Academic Library Services Research Articles

Challenges and Opportunities in Providing Academic Library Services to Incarcerated Higher Education Students: A Case Study from a Tennessee State Prison

Challenges and Opportunities in Providing Academic Library Services to Incarcerated Higher Education Students: A Case Study from a Tennessee State Prison

Impact of big data and data analytics on the provision of data services in academic libraries

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to determine the level of awareness among library and information science (LIS) professionals regarding the perceived utility of big data (BD) and data analytics (DA) in academic libraries, as well as their influence on the provision of data services (DSs).Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional survey was carried out to collect the data for this study. The population of this study comprised LIS professionals working in public sector university libraries. A four-factor measurement model estimating the influence of BD and DA on the provision of DSs in academic libraries was tested using the structural equation modelling.FindingsThe findings revealed that awareness (AW) (β = 0.141, CR = 2.534, p = 0.011) demonstrated a significant positive influence on the provision of DSs. The perceived utility of BD (β = 0.058, CR = 0.582, p = 0.561), and perceived utility of DA (β = 0.141, CR = 2.534, p = 0.905) exhibits a positive but statistically non-significant impact on the provision of DSs (β = 0.010, CR = 0.120, p = 0.905). The goodness of fit indices suggest a favourable fit for the model, as evidenced by the following values: χ2 = 1.400, DF = 164; p = 0.001; IFI = 0.954; TLI = 0.946; CFI = 0.953; GFI = 0.906; and RMSEA = 0.043.Originality/valueA new perspective on the use of BD and DA in academic libraries is presented in this study. It presents a four-factor measurement model on the influence of BD and DA on the provision of DSs in university libraries.

An Investigation of Current Research Support Services in Hungarian Academic Libraries

An Investigation of Current Research Support Services in Hungarian Academic Libraries

Transforming Academic Libraries into Hubs of Innovation and Entrepreneurship: A Case Study of a New Library Model

In a data-driven era, academic libraries must evolve beyond traditional roles as spaces for reading and storing information resources to become platforms promoting learning, research, innovation, future skills, and entrepreneurship. Based on the triple helix model of innovation, this paper highlights the new library model in a case study aimed at transforming traditional academic library services into enterprising, innovation-driven activities. For over ninety years, Thammasat University Library has been located on Rattanakosin Island, an historical area of Thailand. More recently, the library business model has evolved to meet modern needs. This qualitative research uses a case study to explore library strategies to create space meeting requirements of diverse user groups: students, faculty, staff, alumni, businesspeople and the community, including older residents. Service innovations responding to user demands are prioritized by drawing on the expertise of librarians. These changes generate new revenue for the library and enhance the space design and use through the Life Space concept. Co-working spaces, learning areas, inspirational corners, and performance venues make the library a platform for inspiring creativity, learning, life enhancement, and business ventures. The Thammasat University Library has also become an innovative bridge linking university research with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), facilitating knowledge transfer and research commercialization. These findings may serve as guidelines for academic libraries seeking to adapt the Library of Life approach to be centres catering to readers of all generations and stations in life.

Facilitating digital accessibility for students with disabilities into information services at Jordanian academic libraries

PurposeThis study examines the digital accessibility of information services for students with disabilities at the University of Jordan. Despite advancements in disability rights and technology, academic libraries often lag in providing fully accessible digital services.Design/methodology/approachThe mixed-methods research involved quantitative surveys from 173 students with disabilities and a qualitative interview with the head of the information application department, in addition to a focus group interview with 10 students with disabilities. Quantitative analysis included means, standard deviations and four-way ANOVA to identify significant differences in perceptions. Qualitative insights highlighted specific issues and recurring themes, revealing significant gaps in digital accessibility.FindingsThe results revealed a weak level of digital accessibility of students with disabilities to information services in academic libraries in Jordan is very low. The findings indicate a need for improvements in library infrastructure, staff training and policy development. The study also offers insights into challenges in a developing country context and provides recommendations for enhancing library inclusivity and support structures, emphasizing the importance of aligning services with international accessibility standards.Practical implicationsThe findings will primarily be beneficial for library managers to understand their library’s deficiencies and responsibility towards the local community and the enhancement of digital inclusion. This understanding will aid in planning training programs and workshops for employees on supporting students with disabilities. Additionally, it serves as a valuable resource for collaboration between libraries and educators to organize educational sessions for academic librarians in Jordan and other developing nations.Originality/valueIt serves as a valuable resource for collaboration between libraries and educators to organize educational sessions for academic librarians in Jordan and other developing nations. This research adds value to existing literature by highlighting the context in one developing country.

Needs Assessment for the Enhancement of Academic Library Products and Services: A University of Jos Review

Users remain the defining force in academic libraries; the core relevance of the 21st Century academic library is anchored on its ability to meet the needs of its ever evolving users. This means that the any present vibrant academic library is largely determined by the pedigree of library management and the librarians in place; those who understand the merit and demerit of every service rendered at the library or potential service to be rendered. They are tenacious in offering every service with the view to developing the confidence needed at the library. This paper looks at the needs assessment for the enhancement of academic library products and services in the University of Jos library. Dwelling on the current issues it is facing arising from the changing contexts of librarianship and the clientele in its daily operations. This research involved collaborative and participatory/case study approaches in the investigation and addressing the practical issues with the UJLib and generating of solutions in several departments of the library like circulation/readers services, acquisition, cataloging, system unit, feedback and evaluation of service, training and retraining of staff etc. Among the diverse propositions, the paper concluded by recommending that there is a need to approach these identified issues with creativity and intentional steps towards realigning UJLib to greater heights.

Application of Information and Communication Technology(ICT) in the Services of Public and Academics Libraries in Pangasinan

The intensifying era of Information communication technology (ICT) really brought great changes, especially in libraries. Both positive and negative effects of the application of such are visible to librarians and to users. Different challenges regarding the application of ICT in libraries are also encountered.Considering the importance of ICT in libraries, the researchers conducted this study to determine the level of application of ICT in the services of public and academic libraries in Pangasinan in order to enhance the access, storage,and process of information and to improve the operation services of these libraries. This study used a descriptive method of research. A descriptive research method is used to describe, as well as explain, or validate some sort of hypothesis or objective when it comes to a specific group of people (McNeill, 2018). The questionnaire was used as the data gathering instrument aided with an interview technique in order to validate the answer. The researchers made use of frequency count, percentage, and mean as statistical tools. Results show that both public and academic libraries have available hardware facilities. Computer servers, workstations, net servers, and printers are 100 percent available in these libraries. Moreover, Online databases are the most available resources for information retrieval. On the other hand, Lack of funds/financial assistance was the most identified challenge by the librarians in the application of ICT. Further, a Pooled mean of 2.86 was rated and interpreted as moderately applied concerning the level of application of ICT in their respective libraries both in technical and reader’s services. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the application of ICT in the library services of public and academic libraries in Pangasinan is not yet at its highest, but advancing it to its fullest is possible if the school administrators and local government will give and provide their full support on ICT project of libraries.

A Survey of Student Employment and Geospatial Services in Academic Libraries

A Survey of Student Employment and Geospatial Services in Academic Libraries

User perceptions of ICT-based library services in the universities of Bangladesh

PurposeThe main purpose of this study is to explore the existing information and communication technologies (ICTs) scenario in public and private university libraries in Bangladesh. The aim of the study was to determine the use and extent of ICT implementation for collection development practices of the said institutions.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on a structured questionnaire for university library users. Students' opinions have been encapsulated, and the data findings were analyzed and presented in light of the responses.FindingsFor students who responded to the questionnaire, their ICT-based knowledge usage experience is not up to the mark. In general, it was found that students had limited knowledge about ICT-based resources and services. Besides this, the study also showed how to improve the entire condition and services of these libraries by adopting modern technology. This investigation reveals the situation they encountered in applying information technology and puts forward necessary recommendations that may help improve their services in the information storing and dissemination process.Originality/valueThis study focuses on the user perceptions of ICT-based library services in university libraries in Bangladesh. It will prompt further research on user perceptions of ICT-based library services in academic libraries globally.

Influence of open-source software on Bangladesh academic library service sustainability: a conceptual framework

Purpose This research aims to develop a conceptual framework that explores the influence of open-source software (OSS) on the sustainability of library services within the context of academic libraries in Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a comprehensive research methodology that includes literature review and analysis to construct a robust conceptual framework. This study investigates the various dimensions of OSS adoption and its impact on library service sustainability. Findings The research findings reveal the critical factors and mechanisms through which OSS can positively affect the sustainability of library services. This study identifies key drivers and challenges associated with the adoption of open-source solutions in the context of Bangladesh academic libraries. Practical implications The framework developed in this research offers practical insights for academic libraries in Bangladesh seeking to adopt OSS solutions. This study guides how to leverage these technologies to enhance the sustainability of library services in a cost-effective and efficient manner. Originality/value This study contributes to the academic literature by presenting a novel conceptual framework tailored to the unique context of Bangladesh academic libraries. This study adds value by addressing the specific challenges and opportunities related to OSS adoption and its implications for library service sustainability in this region.

Examining the types and purpose of cloud computing used for library services delivery in academic libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria

Background of the study: The implementation and integration of information and communication technology in library services and operations has revolutionized traditional practices, enabling libraries to adapt to the evolving needs of users in the digital era. Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to examine the types and purposes of cloud computing used for library service delivery in academic libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria. Methods: The study used a descriptive survey approach. The population was all the 108 librarians in the eight universities in Kwara State, Nigeria. A total enumeration sampling technique was employed, and a questionnaire was used to collect data from the librarians. The study answered three research questions. Findings: The study revealed that OCLC, Word cat, Google Docs, and other types of cloud computing are being utilized by the librarians. The study also revealed that poor internet connectivity, among other challenges, militates against the use of cloud computing for academic library service delivery. Conclusion: The study concluded that the librarians make use of cloud computing for library services. The study recommends that the library should provide reliable internet facilities with fast speeds, high broadband, and reliable power supplies, among others.

Users’ Satisfaction of the Academic Library facilities and Services in Swamy Vipulananda Institute of Aesthetic Studies, Sri Lanka

Library is identified as an important organization in the higher educational system. It is an essential requirement for learning and research activities. The library of a higher education institute is committed to provide an excellent service for its users. Since the higher education institute library is devoted to provide exceptional learning resources, it is recognized as an excellent service providing center among the users. Meantime except learning resources a library develops the availabilities of its other facilities and services. In this context, this study was carried out to evaluate library user satisfaction with existing facilities and services expect learning resources while identifying user needs. The study uses the survey research design through the stratified random sampling method. 240 (out of 808) undergraduates who visit the Swamy Vipulanada Institute of Aesthetic studies library were selected as sample. According to the result that the undergraduates are overall satisfied with available library facilities and services. However, the study further reveals one of the attributes of the study that the orientation program of the library is not being fully effectively utilized by undergraduates. Based on this finding it is essential to reorganize the orientation program among the undergraduates. Thus, this study present recommendation to upgrade the current orientation program among the users to meet the challenges they face in the information access.

Systematic Review Research Guides and Support Services in Academic Libraries in the US: A Content Analysis of Resources and Services in 2023

Systematic Review Research Guides and Support Services in Academic Libraries in the US: A Content Analysis of Resources and Services in 2023

Sustainable Futures for Comics Collecting

ABSTRACT Using survey data collected in 2023, this study explores issues around comics collections in academic libraries. In addition to gaining an understanding of the origins of several major academic library collections and current resource support for these collections and associated services, the study looks at the extent to which institutions are implementing measures for the long-term sustainability and preservation of these collections. The researchers found that the historic indifference to comics in an academic setting has resulted in the creation of hodgepodge collections with inconsistent approaches to collection development, staffing, outreach, and long-term growth. Considering the increased acceptance of comics in such settings, Flota, Thacker, and Larsen suggest that it is past time for institutions to be more intentional in planning and sustaining comics collections and services in academic libraries.

Academic and research libraries in the digitalization era

Academic librarians have to upgrade continuously their competences to meet the demands of researchers and emerging requirements to the profession. The authors present the results of the survey of 227 researchers of academic and research institutions. The 2023 survey was designed to reveal the most demanded competences of academic librarians. The positive correlation is found between the frequency of library services use and the size of academic institution the library belongs to; the smaller the institution – the more frequently the researchers use the library independently of their institution specialization. The authors argue that the academic library services have been still demanded in the scholarly environment. The younger researchers (up to 23 yo) use the library services more intensively than the other age groups. The scientific community expects the librarians to master the competences of working with publishing systems, reference databases, new information systems and web-services

Investigation of research support services (RSS) in academic libraries of India

Research is crucial not only for the growth of a country but also for society as a whole, especially in a knowledge-based society. At each stage of research, scientists and researchers require support from various research stakeholders in the form of information resources and pertinent assistance. Consequently, academic libraries, as one of the most important stakeholders in research and the backbone of knowledge acquisition, storage, and dissemination processes, offer a variety of services to support research endeavors in their parent institutions. The current study classifies these services into eight major categories, viz. “Research Guides, Research Consultancy, Research Impact Measurement, Open Access, Research Tools Recommendation, Research Data Management (RDM), Scholarly Publishing, and Archiving and Preservation of Research Output (Article, Data, etc.).” The purpose of this study is to investigate the implementation status of these Research Support Services (RSS) in academic libraries of India (which include a total of 212 institutions, counting all of India’s “Central Universities (CUs)” (56) and “Institutes of National Importance (INIs)” (156) by referring to the related information provided on their respective library websites. The findings show that Indian academic libraries lack significant adoption and cognizance of research support services, and their implementation is in its infancy. The study reveals that very few academic libraries offer RDM services, whereas the vast majority of academic libraries provide recommendations for research tools. Indian academic libraries need to actively explore various RSS and make them a part of their core offerings. Additionally, they should look into novel ways to support researchers at different phases of their studies.

Initiating Immersive Teaching and Learning Service in Academic Libraries

This is Part 2 of the paper “Initiating Immersive Teaching and Learning Service in Academic Libraries” by Plamen Miltenoff (Part 1 published in the previous issue of International Information and Library Review DOI: 10.1080/10572317.2024.2301864). In Part 2 “Pedagogical opportunities, including integration into an information literacy programme” the methodology applies contextual analysis, including systematic literature review. The paper highlights how virtual reality has great potential as a technology for learning and social engagement. However, the need for clear policies is highlighted regarding technology, along with the need to invest in infrastructure and resources, fostering collaboration among stakeholders and promoting equity and access. As with other educational technologies, academic libraries remain the best candidates for hosting a university-level sandbox of immersive teaching and learning.

Expanding the pathfinder’s purpose: A pedagogical approach to redesigning LibGuides

Online research guides are an important service in academic libraries. Many argue for an instructional design approach that prioritizes course or assignment focused guides; however, this does not address how to design effective subject or topic guides that often follow outdated pathfinder structures. This case study outlines one subject library’s approach to redesigning their guides with pedagogy and accessibility at the forefront, demonstrating how to apply best practices articulated for course-based guides to a general setting. It addresses how to design effective subject guides to better facilitate patron browsing, promote the collection, and supplement training for staff at service points.

Evolving from public health libraries as a place to focus on public health librarian expertise.

This article describes the evolution of academic public health library services from standalone academic public health libraries in 2004 to centralized services by 2021. Five public health libraries serving public health graduate programs (SPH) at public and private institutions were visited in 2006-07. Visits comprised tours, semi-structured interviews with librarians and local health department staff, and collecting of contemporary print documents. We compiled and compared visit notes across libraries. In 2022, we reviewed online materials announcing library closure or transition for timing and how services were to be subsequently provided. Libraries and SPH were co-located and most librarians maintained public health expertise though they did not have faculty appointments in their SPHs. Specialized statistical and geographic information systems (GIS) software and data were provided in partnership, often with other system libraries. Only two libraries had strong connections to health departments-one with direct service agreements and another engaged in public health training. Academic public health libraries' relationships with SPHs and health departments did not ensure their existence as standalone entities. Following a national trend for branch libraries, public health information services were centralized into larger health or science libraries. The scope and specialization of librarian expertise continues to be valued with several institutions having librarians dedicated to public health.

A Survey of Knowledge and Use of Academic Library Services at a Pseudo-Satellite Location

Objective – Following a rapid increase in student population over a five-year period, Cape Breton University leased additional teaching space from a nearby cinema chain but did not account for students’ library needs. The local nature of the venue, combined with issues in transit to the main campus, created “local-distance” students. These students were surveyed on awareness and use of library resources and services to inform future services. Methods – Students whose classes were primarily located at the cinema chain were engaged in an anonymous survey regarding their knowledge and use of library services. These data were then analyzed for common themes and recommendations. Results – There were notable gaps in student knowledge and use of library resources and services, perhaps owing to the primary source of information regarding these – namely, friends, professors, and the website. The need for further outreach and onsite library workers was highlighted, as was the importance of library as space. Conclusion – While the library handled the new venue as well as possible, it is crucial for administrators involved in change management to remember that student learning involves more than individuals in a classroom seat.