Library Technology Research Articles

Academic Barriers of Students with Hearing Impairment at the Undergraduate Level

This study addresses the academic barriers of students with hearing impairment at a private institution. A competent generation depends on education; however, SWHI has particular hurdles in getting higher education. Communication, socialization, curriculum, instructions, learning, and support services are examined as significant factors in academic performance. The census-sampled research examines demographics including age, gender, and disability level in 41 SWHI. The researcher uses sign language interpreters to collect data. Quantitative investigations refine SWHI views on academic impediments. Detail frequency distributions and statistical tests like t-tests reveal demographic trends and variances. Communication, socialization, curriculum adaptability, and educational structural impediments were found. Library, internet, and assistive technology reduce academic challenges, according to the study. The research intends to influence policy-making to make SWHI higher education more accessible by illuminating these complexities.

Restructuring of human resource development in IIT libraries of North India in new digital era

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the restructuring of human resources development processes in Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) libraries in North India, emphasizing the essential information and communications technology (ICT) skills for both recruits and existing staff. Design/methodology/approach The study used a survey research design, with two different sets of structured questionnaires used to collect data. The first set, which was distributed to all heads of seven IIT libraries in North India, received a 100% response rate. Simultaneously, the second set was distributed to library users, yielding a 92% response rate (680 responses out of 700 distributed). The collected data were analyzed and tabulated, with suitable interpretations. Findings The findings of the study reveal that all examined libraries have implemented skill development programs. Moreover, advanced ICT skills are considered essential for staff appointments, and specific institutes (IIT Kanpur, IIT Delhi, IIT Jodhpur and IIT Ropar) took the initiative to provide ICT training to their employees. Trained employees exhibited enhanced performance, attributed to advanced ICT knowledge. The study suggests restructuring selection criteria and introducing structured ICT training programs for library staff, ensuring a more adept workforce for current demands. Research limitations/implications The study can increase the impact globally on human resource development by incorporating soft skills, job satisfaction and leadership development while exploring research opportunities through cross-institutional comparisons and the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Originality/value This study collected primary data from IIT libraries in North India using self-designed questionnaires. The findings provide useful insights into how libraries might restructure human resource development in the digital age.

Displaced materials of German origin in Tomsk State University Library

The article explores available data on displaced materials from Germany in the Research Library of Tomsk State University (TSU), one of the largest academic libraries in Russia. It provides a summary on where and how German books were transported to TSU. The paper also explores what do they represent and where they originate from. Among other sources, the author uses unpublished documents related to negotiations between Russia and Germany on the displaced art in the 1990s. He concludes that the materials mostly have library provenance and arrived to the USSR by train No. 176/8037 Berlin – Leningrad in August 1946. Most probably, the library materials were delivered from Leningrad to Moscow, and later, in 1980, from Moscow to Tomsk. Most of the books belonged to the libraries of Magdeburg, Bremen and Berlin. Some part of the Tomsk collection might have been transported by another train from Berlin to Moscow. However, since these books were stored at the same storage facility at Berlin-Rummelsburg station as those dispatched to Leningrad, we might admit some sorting mistakes. Relatively modern printed books make the core of the collection though there is a small number of medieval manuscripts and archival documents. Possibly, the latter ended up in Tomsk by accident.The article is prepared in the State Public Library of Scientific Technological Library of the Siberian Branch of the of the Russian Academy of Sciences, project No. 122041100088-9 “Transformation of the book culture in the social communications in the 19th-21st centuries”.

Unpublished Sources in the Archive of the Samizdat and Non-traditional Printing Sector of the State Public Scientific Technological Library of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences

The aim of the article is to present the structure of the common archive of the Samizdat and Non-traditional Printing Sector of the Laboratory of Book Studies of SPSTL SB RAS formation on the ­example of the main storage units – personal collections of writers, artists, cultural figures and musicians. It provides classification of the existing unpublished sources in the sector’s collections, analyzes authorial materials, dedications, autographs, drawings and markings, mentions of the alternative printing process authors and participants in periodicals and correspondence. The article describes the sources of samizdat and non-traditional printing, existing in the sector, reveals the content of the main thematic directions. It characterizes archival units on the examples of alternative book publishing, various forms of samizdat, ephemera, ego-documents, fragments of personal libraries, examples of periodical printing. It also offers the classification of personal collections based on temporal periodization, thematic and territorial characteristics. The analysis of the content of the presented sources bases on the personal collections of M. Baturin, I. Akhmetiev, V. Ivaniv, O. Volov, E. Shurygin, E. Iordansky, A. Chekanov, as well as various unofficial creative communities and groups. Special attention is paid to the formation of communication chains and links between authors in the informal cultural environment, in the field of samizdat and alternative book publishing from the 1960s to the 2010s that clarifies the criteria of such ties.

Lessons Learned: Musings on Teaching Technology in Library and Information Science

Information professionals integrate a variety of technologies and tools into their work practices and are often introduced to these while they are students in library and information science programs. This commentary examines recent trends, barriers, and potential approaches in teaching technology for LIS graduate students. Here we draw on our expertise teaching several technology topics, including an introductory technology survey course for graduate students, programming and database management, and intersectionality and technology. Rooted in a reflection on our perspectives as technology educators, our analysis focuses on this central question: How can library and information science instructors foster the confidence, curiosity, and comfort that students need to continually engage with an ever-changing technological landscape throughout the course of their careers?

Discovery of Potent Isoindolinone Inhibitors that Target an Active Conformation of PARP1 Using DNA-Encoded Libraries.

Inhibition of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1), a DNA repair enzyme, has proven to be a successful strategy for the treatment of various cancers. With the appropriate selection conditions and protein design, DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology provides a powerful avenue to identify small molecules with the desired mechanism of action towards a target of interest. However, DNA-binding proteins, such as PARP1, can be challenging targets for DEL screening due to non-specific protein-DNA interactions. To overcome this, we designed and screened a PARP1 catalytic domain construct without the autoinhibitory helical domain. This allowed us to interrogate an active, functionally-relevant form of the protein resulting in the discovery of novel isoindolinone PARP1 inhibitors with single-digit nanomolar potency. These inhibitors also demonstrated little to no PARP1-DNA trapping, a property that could be advantageous in the clinic.

Cultural preservation through technology in UAE libraries

PurposeThis study aims to explore how libraries in the United Arab Emirates use technology to preserve and digitize cultural and historical documents. It examined how these institutions use different technology models to facilitate the dissemination of UAE’s cultural traditions, practices, historical experiences and expressions to the local and global populations interested in learning about the country.Design/methodology/approachThis study relied heavily on a review of the relevant literature and case studies covering how UAE libraries use technology to preserve, document and share tangible and intangible cultural heritage. The methodology entailed gathering and synthesizing relevant information from scholarly journal articles, government and reputable institutional resources online and reports. Collectively, it led to a close analysis of the impact of technology on cultural preservation and an assessment of the specific technology models preferred for optimal outcomes in preserving and disseminating cultural heritage information of the UAE.FindingsMultiple UAE libraries rely heavily on technology to collect, record, translate and store cultural heritage information, including releasing it to users when required. The National Archives of the United Arab Emirates, the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive, Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, the UAE National Library and Archives, New York University Abu Dhabi and Khalifa University of Science and Technology and Research libraries have leveraged different technological models and tools to make UAE’s cultural heritage information available and accessible globally. Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, three-dimensional imaging and scanning, electronic archiving systems, document management systems and ICT storage systems have helped the UAE libraries to promote and disseminate the nation’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage.Originality/valueBy relying on scholarly and authoritative sources of information and evidence to draw conclusions, this study contributes to the existing literature by offering insights into the innovative strategies used by UAE libraries to leverage technology for cultural preservation and promotion. In underlining the value of digital approaches to safeguard tangible and intangible cultural heritage, the research highlights the instrumentalism of technology in preserving the UAE’s cultural heritage and identity.

Inhibitors of the Thioesterase Activity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Pks13 Discovered Using DNA-Encoded Chemical Library Screening.

DNA-encoded chemical library (DEL) technology provides a time- and cost-efficient method to simultaneously screen billions of compounds for their affinity to a protein target of interest. Here we report its use to identify a novel chemical series of inhibitors of the thioesterase activity of polyketide synthase 13 (Pks13) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). We present three chemically distinct series of inhibitors along with their enzymatic and Mtb whole cell potency, the measure of on-target activity in cells, and the crystal structures of inhibitor-enzyme complexes illuminating their interactions with the active site of the enzyme. One of these inhibitors showed a favorable pharmacokinetic profile and demonstrated efficacy in an acute mouse model of tuberculosis (TB) infection. These findings and assay developments will aid in the advancement of TB drug discovery.

Improving Library Services: From Information Services to Knowledge Services

Digital natives and the alpha-beta generation have different behavior from previous generations when it comes to searching for information. They are more likely to use gadgets in every activity of searching, processing, and sharing information/knowledge. This has implications for how libraries serve them. The importance of appropriate services for digital natives and the alpha-beta generation is because they are the nation’s assets in the future. The SECI model describes how knowledge is disseminated from, by, for, and/or to individuals in an organizational environment. The use of the latest web technology in libraries will further dynamize the organization of knowledge in an institution. This text is in the form of an idea prepared based on a literature review with a qualitative approach, describing how to improve library services from information services to knowledge services. Traditional library services only provide information as desired by the library without any analysis or abstracts beyond the data/information in question. The combination of understanding of ontology, semantics, and SECI models encourages an increase in higher service levels from information services to knowledge services. Knowledge services are developed from a combination of various data/information formats on the same subject linked to each other through multimedia visualization so that users get solutions/knowledge to the problems they are looking for. The development of knowledge services requires several related things, namely: technology architecture design, content, human resources, and future development.
 Keywords: information services, knowledge management, knowledge services, library

The network of sci-tech libraries as the foundation of the national system of sci-tech information: The history, status, and prospects

The authors discuss the sci-tech libraries in historical aspect; these libraries make the key element of the national system of sci-tech information and information services and support national science and technology. They follow the dynamics of building the network of research institutions and special sci-tech libraries that replaced technical, factory and company libraries. The role of the USSR State Public Library for Science and Technology (USSR SPLS&T) is highlighted: during the Soviet era it was the country’s head sci-tech library, the main methodological center for technological libraries, interdepartmental coordinator of user services, collection development, interlibrary loan, and translation of scitech literature. The authors emphasize the importance of the national regulation of sci-tech library and information services, and their development through building the state system of sci-tech information. The authors also examine the goals of t he S PLS&T U SSR a s a research institution in the area of library and bibliographic studies; SPLS&T supported the unity of efforts within the system. The authors analyze the implementation of the national sci-tech program; within the framework of the program, the RNPLS&T acts as the head agency of the Automated System of the Russian Union Catalog in science and technology and provides for interaction of sci-tech library network and sci-tech information institutions in using the databases by associated members. The authors substantiate the need for the new national system of sci-tech information based on the laws and regulations adopted in the recent decades. They analyze the results of 2023 All-Russian monitoring of sci-tech libraries and sci-tech information centers; evaluate the capacities of sci-tech libraries for supporting corporate projects, scitech professionals and researchers.

Exploring Metaverse Literacy: Immersive Technologies in Library Environments

This study aims to assess the familiarity, understanding, and perceptions of immersive technologies such as Virtual Environments (VEs), Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR) among library professionals in India. It seeks to determine the importance of Metaverse literacy for librarians, explore their attitudes toward integrating Metaverse concepts into library services, identify potential benefits, and examine perceived barriers hindering the adoption of Metaverse technologies in libraries. A quantitative research approach was employed, involving a stratified random sampling method to gather data from library professionals across various universities and colleges in India. Familiarity with VEs, AR, and VR technologies was high, with mean scores above 4.0 for most items, indicating respondents’ strong interest and understanding. The importance of Metaverse literacy was emphasized, with high mean scores (above 4.2) on its significance for enhancing library services and user engagement. Critical barriers identified included cost (mean = 4.13), lack of expertise (mean = 4.01), and privacy concerns (mean = 3.51). The results underscore the need for targeted training programs and resource allocation to support adopting immersive library technologies. Adopting Metaverse literacy in libraries can help bridge the digital divide and promote digital inclusion.

An Assessment of Librarians ICT Skills in Federal University of Technology Library, Minna, Nigeria

31 https://doi.org/10.70118/ijkd.0202405010.4 © 2024 The Authors, Samuel Ogbemudia Library. ISSN: Print 2714-4356 / Online 2714-4364 Published by Samuel Ogbemudia Library, University of Abuja, Nigeria An Assessment of Librarians ICT Skills in Federal University of Technology Library, Minna, Nigeria Mohammed Saba Adamu1* and Ladan Dogara1 1University Library, Federal University of Technology Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. *mohd.adamu@futminna.edu.ng Abstract This study examined ICT skills of librarians in Federal University of Technology Library, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. The study adopted descriptive survey research design. Two research questions guided the study. The study population comprised twenty-six (26) librarians working in Federal University of Technology Library, Minna, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Data were analysed using frequency counts, percentage and mean as a measure of central tendency with criterion mean of 3.0 benchmark. Findings revealed that the level of possession of ICT skills of the librarians is high in the areas of basic operation of ICT hardware skills, Internet usage skills, online research skills, online communication, and collaboration. and social/academic networking sites management and email skills and low in the area of document creation and retrieval skills. Conferences, workshops, self-learning, peer coaching, mentoring and among others were the avenues of ICT skills acquisition of the librarians. Based on the findings, the study concluded that librarians need to improve on the aspects of low possession of ICT skills. The study recommended that librarians should sustain and improve upon their possession of ICT skills through periodic training and re-training.

Editorial: Introduction to the Special Issue on Social Justice

This Special Issue of Issues in Science and Technology Librarianship (ISTL) on Social Justice came out of a column series that aimed to define social justice concepts and provide contextual examples of them for science and technology librarians. As they were developing the column series, the five authors (Jeffra D. Bussmann, Isabel M. Altamirano, Sam Hansen, Nastasha E. Johnson, and Gr Keer) thought it was also important to highlight the social justice work that was actively being done in science and technology libraries, and thought an ISTL Special Issue was the best way to accomplish this goal. This team reached out to the editorial board of the journal ISTL with their idea and let the board know that their ambition was to continue the conversation they were fortunate enough to begin in ISTL about social justice and science librarianship.

DNA-Encoded Library Technology─A Catalyst for Covalent Ligand Discovery.

The identification of novel covalent ligands for therapeutic purposes has long depended on serendipity, with dedicated hit finding techniques emerging only in the early 2000s. Advances in chemoproteomics have enabled robust characterization of putative drugs to derisk the unique liabilities associated with covalent hit molecules, leading to a renewed interest in this targeting modality. DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology has similarly emerged over the past two decades as a highly efficient method to identify new chemical equity toward protein targets of interest. A number of commercial and academic groups have reported methods in covalent DEL synthesis and hit identification; however, it is evident that there is still much to be done to fully realize the power of this technology for covalent ligand discovery. This perspective will explore the current approaches in covalent DEL technology and reflect on the next steps to advance this field.

Abstract 3091: Discovery of highly selective ligands with unique binding modes for challenging oncology targets using DNA-encoded chemical libraries

Abstract DNA-encoded chemical library (DEL) technology enables the efficient screening of large collections of encoded compounds and has emerged as a powerful tool for hit identification in recent years. The technology allows for the multiplexed interrogation of target-ligand binding interactions and results in DEL hits with unusual binding modes and desirable selectivity. This screening methodology is particularly effective for oncology targets. Examples of discovery of highly selective ligands for challenging oncology targets, including kinases, protein-protein interactions, and receptors, will be presented. We will illustrate how DEL campaign strategies directly aim at novel binding modes, and provide molecular details around the uniqueness of these interactions. Furthermore, we will show how these novel binding modes lead to unique pharmacology with direct benefit to patients. Lastly, we will demonstrate how X-Chem’s high-quality encoded libraries enhance the tractability and novelty of chemical equity discovered with the platform. Citation Format: Ying Zhang, Anthony Keefe, Matthew A. Clark. Discovery of highly selective ligands with unique binding modes for challenging oncology targets using DNA-encoded chemical libraries [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 3091.

Overview of the Library Automation System in South Sulawesi Libraries

Technology in libraries has played an essential role in serving today’s communities. This study provides an overview of the integrated library systems/software (ILSs) used in libraries in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. It aims to highlight the strengths and possibilities of ILSs and briefly explain their advantages and disadvantages along with the cost of implementation. The data was gathered from questionnaires sent via an online survey and from direct interviews with certain academic libraries over the period of 2019 to 2020. Fifty-three of 67 libraries that fulfilled the study have implemented an ILS. To deeply understand the application, a direct interview with some libraries was conducted to learn the advantages and disadvantages. The result of the study showed that the most used ILSs are SLiMS and INLISlite and other programs like Apollo, Athenium Light, Simpus, Spektra, Jibas, KOHA, and Openlibrary. The budget spent is an average of 300 USD. While the ILSs have helped these libraries improve services, IT expertise and adequate resources are needed, especially when the systems present problems. An easy-to-use system that costs less will potentially be used in this area of research. This study will be particularly helpful for any library in Indonesia. These findings may also be generalized to libraries in other countries facing economic and technological similarities.

Chemical Space Profiling of SARS-CoV-2 PLpro Using DNA-Encoded Focused Libraries.

DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology is gaining attention for its rapid construction and deconvolution capabilities. Our study explored a novel strategy using rational DELs tailored for the SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease, which revealed new fragments. Structural changes post-DEL screening mimic traditional medicinal chemistry lead optimization. We unveiled unique aromatic structures offering an alternative optimization path. Notably, we identified superior binding fragments targeting the BL2 groove. Derivative 16 emerged as the most promising by exhibiting IC50 values of 0.25 μM. Derivative 6, which features an aromatic fragment capped with a naphthalene moiety, showed IC50 values of 2.91 μM. Molecular modeling revealed hydrogen bond interactions with Lys157 residue and potential covalent interactions with nearby amino acid residues. This research underscored DEL's potential for fragment-based drug discovery against SARS-CoV-2 protease.

Beyond reality: metaverse technologies revolutionizing libraries and elevating user engagement

PurposeThis study aims to provide insight into the usage of metaverse technologies in libraries, examining their impact on library service user engagement and assisting in unique promotion and marketing techniques for the metaverse setting.Design/methodology/approachThis study used a literature review approach to synthesize current scholarly material on metaverse technologies and their practical applicability in the library context. It gathered academic literature from Emerald, Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar databases to construct a strong foundation for the study from journal articles, which were retrieved using the researcher’s “search string.”FindingsMetaverse technologies are reshaping the idea of smart libraries, offering innovative approaches to interact with information resources and delivering users progressively immersive and dynamic learning experiences. This in-depth investigation adds to a better understanding of the emerging link between metaverse technology and library professionals. It bridges the gap between libraries and users, transcending geographical boundaries and enabling libraries to serve a global audience. It anticipates metaverse-infused academic libraries welcoming new methods of engaging with their users with interactive capabilities to create a unique environment to explore library resources in an interactive marketing approach.Originality/valueThe metaverse is not only the future but also the future of libraries. This research fills the gap by advancing the literature on cutting-edge library technologies and empowers users to become reflective and well-informed information producers. It also helps library stakeholders engage with their audience in new and impactful ways and explore innovative marketing strategies tailored to the metaverse environment.

Recent Progress in Peptide-Based Molecular Probes for Disease Bioimaging.

Recent strides in molecular pathology have unveiled distinctive alterations at the molecular level throughout the onset and progression of diseases. Enhancing the in vivo visualization of these biomarkers is crucial for advancing disease classification, staging, and treatment strategies. Peptide-based molecular probes (PMPs) have emerged as versatile tools due to their exceptional ability to discern these molecular changes with unparalleled specificity and precision. In this Perspective, we first summarize the methodologies for crafting innovative functional peptides, emphasizing recent advancements in both peptide library technologies and computer-assisted peptide design approaches. Furthermore, we offer an overview of the latest advances in PMPs within the realm of biological imaging, showcasing their varied applications in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. We also briefly address current challenges and potential future directions in this dynamic field.

Beyond the pages: unleashing holograms and holographic technology in Caribbean academic libraries

PurposeThis paper is intended to spark discourse on the impact of holograms and holographic technology on libraries and the possibility of their usage in Caribbean academic libraries for assisting users, especially those from the physically challenged community, as well as distance library users.Design/methodology/approachA thorough assessment of literature was done of all academic and higher institution libraries across the English-speaking Caribbean to determine the effective use of holograms and holographic technology in Caribbean libraries. Literature from several developed countries was studied, paying keen attention to the emerging holograms and holographic technology and the plausibility for inclusion and exploitation by academic libraries.FindingsRevealing the possibilities for fostering great levels of efficacy, as well as saving time and reducing the possibility for inefficiencies in the system through smoother check-in and check-out while offering more accountability.Research limitations/implicationsThis research focused primarily on holograms and holographic technology that can assist libraries and their users in the near future. It further attested to the need for there to be greater consideration for physically challenged individuals and their access to material from the library.Originality/valueThis paper is the genesis for discussion surrounding holograms and holographic technology in the English-speaking Caribbean. It sought to bring awareness to the possible uses of holograms while exploring the practical implications of its use in libraries across the English-speaking Caribbean.