University Library Research Articles

The Predictive Machine Learning Model towards Effect of Human Resources Management Practices and Job Performances Among Academic Librarians in Malaysia

Job performance is a vital component of organizational success, directly impacting productivity, efficiency, and overall workplace effectiveness. For academic librarians, job performance is especially crucial in delivering high-quality library services, supporting academic programs, and fostering a conducive learning environment. However, there is a lack of literature on job performance in the context of academic librarianship in Malaysia. By conducting a thorough literature review and utilizing empirical research, this study aims to provide insights into the factors influencing job performance and strategies to enhance the job performance of academic librarians. In addition, the target population was the entire librarian’s public university libraries in Malaysia with 20 public university libraries involved. Primary data for 287 respondents of academic library was analysing using multiple linear regression analysis (MLR). The software used for analysing is Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). In a conclusion, the findings of this study found many factors contribute to job performance of academic library. This study provides recommendations to ultimately improving job performance among academic librarians in Malaysia.

AI Transparency in Academic Search Systems: An Initial Exploration

ABSTRACTAs AI‐enhanced academic search systems become increasingly popular among researchers, investigating their AI transparency is crucial to ensure trust in the search outcomes, as well as the reliability and integrity of scholarly work. This study employs a qualitative content analysis approach to examine the websites of a sample of 10 AI‐enhanced academic search systems identified through university library guides. The assessed level of transparency varies across these systems: five provide detailed information about their mechanisms, three offer partial information, and two provide little to no information. These findings indicate that the academic community is recommending and using tools with opaque functionalities, raising concerns about research integrity, including issues of reproducibility and researcher responsibility.

Assessment of Digital Literacy Skills in Acquisition of Electronic Information Sources among Government First Grade College Librarians in Karnataka: A study

Assessment of Digital Literacy Skills in Acquisition of Electronic Information Sources among Government First Grade College Librarians in Karnataka: A study

Evaluation of undergraduate research topic skill development

Inspired by the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy frame Research as Inquiry, Lehman College Library conducted an assessment to measure its undergraduate students’ ability to formulate research questions that are appropriately scaled, encourage critical inquiry, and can be supported by available information resources. Using a sample of first-year students enrolled in an English composition class, the assessment revealed that students performed best at locating information resources and struggled most with scaling down a topic. Lessons learned from this study can be extrapolated to outside institutions to improve information literacy learning outcomes.

Building an Age-friendly Digital Service System for Chinese University Libraries

As the aging process accelerates and information technology rapidly advances, the differences between the elderly and the digital society are becoming more pronounced. This highlights the need to bridge the digital divide and improve the quality of life for older people. University libraries play an important role in this. This study builds on the successful implementation of the Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) digital capabilities framework in the United Kingdom (UK) to inform the design of digital services for Chinese University libraries. To improve these outcomes, university libraries need to prioritize three key areas: establishing a comprehensive strategic plan, developing a collaborative learning ecosystem, and innovative digital tools stirring together. Subsequent research will examine the efficacy of this system in a variety of settings and explore strategies for optimizing its visibility and effectiveness.

The effect of academic librarians’ trust and relationships on their knowledge-sharing practice using the theory of planned behaviour

This study investigates how trust and relationships influence knowledge-sharing practices among academic librarians in Malaysia. Drawing on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), the research examines how trust affects librarians’ attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control, ultimately shaping their intentions and knowledge-sharing behaviours. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from librarians in selected public and private university libraries in the Klang Valley region of Malaysia. The findings reveal a significant positive impact of trust and relationships on librarians’ willingness to share knowledge. The study also highlights that trust and positive relationships can indirectly influence knowledge-sharing practices by first shaping librarians’ attitudes, perceptions of social pressure, and confidence in their ability to share knowledge effectively. These results emphasize the importance of fostering a supportive library culture to promote knowledge sharing. Practical steps for libraries to cultivate such an environment are discussed, including (e.g. team-building activities and training programmes). Finally, the implications of these findings are explored, offering valuable insights for future research and library management practices.

A Study on the Impact of Digital Literacy on Research Ability of Graduate Students

In the digital age, this paper discusses the impact of graduate students digital literacy on scientific research ability, aiming at cultivating research talents with digital literacy, and improving the quality and efficiency of graduate students scientific research ability. This study investigates the current situation of digital literacy of graduate students through a questionnaire survey, and constructs a structural equation model of the impact of digital literacy of graduate students on scientific research ability. SPSS and AMOS 28.0 are used for empirical analysis, the research results show that digital literacy has a certain positive impact on scientific research ability, which is mainly manifested in three aspects: digital thinking, digital learning and digital ethics awareness. It is proposed that universities should adjust and optimize the cultivation mode of digital literacy university libraries, build rich and complete colleague digital literacy, and strengthen the guidance of graduate students to form the bottom line of digital ethics awareness and other countermeasures.

Understanding the technology and humans as determinants of cloud computing adoption for digital preservation of research outputs in university libraries

Understanding the technology and humans as determinants of cloud computing adoption for digital preservation of research outputs in university libraries

Awareness of Cloud Computing Technology at Mumbai Suburban College Libraries

Awareness of Cloud Computing Technology at Mumbai Suburban College Libraries

A Portrayal of French University Libraries 1989–2024

Abstract The evolution of French university libraries since 1989 has been marked by the construction of library buildings and the training of librarians in the languages and rules of architects. Starting from the beginning of the 21st century, university reforms have reshaped the landscape of university libraries, aligning them with societal changes and emphasising a greater focus on user services. This paper looks at all aspects of university libraries, from training to research.*

An Investigation on the Digital Collection Development Competency and Training Needs of Library Professionals in Pakistan

This study investigates the specific requirements for training and enhancing digital collections management for library professionals in Pakistan. The approach is centered around three primary objectives: ascertaining the professional training prerequisites for library professionals overseeing digital collections; assessing the extent of progress in digital collections within university libraries; and pinpointing the obstacles encountered by librarians and library professionals in this domain. The findings indicate a significant deficiency in resources and training for professionals, highlighting the need for specialized training in areas such as digital copyright and preservation techniques. Recommendations for enhancing digital library services encompass more financial resources and targeted training programs. This study addresses significant subjects such as misunderstandings regarding digital libraries, inadequate technological infrastructure, a shortage of skilled workers, copyright difficulties, cultural and digital obstacles, and financial constraints. Resolving these challenges not only has the potential to expedite the establishment of digital libraries in Pakistan but also has the capacity to serve as a model for other developing countries.

Turning Points in the Croatian Information Environment: From the 1980s to 2023

Abstract The article deals with the development of standards and library information systems in Croatia from the late 1970s to 2023. Despite the turmoil of the dissolution of former Yugoslavia, the National and University Library in Zagreb (NUL) was able to continue its operations and was central to initiatives aimed at adapting national needs to international developments until the early 2000s, when it switched to a commercial system. The publication of the National Content Standard in 2021 has given the NUL the opportunity to assume again its central role in the Croatian bibliographic ecosystem.

Turkish University Libraries on the Centenary of the Republic

Abstract Turkey celebrated the Centenary of the Republic in 2023. Within the scope of this article, the development and changes that Turkish university libraries have undergone in this century-long adventure will be conveyed under the main topics that we consider prominent and important. Under each, the general situation in Turkish university libraries will be explained with examples; and the article will finish with a brief evaluation and suggestions for the future by considering trends that emerge because of studies conducted on a global scale and changes in social, economic, political, and technological fields which contribute to the transformation of libraries.

Reconnoitering the Correlation between ICT Facilities’ Application and Capacity Building of Library Staff in University Libraries in South-South, Nigeria

Technology integration in library operations is fundamental to meeting information, literature and research needs of students, researchers and administrative staff of tertiary institutions. This study explored the correlation between ICT facilities application such as social media handles, internet, as well as online public access catalogue (OPAC) and capacity building of library staff in public university libraries in South-South, Nigeria. Correlational research design was used to examine the extent to which ICT facilities’ application correlate with capacity building of library staff. Three (3) each of research objectives, questions, and hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The population was 416 library staff from six public university libraries. The total enumeration sampling technique was used. Two sets of self-structured questionnaire instruments totaling 416 copies were used for data collection, out of which, 306 were retrieved and analyzed which represented 74% response rate. Face and content validity of the instruments were done. A reliability test was conducted which yielded the coefficients of 0.89 and 0.85 respectively. The research questions were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMC) while the hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance using linear regression statistics. Findings revealed a significant positive correlation between internet, social media handles application and capacity building of library staff, while applications of OPAC showed a feeble correlation with capacity building. Hence, the level to which ICT facilities’ application correlate with capacity building of library staff in the university libraries was insignificant, which by implication had negative effects on library staff services delivery. It was therefore recommended, among other measures, the implementation of a comprehensive ICT training programme to address gaps in ICT facilities’ application by library staff for effective utilization of all relevant technologies.

The current state of institutional repositories in universities of Türkiye: An applied research study

The purpose of this article is to analyze the current state of institutional repositories owned by Turkish universities, identify the challenges faced by librarians responsible for managing these repositories, and propose solutions to overcome these obstacles. A survey was distributed to 181 institutions in Türkiye. Responses were received from 80 institutions. The findings revealed the difficulties experienced by librarians working in institutional repositories and the areas where they need improvement. Researchers spend too much time uploading their publications, data entry is not mandatory in institutional repository policies, copyright/ownership issues, a lack of understanding of the importance of institutional repositories, legal infrastructure deficiencies, budget constraints, and a lack of technical support are among the main challenges faced by institutions. The first three areas that institutional repositories need are budget, support and attention from university administration and adequate and competent staff. Again, the study revealed that Council of Higher Education did not fulfill its duties and responsibilities regarding institutional repositories. As a result of the study, solutions specific to the problems and needs experienced by institutional repositories have been proposed. The study aims to bridge literature gaps on repository processes in Turkish university libraries, providing insights and practical solutions for enhancing institutional repository performance.

Assessment of the effectiveness of online e-resources marketing tools in university libraries

Purpose This study aims to assess the effectiveness of online e-resource marketing tools used by university libraries to market e-resources. The specific objectives of this study were to uncover the e-resources that are showcased by university libraries, find out instructions posted by libraries to facilitate access and utilization of e-resources, examine marketing tools used, examine how current and relevant marketing messages and test the functionality of the marketing tools used. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory research design was used to assess the effectiveness of e-resources marketing tools. The study population included all public university libraries in Tanzania. The sample was purposively selected to include all publicly funded libraries as they work under similar management environments. Data collection involved the evaluation of online marketing tools using a matrix checklist. Findings It was revealed that most university libraries use websites for showcasing e-resources. The commonly used social media for marketing e-resources is Facebook followed by Instagram while Twitter and Ask a Librarian are the least used. The results further show that only a few universities provide instructions on how to access and use e-resources. The findings indicate that universities had active communication platforms for marketing e-resources. Furthermore, less than 50% of marketing messages are active and current. It is recommended that marketing e-resources should be integrated into the library’s plans and strategies and this should be informed by library policies. Research limitations/implications Given that, this study involved Tanzanian public university libraries, it is possible that the findings do not represent the same situation in all academic university libraries in the nation. Originality/value This study assesses the effectiveness of online tools used to market e-resources in university libraries in Tanzania. It reveals the e-resources that are showcased online, the instructions provided on how to access the e-resources and the functionality of the marketing tools. Unlike the previous research, which primarily focused on evaluating the Web-based tools in university and college libraries, this study focused on public libraries in the country. The results will not only contribute to the theoretical and practical understanding of the functionality of the marketing tools but also provide actionable insights to decision-makers in libraries in marketing their e-resources.

Adoption of virtual library systems and services in university libraries: an empirical investigation from the Punjab, Pakistan

Purpose This study aims to identify the status of virtual library system development in university libraries. It also attempted to examine the availability of virtual library services and reveal the challenges being faced by university librarians of Punjab province, Pakistan in providing virtual library services. Design/methodology/approach The study used a quantitative research method by using a questionnaire to address the study’s objectives. In total, 62 university libraries in Punjab province, Pakistan were the population of the study. A purposive sampling technique was applied to gather the required data from the respondents. Findings Results showed that most of the study’s respondents are well aware of the potential benefits of virtual library systems in universities for the delivery of innovative smart services to library patrons. The libraries delivered different virtual library services to meet the diverse needs of the library patrons. The respondents faced the challenges of funding, expertise, technical support, leadership, strategic planning and training to adopt virtual library systems and services in university libraries. Originality/value The study has provided a framework based on empirical findings of the study to efficiently adopt virtual library systems and services in university libraries for the delivery of smart services to end users. It has provided pertinent theoretical and practical implications.

Career management practices and job performance among university library personnel in southwest Nigeria

This study investigated the level of career management practices and job performance among library personnel in university libraries in south-west Nigeria. The study adopted a correlational survey research design. Data was collected from 433 respondents using a questionnaire. The results showed a moderate level of career management practices, with personnel moderately agreeing that human resource development programs contribute to achieving library objectives and impact productivity and performance. The level of job performance was rated as high, with very high scores for administrative duties and working with co-workers. Career management practices like receiving performance feedback, allowing staff decision-making, and using weaknesses for training were moderately implemented. Common career management strategies employed included library linkages, staff engagement, and deployments/retraining, while workforce planning and promotion exercises were least used. A positive correlation was found between career management practices and job performance (r = 0.086, p < .05). The study concludes there is a correlation between career management practices and job performance of library personnel in these university libraries. The study recommends that university libraries strengthen their human resource development programs, ensuring HRD is given adequate attention and resources, including regular training and development opportunities and comprehensive HRD policies and strategies.

Jack in the Black Box

This essay reviews the design and deployment of a critical generative AI and information literacy assignment along with its inspirations for instructional librarians in American colleges today.

E-Library: A Total solution for Library Automation & Management Software for College Libraries in Rajasthan

E-Library: A Total solution for Library Automation & Management Software for College Libraries in Rajasthan