmed not only by the analysis of websites, but also by publications: their number is not large (31), and by the way, the authors tackle this topic only once. The paper suggests solving of the above-mentioned problems using huge potential of the libraries.

What leadership qualities are necessary for productive librarianship? Explore coaxial traits of academic librarians in the twin cities of Pakistan

Academic libraries are experiencing significant changes, and leadership plays an essential role in successfully implementing those changes. The study analyzed the leadership practices in academic libraries in Pakistan's twin cities (Islamabad and Rawalpindi). Another important purpose of the study was to shed light on the adopted practices in decision-making and motivating staff. The qualitative research approach was used to achieve the objectives. A structured interview method was employed to collect data from twenty chief librarians or directors of university libraries in Rawalpindi and Islamabad (twin cities). A purposive sampling technique was used. Open-ended questions were used to collect the data by considering the research objectives. The consent was taken from the selected LIS professionals as prior permission for the interview. NVivo was used to analyze the data, which was then presented using thematic content analysis. The findings revealed that most university library leaders were practising and following the participatory leadership style, also known as democratic leadership.The study will create awareness among academic professionals about the adopted leadership styles and practices and the benefits that can be obtained by implementing them. It will also attract the attention of associated bodies towards this dilemma and result in a positive initiative to build leadership skills in LIS professionals. To our knowledge, no prior study has been conducted to analyze the leadership practices in academic libraries in the Twin Cities, Pakistan. This study will fill that niche.

Exploring the Potential of Big Data Analytics in Improving Library Management in Indonesia: Challenges, Opportunities, and Best Practice

This column aims to explore the potential of big data analytics in improving library management in Indonesia and identify the challenges, opportunities, and best practices for libraries when applying big data analytics. Using of literature review of published studies, this column examines the current state of big data analytics in library management in Indonesia and provides recommendations, including a SWOT analysis, for implementing big data analytics in operations. It also highlighted several challenges such as limited resources, limited access to technology and digital literacy among librarians, and limited data security measures which could put sensitive patron data at risk.

The reader's way: student process guiding library practice

PurposeThis paper explores the academic reading behaviors of first-year students in an attempt to understand their experiences and develop potential reading interventions to support undergraduate students.Design/methodology/approachResearchers used qualitative research methods to elicit in-depth findings regarding reading behaviors. They interviewed fifteen first-year students who had completed a required writing course regarding their reading habits and used open coding to analyze interviews.FindingsInvestigators discovered that the narrative from national media that students do not read discounts the volume and variety of texts that students regularly interact with in a variety of contexts. Several themes emerged from the interviews: (1) Students like to read in a variety of designated spaces at any time of the day or night, (2) Students prefer reading in print, but mostly read online, and (3) Students reported difficult vocabulary as the most significant challenge in reading academic texts, but also reported emotional concerns regarding reading.Originality/valueWhile previous studies have focused on factors such as format preference and time limitations that influence reading behaviors, this study contributes to the body of research looking at the reading behaviors of college students more holistically, providing new insights informing a range of library interventions to support student success in academic reading. In its use of student interviews, this study offers a student-centered contribution to the literature on student reading behaviors and considers the implications of these behaviors on librarian practice.

Tеrminology of information culture in the context of modern library practices

Tеrminology of information culture in the context of modern library practices

Launching a 3D Printing Program for Students: Recommendations and Best Practices for Libraries

Launching a 3D Printing Program for Students: Recommendations and Best Practices for Libraries

Use of Library for Promoting Students’ Learning

Library practices in schools exert significant influence on students’ learning attitude and behavior. This paper explores the existing situation of library practices in community and institutional schools of Nepal. Despite a number of options to educate students in school from library-use, library provision and its existing practices in community and institutional schools in Nepal are still unsearched. In context students study only during the time of their class, assignment and examination preparation, how the schools make use of library for the promotion of students’ learning is the main concern of the study. Information for the study was collected from fieldnotes and lived experiences of eight participants: one teacher and one student from each of four schools: two institutional and two community. The study found that teachers in community schools occasionally visit the library and rarely encourage their students to benefit from the library. However, some students were found to borrow books from the library. As students in institutional schools have library period once a week, they enjoy reading books or doing something in the library. Overall library practice in Nepal lacks adequate proficiency in management, administration, and provision of study materials; and ultimately has not motivated students’ hearty participation.

Routinised practices of community librarians: Daily struggles of Dutch public libraries to be(come) social infrastructures

Next to their traditional role as places for information provision and knowledge transmission, public libraries increasingly also function as important social infrastructures contributing to the everyday life in cities. As such, they can help to address systemic challenges such as social fragmentation, loneliness, exclusion and precarity. However, the library not merely is a social infrastructure, but becomes one each operating day through continuous labour by a network of stakeholders. This paper specifically examines library staff and their routinised practices to provide, perform and maintain the library as social infrastructure. The empirical research was carried out in four public libraries in the Netherlands and focussed on staff members who were in a 1-year post-graduate programme to become a community librarian, and their close colleagues. It consisted of two phases: first librarians were shadowed at work, followed by a focus group interview on the multiple problems librarians encounter to (re)make their library into social infrastructures. These include coping with limited space, collaborating with other institutions, difficulties to reach out to the community, financial struggles and differentiating interpretations of the library’s primary function.