Showing papers in "College & Research Libraries in 1994"
TL;DR: In this paper, a conceptual analysis of information literacy by investigating some leading definitions and delineations of the concept is performed with the intention of exploring chronological extensions in the meaning of the concepts.
Abstract: A conceptual analysis is undertaken of information literacy by investigating some leading definitions and delineations of the concept. These are analyzed with the intention of exploring chronological extensions in the meaning of the concept. The range of skills and knowledge required for information literacy has expanded over the last two decades in order to accommodate the continually developing requirements for effective information handling, and the article notes how the library and information science (LIS) profession is responding to these requirements. The review concludes by identifying three main trends in information literacy which are evident from the literature of the early 1990s
328 citations
TL;DR: A longitudinal study of eleven humanists corroborates the general pattern and provides insight into why humanists use technology as they do, and relates its findings to a definition of the humanities.
Abstract: Developments in information technology have had a major impact on the conduct of research and scholarship. In general, humanists have been slower than scientists and social scientists to adopt new technologies in their work. This paper, a longitudinal study of eleven humanists, corroborates the general pattern and provides insight into why humanists use technology as they do. It relates its findings to a definition of the humanities: those fields of scholarship that strive to reconstruct, describe, and interpret the activities and accomplishments of men and women by establishing and studying documents and artifacts created by those men and women. The discussion emphasizes that the primary evidence that humanists use differentiates them from scientists and social scientists.
74 citations
TL;DR: Institutional support was found to be strongly correlated with librarians' activity levels and the relationships between institutional provision of release time and financial assistance and librarian participation in various types of professional development activities.
Abstract: Academic libraries provide institutional support for professional development activities in the belief that such support fosters the continuing professional growth of their staff members. A 1991 survey of 185 academic librarians furnished data on the relationships between institutional provision of release time and financial assistance and librarians' participation in various types of professional development activities. Institutional support was found to be strongly correlated with librarians' activity levels.
43 citations
TL;DR: A survey conducted at Memphis State University in the spring and fall of1990 repeated earlier survey questions and added original questions evaluating the MS U Libraries' adequacy, librarians' service, and the library collection, which supplements previous findings highlighting similarities and differences in teaching faculty's perceptions and suggesting strategies to promote better understanding of academic librarian' roles.
Abstract: In recent years academic librarians have shown increasing concern over how their teaching faculty colleagues perceive their role in the university community. Four surveys conducted on university and college campuses since the 1980s have identified attitudes held by teaching faculty. A survey conducted at Memphis State University (MSU) in the spring and fall of1990 repeated earlier survey questions and added original questions evaluating the MS U Libraries' adequacy, librarians' service, and the library collection. The Memphis State survey supplements previous findings highlighting similarities and differences in teaching faculty's perceptions and suggesting strategies to promote better understanding of academic librarians' roles. any recent studies focus on the public's perception of librarians. Academic librarians show increasing concern over how they are perceived by their faculty colleagues. Several constant factors affect the relationship between librarians and teaching faculty. They include the number of academic librarians, the strength or weakness of the collection, and the size of the institution, the faculty, the student body, and the library facility. Currently, diminishing financial resources strain this relationship even further. As early as 1%8, florence Holbrook cited Robert Leigh's observation that much of the librarian's unfavorable image can be ascribed to the fact that the nonpro-fessional library worker is more visible, and subsequently, patrons cannot determine ne who is a librarian and who is not. Faculty cannot easily distinguish between librarians and support staff. Robert Black-burn noted that teaching faculty and librarians clash because of the roles they play, competing ends, and characterdiffer-ences.2 In 1969 Maurice Marchant traced conflict between teaching faculty and librarians to anything that diminished faculty's control over students. 3 In 1981 Mary Biggs cited several sources of conflict between teaching faculty and
42 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors address the importance of a holistic view to the academic model of librarianship and suggest a system for providing support and judging performance, which is similar to our approach.
Abstract: In order for librarians to succeed within the academic model, an environment must be established that recognizes the interplay of activities in the three areas of performance (teaching, research, and service). This environment requires clear criteria for performance, opportunities for and assistance with scholarly activities, a schedule that is conducive to the academic model, clear delineation of faculty and support staff responsibilities, adequate training, and broad criteria for assessing contributions. This article addresses the importance of a holistic view to the academic model of librarianship and suggests a system for providing support and judging performance
33 citations
Abstract: Computerization has transformed the bulk of library work from moving physical objects, for example, producing, sorting, and filing catalog cards, to electronically manipulating a vast array of symbols. In so doing, it has transformed virtually all library employees into knowledge workers ; the once-simple bifurcate division of employees into librarians and support staff seems no longer tenable. What, then is the proper role for the academic librarian ? Cautioning against overenthusiastic endorsement of popular, industry-derived management methods, the author focuses on the intellectual character of academic librarianship and defines the concept of librarians' programmatic responsibilities. The author maintains that programmatic responsibilities are by definition undelegatable and constitute an exclusive locus of power within the profession. The role of academic librarian-the design and management of information systems for the academic community-is determined by these exclusive programmatic responsibilities and related powers. To meet new conditions, academic librarianship requires a new manifesto derived directly from the academic community itself in preference to ready formulas from business and industry.
31 citations
TL;DR: One hundred nine master-level librarians of varying ages were surveyed about their career attitudes and employed hierarchical polynomial regression to examine the relationships between age and three affective outcomes: career satisfaction, career entrapment, and career identity as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: One hundred nine master-level librarians of varying ages were surveyed about their career attitudes. Hierarchial polynomial regression was then employed to examine the relationships between age and three affective outcomes: (1) career satisfaction, (2) career entrapment, and (3) career identity. Results indicated the age-satisfaction relationship was linear, demonstrating that librarians become increasingly pleased with their profession over time. A similar linear relationship between age and entrapment indicated that as librarians mature, they become bound to their line of work because of accumulated investments and decreased career options. The relationship between age and identity assumed a curvilinear, or inverted U-shaped form. Career identity was higher at mid-career and lower at both early and late career stages. Implications of these findings are advanced.
29 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a survey was designed that considered age, gender, and status as a full-time or part-time student as factors that defined nontraditional students, and which gathered student opinion in four areas: how these students used the library, when they wanted to use the library and which library services they felt were important.
Abstract: The population of nontraditional students in higher education is increasing rapidly, and academic librairies should examine whether additional or alternate services are needed to accommodate this growing user group. To gather data about nontraditional students for program planning and evaluation, a survey was designed that considered age, gender, and status as a full-time or part-time student as factors that defined nontraditional students, and which gathered student opinion in four areas: how these students used the library, when they wanted to use the library, which library services they felt were important, and how they evaluated some present library services
29 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present the application of a strategic planning model developed by Oliver Hensley and Martin Schoppmeyer for the Society of Research Administrators (SRA).
Abstract: Models provide a framework for visualizing effective action. This paper presents the application of a strategic planning model developed by Oliver Hensley and Martin Schoppmeyer for the Society of Research Administrators. It should have applicability for those who are seeking to establish the future purposes of academic libraries. The example of library development and fund-raising activity is used to illustrate the various stages of strategic planning. The Hensley-Schoppmeyer model operates on the assumption that people with similar motivations can agree on mutual goals and form beneficial partnerships that will advance a shared interest
25 citations
25 citations
TL;DR: Results indicated that traditional ILL was the most cost-effective and one of the quickest means of obtaining articles not owned by the authors' library.
Abstract: Cost-effective and timely document delivery is becoming a major concern as many academic libraries face cuts in serials budgets. This study examines the costs and response times of traditional interlibrary loan (ILL) services and four commercial document suppliers. From October 1991 to February 1992, a total of 52 periodical requests were sent through Online Computer Library Center's (OCLC's) Interlibrary Loan subsystem simultaneously to academic libraries and to four document suppliers. Data were gathered on each supplier's ability to fill the requests, and the costs, turnaround times, and the quality of the articles supplied. Results indicated that traditional ILL was the most cost-effective and one of the quickest means of obtaining articles not owned by our library
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors of 319 articles in nineteen current research journals were asked to explain how they first became aware of a specific reference which they cited, and how they subsequently obtained it.
Abstract: Scientific authors of 319 articles in nineteen current research journals were asked to explain how they: (1) first became aware of a specific reference which they cited, and (2) how they subsequently obtained it. Disciplines represented in the study were chemistry, physics, mathematics, biology, and geology. Of several possible modes of access, personal contacts and references in the literature were most important. Actual retrieval occurred primarily through library subscriptions and copies from colleagues. Variations among disciplines appeared in the use of databases, current awareness services, and personal journals. Scientists' perceptions of problems with their journal literature and suggestions for improvement revealed some interesting ideas and a few misconceptions. Findings have implications for present and future roles played by the academic library in serving its scientific clientele
TL;DR: A 1992 survey explores the effects that computerization of libraries has had on the work and job satisfaction of over 200 support staff employed in academic libraries in Wisconsin this article, finding that many support staff are concerned not only with the specifics of their jobs but also with larger questions facing academic libraries.
Abstract: This 1992 survey explores the effects that computerization of libraries has had on the work and job satisfaction of over 200 support staff employed in academic libraries in Wisconsin. Among the questions addressed are period and area of employment, type of automated systems used, percentage of time spent at computer terminals, adequacy of training, change in overall effectiveness since computerization, and change in job satisfaction. Responses to open-ended questions reveal that many support staff are concerned not only with the specifics of their jobs but also with larger questions facing academic libraries
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors propose a model methodology for reviewing academic branch libraries which may be used by any institution undertaking such a process, and use the ACRL guidelines and standards as a foundation.
Abstract: There is a long history of debate and controversy surrounding the existence of academic branch libraries. Although the reasons for reviewing branch libraries are numerous and varied, there is a need for consistency in the review process. Using recent ACRL guidelines and standards as a foundation, the authors propose a model methodology for reviewing academic branch libraries which may be utilized by any institution undertaking such a process
TL;DR: Insights from a review of the quality literature were used by the Wichita State University Library to improve the quality of reference service offered.
Abstract: Much has been written about how reference librarians can evaluate and improve the quality of the answers they provide to reference questions. There has been considerably less discussion, however, about how to improve the quality of the delivery of those answers. Suggestions for improving the quality of service found in the business literature are applicable to improving reference service as well. Insights gainetl from a review of the quality literature were used by the Wichita State University Library to improve the quality of reference service offered. Descriptions of a number of projects undertaken by the Reference Department as an outgrowth of the business literature studies are included
TL;DR: The results of a second experiment to investigate the effectiveness of the computer tutorial showed no significant differences in performance between the students who viewed theComputer tutorial and those who did not receive any instruction.
Abstract: In an experiment to evaluate the effectiveness of a concept-based computer tutorial for training OPAC users, the authors found that University of Toronto students who viewed the tutorial performed significantly better on search tasks than those who received no instruction. This paper reports the results of a second experiment to investigate the effectiveness of the computer tutorial. Fifteen students viewed the computer tutorial. Another fifteen students served as a control group and did not receive any instruction. The results showed no significant differences in performance between the students who viewed the computer tutorial and those who did not receive any instruction
TL;DR: To make reference service in academic libraries effective five changes are required: reference librarians must be given clear budgetary and programmatic authority, the hierarchy must be flattened and reference librarian placed closer to the top of the organization, and support services must be provided.
Abstract: Recent discussion of reference service in academic libraries has considered alternative approaches to service and has called on academic reference librarians to play new roles. Absent from most of the discussion is an understanding that organizational changes are required if reference librarians are to accomplish what is being asked of them. Without these organizational changes these new roles and responsibilities will be impossible. To make reference service in academic libraries effective five changes are required : (1) reference librarians must be given clear budgetary and programmatic authority ; (2) the hierarchy must be flattened and reference librarians placed closer to the top of the organization ; (3) support services must be provided so that reference librarians are not encumbered by nonprofessional tasks ; (4) reference librarians should be brought together and not isolated in small departments ; and (5) public services planning and priority setting should be done by reference librarians.
TL;DR: The potential of conjoint analysis for evaluating reference services in academic libraries is shown by displaying six dimensions of reference service: definitiveness of answer, in line wait times, service time, number of items given to patron, hours of service, and cost of service.
Abstract: Conjoint analysis has been used by market researchers for the development of many products and services. This article displays the potential of conjoint analysis for evaluating reference services in academic libraries. Six dimensions of reference service are included in the analyses: definitiveness of answer, in line wait times, service time, number of items given to patron, hours of service, and cost of service. Of greatest importance to users are cost of the service and the hours during which reference is available. Most users prefer that all reference services be free and that reference help be available at all times the library is open
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explore the significant ways in which senior librarians contribute to the long-term educational, professional, collegial, and career development of entry-level reference Librarians.
Abstract: Little of the professional literature on the training process for newly hired reference librarians discusses the roles and impact of senior, more experienced colleagues in academic libraries. This paper explores the significant ways in which senior librarians contribute to the long-term educational, professional, collegial, and career development of entry-level reference librarians. The authors emphasize that senior librarians play vital roles by assisting junior colleagues in learning essential library skills and knowledge, by facilitating the assimilation of organizational and institutional values and norms, by serving as role models for effective interpersonal relationships, and by mentoring entry-level librarians in professional development activities
TL;DR: This article examined the relationship between tenure and turnover rates for librarians in academic libraries and found no significant correlation between the two, but there does seem to be a relationship between scholarly publishing requirements and turnover rate.
Abstract: This study examined the relationship between tenure and turnover rates for librarians in academic libraries. Survey forms were sent to 124 college and university library directors. The authors found no significant correlation between the two. However, there does seem to be a relationship between scholarly publishing requirements and turnover rates.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explored the theme of self-censorship in the library field and its relation to the new technological resources that are becoming very prominent in the profession, and found that librarians may be self censoring by not examining the negative effects of movements toward electronic library resources.
Abstract: This article explores the theme of self-censorship in the library field and its relation to the new technological resources that are becoming very prominent in the profession. A brief discussion of the concept and meaning of censorship and self-censorship is followed by an examination of three broad areas: the results of investing in high-status and high-cost electronic resources; the effect of information technologies on literacy and historical records; and the relationship of electronic resources to market censorship. The author finds that, in each of these three areas, librarians may be self-censoring by not examining the negative effects of movements toward electronic library resources
TL;DR: The Minority Librarian Intern Program (MLIP) as mentioned in this paper is a two-year program for minority librarians at the University of The Ohio State University (UOSU).
Abstract: In 1988, as part of The Ohio State University's campus wide affirmative action plan, the university libraries' director appointed a committee to develop an internship program for newly graduated minority librarians. A two-year program was established in 1989 to provide practical work experience in a wide variety of library settings during the first year, and the opportunity to select one area of specialization during the second year. The goal of the internship is to assist in attracting more minority librarians to academic libraries. The internship is structured, organized, and evaluated by the Minority Librarian Intern Committee. Members represent several subject areas and diverse ethnic and professional experiences. Committee members also serve as mentors to the intern, providing support, guidance, and encouragement during the program. The internship program is one of approximately seventeen such programs in academic libraries throughout the country. Although the program is not unique, it has represented a notable attempt to increase diversity within the library system, and is part of nationwide efforts to enlist underrepresented minority librarians (i.e., African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans) to the field of academic librarianship. In this article, the authors describe and analyze the program and offer suggestions for strategies to increase minority representation in academic libraries.
TL;DR: In this article, a comparative exploration of organizational commitment among professional library employees in unionized and non-unionized research libraries was conducted. And the results of the statistical analysis revealed that union presence was a negative predictor of organizational loyalty and registered and nonregistered union members shared similar attitudes toward their employing organization.
Abstract: This study was a comparative exploration of organizational (library) commitment among professional library employees in unionized and non unionized research libraries. Based on a survey of 400 individuals, the study examined organizational commitment and its relationship to (1) union presence; (2) union membership status; and (3) union commitment. The results of the statistical analysis revealed that union presence was a negative predictor of organizational loyalty; registered and nonregistered union members shared similar attitudes toward their employing organization; and union commitment tended to be a positive predictor of organizational commitment
TL;DR: This project explored the role of the online catalog in library user success in three aspects of library research-as part of the reference process, as used by unassisted users, and as an intermediate step in obtaining actual documents.
Abstract: This project explored the role of the online catalog in library user success. Three different studies were conducted to provide a more in-depth picture of online catalog use in three aspects of library research-as part of the reference process, as used by unassisted users, and as an intermediate step in obtaining actual documents. The methodology provides a model for surveying other library services or products.
TL;DR: A study of four cross-disciplinary databases was undertaken to provide citation frequency distribution, and two other variables were examined: percentage of unique periodicals cited per search and relevancy of citations to stated search topic.
Abstract: As an increasing number of cross-disciplinary databases become accessible over the Internet, librarians are presented with the dilemma of which to choose to support patron research. Several factors, such as cost, retrospective coverage, and document delivery, are usually considered in making a decision. However, one key factor-citation retrieval performance-is often overlooked because comparative data have been unavailable. A study of four cross-disciplinary databases was undertaken to provide those data. In addition to citation frequency distribution, two other variables were examined: percentage of unique periodicals cited per search and relevancy of citations to stated search topic. An analysis of the data is provided, with its implication for database selection.
TL;DR: The authors argued that scholarly communication is in reality a loosely coupled system of largely autonomous constituency with little communication, coordination, or even direct cause-and-effect relationships, and suggested that any fundamental reform would presuppose an interdependent system, one with a fair amount of integration or consensus.
Abstract: Scenarios of restructuring the scholarly communication system have dominated our profession's view of how major problems confronting libraries will have to be resolved. This paper comes to a different view. It suggests that any fundamental reform would presuppose an interdependent system, one with a fair amount of integration or consensus. Scholarly communication, however, is in reality a loosely coupled system of largely autonomous constituencies with little communication, coordination, or even direct cause-and-effect relationships. Loose coupling reflects certain functional needs, such as flexibility, local adaptation, and innovation, afforded by such «organized anarchy»