Library Practice Research Articles

Model for integration of information and communication technologies in resource sharing practices for enhanced service delivery in academic libraries in southeast Nigeria

PurposeThis study aims to develop a model for integration of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in resource sharing practices for enhanced service delivery in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria. Seven objectives guided the study; ICT-based resource sharing practices in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria; ICT infrastructure for resource sharing; ICT needs of librarians for resource sharing practices; stages of ICT integration in resource sharing; perception of librarians towards ICT-based resource sharing; challenges to integration of ICT in resource sharing practices; design a model for the integration of ICT into resource sharing; all in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria.Design/methodology/approachThe research design adopted for this study is the mixed research design containing the “descriptive survey” research design and the “research and development, R&D.” The population of the study is 164, comprising all of the librarians in federal universities in Southeast Nigeria. All of the librarians of the five federal universities will be involved in the study. Hence, there was no sampling. The instrument for data collection is a structured questionnaire.FindingsThe findings of the study revealed that 88.8% of the librarians use ICT to boost the volume of resources; while 74% of the librarians were positive in all responses pertaining to ICT-based resource sharing practices in the libraries. The study also revealed that ICT infrastructures in the library for resource sharing are highly available and applicable; while computers and internet networks are the most needed gadgets for the operations. Libraries in Southeast Nigeria are in the applying and transforming stages of ICT adoption at a 69.7% response rate; while the librarians have a strong belief and understanding that a lot can be achieved in resource sharing through ICT; and would recommend such. Poor electrification, inadequate funding and unavailability of some ICT technologies were equally identified as challenges. The study conclusively developed a resource sharing model, the Southeast Federal University Library Connect; accessible at https://southeastfeduniconnect.njh.com.ngOriginality/valueThe research study is one of the few types of research that has developed a functional model for resource sharing in academic libraries in Southeast Nigeria.

Knowledge sharing strategies for improved service provision in the academic library at Delta State University Abraka Nigeria

The changes experienced in the digital era require academic library staff to constantly update, expand, and develop their skills in order to carry out their roles efficiently and remain relevant in the provision of services to clients. Consequently, academic libraries have been among the first organizations to adopt knowledge sharing as a means to enhance the provision of services to clients. Several studies on knowledge sharing in academic libraries have been conducted in recent years. However, the focus of these discussions has been on understanding the knowledge sharing practices in academic libraries, and on technology as a factor making knowledge sharing possible so as to improve service provision in this context. Delta State University (DELSU) has yet to develop, adopt and formalize adequate strategies for sharing knowledge so as to improve service provision. This article explores the barriers to knowledge sharing among staff at the DELSU library and suggests strategies to enhance knowledge sharing among staff for improved service provision. A mixed method research approach and case study research design were adopted. A census was conducted on the target population, consisting of the entire staff at the DELSU library, using questionnaires that comprised both open and closed ended questions, while seven heads of department from the various library sections were purposively sampled for the collection of data through interviews. Social exchange theory provided the underpinning for the study. The findings revealed a lack of effective knowledge sharing for service provision in the library. The absence of a knowledge sharing culture; the absence of information and communication technology tools and infrastructure; a lack of motivation; and inferiority and superiority complexes among staff hindered knowledge sharing, with concomitant repercussions for service provision in the library. Strategies for knowledge sharing among the staff for improved service provision were suggested.

The overview of knowledge management for the benefits of service-based value in the university libraries:

There is an exclusive chance for university libraries to contribute to the future reimagining of library services. In this regard, the job of KM might be extremely successful. As a result, university libraries may provide excellent user services by utilizing KM. This research is to explore the existing models of Knowledge Management (KM) and how the existing models of KM are implemented at university libraries, to recognize how KM is being implemented at university libraries as reported in earlier research, and the benefits of KM practices for creating service value for libraries. This research was performed following the “Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA)” guidelines. The study found that a skilled workforce and expertise are required for effective KM implementation in university libraries. Outdated skills may serve as a starting point for KM in university libraries, but they are insufficient for providing service-based value. There is a need for Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals to develop additional competencies for KM practice in university libraries. Based on the findings and discussion, it can be concluded that all the authors have recognized the importance of KM in libraries. This finding would aid the university libraries and offer current KM knowledge to other libraries. Therefore, this research would be an excellent addition to the application of KM in university libraries.

Post-war Polish scholarship on the history and theory of library science

The author of the paper explores the development of the concept of Polish post-war library science as an academic discipline and demonstrates the wealth of achievement in librarianship studies. Theoretical reflections on and the ongoing discussion about the scope of library science provide a background for the presentation of practical solutions applied in the work of libraries. The author presents library science concepts and the authors of important publications contributing to the development of the discipline, practical librarian tasks and the academic training of librarians. In addition, she analyses librarianship achievements with regard to the characteristic, statutory tasks and functions of libraries, as well as to typology, showing their significance to librarianship practice in Poland and to the quality of the academic training of librarians. There is also a brief description of the profile of the librarianship curriculum at the leading university-level institutions educating librarians.

Decentering Whiteness in the Academic Library: Investigating the Impact of Institutional Whiteness on Organizational Culture through a Case Study of a Grassroots Anti-Racist Community of Practice in an Academic Library

This article reports on a small-scale research project conducted in the summer of 2021. It explores the impact of a grass-roots Anti-Racist Community of Practice on organizational culture and how much it influenced the decision-making practices of the library’s Senior Management Team. Discussed are issues of structural and institutional racism, privilege, power tensions, the impact of whiteness, and the problem of a policy-led approach to increasing diversity. A case study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with eleven participants who were either part of the Anti-Racist Community of Practice, the Senior Management Team, or both. The results of the research show that the Anti-Racist Community of Practice has significantly influenced organizational culture and has shifted the decision-making processes of the Senior Management Team in the library. However, changes in decision-making have not yet manifested in anti-racist practice becoming embedded at the senior level of the library.

Indexing Excellence: Best Practices in Library Abstracting for Information Retrieval

Indexing and abstracting play pivotal roles in organizing and retrieving information within libraries. This paper delves into the intricate landscape of optimal indexing practices and their profound implications on the efficiency of information retrieval systems. By scrutinizing the methodologies employed in creating high-quality abstracts, this study aims to shed light on their substantial influence on the accessibility and usability of information resources within library collections. The investigation focuses on the multifaceted aspects of indexing excellence, exploring its direct correlation with improved information retrieval mechanisms. It examines in detail the methodologies, standards, and tools utilized in the creation and application of high-quality abstracts. Furthermore, it critically evaluates the utilization of controlled vocabularies and adherence to established indexing guidelines, highlighting their indispensable roles in ensuring the precision and relevance of indexed content. Analyzing the intersection of indexing practices and their impact on information retrieval, this study aims to provide valuable insights into enhancing the efficacy of library abstracting. Recognizing the importance of streamlined access to information resources, this research endeavors to contribute to the continual evolution of information science and user-centered library services.

Open Science News Informing System for Scientific Libraries

The purpose of the study is to theoretically and practically substantiate the need to introduce an online news information system into library practice as part of the information support of scientific activities (on the example of Open Science). The work theoretically substantiates that improving the news information system in libraries is necessary in connection with the development of technology, open science, library activities and the rapid growth of disparate sources of information. The experience analysis of 130 libraries in presenting various news information products has led to the conclusion that the implementation of news information requires appropriate technology that would allow us to model the sequence of processes and operations for generating news library and information products.As a result the model of a news information system on open science is developed, which allows searching, collecting, processing, and synthesizing news information on open science, as well as creating, posting and distributing information products, their qualitative and quantitative assessment of effectiveness to be made. It has been implemented on the web platform of the State Public Library for Science and Technology of the Siberian Branch of RAS “Library for Open Science” in January 2023 and demonstrates a gradual increase in the number of all web analytical indicators of news information products created on its basis.

Methodical work of libraries of Ukraine in the conditions of martial law

The article is devoted to the analysis of the leading directions of methodical activity of Ukrainian libraries in the conditions of martial law. It is substantiated that methodical work has a scientific-applied nature, is oriented to all areas of library activity, contributes to the optimal introduction of modern services and products into library practice, which results in the enrichment of the information-library environment with relevant electronic information resources. Methodological materials on topical issues of library and related fields are being updated as a determining form of methodical influence on the transformation of book collections into socially significant institutions and modern cultural and educational hubs. Three models of methodological activity of Ukrainian libraries in supporting Ukrainians in the fight against the Russian aggressor are proposed: communication-scientific for departmental libraries, informational-educational for libraries of educational institutions, informational-social for public libraries. It was concluded that systematic methodical activity is the basis of effective work of any library, because its development directly affects both the image of the librarian's profession and the reputation of the library institution. The methodical activity of Ukrainian book collections in the conditions of martial law includes a set of measures aimed at optimal organization of library practice in accordance with the requirements of the time for the prompt satisfaction of informational, cultural, educational, leisure, etc. needs of all categories of readers; effective management of library processes (optimization of activities in general, including library statistics); qualitative implementation of innovations in daily work, in particular new forms and methods; improving the institution's image through constant communication with users (use of information and communication technologies, social networks, blogs, etc.); improvement of librarian's professional skills.

"When somebody says this is a program for adults, it kind of smacks of pornography": Older Adults' Opinions on Age Labels in the Public Library.

Chronological age is invariably used as a categorizing tool for spaces, collections, and programs in public libraries. With age-based conceptions of human experience in library practice, education, and scholarship primarily focused on those under the age 18, little is known how age-based classifications are implemented in public libraries, and with what impacts, for older library patrons. Stemming from a larger project that seeks to bring attention to the ways in which public libraries engage with community-dwelling older adults, this paper explores 51 older patrons' perspectives on the numbers and language (e.g., 55+, older adult, seniors, adult) assigned to older adults in library programs and which label best (or least) suits their sense of identity and, in turn, what language encourages or deters their engagement with library programs. Findings illustrate that age-based language describing older adult library programs is often at odds with patrons' perceptions of how library programming relevant to them ought to be labeled. Common to all participants was a clear dislike for the term "elderly." While most participants preferred "older adult" to "senior," others voiced no preference, as long as they felt heard and valued. Many participants linked the use of language used to describe library programs to being excluded from and treated differently from other (younger) library patrons. The language used to group and describe different library populations directly shapes feelings of belonging (or exclusion) in library programs. Insights from this research contribute to our evolving understandings of the ways in which language connected to age can shape one's sense of identity. Results also serve to cultivate a more sensitive and critical approach to the question of age within library science, and, by extension, the experiences of older adults who frequent the library.

Critical open access literacy as a strategy to confront the challenges in scholarly communication

PurposeThe paper seeks to introduce the “critical open access literacy” construct as a holistic approach to confront the challenges in open access (OA) as a dimension of scholarly communication.Design/methodology/approachThe paper first introduces the concepts of information literacy (IL) and OA in the context of transformations in the scholarly information environment. Via a theoretical-analytical exercise on the basis of a literature review of the intersections between the two concepts and of the criticisms of OA, the paper discusses the role of critical IL in addressing the challenges in OA and lays the theoretical-conceptual groundwork for the critical OA literacy construct.FindingsThe structural nature of the challenges and transformations in the scholarly information environment require new foci and pedagogical practices in library and information studies. A more holistic, critical and integrative approach to OA is warranted, which could effectively be achieved through the re-conceptualization of IL.Practical implicationsThe paper specifies the avenues for putting the theoretical conceptualizations of critical OA literacy into practice by identifying possible foci for IL instruction alongside a transformed role for librarians.Originality/valueThe paper extends deliberations on the role of critical IL for scholarly communication and attempts to advance the research fields of the two domains by proposing a new construct situated at the junction of OA and IL.

Accommodation of activities of Ukrainian libraries under marital law

The purpose of the article is to provide an argumentative identification of a qualitatively new direction in the activities of Ukrainian libraries under martial law – socio-productive. The methodological basis of the article is based on general scientific methods such as abstract and logical, analysis, cognitive, and synthesis. Dialectical, objectivity, systemic, and structural-functional approaches to scientific knowledge are applied. The scientific novelty of the article consists in revealing the peculiarities of the functioning of Ukrainian libraries under martial law. Such traditional areas of activity in the conditions of the Russian-Ukrainian war, as information and communication, information and advisory, scientific, socio-cultural and local studies, should be supplemented with socio-productive ones. The proposed material enriches the theory of modern librarianship about the changing role of libraries in society under the influence of socio-political processes, determining the new quality of the Ukrainian library institute as an active participant in nation-building processes. The practical significance of the obtained results lies in the application of the acquired best experience of library practice in the activities of library institutions of all systems and departments in order to positively strengthen their image and reputation. Conclusions. In the conditions of the Russian-Ukrainian war, the library social institute immediately reacted to the events in the state, changing the algorithm of its functioning with a reorientation to socio-political requests. Among the main traditional areas of activity, the socio-productive one definitely stood out. That is, the library has shown itself as an adaptive system that rationally transforms the work algorithm in order to maintain the optimal state in accordance with the changing conditions of the external environment. The genesis of the strategy for the development of the Ukrainian library and information sphere is consistent with the strategies of national economic, social and humanitarian development

Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Lecturers’ Proficiency Levels in English Teaching and Library Practice in Nigerian Universities

This paper presents a literature on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in English language teaching and library practice and its impact on library operations. This study aims to provide researchers with a comprehensive understanding of AI in the English language teaching and library context. This paper aims at analyzing an artificial intelligence platform that can be used in examining lecturers’ proficiency levels in English teaching and library practice in Nigerian universities. It draws attention to how AI facilitates personalized learning experiences by adapting to individual teachers’ teaching style, pace, and proficiency levels. The paper examines the proficiency levels of lecturers in Nigerian universities regarding the utilization of AI features in three innovative presentation software tools: MS PowerPoint, Canva, and Gamma. Through the application of AI playing as a pivotal tool in enhancing research, teaching and learning experiences, the study explores the significance of PowerPoint literacy in modern English teaching and learning settings. The method of research design is descriptive. The population of the study consists of the entire academic staff in Nigerian universities. The sample size used is made up of 600 lecturers. Data are analyzed using descriptive statistics of mean, standard deviation on a 4-point Likert Scale. The findings of this study serve as a base for developing training programs and interventions to enhance PowerPoint literacy skills in the teaching of English Language and library practice in Nigerian universities. The findings also illustrate that Artificial Intelligence technology is useful for developing teaching of English Language and library practice. The major limitation of this study is that it does not examine the extent of AI role in teachers’ teaching and students’ English learning. The information presented in this paper serves as a valuable resource for researchers interested in exploring the use of AI in English language teaching and library practice.

Attitude of library personnel towards preservation practices in academic libraries in Niger State, Nigeria

The study investigated the attitude of library personnel towards preservation practices of academic libraries in Niger State, Nigeria. The study adopted a survey research design. The population comprised 387 librarians and paraprofessionals in seventeen academic libraries in Niger State, Nigeria. Total enumeration method was used. A structured and validated questionnaire was used for data collection. Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients for the constructs ranged from 0.77 to 0.84. A return rate of 81.4% was achieved. Descriptive and inferential (simple and multiple regression) statistics were used for data analysis. The finding indicated attitude of library personnel had a significant influence on preservation of information resources in the libraries (Adj.R2 = 0.076, F (1, 314) = 26.825, p < 0.05). Attitude of library personnel indicators: positive attitude (β = 0.222, t(312) =3.535, p < 0.05) and negative attitude (β = 0.094, t (312) = 1.516, p < 0.05) positively and significantly influenced preservation practices of information resources. The study concluded that attitude of library personnel have affect preservation practices in academic libraries. The study recommended that the management of academic libraries in Niger State should create awareness through training for librarians to foster positive attitudes towards the preservation of information resources. Library management should have disaster preparedness management plans and preservation policies to secure the library resources against deterioration.

Records management practices in libraries of federal universities in Northwestern Nigeria

This study was conducted to survey records management practices among library administrative staff of federal universities in Northwestern Nigeria. The study aimed at finding out the types of records generated and maintained, facilities available for storage and how their administrative records are being managed. Qualitative research methodology using narrative-based design was adopted. The sample of the study included seven administrative staff in libraries of federal universities in Northwestern Nigeria. Interview was the main instrument for data collection. Face-to-face interview was employed with the aid of semi-structured interview schedules with accompanying checklist. Data collected was analysed using thematic analysis presented in coding system. The study found out that records in both printed and electronic format are generated in the libraries studied. These records included leave application, records of disciplinary actions, periodical appraisal/promotion/confirmation records, result of physical examination, staff release & retiring records, records of Corps members posted to the library, records of internally generated revenue in the library, staff passports, staff‟s copy of employment letters, copies of staff credentials, staff shift duty roster, minutes of staff meetings, etc. Storage facilities made available for records are cupboard, file cabinet, wooden shelves, steel shelves, Drawers (for flat files), computers (for electronic storage) and top of table on a temporary basis. Challenges faced include inadequate funding, inadequate accommodation, poor electricity supply, low morale of staff, lack of training and retraining of staff, and lack of strong support from the top managerial staff.

Design Thinking and Library Practice: Inspiring Initiatives and User-Centered Services, Programs, and Physical Spaces

Design Thinking and Library Practice: Inspiring Initiatives and User-Centered Services, Programs, and Physical Spaces

Influence of institutional support on digitization practices of librarians in federal universities in Northeastern Nigeria

This study investigated the influence of institutional support on librarians’ digitization practices in federal universities in Northeastern Nigeria. This study adopted a quantitative research design. The study population comprised 437 professional and paraprofessional librarians in federal university libraries in Northeastern Nigeria. Total enumeration technique was used in this study. A questionnaire was used for data collection. Total of 354 (81%) copies of the questionnaire were completed, returned, and used in the study. The data collected for this study were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Specifically, the research questions and hypothesis were answered using tables, percentages and mean. Findings revealed that institutional support provided for librarians’ digitization practices in general is low. Specifically, funding support is low, while policy support, infrastructure support and training support were available but at very low level. The study also revealed that the institutions and library managements under study do not provide adequate institutional support required to motivate librarians on digitization practices, hence weaken the effectiveness information service delivery rendered by the libraries. The study concluded that University management should place stronger emphasis on providing necessary forms of support to trigger more commitment among professional and paraprofessional librarians to upsurge their effort towards digitization of printed materials. The study recommended that federal university administrators, management of the university libraries and relevant agencies should provide adequate funding, infrastructural, policy and training support institutional support to the libraries, to boost digitization of printed materials.

Placemaking strategies in greening Universiti Malaya Main Library

<abstract> <p>Libraries are vital for learning, literacy, and fostering innovation. Emphasizing green and sustainable practices is crucial to conserve resources. This research focused on transforming the Universiti Malaya (UM) Main Library into a greener space through placemaking and green initiatives. To assess the greening potential of the library, a systematic review was conducted to establish a list of green library initiatives. Eighteen distinctive themes or categories of green library initiatives were identified. Ten categories deemed of critical importance, including indoor air quality, water quality and management, energy consumption, noise control, policies, waste management, interior design, ecological environment, services and facilities, and library sources, were selected for inclusion in a comprehensive user survey. The survey encompassed five sections, namely: (A) Demographic information, (B) Users' satisfaction with the UM Main Library, (C) Users' knowledges of the green libraries and practices, (D) Users' perceptions towards greening UM Main Library, and (E) Users' additional aspects which include Likert-scale questions and open-ended question soliciting users' opinions on additional green initiatives or improvements. A total of 407 respondents completed the survey, offering valuable insights into their perspectives. Overall, most of respondents revealed a prevailing inclination among library users toward endorsing and adopting green library practices in alignment with those categories. A total of 12 categories and 67 initiatives and strategies were listed based on both article reviews and users' suggestions. This study underscores the significance of integrating greening strategies within the UM Main Library to enhance its environmental quality and user experience by incorporating user feedback.</p> </abstract>

Impractical Practicum? Analyzing the Impact of Online Work Immersion among the Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) Students amidst the Pandemic

Objective. This study aims to document the impact of online work immersion among Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) students at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. The study highlighted the experiences of BLIS students who underwent online work immersion during the school year 2022-2023 including their challenges and difficulties in completing their work immersion hours. Methods. This research study employed a descriptive quantitative approach to document the impact of online work immersion among Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) students of Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) during the School Year 2022-2023. The researchers used purposive non-probability sampling in gathering the respondents. A total of 63 BLIS 4th-year students who were enrolled in Library Practice subjects agreed to participate in the study and were asked to rate 40 statements using a Likert Scale (1- strongly disagree and 5 - strongly agree). These statements were used to describe their overall experiences as well as the challenges they encountered with the online work immersion. The statements highlighted their difficulties, their coping mechanisms, as well as their readiness to perform professional library work. The researchers employed statistical methods such as frequency distribution, percentage, and weighted means to interpret and analyze the data gathered and provide more compelling results for the study. Results. The study revealed that most of the students experienced some challenges in terms of distance learning and connectivity issues. In addition, the said challenges were overcome through various coping mechanism strategies such as establishing rapport with workmates as well as learning and researching the given tasks in advance. Conclusion. The study also revealed a high preference for onsite practice training among students in terms of acquiring more knowledge and skills in the actual workforce.

Det performative samspil mellem digital infrastruktur og kulturelle arrangementer i den professionelle praksis i danske folkebiblioteker

The aim of the study is to examine the recursive intertwining of humans and technology in practice in Danish public libraries. Drawing on Karen Barad´s theory of agential realism, the paper suggests that the public library is investigated not through an ontology of separateness between digital infrastructure and cultural activities, but through a relational view focusing on their constitutive entanglements. The empirical focus in the article is on material-discursive practices of professionals in Danish public libraries and consist of qualitative interviews with 32 professionals from 10 Danish public libraries carried out in autumn 2022. Through a material-discursive lens of entanglement, the study analyses the narratives of the professionals when describing their libraries and their work practices. Based on the empirical material two themes are chosen for closer consideration. One theme is 'Cultural events, book exhibitions and front-line services´, while the other is ´Statistics of library loans and purchases of materials'. In the first theme, the digital infrastructure appears as a passive information resource. Due to budget cuts and importance of what the professionals articulate as "the institutional visibility", the digital infrastructure stays in the background in favor of cultural activities. In the second theme, it becomes clear that the digital infrastructure is no longer passive, but on the contrary very controlling for a number of practices, e.g. managing the collection, organizing the physical library and predicting users´ needs. By focusing on material-discursive practices, it becomes possible to articulate these differences and their implications. The paper concludes that the chosen analytical lens of entanglement helps to address essential consequences of digitalization, and hereby contributes to discussions of future institutional strategies for Danish public libraries.

Competences of a Library Specialist as a Factor in the Formation of Innovative Media Space

The purpose of the work is a systematic analysis, substantiation and determination of the key competencies of a library specialist, necessary for the successful implementation of innovations in the media space of modern libraries and improvement of the quality of user service. The work methodology. A systematic review of the literature was carried out, which analyzed scientific publications and studies related to the competencies of library specialists and their influence on the formation of innovative media space. An empirical approach was used, which includes surveying library professionals to collect specific data on their competencies and experience in implementing innovations in the media space of the library. Scientific novelty. The research is focused on the integrated analysis of the key competencies of the library specialist and the development of recommendations for improving the efficiency of library practices, taking into account the modern requirements for library work and rapid changes in the information environment. The article reveals an innovative approach to considering competencies as a dynamic tool aimed at actively introducing innovations into the media space of libraries, ensuring their adaptation to the challenges of the digital age. Conclusions. The key competencies required for a librarian in the age of digital transformation are highlighted, such as information literacy, digital media skills, and professional communication. Mastering modern technologies, in particular interactive and multimedia, allows a librarian to provide users with innovative services and meet their information needs. A systematic approach to competence development is proposed, including education, training and continuous professional development to ensure the relevance of skills. It is emphasized that the development of the competences of the library staff contributes to the improvement of the quality of user service and creates a foundation for innovations in the media space. Recommendations for the list of professional competencies that can be taken into account in the Professional Standard "Library and Information Specialist" in the context of the development of the innovative media space of libraries have been formulated. Keywords: professional competence, digital literacy, professional development, library specialist, innovative library media space, digital librarian.