Showing papers in "International Information & Library Review in 2017"
TL;DR: In this article, the authors discuss strategies for individual researchers and institutions for identifying and discouraging publishing in predatory journals and make suggestions on how to deal with faculty who have published and already bestowed positions on the grounds of papers published in the predatory journals.
Abstract: Recently, there has been an alarming increase in the number of “academic” papers published in vanity journals and publishers. Such journals, dubbed predatory because their main objective is making money out of authors, compromise or completely abandon the peer review system. An increase in publishing with such journals, which is common in developing counties, will affect the quality of science, excellence, development, and individual researchers' and institutions' professional reputation. In this article, the author discusses strategies for individual researchers and institutions for identifying and discouraging publishing in predatory journals. Moreover, suggestions on how to deal with faculty who have published and already bestowed positions on the grounds of papers published in predatory journals are also given. Strategies and suggestions discussed in this article can provide insights to librarians and publication officers on how to curb the problem of predatory publications.
36 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors provide an analytic and critical review of research on information seeking anxiety with a view to inform the information professionals, especially those engaged in infor- for...
Abstract: This research aims to provide an analytic and critical review of research on information seeking anxiety (ISA) with a view to inform the information professionals, especially those engaged in infor...
16 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a quantitative approach was used to collect data from undergraduate students at Sultan Qaboos University in their use of social media, and the results demonstrated overall moderate levels of perceptions toward the evaluation of information, information ethics, legal issues, and privacy issues.
Abstract: This study assessed information literacy perceptions of undergraduate students at Sultan Qaboos University in their use of social media. A quantitative approach was used to collect data from undergraduate students. The study consisted of 1,142 completed questionnaires by randomly selected participants. The results demonstrated overall moderate levels of perceptions toward the evaluation of information, information ethics, legal issues, and privacy issues. In evaluation of information, credibility of information was considered as an important factor to decide whether to use information for academic purposes. This study signifies the importance of understanding perceptions of information literacy among undergraduate students in a specific socio-cultural context. The results can also be generalized to similar academic institutions worldwide. It is also hoped that the study's findings will assist in developing contextual training programs or information literacy quizzes to promote information literacy...
16 citations
TL;DR: This essay describes several technology trends (virtual reality, augmented reality, the Internet of Things, and adoption of a “buy the data, build the interface” approach to service provision) that librarians should be aware of as they are likely to prove foundational to the services libraries will offer, as well as the services library users will expect.
Abstract: It can be difficult to keep up with library technology, let alone with technology in general. This essay describes several technology trends (virtual reality, augmented reality, the Internet of Things, and adoption of a “buy the data, build the interface” approach to service provision) that librarians should be aware of as they are likely to prove foundational to the services libraries will offer, as well as the services library users will expect.
12 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explored the concept of communication tools using Facebook, and evaluated the performance of the East West University (EWU) Library Facebook page as a communication tool.
Abstract: The primary objectives of this research article are to explore the concept of communication tools using Facebook, and to evaluate the performance of the East West University (EWU) Library Facebook page as a communication tool. The EWU Library Facebook page uses a variety of strategies and techniques to engage with its patrons. The author's intention is to examine this library Facebook page, which is explored using a case study method. This article also focuses on how Facebook facilitates collaborations between the library and the patron's community, as well as the implications for academic libraries in the future. This case study reviews the literature on the use of social networking while focusing on Facebook as a communication tool and engaging libraries in social networking. The article emphasizes the author's experience of working in an academic library to identify the main trends in providing services based on posting various topics through the Facebook page of the EWU Library, Bangladesh. Th...
10 citations
TL;DR: In Europe, the competency-based system of lifelong learning has been adopted with the objectives of improving professional competencies and promoting professionals' mobility as discussed by the authors, with the objective of promoting professionals mobility.
Abstract: In Europe, the competency-based system of lifelong learning has been adopted with the objectives of improving professional competencies and promoting professionals' mobility. European coordination ...
9 citations
TL;DR: The Digital Heritage: Spotlight on Europe (ILLR) column as mentioned in this paper examines technological advances internal and external to cultural institutions and explores issues and recent advances in digital heritage theories, methodologies, standards relevant to the European region, as well as the larger, global audience.
Abstract: COLUMN EDITOR'S NOTES The “Digital Heritage: Spotlight on Europe” column examines technological advances internal and external to cultural institutions. The digital shift changed radically how cultural heritage is made, disseminated, distributed, accessed, consumed, and monetized. One of the most important revolutions is that the user's role changed dramatically, shifting from passive observers to active participants and content producers with many new and exciting opportunities for engagement, creative use, and access. The strength of the column is its broad, international focus, and contributors are encouraged to explore issues and recent advances in digital heritage theories, methodologies, standards relevant to the European region, as well as the larger, global audience. Interested authors are invited to submit proposals and articles to the column editor at annamaria.tammaro@unipr.it. Please include “ILLR submission” in the subject line of the e-mail.
8 citations
TL;DR: The Digital Heritage: Spotlight on Europe (ILLR) column as mentioned in this paper examines technological advances internal and external to cultural institutions and explores issues and recent advances in digital heritage theories, methodologies, standards relevant to the European region, as well as the larger, global audience.
Abstract: COLUMN EDITOR'S NOTES The “Digital Heritage: Spotlight on Europe” column examines technological advances internal and external to cultural institutions. The digital shift changed radically how cultural heritage is made, disseminated, distributed, accessed, consumed, and monetized. One of the most important revolutions is that the user's role changed dramatically, shifting from passive observers to active participants and content producers with many new and exciting opportunities for engagement, creative use, and access. The strength of the column is its broad, international focus, and contributors are encouraged to explore issues and recent advances in digital heritage theories, methodologies, standards relevant to the European region, as well as the larger, global audience. Interested authors are invited to submit proposals and articles to the column editor at annamaria.tammaro@unipr.it. Please include “ILLR submission” in the subject line of the e-mail.
7 citations
TL;DR: The article investigates the application of a theoretical framework for the organization of information related to the visual works, on the base of the identity of their single constituent elements, as an extension of CIDOC-CRM.
Abstract: The recording of cultural heritage objects' data and information is constructed throughout the registration of different media items, which function as an anchor of the original object in digital space. The article investigates the application of a theoretical framework for the organization of information related to the visual works, on the base of the identity of their single constituent elements. The framework is, then, used for the formalization of an ontology which is constructed as an extension of CIDOC-CRM. The result is tested with information gathered over the Asinou Church in Cyprus, expressed throughout an ontology for recording propositions over the iconographical attributes and the characteristic of images.
7 citations
TL;DR: Solis et al. as discussed by the authors conducted a comparative study of mobile and information literacy among students at two universities in Bulgaria and Turkey and highlighted growing trends in the use of distance education and web-based study materials.
Abstract: FROM THE COLUMN EDITORSWelcome to the Global Postcards column! We are so excited to bring you news and projects from around the world. In this column, our contributors from Bulgaria and Turkey bring us a comparative study of mobile and information literacy among students at two universities in those countries. In addition to presenting perceptions of students around these literacy concepts, their research project also highlights growing trends in the use of distance education and web-based study materials. Thanks to the contributors for this issue, and please keep the submissions coming!If you would like to send a submission, please contact either of the column's co-editors: Jacqueline Solis, jsolis@email.unc.edu, and Robin Kear, rlk25@pitt.edu.
7 citations
TL;DR: There are many community libraries in Ghana and most of these libraries are established by non-governmental agencies, district assemblies, affluent or well-to-do individuals, and individuals with high income.
Abstract: There are many community libraries in Ghana. Most of these libraries are established by non-governmental agencies, district assemblies, affluent or well-to-do individuals, and individuals with high...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors conducted a study to determine the qualifications and skills of subject librarians in selected southern African countries and found that most respondents held degrees and/or postgraduate qualifications in library and information science, that more than half of them also held qualifications in other disciplines at various levels, and that many of them fe...
Abstract: Although subject librarians are found in many academic libraries worldwide, not enough has been written about the profession on the African continent. A study was, therefore, conducted, with the aim of adding to the knowledge about subject librarianship as it is practised in selected southern African countries. This article reports on the findings related to one of the main objectives of the study, which was to determine the qualifications and skills of subject librarians. The survey method was used to collect data from study participants. Semi-structured questionnaires were sent to 279 subject/learning support librarians, and semi-structured telephonic interviews were conducted with selected library managers from selected institutions included in the survey. The study revealed that most respondents held degrees and/or postgraduate qualifications in library and information science, that more than half of them also held qualifications in other disciplines at various levels, and that many of them fe...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigate the perceptions that academic librarians in Ghana hold about the employment of social media in providing reference and user services, and find that mixed perceptions on the application of Social media in reference and users' services are attributed to lack of skills on the part of Librarians to use social media, low bandwidth and poor internet connectivity.
Abstract: Librarians have different perceptions on the employment of social media in library services. This research focused on investigating the perceptions that academic librarians in Ghana hold about the employment of social media in providing reference and user services. A quantitative research approach employing a Likert-type questionnaire was used in soliciting the views of 99 librarians from six top public and private universities in Ghana on their perspective on the use of social media in providing reference and user services. The findings of the study indicate mixed perceptions on the application of social media in reference and user services. These are variously attributed to lack of skills on the part of librarians to use social media, low bandwidth and poor internet connectivity, and inadequate support/motivation from parent institutions among others. As a result, librarians found the traditional mode of service delivery more comfortable, though they knew the importance of social media in their ...
TL;DR: This column will consider both internal and external professional development activities that are accessible to librarians and other staff at some Australian tertiary institutions, including post graduate qualifications in higher education and accreditation through the Higher Education Academy (United Kingdom).
Abstract: Column Editor's NotesThis column examines advances in public services internal and external to libraries. The focus is on how public services, such as instruction and education, programming, research consulting, and circulation evolve and impact users. The strength of the column is its broad, international focus and contributors are encouraged to explore issues and recent advances in public services relevant to their geographical region, as well as the larger, global audience. Interested authors are invited to submit proposals and articles to the column editor at andrea.falcone@ucdenver.edu
TL;DR: The article reviews the development of e-resources in post-Soviet countries of Central Asia, including purchase, use, and development of resources via different modes and suggests approaches to regional cooperation in order to develop, share, and negotiate for resources.
Abstract: COLUMN EDITOR'S NOTESThe “Digital Trends and the Global Library Community” column examines technological advances internal and external to libraries. The focus is on how technology is changing the way services are provided to users, the methodologies used in the provision of those services, and the resulting scope of responsibilities of libraries and parent institutions. Interested authors are invited to submit proposals and articles to the column editor at marta.deyrup@shu.edu. Please include “IILR Submission” in the header.
TL;DR: The work of the Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL) to build the workforce competencies and capacity of academic librarians in respect of librarian research skills has been reviewed and evaluated as a case study example of strategic and collaborative workforce capacity building as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: This article overviews work by the Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL) to build the workforce competencies and capacity of academic librarians in respect of librarian research skills. CARL's Librarians' Research Institute (LRI) is reviewed and evaluated as a case study example of strategic and collaborative workforce capacity building. The CARL LRI offers a model for possible replication by others seeking to build workforce competencies and capacity through collaborative action.
TL;DR: The current pros and cons of creating and using embedded metadata are weighed, the potential of the practice is explored, and its potential is explored.
Abstract: COLUMN EDITOR'S NOTES The “Advances in Library Data and Access” column examines technological advances internal and external to libraries. The focus is on how library data is created and used. The strength of the column is its broad, international focus and contributors are encouraged to explore issues and recent advances in information technology relevant to their geographical region, as well as the larger, global audience. Interested authors are invited to submit proposals and articles to the column editor at moulaisonhe@missouri.edu. Please include “IILR Submission” in the subject line of the e-mail.
TL;DR: In this article, a feature column, written by Nosheen Fatima Warraich and Kanwai Ameen, focuses on academic libraries in Pakistan, as the workplace setting; but the research also has implication for the management of library human resources in other contexts and in other countries.
Abstract: Column Editor's NotesLet's face it, these days leading and managing a library workforce is a complex task, as many competing factors influence the values, behaviors, and culture of library workplaces. This feature column, written by Nosheen Fatima Warraich and Kanwai Ameen, focuses on academic libraries in Pakistan, as the workplace setting; but the research also has implication for the management of library human resources in other contexts and in other countries.Reading this contribution caused me to think about the issues relating to human resource management in a broader global context. This article is a timely reminder that library workplaces are pretty much the same across the world—something I was reminded of recently when I spent some time at an academic library in Malaysia. Local context and issues are important in any consideration of library human resource challenges and opportunities with local factors (such as enterprise agreements, workforce composition, etc.) never far from the focus of lib...
TL;DR: To succeed in this effort, librarians must understand the multiple risks to privacy; the tools available to librarian, vendors, and patrons; and an understanding of privacy as a form of currency on the commercial Internet.
Abstract: Column Editor's NotesThe “Digital Trends and the Global Library Community” column examines technological advances internal and external to libraries. The focus is on how technology is changing the way services are provided to users, the methodologies used in the provision of those services, and the resulting scope of responsibilities of libraries and parent institutions. Interested authors are invited to submit proposals and articles to the column editor at marta.deyrup@shu.edu. Please include “IILR Submission” in the header.
TL;DR: An overview of champion works (papers that have received over 1,000 citations) produced by Middle East countries is provided, focusing on science, medicine, and technology papers featured in the Science Citation Index Expanded of Web of Science.
Abstract: Increasing political and financial support for scientific research in the Middle East requires academic and research communities in the region to demonstrate the visibility and impact of their scientific output. However, for countries with smaller scientific communities or lack of detailed information on their scientific production, the use of common metrics of scientific impact (e.g., number of papers, impact factor, h-index, etc.) may fail to reveal their true ability to produce high quality research, and thus guarantee the wanted societal support. In such cases, identifying and highlighting outstanding papers produced by national institutions or scientists may be another way to demonstrate scientific capacity and impact. In this context, this work aims to provide an overview of champion works (papers that have received over 1,000 citations) produced by Middle East countries. This analysis focuses on science, medicine, and technology papers featured in the Science Citation Index Expanded of Web ...
TL;DR: Solis et al. as discussed by the authors investigated the effect of attitude to use on the use of Educational Support Systems (ESS) by lecturers for teaching in the university-based library schools in their country.
Abstract: FROM THE COLUMN EDITORSWelcome to the Global Postcards column! We are so excited to bring you news and projects from around the world. We have one main contribution for this column: a librarian, Taiwo Akinde, and a lecturer, Airen Adetimirin, both of the University of Ibadan in Nigeria show us an investigation of the effect of attitude to use on the use of Educational Support Systems (ESS) by lecturers for teaching in the university-based library schools in their country. Thanks to the contributors for this issue, and please keep the submissions coming! If you would like to send a submission, please contact either of the column.s co-editors: Jacqueline Solis, jsolis@email.unc.edu, and Robin Kear, rlk25@pitt.edu
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors used the critical incidents technique to gather the University Botswana Library staff's stories relating to the change management process during the implementation of e-resources, and used this technique to collect the library staff's observations during the e-resource deployment.
Abstract: This study used the critical incidents technique to gather the University Botswana Library staff's stories relating to the change management process during the implementation of e-resources...
TL;DR: The impact of one-to-one Chromebook devices and the pervasive use of Google's software products in American education cannot be overstated as discussed by the authors, and some of the influences of these products on research, based on the experiences of a librarian and technology coordinator at an elementary education level.
Abstract: Chromebooks and the G Suite group of products, like Google Search, Gmail, and Google Docs, have rapidly expanded in American schools during the past 5 years. The impact of one-to-one Chromebook devices and the pervasive use of Google's software products in American education cannot be overstated. This article explores some of the influences of these products on research, based on the experiences of a librarian and technology coordinator at an elementary education level. The author has several suggestions for effective research with these products in mind.
TL;DR: In the context of academic libraries, the authors define the community, what we do for that community, why, and how well, as an invitation to challenge our assumptions about public services and community success.
Abstract: The members of our communities interact with library services, resources, and spaces through a number of touchpoints. In academic libraries, those touchpoints often come through curricular and co-curricular activities. A critical goal of connecting our community to our library via the curriculum is to enhance student learning, which we address through internal activities, such as developing instruction plans and external activities, such as exhibits and workshops. We, then, design rigorous assessments and a multitude of program evaluation projects to measure howwell libraries contribute to student learning so that we can communicate the degree to which we meet that goal. This article is a reframing of that progression—defining our community, what we do for that community, why, and how well—as an invitation to challenge our assumptions about public services and community success.
TL;DR: In this article, a broad set of journal papers related to metadata and quality in digital repositories and libraries, and to provide a quantitative analysis of the relevant research is studied. But the focus of this paper is on the open issues and future directions for research.
Abstract: The purpose of this article is to study a broad set of journal papers related to metadata and quality in digital repositories and libraries, and to provide a quantitative analysis of the relevant research. It also aims at identifying open issues and future directions for research. A detailed search was carried out in relevant journals of information science, computer science, and library science; mainly, that allowed us to identify an extensive corpora of relevant work. The identified papers were classified based on an existing framework and a statistical analysis was carried out on the main classifications used within the framework. The analysis of the 702 papers identified, led to a series of statements for the field examined, focusing on the type of research carried out, the research methods deployed, and the research claims made. In addition, the papers were classified based on their target audiences, disciplines, as well as institutional and geographical origins. The article identifies areas ...
TL;DR: This column begins by considering the unique history and context of the people of North Africa, especially as they pertain to the creation and use of knowledge, then looks to intellectual property, a topic relevant to information access, and ends by considering some challenges to informationAccess and use in North Africa.
Abstract: Column Editor's NotesThe “Advances in Library Data and Access” column examines technological advances internal and external to libraries. The focus is on how library data is created and used. The strength of the column is its broad, international focus and contributors are encouraged to explore issues and recent advances in information technology relevant to their geographical region, as well as the larger, global audience. Interested authors are invited to submit proposals and articles to the column editor at moulaisonhe@missouri.edu. Please include “IILR Submission” in the subject line of the email.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors delved into the issues facing new liaison roles and provided tips for those who are undergoing a similar process through a lens of organizational change that addresses reviewing what is working, as well as what is not, developing a clear vision and direction, breaking down the change into smaller segments, cultivating a sense of identity through shared purpose, and supporting new habits.
Abstract: Utilizing the concepts of change management and intentional change theory, this column delves into the issues facing new liaison roles and provides tips for those who are undergoing a similar process through a lens of organizational change that addresses reviewing what is working, as well as what is not, developing a clear vision and direction, breaking down the change into smaller segments, cultivating a sense of identity through shared purpose, and supporting new habits.
TL;DR: The findings of the study indicate that differences exist in the extent as well as patterns of use of journal databases among graduate students, and that search patterns are dependent on the degree of scatter of topical content.
Abstract: This study aims to investigate the variations in the search pattern of scholarly databases due to disciplinary differences among graduate students. It is a case study which employed the survey method to solicit the views of purposely selected postgraduate students from six colleges of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). The findings of the study indicate that differences exist in the extent as well as patterns of use of journal databases among graduate students, and that search patterns are dependent on the degree of scatter of topical content. Knowledge of the internal relationships among scholarly journals will ensure that relevant databases are selected for maximum exploitation. The study provides the domain analytic approach to database use in the Ghanaian situation which is woefully deficient in the literature.
TL;DR: This column seeks to identify and explore the extent of identifier use in the SHARE catalog and examines technological advances internal and external to libraries.
Abstract: SHARE, an open metadata aggregator for scholarly content launched in 2013, provides access to dispersed scholarly content through a powerful application programming interface and set of tools for r...
TL;DR: In Germany, more than 15 libraries are operating successfully with the quality model Excellent Library as discussed by the authors, which is part of a research project at Stuttgart Media University and has been developed since 2008.
Abstract: In Germany, more than 15 libraries are operating successfully with the quality model Excellent Library. They are part of a research project at Stuttgart Media University where the quality model and certificate have been developed since 2008. The article reflects the experiences of the project: A short introduction to the German library system and quality projects in German libraries will be followed by an overview over the model and certificate. Furthermore, the challenging process of becoming an Excellent Library and related effects will be described.