Library Services Research Articles

Addressing Language and Ableism in Information Technology: A Call to Action for Academic Librarians

This column explores the pervasive influence of information technologies in academic libraries and underscores the critical role of librarians and professional staff in navigating and thriving within this technology-rich environment. As libraries increasingly integrate advanced technologies such as AI, digital asset management systems, and online communication platforms, addressing ableism and ensuring accessibility becomes paramount. The paper highlights key areas where ableism can manifest, including Zoom meetings, information technology, digital asset management systems, community of practice documents, instructional design, collection development, library programming and events, reference and research services, scholarly communications, information literacy, and artificial intelligence. For each area, practical strategies are provided to decrease ableism and promote inclusivity. By fostering an environment that prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity, librarians can better connect users to information resources and ensure that all individuals, regardless of ability, can fully engage with and benefit from library services. This column aims to equip librarians with actionable insights and tools to create more equitable and just academic libraries.

Knowledge management and provision of academic library services in the University of Sierra Leone: A mixed-methods approach

This study examined knowledge management practices in the academic libraries of Fourah Bay College (FBC), the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) and the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS) at the University of Sierra Leone. Data from 33 participants via questionnaires, interviews and observations revealed significant gaps, including the absence of knowledge categorisation into explicit, implicit and tacit forms. Additionally, knowledge management policies are not well-publicised, resulting in staff's lack of understanding of their importance. The research underscores the potential benefits of categorising library knowledge, which could enhance the organisation and accessibility of information. Such improvements would be valuable for governments, university authorities, librarians, policymakers, researchers, students and the public, facilitating better knowledge management and access within these academic institutions.

Librarians’ Perceptions of Tribalism/Ethnicity and Favouritism Practices and the Perceptions’ Effect on Job Satisfaction and Service Delivery in Federal University Libraries in Southern Nigeria

Objective – This study examined librarians’ perceptions of tribalism/ethnicity and favouritism practices and the perceived effect on job satisfaction and service delivery in federal university libraries in Southern Nigeria. The study was aimed at observing whether or not librarians perceive that their senior library managers engage in tribalism/ethnicity and favouritism practices; discerning the extent to which they are perceived to be engaging in tribalism/ethnicity and favouritism practices; ascertaining how the perceived tribalism/ethnicity and favouritism practices can affect job satisfaction of librarians and service delivery by librarians in federal university libraries in Southern Nigeria. Methods – This study used a descriptive survey research design. The total population for this study comprised 296 librarians who were below the rank of senior library manager from 18 federal university libraries in the southern region of Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The data collected for this study were analyzed using simple percentage/frequency counts and weighted mean. Results – This study found that librarians in university libraries in Southern Nigeria believe that senior library managers engage in tribalism/ethnicity and favouritism practices and that the extent of these practices is very high. These librarians clearly have strong concerns that the practise of tribalism/ethnicity and favouritism in libraries can have negative effects on librarians’ job satisfaction and can lead to poor service delivery. Conclusion – It is glaring from this study that tribalism and favouritism practices by senior library managers are perceived to be prevalent in university libraries in Southern Nigeria, significantly impacting librarians' job satisfaction. This negative workplace dynamic can hinder effective service delivery, ultimately affecting user experience and the library's role in education. Addressing these biases is crucial, as promoting fairness and inclusivity can enhance job satisfaction, improve staff morale, and lead to higher quality library services for all patrons.

Exploring library service preferences: A study of information source usage in engineering colleges

This study investigates the perception and preferences of library services and information sources among patrons at engineering colleges, specifically focusing on the Jaypee Institute of Information Technology (JIIT), Noida. Utilizing a quantitative approach, the research employs a survey method, collecting data from a sample of 382 respondents, including undergraduate students, postgraduate students, research scholars, and faculty members. The survey assesses satisfaction levels across various resources, including print books, e-books, print journals, e-journals/databases, and multimedia resources, with a particular emphasis on AI-based library services. Results indicate that faculty members exhibit the highest satisfaction with library services, particularly those enhanced by artificial intelligence, while undergraduate students show the least satisfaction. The findings highlight the importance of understanding user preferences to enhance library offerings, optimize resource utilization, and improve overall user experience. This research contributes valuable insights into the evolving needs of engineering college patrons in a digital age and offers recommendations for library management to better serve its diverse user base, particularly through the integration of AI-driven services.

A Study on the Awareness and Utilization of Web and Mobile-enabled Library and Information Services among the Faculty Members, Researchers, and Students of PES University, Bengaluru-

A Study on the Awareness and Utilization of Web and Mobile-enabled Library and Information Services among the Faculty Members, Researchers, and Students of PES University, Bengaluru-

Artificial Intelligence Integration in Academic Libraries: Perspectives of LIS Professionals in India

ABSTRACT This study explores the perspectives of library and information science (LIS) professionals in India regarding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into library services. Utilizing a quantitative research methodology, the study gathers data through structured surveys to assess the perceived benefits, required AI competencies, and awareness levels among these professionals. The findings reveal a strong inclination towards AI adoption, highlighting its potential to enhance data analysis, automate routine tasks, and improve information retrieval. Additionally, the study identifies crucial AI-related skills necessary for LIS professionals, emphasizing the importance of technical, analytical, and ethical competencies in successfully navigating AI’s integration. The results also underscore the need for targeted training and infrastructural investments to overcome resource limitations and ethical concerns. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on AI’s transformative role in library services, particularly within the context of developing countries like India. It offers insights that can inform future strategies for AI adoption in libraries.

Exploring Graduates’ Attitudes on the Learning Environment and Institutional Development: A Case Study Based on Mixed Method

In the field of psychology, an attitude is commonly understood as a set of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses directed toward a specific object or situation. Guided by the fundamental principles of functional theory, this study aimed to explore graduates’ perceptions of their institution’s learning environment (LE) and institutional development (ID). The primary objective of this study was to assess graduates’ views on these two aspects. To achieve the objective, the study employed an exploratory and descriptive research design. A case study approach was utilized for qualitative data collection and subsequently analyzed thematically. For the quantitative aspect, statistical techniques such as cross-tabulations and chi-square tests were applied. The research was conducted using a convergent parallel model, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods. The findings revealed that graduates held generally unfavorable attitudes toward certain aspects of the learning environment, including library services, internship and placement opportunities, and teaching pedagogies. Notably, graduates from the BA program expressed more negative attitudes compared to those from other programs. Based on their feedback, graduates recommended that institutions should implement ICT-based teaching and learning activities, reduce external interference in educational processes, and invest in the capacity development of faculty members. Additionally, they suggested that the institution should provide ICT equipment to foster a technology-friendly environment, enhance library services by acquiring more books, and offer training in banking, insurance, and cooperative sectors to benefit students. The study’s conclusions provide valuable insights into graduates’ attitudes toward the learning environment and institutional development, providing clearer guidance for the management committee and administration of the CJMC. Furthermore, the findings offer important context for understanding the graduates’ suggestions and willingness to support institutional improvements.

Libraries on the Front Lines: The Imperative for Disaster-Ready Information Professionals

Libraries, particularly local public libraries, have evolved into hubs for community-first services, extending beyond traditional roles. Library personnel are now expected to act as first responders and crisis leaders during times such as natural disasters. This report documents the critical crisis leadership qualifications required for library personnel, identified through comprehensive research from 2015 to 2023. Findings from these situation-specific case studies call attention to the community’s needs for library services during emergencies, underscoring the requirement for LIS education to include disaster management. Continuing education (CE) is also critical in preparing information professionals for these essential roles.

A survey of academic library public service policies, training and assessment practices

PurposeThis study seeks to better understand if academic libraries are generating service policies broadly and if they differentiate between a customer service focus and research assistance perspective. It also examines the level of training and assessment conducted to maintain and update service policies.Design/methodology/approachResearchers developed an online survey collecting data on demographic, policy development, training and assessment practices.FindingsOnly a very small number of respondents reported having any kind of policy, regardless if it was a customer service or reference/research policy. Within the small number of libraries that reported having any sort of policy, an even smaller number perform any type of assessment on these policies. Furthermore, between the 2021 and 2023 deployments of the surveys, there was an obvious decrease in many areas surveyed.Originality/valueThe implications of this study can inform the development, implementation and assessment of library service policies at academic libraries.

Student Interest in Standardized Information Services in Higher Education Library

Background: Information is a need that must be met for everyone, but information related to standardization is still limited to those who know it. Standardization information is basically information relating to various fields of standardization, such as trade, industry, education and science and technology development. While standardization information services are still rarely performed by the library environment. Methods: This type of research with quantitative descriptive. Sampling technique using random sampling technique, by taking 10% of the total population. Where data collection with a questionnaire. The research subject is student interest in the field of standardization. Purpose: Because standardization information services are not widely known by students, the writer tries to find out the extent of students' interest in standardization information services at the Sebelas Maret University Library, Surakarta. Place of research at UPT Library of Sebelas Maret University Surakarta. Findings: The results obtained show that students' interest in standardization information services can be categorized as moderate as evidenced by the number 44 or 37.9% of students stating that on average they are less interested in standardization information services at the UPT Library of Sebelas Maret University. This is because there has been no socialization regarding the existence of information services in the field of standardization directly at the Sebelas Maret University Library UPT. Conclusion: It is necessary to hold socialization so that information reaches students. Keywords: Student interest, Information Services, and Standardization ABSTRAK Latar Belakang: Informasi merupakan kebutuhan yang harus dipenuhi bagi semua orang, namun informasi yang berkaitan dengan standardisasi masih terbatas orang yang mengenalnya. Informasi standardisasi pada dasarnya informasi yang berkaitan dengan berbagai bidang standardisasi, bisa seperti perdagangan, perindustrian, pendidikan dan pengembangan IPTEK. Sementara layanan informasi standardisasi masih jarang dilakukan oleh lingkungan perpustakaan. Metode: Jenis penelitian adalah deskriptif kuantitatif. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik random sampling, dengan pengambilan sampel 10% dari jumlah populasi. Dimana pengambilan data menggunakan kuesioner. Subyek penelitian adalah minat mahasiswa terhadap bidang standardisasi. Tujuan: Karena layanan informasi standardisasi belum banyak dikenal oleh mahasiswa sehingga penulis mencoba ingin mengetahui sejauh mana “Minat Mahasiswa terhadap Layanan Informasi Standardisasi melalui Portal SNI Corner di UPT Perpustakaan Universitas Sebelas Maret Surakarta.” Tempat penelitian di UPT Perpustakaan Universitas Sebelas Maret Surakarta. Temuan: Hasil yang didapatkan bahwa minat mahasiswa terhadap layanan informasi standardisasi dapat dikategorikan sedang yang dibuktikan dengan angka 44 atau 37,9 % mahasiswa menyatakan rata-rata kurang berminat akan layanan informasi bidang standardisasi di UPT Perpustakaan Universitas Sebelas Maret. Hal ini dikarenakan belum adanya sosialisasi mengenai layanan informasi bidang standardisasi secara langsung di UPT Perpustakaan Universitas Sebelas Maret. Kesimpulan: Perlunya diadakan sosialisasi agar informasi mengenai bidang standardisasi di UPT Perpustakaan Universitas Sebelas Maret dapat tersampaikan ke mahasiswa. Kata Kunci: Minat mahasiswa, Layanan Informasi, dan Standardisasi

Innovative Strategies for Implementation and Use of Embedded Library Services at Central Libraries of IITs in India

Innovative Strategies for Implementation and Use of Embedded Library Services at Central Libraries of IITs in India

Collaborative Development of a Statistics Microlearning Course for Health Professionals

Teaching is often core to a librarian’s duties. However, at large institutions, there is often not enough librarian manpower to deliver in-person instruction on specialized topics to all who could benefit. In this case, librarians must look beyond the traditional in-person session to deliver educational content at scale. At our library, serving a large healthcare system with 85,000 employees, we constantly tackle issues of delivering library services at scale with limited manpower. In this article, we discuss how we tackled developing an asynchronous microlearning-based course for health care professionals on statistical analysis. We start out with background on microlearning, a strategy for e-learning based on short “bites” of information (Gagne et al. 2019). Then we move on to the process of developing the course, which was built on an existing library program to offer GraphPad Prism licenses to health system employees. We detail how we collaborated with units across the health system, especially an e-learning specialist based in the office of data strategy and the director of biostatistics. We describe in detail the planning and development of the course, including how we decided what to cover, creating synthetic electronic health record data for video examples, and recording the microlearning videos. Thus far, our microlearning course has received more than 1,400 views, which we consider to be very successful. However, our strategy to assess the course could be more robust, and we also talk about future strategies to gauge the success of similar projects.

Artificial intelligence in libraries: Theoretical approaches and practical solutions (on the conclusions of the scientific and practical conference “Artificial Intelligence in Library and Information Services”)

The author reviews the scientific and practical conference on artificial intelligence (AI) in libraries held by RAS Institute for Scientific Information for Social Sciences. He summarizes the presented papers exploring theoretical and practical aspects of using AI tools in library services in Russia and neighbor states.In particular, the author focuses on using artificial neural networks for information retrieval, e-library concept processing (classification, abstracting and annotating), full text recognition, uniform cataloguing, textbook conversion into online courses, and design of reading lists systems. At the conference, the speakers argued that the neural networks were slowly implemented in Russian libraries due to the lack of tagged “library” data sets in open access. They also emphasized the role of libraries in teaching users to work with AI applications.The conference participants consented on the fact of rapid development of this vector in the libraries. The librarians should be more persistent in using available universal applications, partner with Russian large IT-companies, and undertake to design specialized AI-tools for deep content processing of digitized information arrays.

Find your voice: Developing podcast studio services in an academic library

Responding to increased curricular needs for assignments requiring recorded spoken word, the Texas Tech University Libraries added two two-seat Podcast Studios in 2022. These spaces were designed with quality recording in mind and feature professional quality but easy to use equipment paired with audio software with free or open-source equivalents to allow patrons to edit their recorded audio from home. The service was conceptualized to have low impact on staff workflow, increasing the sustainability of the services as well as the independent creativity of patrons utilizing the service. Though adoption was initially slow, patron usage has increased rapidly.

Library services during COVID-19 Pandemic: A study of selected libraries in North Bengal under the region of West Bengal State

Library services during COVID-19 Pandemic: A study of selected libraries in North Bengal under the region of West Bengal State

Intensify the Virtual Library Services through the Knimbus mLibrary App

Intensify the Virtual Library Services through the Knimbus mLibrary App

ANALISIS PENGGUNAAN JEJARING MEDIA SOSIAL SEBAGAI SARANA PROMOSI LAYANAN PERPUSTAKAAN DI SMP 1 PROPPO PAMEKASAN

This research aims to analyze the use of social media networks, especially Instagram and the SLIMS (Senayan Library Management System) application, which can be used to promote library services at SMP 1 Proppo. This research also investigates how the use of social media and digital applications can increase students' interest in libraries and literacy. This study utilizes a qualitative descriptive approach. Data was collected through observing promotional activities on social media, interviews with librarians and students, and documenting content posted on Instagram and SLIMS. Data analysis was carried out using data reduction methods, data presentation, and conclusions. The research results show that Instagram is used to publicize library activities, such as literacy competitions, the latest book collections, and digital literacy campaigns. Meanwhile, managing library data, borrowing books, and available book collections is made easier with the SLIMS application. The increase in the number of visits and book borrowings shows that the use of these two platforms increases student participation. However, technical issues such as lack of employee training and technological infrastructure are obstacles. This article has great benefits for science, especially in terms of the use of digital technology to encourage literacy. These results can help other school libraries develop innovative and flexible digital-based services. These results can help other school libraries develop innovative and flexible digital-based services.

Beyond the desk: Enhancing user satisfaction with contactless services in South Korean academic libraries

The current situation in the post-COVID-19 era demands the implementation of sustainable ways to meet users' evolving needs, particularly in the context of contactless services supporting the information activities of university members. This study examines factors affecting service satisfaction based on the current status of contactless services in South Korean academic libraries. To achieve this, we first investigated the current status of contactless services in South Korean academic libraries, reviewed the literature on factors influencing contactless services, and then conducted a survey to gather users' actual perceptions of these services. Our analysis reveals that the value of all service types—namely, Research Support, Capability Development Support, Information Access Support, and Education Support—influences satisfaction with contactless services. Furthermore, satisfaction with contactless services varies depending on relevant factors such as Convenience, Responsiveness, Security, Reliability, and Personalization, which librarians should consider when designing and implementing programs. Ultimately, by identifying the current level of support for contactless services in South Korean academic libraries and the satisfaction of university members, this study aims to suggest practical directions to improve contactless services in academic libraries.

A Bibliometric Analysis of Benguet State University Research Journals (1977–2023): Implications for Library Resource Acquisitions, Access, and Services

ABSTRACT This study aims to analyze the scholarly productivity of Benguet State University (BSU) Research Journals to inform the university research and library policies. Using bibliometric analysis tools, the paper identified the development of research trends, faculty collaboration, and field performance as indicators of scholarly productivity. The findings confirm the potential of bibliometric analysis tools in determining the emerging research and academic fields to inform university research priorities and policies. It also helps the library to align acquisition and access services toward supporting the university research needs.

Distribution Optimization Plan for Library Service Offices

In this research, more than one plan to distribute the service offices in the library of the faculty of engineering, University of Benghazi were proposed by using Relationship Diagramming method, and they number 12 offices according to the working relationship between these offices and the students’ use of them. The optimal plan was chosen, as we made five plans according to the first method. Plan number three is considered the best among the five. The proposed plans, where the lowest point was given for the calculated distances. All plans are also considered better than the existing plan. There are 12 offices in the library building of the Faculty of Engineering, University of Benghazi, which are frequented by students for the purpose of benefiting from the service provided through them. There are also relationships between these offices according to the nature of their work.