Library Users Research Articles

The effect of concept mapping in nursing education on critical thinking motivation: A path analysis

BackgroundThe integration of concept mapping into nursing education represents a pivotal strategy aimed at enhancing critical thinking skills, which is a necessity in navigating the complexities of healthcare. This educational tool's role in stimulating students' analytical abilities and motivation towards critical thinking has become increasingly relevant in preparing nursing professionals for the dynamic challenges of their field. ObjectivesThe aim of this study is to examine how the implementation of concept mapping affects critical thinking motivation among nursing students, investigate the relationship between them, and support its use as an innovative educational strategy in the field of nursing. DesignThis study was conducted using a descriptive and exploratory design. MethodsThis research was carried out between May and June 2023, involving 435 nursing students. For data collection within an online classroom framework, the study applied a trio of tools: the Student Descriptive Information Form, the Scale for the Effectiveness of Concept Maps in Nursing Education, and the Critical Thinking Motivation Scale. The analysis of the compiled data was undertaken utilizing SPSS version 25.0 and JAMOVI software, with statistical significance set at a p-value of <0.05. ResultsEngagement in social/scientific activities, library usage, and book reading habits were positively correlated with higher scores on both the Critical Thinking Motivation Scale and the Scale for the Effectiveness of Concept Maps in Nursing Education. Notably, concept mapping significantly enhanced critical thinking motivation among the participating students, as evidenced by the path analysis (β = 0.758, R = 0.563, p < 0.001). ConclusionThe findings underscore the significant role of concept mapping in elevating critical thinking motivation among nursing students, suggesting its strategic inclusion in nursing curricula to meet the evolving demands of healthcare education in the twenty-first century.

Digital information repackaging: best practices from university library website managers

Purpose This paper aims to explore the digital information repackaging process from the perspective of library website operators. The digital info repackaging process consists of analysis, synthesis, editing and presenting. Design/methodology/approach Interviews with 17 library website operators regarding their experience in information repackaging. The library website observation also conducted to gather the data on information repackaging. Findings Librarians who manage library websites repackage digital information using a process of user analysis, content analysis, editing and transforming and translating. Librarians who are in charge of repackaging usually collect, check, group and present information based on the raw data and information. Librarians rarely did criticize or argue the information. They just deliver it in the pact and attractive format. In the future, librarians can add critical comments on their digital information content, such as give recommendation, provide point of view, add some suggestion or make comparison. Practical implications This paper can provide an overview of the process of repackaging digital information carried out by university libraries which can be provided by libraries via websites. Apart from that, it is hoped that the presence of this research can help librarians in carrying out the process of repackaging digital information. Originality/value This paper can add to the scientific development of information science and library studies related to the field of information repackaging, especially in the repackaging of digital information in creating website content to efficiently meet the information needs of university library users.

Bibliographic Culture as a Factor of Security of Trusted Public Internet

The article deals with the problem of security of search in modern public computer-network resources of reliable, complete sources, their qualitative bibliographic description. The relevance is due to the “digital transformation”, the rapid spread of computer-network technologies since the 2010s to all sectors, as well as everyday life; a sharp and significant increase in the number and variety of electronic databases (libraries); turning the majority of humanity into daily active users. Objective international and national diseases of growth of standardization, streamlining, structuring of databases, development of indexing systems and search public network services, means of verification of electronic documents have manifested themselves.Since 2014 and even later from 2022, the problem was exacerbated by the reduction of international cooperation in computer-network technologies, anti-Russian sanctions of unfriendly countries, violation of Russian legislation by global digital corporations, leapfrogging strengthening of cybercrime and information confrontation in the Internet. The possibilities of attackers who, by exploiting vulnerabilities, reduced the access of mass users to reliable electronic documents in cross-border Internet communications increased. The opportunities caused by the relativistic understanding of truth, fabrication and broadcasting of falsified information, fake news, disinformation, use of new means of “social engineering” (fraud, manipulation of consciousness) that threaten citizens and national interests of Russia have increased.The novelty of the study lies in the integrated application of theoretical and cultural gnoseology (culture of cognition) and methodology of information security (countering deliberate attempts to mislead). The comparative analysis revealed significant differences between Russian state electronic libraries, document management systems, registers and services and non-state, as well as foreign public Internet resources and services. The result of the study is the conclusion about the importance of the prevalence of essential interests of mass users of Russian public libraries and electronic services. Recommendations on the preferability of applying this experience in the creation and modernization of Russian public non-state digital databases, libraries, services, as well as the development of standardization on its basis are formulated.

Enhancing User Satisfaction through Effective People Marketing Strategies in University Libraries

This research article investigates the relationship between people marketing strategies and user satisfaction within university libraries in central Uganda. Given the increasing competition among academic libraries for user engagement and service delivery, understanding how people-oriented marketing approaches can enhance user satisfaction becomes crucial. The objectives of this study are: to analyze the people marketing strategies employed by selected university libraries, assess user satisfaction levels, explore the relationship between marketing strategies and user satisfaction, and determine the influence of these strategies on the overall satisfaction of library users. A mixed-methods approach was used, involving quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Findings indicated a positive (0.185-0.509) and significant (P≤0.01) correlation between effective people marketing strategies and higher user satisfaction levels. Staff availability (12.463, P≤0.009), capacity to guide users (3.583, P≤0.000) communication skills (0.605, P≤0.001), effective rapport with users (37.351, P≤0.058), and support in utilization of new technologies (3.283, P≤0.007), among others, were the major determinants of user library satisfaction. The study therefore emphasized the need for library administrations to adopt comprehensive marketing approaches focusing on interpersonal relationships and user-centric services.

Beliefs and Ethical Perceptions of Book Theft as Predictors of Bibliokleptomanism among Library Users

Beliefs and Ethical Perceptions of Book Theft as Predictors of Bibliokleptomanism among Library Users

Effects of Electronic Surveillance System on Security and Theft in Four Central University Libraries in U.P.

The study focused on impact of electronic surveillance systems on book theft and mutilation in Central Universities ,U.P. In this study, electronic surveillance is the use of modern technological security devices to detect book security and theft in Central Universities ,U.P. Descriptive survey design was used as design of the study. The population of the study was library users drawn from the Libraries in four Central Universities in U.P. Sample size for this study was made up of entire population. Research instruments was Questionnaire and interviewed guide developed by researchers. It was recommended among others that there should be policy on theft and vandalism, detective bar-code machines should be provided; installation and maintenance of electronic surveillance system, provision of adequate resources and photocopying services to check book security and theft.

Strawberry Volatile Organic Compounds for Targeted Metabolomics: The AMDIS Strawberry User Library from Korean Germplasm

Strawberry aroma, crucial for determining quality, involves complex volatile compounds which are challenging to identify. This study explores strawberry aroma analysis using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and the Automated Mass Spectral Deconvolution and Identification System (AMDIS). Central to our research is the creation of a bespoke strawberry Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) user library using AMDIS, specifically for analyzing strawberry aromas. The library contains VOCs from 61 strawberry cultivars, integrating information on 104 VOCs, including mass spectra, retention index, chemical class, CAS number, formula, odor threshold, and odor description. This custom library significantly outperformed a commercial library by reducing potential false hits by 200, decreasing the size of report files by over 96%, and, most importantly, shortening AMDIS analysis processing time from 31 s to 9 s, representing an approximate 71% reduction. Further, the study demonstrates the library’s practical application by contrasting the aroma profiles of strawberries harvested in winter and spring. This comparison revealed significant VOC variations depending on seasonal temperature changes, offering insights into environmental influences on strawberry aroma. In conclusion, this research marks a significant advance in strawberry aroma quality analysis. The strawberry VOC library developed in this study is expected to greatly aid targeted metabolomics and flavor research in strawberry breeding.

The Influence of the School Library on Mathematics Learning Achievement of Grade III Students in the First Trimester at Escola Básica Central 3º Ciclo Vasco da Gama Manatuto in the 2014 Academic Year

The library is one of the contributing factors or a supporting tool in the educational process at schools, ranging from elementary to higher education levels. A school library is any library organized within a school, where it is essential to have books that support and serve as references for students. The school library plays a vital role in supporting the educational process, providing essential resources for students to enhance their knowledge and complete assignments. This study explores the impact of library usage on the mathematics achievement of Grade III students at Escola Básica Central Vasco Da Gama Manatuto during the first trimester of the 2014 academic year. The research questions focus on whether the library influences mathematics achievement and if students who use the library perform better than those who do not. The study involved 112 students, with a sample of 56, and utilized parametric statistical analysis. The results showed a significant influence of library use on mathematics achievement, with a determination coefficient of 36.72%, meaning that library utilization contributes significantly to students' performance in mathematics, while the remaining 63.28% is influenced by other factors. The t-test results confirmed that students who used the library performed better in mathematics than those who did not. Based on these findings, the author suggests that students should be encouraged to utilize library resources effectively, the government should prioritize the development of school libraries, and librarians should provide welcoming and supportive service to students.

Library user digital profiling: The structural and functional approach. (Part II)

Library user digital profiling: The structural and functional approach. (Part II)

INFLUENCE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION LITERACY SKILLS ON LIBRARY USE AMONG STUDENTS OF TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

This study examines the influence of information and communication technology and information literacy skills on library use among students of tertiary institutions in Borno state. The study was guided by three (3) objectives and three (3) research questions. A survey research design was adopted for the study and seventeen thousand five hundred and seventeen (17,517) registered library users were used as target population. While, the sample size for the study was one thousand and eighteen (1,018) users drawn from the target population using Krejcie, and Morgan (1970) table for determining sample size. Systematic sampling technique was used to ascertain the respective sample of the study. Thus, 1,018 copies of questionnaire were distributed to respondents and response rate recorded was 742(73%) which was used for data analysis. Data were gathered through self-designed questionnaire and were analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency count and percentages. Findings indicated that the level of information literacy skills among students of tertiary institutions in Borno State is low and majority of respondents agreed that their little ICT skills and literacy are impactful on their library usage. Based on the findings, it is recommended that more ICT awareness and training should be acquired by the students, especially from their institutions.

LIBRARIANS’ EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND PROFICIENCY AS CORRELATES OF ELECTRONIC COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT IN UNIVERSITIES IN NORTH-CENTRAL, NIGERIA

The study examined librarians’ emotional intelligence and proficiency as correlate of electronic resources collection development (ERCD) in universities in North-central, Nigeria. The objectives considered were to: find out the relationship between librarians’ proficiency and ERCD in university libraries in North-central, Nigeria; and determine librarians’ emotional intelligence and ERCD in these university libraries. Correlational research design was used. The total population for study was 400 librarians. Multi-stage sampling procedure was adopted to stratify the university into Federal, State and Private Universities. Questionnaire was used to collect data. SPSS was used for the quantitative analysis and result were presented using frequency, mean, and standard deviation. The result of the study showed that proficiency skills in database, social media, online public access catalogue, e-document and e-book delivery, data management, storage of electronic resources, e-processing, and e-ordering by librarians has a relationship on electronic resources collection development in university libraries. The findings also revealed that librarians possessed self-awareness skills, self-regulatory skills, motivational skills, empathy skills, and social skills, and it has influenced the ERCD in the studied university libraries. The study concluded that addressing the identified deficiencies in proficiency, and emotional intelligence can lead to a more effective and efficient electronic resources collection development, thereby improving the overall academic and research experience for library users. Therefore, the study recommended that training that will boost the emotional intelligent of librarians by the management should be done regularly.

Casting a Wider Net: Podcasts to Promote Reading for Library Users

The article examines the growing role of podcasts in readers' advisory services, emphasizing their potential to engage users with literature and foster a love of reading. As podcasts gain popularity, particularly among younger audiences, they present a unique opportunity for librarians to recommend nonfiction podcasts about books and reading. Unlike audiobooks, podcasts offer shorter, more accessible listening experiences that can introduce users to new titles, support leisure reading, and create a sense of community. The article explores various podcast formats, including book recommendation shows, book club-style discussions, and deep dives into individual books, highlighting their appeal and utility. It argues for integrating podcast recommendations into librarians' practices to enrich the readers' advisory process and connect patrons with literature in innovative ways.

EFFECTS OF LIBRARY ORIENTATION PROGRAMME ON THE USE OF LIBRARY RESOURCES BY NEWLY-ADMITTED UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF TAI SOLARIN UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, IJAGUN, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

This study investigated the effect of library orientation programme on the use of library resources by newly admitted undergraduate students Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun state Nigeria. Library orientation is a core programme of the academic libraries that emphasized on educating, enlightening, and assisting the users to guide, identify, know and utilise the library information resources and services efficiently. To achieve the objectives of this research, the study was guided by three objectives, three research questions and three hypotheses. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study and data was gathered through the instrument of a questionnaire. A total of 200 copies of the questionnaires were randomly distributed for equal representative of students across the institutions. Data were analysed using frequency, percentages and t-test for independent sample mean. The study concluded that a well-organized library orientation will inculcate confidence in users, encouraging them to use the library effectively. Hence the goal of library orientation is to make library users proficient in research as well as lifelong learners. Library orientation should be given more priority in the institutional library in order to sensitize more students and portray their attention to the available resources and services that can be of immense benefit to them in the course of their studies.

APPLICATION OF SOCIAL INFLUENCE OF UTAUT AND STUDENTS’ CHARACTERISTICS ON UNDERGRADUATES’ USE OF E-RESOURCES IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY GUSAU, ZAMFARA STATE, NIGERIA

As teens and young adults, undergraduates are susceptible to the influence of others. This study was aimed at examining social influence, a construct of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), students’ characteristics of age, level of study and course of study on undergraduates’ frequent use of e-resources at the Federal University, Gusau, Nigeria. The study adopted the descriptive research design. The population was 4,640 registered library users for the 2022/2023 academic session, spread across 200, 300 and 400 levels; excluding 100 level. Purposive sampling method was used to select 320 students across the faculties and a sample size of 280 students across the levels was selected using a simple random sampling technique. A self-structured questionnaire was administered to the 280 students in the library out of which 268 were returned and 260 (81.25%) were found usable for the analysis. Descriptive statistics was used for the analysis (cross tabulation, frequency, simple percentages) and presented in tables. The hypotheses were tested using chi-square. Analysis was done using SPSS version 26. The findings revealed a moderate use of e-resources by the students, and also showed that social influence has a positive significant influence on students’ frequent use of e-resources. The study recommended that the stakeholders should intensify efforts to encourage students so as to make more use of the e-resources.

Library System Development Using Design Thinking Method

The library information system that is currently being used is still inadequate in providing information and various problems occur on the website which disrupt various transaction activities in the library. The aim of creating this website is to provide facilities for all users, from librarian, and students to lecturers, to obtain library information easily. The website will be built with various features in the hope of making it easier for users to get information from the library. Using the design thinking method, research is carried out to identify problems that occur and solutions are found according to the needs of library users. Based on the results of the usability test, the score was above average and in the good category and this system can be generally accepted by all users. Even though the usability results were unsatisfactory, the majority of users, 82.41%, were satisfied with this library system. The performance test results also show that the website has very good performance with an average score of 92.68%.

Building sustainable libraries by embracing diversity and inclusion in Digital Era

This study explores the dynamic relationship between sustainability, diversity, and inclusion within library contexts amidst the Digital Era. Conducted in May 2024 across various schools in Anambra State, Nigeria, the research targeted library users to assess their perspectives on sustainable practices and diversity strategies. Utilizing an easily accessible questionnaire deployed via Google Forms, data on sustainable initiatives and diversity measures were collected. Analysis conducted using SPSS included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, ANOVA, and the Tukey post hoc test. Results reveal significant demographic variations in the effectiveness of diversity enhancement strategies, emphasizing the pivotal role of age, occupation, educational background, and gender in shaping library practices. The findings underscore the necessity of tailored interventions to promote sustainability and inclusivity in libraries, especially in the digital age where diverse perspectives and equitable access to information are crucial. Understanding the nuanced interplay between demographic factors and strategic initiatives allows libraries to better address the evolving needs of their communities, fostering environments that are both sustainable and inclusive.

Menjaga kelestarian koleksi bermuatan lokal melalui pengelolaan Muhammadiyah Corner di Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. DR. HAMKA

Purpose. The Muhammadiyah Corner, a feature of the Muhammadiyah College Library, serves as a valuable resource for patrons. Its local content collection plays a vital role in promoting Islamic culture, history, and Muhammadiyah values. Effective preventive measures are needed to manage and preserve this collection. Hence, this study seeks to investigate the management of local content collections and their preventive measures in the Muhammadiyah Corner of the Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. Dr. HAMKA library.Methodology. This research uses a qualitative case study approach, and case study data was collected from various relevant sources. Data collection methods include interviews, observation, and document analysis. This data analysis technique is data organization, reading, describe data into codes and themes, classifying data into codes and themes, interpret data, and present and visualize data.Results and discussion. This study revealed issues in managing Muhammadiyah Corner's local content at Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. Dr. HAMKA library, namely collection management, the implementation of preventive measures, and policies and guidelines. Muhammadiyah Corner's local content can provide significant benefits in preserving intellectual heritage, building institutional identity, supporting research and learning, preventing library material damage, and developing relevant services for the entire academic community.Conclusions. This research indicates that Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. Dr. HAMKA library has taken preventive steps regarding Muhammadiyah Corner's local content but needs to maximize these efforts to ensure the proper maintenance of Muhammadiyah Corner's muatan lokal and provide valuable information to library users, and crucial step in supporting the broad development of science.

An integrated academic library supply chain (IALSC) model

Purpose This exploratory study illustrated an integrated academic library supply chain (IALSC) model to design the strategic planning management tool of the academic library. The supply chain (SC) model has been widely used in manufacturing industries and has also been applied in many service industries with the same objectives. However, very few studies for academic libraries, particularly the implementation of the integrated SC model, are being executed, although it has been proven that SC management in practice can enhance stakeholder satisfaction, increase revenues and decrease total costs. The academic library also needs to be successful in providing quality products, services and information to fulfil the library users’ needs within the library budget. This research aims to develop a verified model of the integrated SC for the academic library. Design/methodology/approach This research used both qualitative and quantitative approaches to achieve its objectives. The proposed conceptual SC model, named as IALSC, for the academic library has been developed using the system thinking method; eventually, it has been validated through the fuzzy Delphi method, an expert judgement technique. Findings The research findings could contribute to academic library management in planning and formulating a roadmap for the library to increase its quality services for all stakeholders. Originality/value The conceptual model would have a high potential to be proposed as the strategic decision-making tool for an academic library, i.e. the flow of funds through the operations of the library, the library stakeholders’ satisfaction measurement, the decision process currently made by the library management team on the purchase of new library resources, the library resource suppliers, etc.

Gamified Virtual Reality for Library Services: The Effect of Gamification on Enhancing Knowledge Retention and User Engagement

The objective of the present study was to examine the effects of using gamification implemented in immersive virtual reality for the promotion of library services in the university library including knowledge acquisition, knowledge retention and user engagement. In terms of research procedure, we divided the participants into Gamified and Non-Gamified virtual reality groups, and both groups were asked to perform the pretest questionnaire of cognitive assessments. Then, participants were informed to use virtual reality to finish all the levels within one month in the library lab setting of the university. We performed post-tests to evaluate the knowledge acquisition, including a delayed post-test of three months to verify the knowledge retention. We also collected the user data to analyze the participant behavior. Results showed no significant differences among the Gamified and Non-Gamified groups in terms of knowledge acquisition, but showed significant difference in knowledge retention and user engagement. These findings supported the presumption that the gamified virtual reality approach can improve the library user’s access and knowledge retention of library services.

Bridging Research and Resources: Bibliometric Analysis of International Journal of Research in Special Education as a Library Service Model

The International Journal of Research in Special Education is an established publication that centers on research in education. Between 2021 and 2023, it released 59 research papers, which underwent examination for authorship, article structures, content themes, and academic attributes. The key research domains of the journal encompass research analysis, academic communication, library services, and administration. The analysis unveiled collaboration among authors, enriching its readership. Content analysis techniques were utilized to delve into facets of the journal publications. These results highlight how the journal has an impact and contributes to discussions in special education research. This examination deepens our insight into the publication trends and scholarly aspects that define the journal's influence on its audience. This kind of library service or facility is useful for library users to conduct their further research.