University Library Resources Research Articles

Digital transformation of reading behaviors among allied health students: insights from medical libraries in Pakistan

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to assess the digital transformation of students' reading preferences and behaviors, considering the significant impact of digital resources accessible through the internet among allied health students. Design/methodology/approach The researchers used a structured questionnaire to collect data. The study focused on undergraduate allied health students from medical universities in Pakistan. The researchers used a convenient sampling technique. Data analysis was performed using statistical software packages R and SPSS. Findings The results indicate that allied health students frequently use databases, e-books and e-journals to fulfil their academics and research needs, aiding in the acquisition of up-to-date information and supporting various academic research pursuits. The study emphasizes the positive effects on the reading habits of allied health students, attributing these improvements to factors such as enhanced online databases, a broader array of materials and the integration of digital tools. However, challenges arise from the limited availability of relevant e-resources and the dispersion of information across various library sources. Originality/value This study provides valuable insights into the availability and utilization of e-resources among allied health students in Pakistan. It highlights the crucial role that digital resources play in shaping reading behaviors within the educational landscape. This study holds significance as it contributes to educational enhancement, proves beneficial for the improvement of university library resources and services and aids in the development of policies in health-care education.

The use of bigdata in the management of library resources: Nigeria university experiences

Services of libraries have to be accessible to all members of the community; this requires well situated library infrastructure, facilities and information resources as well as relevant technologies. Therefore, this study explored the use of big data in the management of library resources in university libraries. Four objectives were proposed for the study to describe the use of bigdata in managing resources of university library. In addition, ethical concern related to the use of bigdata was also identified in the paper. Descriptive literature review was used as methodology. The study conclude that Bigdata as a tool in university libraries is an important mechanism that is meant to protect library information resources for use. The nature of the library resources call for more protection especially resources are ICT in nature. However, the important of Bigdata in any organization including library become an imperative to resources management. The nature of services delivery in this present age in university library calls for the use of Bigdata so that right information resources can be provided to right people at tight time and place. Based on the concluding part, the study recommends that awareness should be provided by university libraries and management on the opportunities of Bigdata to library clienteles and training, conference and workshop should be orgnise by library and university management in order to equip library personnel with the needed skills and knowledge on better use of Bigdata in service provision.

Diversity Dishonesty: Smoke and Mirrors in the Organization

The article aims to discuss the phenomenon known as “diversity dishonesty” (term “smoke and mirrors” was coined by Stacey Morin as a metaphor of diversity dishonesty). Diversity dishonesty is defined as encapsulating a complex scenario wherein organizations outwardly portray a façade of commitment to genuine and quantifiable progress concerning diversity initiatives, while in practice, they manifest insincerity and disingenuousness. In recent years, diversity dishonesty has garnered substantial scholarly attention, particularly within organizational dynamics. This phenomenon is characterized by a superficial and performative engagement with diversity, creating the illusion of progress and dedication while failing to bring about substantive and meaningful transformations in diversity and inclusivity. The article presents the results of systematic literature review of peer-reviewed journals that analyzed diversity dishonesty in the organization, examine diversity dishonesty in organizations, to reveal a complex interplay of psychological, social, and organizational factors. Search engines provided by Marymount University Library and such resources as: ABI/INFORM Collection, Business Source Complete (EBSCO Host), Google Scholar, JSTOR and ProQuest Research Library were used. The research introduces an infinity loop framework that leverages accountability and transparency in conjunction with stakeholder theory. The article examines the following symptoms of diversity dishonesty within an organization: pluralistic ignorance, exclusion, othering, erosion of trust and morale, inconsistency between promotional material and lived experience, limited representation in leadership, microaggression, and tokenism. The article examines the following cascade of consequences of diversity dishonesty within an organization: legal risk, reputational damage, and stifled innovation and creativity. By shedding light on the intricacies of this phenomenon, this article offers valuable insights for organizations aiming to move beyond performative diversity efforts and genuinely foster diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments.

Assessment of the Provision and Funding of Electronic Information Resources in State University Libraries in North West Zone of Nigeria

Assessment of the Provision and Funding of Electronic Information Resources in State University Libraries in North West Zone of Nigeria

Librarians Technology Skills and Management of Electronic Information Resources in University Libraries in South-South Nigeria

This study investigated librarians technology skills and management of electronic information resources in university libraries in south-south Nigeria. Three research questions were developed, and one null hypothesis was formulated in relation to what the study sought to find out. A structured Questionnaire entitled Librarians’ Technology Skills and Management of Electronic Information Resources Questionnaire” (LTSMEIRQ) was developed and used for data collection while three experts were engaged to validate the instrument. The reliability coefficient of the instrument was found to be 0.97 using Person Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. The questionnaire was used for collecting data from 242 respondents made of librarians in University libraries in South-South Nigeria. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential to answer the raised research questions and the formulated hypothesis. The study affirmed that librarians in University libraries in South-South Nigeria possessed high level technology skills, also the study found that relationship exists between librarians technology skills and management of electronic information resources in university libraries in south-south Nigeria. The study recommended constant upskilling and reskilling of librarians in the University to remain relevant in the scheme of global development.

Utilization of blockchain technology for effective circulation control in university libraries in South-East, Nigeria

The study examined the utilization of block chain technology for effective circulation control in university libraries in Southeast, Nigeria. The study employed descriptive survey research design. The population of the study comprised of 472 librarians in 10 federal and state-owned universities in South-East, Nigeria. Total enumeration technique was used to study the entire population of librarians in the study area. Online structured questionnaire was used to collect the opinions of the librarians due to the constraint of distributing and accessing the respondents physically as a result of the ASUU strike. WhatsApp Groups of the various state chapters of Nigerian Library Association (NLA) in South-East Nigeria were used as method of sharing the link of the online questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using frequency count, mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed among other things that, there was no extent of utilization of block chain technology among the university libraries studied for record keeping, tracking of transactions of users, reservation of resources, charging and discharging of information resources in university libraries in Southeast, Nigeria as there was a mean score of 1.61 for keeping and tracking records of registered users. However, it was agreed that, utilization of blockchain technology will facilitate effective circulation control in the university libraries. Lack of awareness, technophobia, inadequate skills and competence and inadequate technological facilities are the major challenges associated with the utilization of block chain technology in university libraries. The study recommended among other things that; university management should organize in-house training of librarians in the use of blockchain technology. Also, adequate technological facilities should be acquired and the work environment in the university libraries should be conducive for librarians.

The Purchasing Decisions Based on Analysis of University Library Resource Utilization

The Purchasing Decisions Based on Analysis of University Library Resource Utilization

Digital preservation practices for information resources in university libraries of Pakistan

PurposeThe digital contents (d-contents) are vulnerable to various threats either natural or manmade. Digital preservation is the plethora of a wide array of strategies necessary for the long-term preservation of digital objects. This study was carried out to assess the digital preservation practices for information resources in university libraries of Pakistan.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative survey based on a structured questionnaire was carried out to conduct the study. The questionnaire containing two sets of strategies (general and technical) was distributed amongst the whole population and received 90% response rate.FindingsOverall, progressive implementation of general digital preservation practices was noted in these libraries like checking the digital collections for viruses, keeping the digital media in fire/water/theft proof locations, restricting unauthorized access, maintaining ideal humidity and temperature, and checking the digital media for functionality. Amongst the technical practices, only replication was in practice at a progressive rate, followed by metadata recording and media refreshing that was sometimes practiced in these libraries. The other technical practices were rarely or never practiced in these libraries. Significant variances in general and technical digital preservation practices were noted based on their physical locations (regional distribution).Research limitations/implicationsThe study contributes a comprehensive set of digital preservation practices divided into general and technical types to conduct similar studies in other parts of the world.Practical implicationsThe findings stress the need for national and institutional policies, funding streams and skill enhancement of library staff.Originality/valueThe study fills the literature gap and contributes a comprehensive set of digital preservation practices divided into general and technical types to conduct similar studies in other parts of the world.Peer reviewThe peer-review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-02-2023-0074

A Study of Public University Libraries in Bangladesh in the Context of Collection Development through Open Access Resources

Libraries and librarians will benefit by acquiring a collection of open access information resources. The OA movement in Bangladesh is being developed to reduce the huge pressure on the library budget for subscriptions to journals. In most developed countries, university libraries view open-access materials as an important part of their collection development strategy. In this study, we examine the current state of OA resources in public university libraries in Bangladesh, collection development policies, the library authority's perspectives, the challenges libraries face in including OA resources in their collection development, and how to overcome those obstacles. Methodology: A survey and a stratified random sample technique were used in this study. A total of 276 students and 268 faculty members were surveyed. The first six public universities (in order of date of establishment) were selected. We sent out questionnaires directly to students, library personnel, librarians, and other library officials. Using library websites, journals, official records, and Google Scholar was another step. Findings: This study indicates that although open access materials may be quite useful in the growth of collections, most academic library authorities seem unconcerned about this. The utilization of open access materials in the overall collection is visible, but it is insignificant.

Barriers to Preservation for Digital Information Resources in University Libraries of Pakistan

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate barriers faced by Pakistani university libraries to implement digital preservation programs. A questionnaire was developed and pilot tested before being sent to 70 libraries of the public sector universities and degree awarding institutions to measure the phenomena. Out of the targeted 70 libraries, 63 responded to the survey (90 % response rate). The results highlighted that a lack of institutional/national policies, financial and technological resources, and administrative support are key barriers that hinder the implementation of digital preservation practices in Pakistani university libraries. The findings of this novel study emphasize devising a national policy for digital preservation in Pakistan. Results point out key barriers to digital preservation and help designing knowledge-based systems in order to meet information and knowledge needs of library users around the clock.

Accessibility and utilization of information resources in the post COVID-19 era

University libraries play a pivotal role in fostering teaching, research, and innovation by offering essential information resources. However, patrons often encounter challenges in using these resources. The research aimed to examine the factors influencing the utilization of information resources in university libraries at Kenyatta University Meru University of Science and Technology and post-COVID-19. The objectives were to: determine the skills needed by librarians in supporting utilization of information, analyse the innovative methodologies used to facilitate access to library resources/services, examine the challenges faced by librarians and patrons and determine the importance of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in improving information resources usability and consumption. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design with quantitative research methods. The study was conducted at Kenyatta University and Meru University of Science and Technology libraries. Simple random and purposeful sampling techniques were used to distribute questionnaires to patrons and librarians, respectively. Data was collected from 20 librarians and 309 patrons, out of whom, 26 librarians and 357 patrons were sampled. The questionnaires underwent expert review to ensure their validity and reliability. The study found that 81% of librarians prefer online search resources, while 41% prefer physical textbooks. 16.5% of patrons preferred e-books and e-journals, with inadequate computers (32%) and unreliable networks (25.7%) as challenges affecting access and utilization of resources. The librarians identified lack of cooperation, inadequate digital library skills, understaffing, and poor network as major obstacles to facilitating access and utilization of library resources. The study recommends that university management should enhance librarian capacity building, training, and reengineer ICT infrastructure to enhance access and utilization of resources in the post-COVID-19 era. The study's findings will aid librarians in redesigning library functions to enhance the efficacy of library services in meeting user information needs.

Evaluation of Users’ Satisfaction of Information Resources in University Libraries in Nigeria: A Case Study

This study examined postgraduate students’ satisfaction of information resources at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education Library, Rivers State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. Three research questions guided the study. The population of the study comprised 414 registered postgraduate students. A simple random sampling technique was used to determine the sample size, which is 120 students, representing 30% of the total population. The questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. Data were analyzed with frequency counts, simple percentages, and Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 23 was used to generate the mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that the majority of the postgraduate students used the library information resources occasionally and that the students mostly used e-books, theses/dissertations projects, government publications, and print and e-journals. Lastly, the study established that the majority of the postgraduate students are not satisfied with the available library information resources provided by the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education. Based on the findings, the researchers recommended that the library management should provide current and relevant information resources in the library to encourage users to effectively use the library resources and services. The library should also implement strategic policies that will enhance effective service delivery.

Assessing Burdwan University Library Resources and Services by Postgraduate Students: A Study

The survey highlights that students of university regularly visit libraries to borrow books. Most university libraries have sufficient infrastructure like layout, lighting, ventilation, and clean premises. They have an easily accessible location as well. In university libraries, there is mostly a collection of textbooks but inadequate journals/magazines for students. Moreover, open access to documents and electronic information resources is available only in a few departments. The study reveals that university libraries should improve services, like computers, documents, provision of internet browsing, reprography services, proper display of documents, reading tables, chairs, etc. The major problems identified were, the less number of computers in the library and the internet in libraries, short library hours, and lack of user orientation.

Residential transfer students and the university library: A needs assessment

Academic libraries support and serve transfer student populations in various ways, from tailored instruction, services, and outreach efforts. This study sought to understand the library needs of a residential transfer student population that bridges a local technical college to a university. The researchers used focus group interviews and a survey to collect data and used descriptive statistics and constant comparative thematic coding analysis to analyze the data. Results indicated that many students used the physical environment of the university library to study and felt welcomed in the space. Some students indicated that they used the university library's resources, while some responded that they did not know they had access to the university library or did not know how to use it. Students discussed that they felt they were not “allowed” to use the university library's research resources, and many stated that distance was a barrier to using the library. Although many students indicated that they use the university library, many students asked for more instruction on how to use the library. They also expressed an interest and need for tutoring services available within the university library.

Formation and Use of Open Access Resources in University Libraries during the Pandemic and Martial Law in Ukraine

Objective. The research is aimed at revealing the repository as an important tool for storing and promoting open access resources and open educational resources (OER) as a component of open access resources, and the role of the library in these processes. Methods. To achieve the purpose of the research, a complex of scientific methods was applied, including analysis and synthesis, comparison, statistical method and direct study of practical experience through the analysis of library reports. Results. During the research it was summarized the information about open access resources, in particular OER; examples of the national policy of forming repositories were considered; the experience of the formation and use of institutional repositories in the technical universities of Kharkiv and Mykolaiv was studied; the foreign experience of creating and functioning of repositories of the information-library profile was considered. Conclusions. The further direction of the university library in the promotion of the OER initiative is substantiated, namely, convergence of library activities with educational activities in the aspect of creating, planning, and organizing access to open educational electronic resources.

Signage and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Facilities as Correlate to Utilisation of Information Resources in Federal Universities’ Libraries in South-South Zone of Nigeria

This study was aimed at investigating the extent to which signage and ICT facilities correlate to the utilisation of information resources in federal university libraries in South-South zone of Nigeria. The correlational research design was adopted for the study. Three research questions were answered while three hypotheses were tested. The population of the study comprised 32,190 registered library users for the 2017/2018 academic session and 776 library staff from six federal university libraries in south-south zones of Nigeria. The sample size for the study was 3,219 registered library users and 310 library staff representing 10% and 40% of the population respectively. A two-stage sampling technique of stratified and simple sampling techniques was used to select the sample size. Two Sets of instruments titled; “Signage and Information and Communication Technology Facilities Questionnaire (SICTFQ)” for the students and “Utilization of Information Resources Questionnaire (UIRQ)”were used for data collection. Face and content validity was ensured by three experts. The two instruments yielded reliability coefficients of 0.81 and 0.87 respectively with the use of Cronbach Alpha. Mean was used in answering research questions while Regression was used in testing the null hypotheses at 0.05 alpha level. It was found that to a great extent signage relates to the utilisation of information resources while information and communication technology facilities is the vice versa. Based on the findings, it was concluded that jointly, signage and ICT facilities are significant correlate to the utilisation of information resources in federal university libraries in South–South zone of Nigeria. It was therefore recommended among others that library management should improve on the provision of signage by ensuring that well-designed signage suitable for the 21st century is placed at strategic location to guide library users on the utilisation of information resources in federal universities libraries in South-South zone Nigeria.

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Library User Education as it Correlates Students’ Use of Library Resources in Private University Libraries in Edo State, Nigeria

The study examined library user education as it correlates with students’ use of information resources in private university libraries in Edo state, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was used. Four research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. The population of the study comprised 7400 undergraduate students at the three private universities in Edo state. A simple random sampling technique was used to determine the sample size, which is 891 students, representing 65% of the total population. The study’s sample size was determined using the Taro Yamane sample size formula. The questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. The study’s data were reviewed to see whether there was any internal consistency of reliability, and a reliability coefficient of 0.98 was gotten through the Cronbach Alpha method. The questionnaire was deemed credible based on the coefficient obtained. Data were analyzed with frequency counts, simple percentages, and Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 23 was used to generate the mean and standard deviation while Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient was used to test the hypothesis at 0.05 significant level. The findings revealed that the majority of the students used the library information resources daily with textbooks and digital resources being the most commonly used. The study also established that the students have a positive perception of the impacts of library user education on the use of information resources and that no challenges are hindering the effective use of information resources in the libraries. Lastly, the test of hypothesis shows that there is a significant relationship between library user education and student’s use of information resources in private university libraries in Edo state. The positive relationship implied that library user education enhanced students’ use of information resources in the libraries. Based on the findings, the researchers recommended that the university library administrators should regularly plan and enhance library user education training to better meet users’ information demands.

Provision of digital information resources in Nigerian university libraries

Introduction: This paper examines the provision of digital information resources in academic libraries with focus on university libraries in Nigeria. Method: A descriptive survey design was used. The population of the study was 744 certified academic librarians working in the three tiers of universities (federal, state, and private) as contained in the list maintained by the Librarians’ Registration Council of Nigeria. A questionnaire was used for data collection. Analysis: The data were analyzed quantitatively through the Statistical Package of the Social Sciences (SPSS), using percentages, mean scores, and standard deviation. Results: Access to digital information resources in libraries is low due to non-implementation of real time provision of information resources to users, emanating from lack of library management software that would drive the process, professionals’ lack of skills in implementing digital information services, and lack of relevant formal institutional digital information provision policies. Conclusion: Embracing real time digital library services is essential to ensure effective provision of access to information for users. The solution lies in subscription to library management software and developing the capacity of the librarians for its effective implementation.

Tendency and Student Satisfaction Using Printed and Electronic Information Resources at the University of North Sumatra Library

Background of the study: The presence of electronic Information Resources (SDI) in university libraries is especially attractive for users. The convenience and not having to come physically to the location make users prefer to use electronic SDI compared to printed SDI. Purpose: The main purpose of this research is to find out the trend of using SDI in the USU Library based on the field of science. Another objective is to find out the actual satisfaction of users with the electronic and printed SDI available at the USU Library. Method: This research is descriptive. The method used is a survey and data collection techniques are carried out by distributing questionnaires to respondents. Findings: The results showed that USU undergraduate students (S1) had different tendencies in using information resources. Students from non-exact study programs prefer to use the printed format, while students from the exact sciences study program more often use electronic SDI. Then in terms of the satisfaction that is desired and obtained, non-exact students have an average percentage value that is higher than exact. Conclusion: The results of this study can be used as evaluation material for the USU Library to continue to provide SDI in both printed and electronic formats following the information needs of its users.