Showing papers in "Library Management in 2019"

Marketing academic library information services using social media

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of social media in the marketing of academic library resources and services in Kuwait and identifies the factors related to the use of social media applications in marketing academic libraries.,A quantitative data-collection approach using a paper and online questionnaire has been employed to elicit the opinions of librarians working in academic libraries in Kuwait in both private and public institutions. In total, 89 valid questionnaires have been analyzed using descriptive (frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations) and inferential statistics (factor analysis, correlations, experimental analysis and regression).,The study shows that the academic librarians have a positive perception toward the use of social media. The identified factors relating to the use of social media for marketing library information resources and services are the usefulness of social media tools in raising awareness and in providing needs analysis and satisfaction assessments. However, management support for the use of social media for library marketing is poor.,This study provides insights into the factors related to the use of modern social media platforms to promote information resources and services at academic libraries to provide outreach services to current and potential users.,This research contributes to the field of information studies as it highlights the importance of using social media platforms in marketing academic library information resources and services. Library administrators could use the results to develop social media marketing plans to effectively promote their library resources.

Research on the application of information technology of Big Data in Chinese digital library

Abstract: Through the case analysis of China’s digital library, the purpose of this paper is to make readers understand the development status, achievements and problems of China’s digital library. At the same time, it also enables readers to understand the common application forms of these modern information technologies in digital libraries, so as to provide a reference basis for the application of new technologies in other countries’ digital libraries.,On the basis of literature review, the authors have analyzed a conspicuous collection of related papers in order to make a comprehensive summary and elaboration on the present situation of modern information technology application in Chinese digital libraries.,This paper defines and analyses the concepts, contents and relationships of the three most important modern Big Data information technologies, and then completes the analysis of the current situation of the application of information technology in Chinese digital libraries. The block chain can achieve more accurate information collection, more secure information storage and more effective information dissemination. Artificial intelligence can improve the existing digital library service level in three aspects: resource construction, information organization and information service. Internet plus will help transform the traditional digital library business mode in order to adapt to the change of user-centered service.,This is among the first structured attempts of comprehensively and generally summarizing the application of modern information technology in Chinese digital libraries. It also contains an original exploration of the relationship between the main kinds of modern information technology. Based on this, a relatively complete application scenario and possible vision of modern information technology in digital library can be built.

Using SEM-PLS to assess users satisfaction of library service quality: evidence from Malaysia

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of Libqual+™ dimension (affect of services, information control and Library as a place) on user satisfaction at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM),Data were collected using a sample of 100 students and it was analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS The measurement model was analyzed using composite reliability, convergent and discriminate validity while the structural model was used to predict the relationships between variables,The results indicated that services, information control and library as a place have a significant and positive impact on the overall satisfaction of library users, with affect of services being the most important predictor of library user satisfaction,Overall, users are satisfied with the services provided by the UKM library Results from this study will help librarians to make better decisions in providing effective services and fulfilling the library’s vision and mission,The study provides insight into the UKM University how to use LibQual+™ dimension to improve user’s satisfaction

Extending McKinsey’s 7S model to understand strategic alignment in academic libraries

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to conceptualise the issues of alignment for changing academic libraries by using and extending McKinsey’s 7S model.,Theoretical work was conducted to consider and extend the 7S model for the situation of academic libraries. Empirical data were then used to confirm the value of these extensions and suggest further changes. The data to support the analysis were drawn from 33 interviews with librarians, library and non-library academics and experts, and a survey of UK library staff.,In the academic library context, the 7S model can be usefully extended to include three library functions (stuff, space and services) and users. It can also include institutional influences and stakeholders, and aspects of the external environment or situation, including suppliers and allies. The revised model then provides a useful framework within which data about library change can be analysed. Perceived barriers to successful performance fit the model and enable the identification of seven challenges of alignment.,The resulting model has potential applications such as in the structuring analysis of academic library performance, mapping future directions of development and for exploring variations across the sector and internationally.,The revised model can be used by practitioners to think through their own strategic position and to act to shape their future, in the light of seven major areas of alignment.,The paper extends a well-known model used in strategy, to produce a more comprehensive, sector-specific analytic tool.

Invisible disabilities: perceptions and barriers to reasonable accommodations in the workplace

Abstract: The subject of invisible disabilities is becoming more prevalent in the workplace. Invisible disabilities (as defined by the Invisible Disabilities Association) refers to symptoms such as “debilitating pain, fatigue, dizziness, cognitive dysfunctions, brain injuries, learning differences and mental health disorders, as well as hearing and vision impairments.” There are times when employees are hesitant to disclose their invisible disability to their employer or coworkers, which means that accommodations for disabilities may not be requested or made. Accommodations made in the workplace for invisible disabilities can include flexible schedule, special software for assisting with scheduling or prioritizing tasks, or architectural changes such as a standing desk. The paper aims to discuss these issues.,For this literature review, articles on invisible disabilities and accommodations were researched and used to support the importance of accommodations in the workplace.,Invisible disabilities are affecting the workplace and must be addressed. Those struggling with invisible disabilities need to consider sharing information about their disability with their employer as well as requesting accommodation. The question of whether or not to inform coworkers should be left to individual employees and what they feel comfortable divulging. More research needs to be done on how to create learning opportunities and sensitivity in the workplace to those with invisible disabilities. Perhaps training should be offered at the time a new employee begins work.,This literature review is of value because it speaks to an important issue facing today’s workplaces – invisible disabilities and accommodations. Mental illnesses are an invisible disability and as more people are diagnosed and enter the workforce, employers are faced with an increasing demand to meet the needs of these workers. Educating employers and employees on the topic of invisible disabilities and accommodations paves the way to a greater and more productive workforce.

Understanding and motivating academic library employees: theoretical implications

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to examine the levels of motivation and needs satisfaction of academic library employees, adopting Maslow’s hierarchy of needs to examine individuals’ motivation.,The study collects and analyzes quantitative survey data. The research population comprises 108 employees working across eight college libraries at Kuwait University.,While participants generally agreed that their needs were being satisfied at each of the five levels of Maslow’s hierarchy, they reported higher levels of satisfaction of their self-actualization and social needs. Self-actualization is the summit of Maslow’s motivation theory representing the quest for reaching one’s full potential as a person.,One limitation is the relatively small sample size due to Kuwait having only one public university. Future research could overcome this limitation by investigating both private and public universities.,This research contributes significantly and in various ways to understanding motivation in a library setting. It elucidates many aspects of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory criticized in previous literature. Overall, the study’s results should be useful to scholars in the library field interested in motivation, to academic librarians and to managers in academia.,Though many prior studies have focused on motivation in a library setting, Maslow’s theory has been little considered in the context of academic libraries. This study uses a theoretical framework based on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs to understand and explain the levels of motivation and needs satisfaction of academic library employees.

A review exploring the facets of the value of public libraries

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to discuss a review of the literature on the value of public libraries and propose a preliminary value framework for the public library based on the results. The review was conducted and the framework was developed as part of a larger ongoing project exploring the value of California’s public libraries.,This paper is a literature review of approximately 130 international, national and local resources from 1998 to 2018. Findings were developed through an analysis and synthesis of the works as they relate to public libraries.,The themes that emerged from the exploration of studies fell into three intersecting categories: support for personal advancement; support for vulnerable populations; and support for community development. A wide variety of quantitative and qualitative methods have been employed in this area of research. Among the many ways to discuss value, the most appropriate for the user will always depend on the context for which the concept of value is being defined.,Practitioners may find the various definitions of value useful when sharing information about public libraries with decision makers and other stakeholder audiences and when designing service models and outcomes.,The authors believe this paper is the first to identify the emergence of a value framework for the public library based on a literature review exploring both the social and financial value of public libraries.

Testing, testing: a usability case study at University of Toronto Scarborough Library

Abstract: With the rise of virtual library users and a steady increase in digital content, it is imperative that libraries build websites that provide seamless access to key resources and services. The paper aims to discuss these issues.,Usability testing is a valuable method for measuring user habits and expectations, as well as identifying problematic areas for improvement within a website.,In this paper, the authors provide an overview of user experience research carried out on the University of Toronto Scarborough Library website using a mixture of qualitative and quantitative research methods and detail insights gained from subsequent data analysis.,In particular, the authors discuss methods used for task-oriented usability testing and card sorting procedures using pages from the library website. Widely applicable results from this study include key findings and lessons learned from conducting usability testing in order to improve library websites.

The whys and hows of academic library space assessment: a case study

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to advocate for change in academic library space assessment and use philosophy in favor of a more user-centered approach emphasizing space designed for and by users themselves. This goal is achieved by analyzing the implementation of a recent space assessment project at the University of Northern Colorado Libraries to investigate specific patterns of library space utilization.,This paper presents a case study for which data were collected through a multi-method approach, including flip chart and whiteboard questions, brief semi-structured “tabling” interviews, and more in-depth “roving” interviews.,The current library literature on space assessment does not encompass broader, more holistic approaches to how library space is used by students, faculty, staff and community users. The findings from this study highlight the diversity of ways patrons may use an academic library, many of which are related to academic work. However, visitors also come to the library for other purposes, such as socializing or attending an event. It is imperative that the space be adequately equipped to meet varied visitor needs and to create a welcoming environment for all patrons.,The paper has several implications for planning and managing the operations of medium-sized academic libraries. It contributes to the larger conversation in higher education about the importance of user research for enhancing visitor experience through data-informed decision-making. Furthermore, the project it details is not an isolated assessment effort but part of the library’s ongoing space assessment work.

A survey of diversity and inclusiveness initiatives at Carnegie Doctoral Research Institutions libraries

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to describe survey findings on diversity and inclusion initiatives at the Carnegie Doctoral Research Institutions of Higher Education libraries. The findings would be helpful to libraries that are at the beginning of their own diversity and inclusion initiatives or that wish to compare ongoing efforts.,The authors conducted a survey of Carnegie Doctoral Research Institutions of Higher Education libraries using Qualtrics, an online survey software. Link to the survey with a short explanation was e-mailed to the 324 identified contacts and 151 responses were received at the end of the survey.,Survey responses revealed that the most prevalent types of diversity and inclusion initiatives fall into one of three categories. These are the creation/enhancement of library collections, recruitment and collaboration with other campus units. Not surprisingly, lack of money and other resources are identified as challenges faced by those who engage in these initiatives.,No other research currently exists for those interested in assessing diversity and inclusion initiatives at the Carnegie Doctoral Research Institutions of Higher Education libraries.

Specialties and strategies in academic libraries: a cluster analysis approach

Abstract: Professional work is becoming more specialized and diffused, with new specialties emerging on the boundaries of established professions. The purpose of this paper is to examine current specialties in academic librarianship in order to infer what strategies they employ.,This research uses a sample of 60 US research libraries to investigate current specialties in academic librarianship, in order to analyze and classify the specialties into groups based on similarities, and categorize academic libraries based on the staffing patterns identified, and illustrate the challenges and strategies of each classification. The sample was selected from the membership of the Association of Research Libraries, and designed to include both large and medium-sized research libraries. 888 different job titles were identified for 2,074 specialist positions extracted from staff directories containing information on 11,688 librarians. The positions were analyzed and classified using the framework provided by Cox and Corrall (2013), and the specialty composition of the libraries was investigated with Ward’s (1963) hierarchical method of cluster analysis, using 28 variables.,The cluster analysis identified subspecialties within the groups and revealed seven distinct staffing strategies of the libraries.,Describing specialties and strategies in academic libraries by cluster analysis based on huge data is a significantly novel and effective approach for capturing the concept of specialization.

Project management in higher education: a grounded theory case study

Abstract: Purpose This paper analyzes project and portfolio management within a major research library, while it was undergoing a complete physical renovation and reinvention of programs and services. This is a complex, almost 100-million-dollar undertaking that implemented a project management (PM) methodology known as portfolio management. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the implementation and management of this process and provide a brief overview on project and portfolio management as a discipline. Additionally, it provides strengths and weaknesses as well as recommendations when implementing PM. Design/methodology/approach The analysis uses a qualitative research methodology case study with a theoretical foundation of inductive grounded theory. The case study is based primarily on seven interviews of project managers who are involved with the project. It also uses document analysis to assist in triangulating the findings and provide a contextual overview of a complex process. A number of themes emerged into overall categories and findings. Findings The key takeaways were the perceived strengths and weaknesses of the process. The strengths were improved communication and transparency, improved organization and documentation and formal decision-making process and resource allocation. The weaknesses were the hammer and the nail problem, the tools and paperwork, rigidity and the lack of agility within the process. This study also describes the process in detail and gives recommendations for improving the methods implemented in similar circumstances. Originality/value This paper analyzes strategic management concepts from an empirical grounded theory approach and real-world perspective with key recommendations.

Library stakeholder attitudes and new technology

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide advice for library managers on the collection of feedback from stakeholders An example of radio frequency identification (RFID) is used to illustrate what can be learned and how decisions can be improved with this feedback Design/methodology/approach The stakeholder, RFID and library literature are reviewed and lessons for improving future technology decisions are developed The results of a direct-mail survey of 394 members of the general public in the Midwest illustrate the insights that can be gained with marketing research Findings Many libraries appear to have neglected getting feedback from some stakeholders before implementing RFID tagging of materials Gathering specific information from local stakeholders (including some that are only indirectly influenced by a decision) can help improve the odds of initiative success Regular dialogs with stakeholder groups can help librarians track progress of programs, identify issues and prepare response strategies Practical implications If librarians had conducted surveys about RFID or self-service checkouts when the technologies were under consideration, they would have gained a greater appreciation of the concerns some individuals had Dialogs could have been started, educational events could have been planned and other responses could have been developed The stakeholders to be regularly consulted should include individuals who are indirectly affected by the library These lessons can be followed when librarians consider other initiatives Originality/value This paper offers library leaders new insights into when and how to gather information from stakeholders Tips are offered to improve the effectiveness of surveys and focus groups

Does postgraduate degree make any difference in job performance of information professionals

Abstract: Since 2005, various public and private sector institutions have been offering a postgraduate degree in Library and Information Management (LIM) in Pakistan and a good number of professionals working in different sectors have got MPhil degree. However, locally, no study has been conducted to measure the impact of higher education on the job performance of information professionals (IPs) in any aspect. The purpose of this paper is to measure job performance of MPhil degree (18 years of education) holder IPs.,It is a quantitative study based on the theoretical framework of job performance comprised of its four constructs, i.e. task performance, contextual performance, counterproductive work behaviors (CWB) and adaptive performance. An adopted self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from professionals who have graduated from any LIM schools of the Punjab province with at least one-year work experience after completion of MPhil degrees. For the purpose of the present study, demographic information like age, job experience and library context was also asked about to explore their impact on job performance.,Findings revealed that MPhil degree has a significant positive impact on the job performance of IPs. The professionals reported a significant positive change in their CWB regarding experience after getting a degree. Furthermore, results revealed that professionals were capable of technical skills but needed training regarding time management, teamwork and improving emotional intelligence.,This is the first study reported from Pakistan on the subject. The results of the study may help the LIM schools to review their MPhil programs for the desired results. It may also help organizations to encourage their personnel for higher education.

The Rutgers Open Access Policy goes into effect: Faculty reaction and implementation lessons learned

Abstract: From laying the groundwork for the successful passage of a university-wide open access (OA) policy, through the development and planning that goes into a successful implementation, to “Day One” when the official university policy goes into effect, there is a long list of factors that affect faculty interest, participation and compliance. The paper aims to discuss this issue.,The authors, Mullen and Otto, having detailed earlier aspects of the Rutgers University OA policy passage and implementation planning, analyze and share the specifics that followed the rollout of the policy and that continue to affect participation.,This case study presents some strategies and systems used to enhance author self-archiving in the newly minted Scholarly Open Access at Rutgers (SOAR) portal of the Rutgers institutional repository, including involvement of departmental liaison librarians, effective presentation of metrics and a focus on targeted communication with faculty.,Roadblocks encountered as faculty began to deposit their scholarship and lessons learned are a focus. Early reaction from faculty and graduate students (doctoral students and postdocs) to various aspects of the policy as well as the use of SOAR for depositing their work are included.

A qualitative study of barriers to innovation in academic libraries in Taiwan

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to explore innovation barriers in academic libraries. Through analysis of barriers to innovation, the authors can further elucidate the nature of innovation in academic library settings, which can help remove factors that hamper innovation.,Using a qualitative case study to explore the innovation processes for two academic libraries, this study includes interviews with 28 interviewees, from senior leadership positions to practical librarians, to analyze the barriers to innovation they have experienced.,Building on a literature review, this study proposes a barrier to innovation framework for academic libraries. The qualitative findings identified two specific barrier types that academic libraries face, environmental and organizational barriers, identifying 19 barrier factors that intertwine to yield seven dimensions across the two levels of analysis. It is advised that library leadership team should both encourage innovative behaviors and eliminate the innovation barriers to enhance library innovation capacities.,The insights from this study can help the library managers of academic libraries to develop preemptive actions for dealing with various barrier scenarios, and thereby enhance possibilities of successful innovations.

Reflecting the voice of the student: A case study from The Pennsylvania State University using mixed-methods in assessing space

Abstract: The purpose of this paper, conducted at Penn State University, is to inform a redesign of the library facility integrating a Collaboration Commons projected to cost over $20m.,A mixed-methods design comprised of observation, focus groups, conversations with students, interviews with Knowledge Commons personnel and a UX Cafe was employed. Researchers investigated the students’ need for workspaces and soft-seating.,Findings suggested that students generally come to the libraries with a goal of being productive and they value the productivity generated by spacious and well-designed workspaces over the comfort of soft-seating. Students desire an increase in the availability of workspaces.,These findings informed facility enhancement recommendations, and have been integrated into the program statement made available to design firms bidding on the renovation project.

Digital rights management (DRM) in libraries of public universities in Jordan

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to illustrate some methods to protect digital libraries using digital rights management (DRM) technologies and specifically the methods applied at the digital libraries of Jordan universities.,A descriptive research method has been used to examine the extent of DRM in digital libraries of universities in Jordan.,Majority of the universities in Jordan use different methods of protection including coding, identification, authenticity and digital watermark. However, methods including digital signature, digital fingerprint, copy detection systems and pay system have not been employed within Jordanian universities. The use of copyright management systems has been limited, which shows the weakness in the use of technological protection within the investigated libraries.,This study has shown contribution to the development of digital libraries that are based on the protection of new technology and are able to provide better services to users without concern about protecting publishers’ rights.

Evaluating national library mission statements in Ibero-America

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to review the websites of 22 national libraries in Ibero-America to determine whether and how effectively they display these organisations’ mission statements, as well as any convergence/divergence among these texts.,A review was conducted of the national library websites of ABINIA’s 22 members to locate their respective mission statements. The statements identified were analysed and evaluated against the positioning and presence criteria and wording proposed by experts.,Website content clearly attests to national libraries’ eagerness to publicise their mission statements, which are readily accessible in most cases. Their functions are represented to a more or less standard pattern. Most are portrayed as institutions responsible for custodying, enriching, preserving and disseminating their countries’ cultural legacy. Other purposes mentioned include the promulgation of and accessibility to the heritage custodied.,The paper may prove useful for professional librarians involved in drafting or revising their organisation’s mission statement in the wake of changing circumstances or on the occasion of the formulation of a new strategic plan.,Of the very short number of analyses of libraries’ mission statements published to date, none discusses national libraries. This is the very first study of national library mission statement in Ibero-America. It forms part of a line of research dealing with national library mission statements defined and available on institutional websites for countries anywhere in the world.

Leadership style as a predictor of employee commitment in university libraries in South-West, Nigeria

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of leadership style (LS) on employee commitment (EC) in university libraries in South-West, Nigeria.,The study adopted a survey research design. The population of the study consisted of 684 librarians from 43 universities in the six states of South-West, Nigeria. A validated questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.,Findings showed that the level of EC in university libraries in South-West, Nigeria was fairly high (M=2.64 on a four-point scale). LS had a significant influence on EC in university libraries in South-West, Nigeria (β=0.245, R2=0.276, p<0.05). However, transformational LS (β=0.383, p<0.05) relatively contributed more to EC than transactional LS (β=0.183, p<0.05).,A limitation of the study was that the study was done in all the university libraries in South-Western region of Nigeria which may affect the inference of the study results to other university libraries outside this region.,The findings of the study will be of benefit to academic institutions, library management and librarians on planning and decision making regarding personnel management.,The study therefore recommends that administrators, library managers should adopt transformational LS.

The current innovation status of university libraries in Pakistan

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the current status of innovations in the university libraries of Pakistan because desire for reshaping the university libraries is now the necessity for full filling the mission of higher education, i.e. to be competitive and compatible in international market. Design/methodology/approach Quantitative method is adopted for measuring the occurrence of innovations. The content is based on the literature, the researchers’ 20 years’ experience and the websites of all the 183 universities of Pakistan have been reviewed for this purpose. A checklist of 40 innovation used in ACRL libraries and prepared by a researcher, Jantz (2013) is used as a yard stick. Findings The findings indicate that a large majority (85%) of university libraries, have not adopted these innovations. Only 15 percent of university libraries all over Pakistan are relatively better on the innovation adoption scale. Originality/value The aspects discussed in the context of Pakistan may catch the attentions for improvement of university libraries, and growth of respective professional. It is assumed that the situation is similar to other type of libraries (college and public) and also in neighboring developing countries. So, the work will raise the awareness among professionals of other countries as well.

A taxonomy of the expected roles of librarians towards knowledge management

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to explore the connection between the various layers of roles and tasks of librarians with the various knowledge types and methods. Although there are multiple benefits anticipated with knowledge management (KM) schemes in libraries, the practical side of it among Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals is not yet notable or evident.,Taxonomy building and Delphi method were two means of research deployed to achieve the declared purpose.,It was possible to achieve several steps into structuring a taxonomy but yet further work has to be accomplished in order to consummate the taxonomy. For this, means of group interviewing method along with perhaps sponsorship of association relevant to librarianship might be an appropriate approach.,Delphi process was not possible to be fully exercised and completed due to limitations of limited number of participants as well the overwhelming feeling of participants had toward the unfamiliar content. It would have been more rewarding to have physical meeting in groups to overcome such limitations.,This paper lays the foundation stone of a multi-layer taxonomy for roles of librarians toward KM. The taxonomy also unveils a dimension that librarians often miss when discussing KM. It also models the categories of knowledge types for LIS. Thus, the LIS community is urged to contribute in the development of this taxonomy which could become the handbook of reference in KM for librarianship.

Understanding the reading habit and attitudes among the rural community in low literacy rate areas in Malaysia: Rural library perspectives

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the reading habit and attitude among rural communities in the low literacy rate areas in Malaysia.,Multi-stage cluster and simple random sampling were employed and 400 respondents who live nearby the rural library were selected.,Moderate levels of reading attitude were obtained from the result of the study, in which several variables produced a significant relationship in the reading attitude (education level, household income and time spent in reading).,Better understanding on the reading habit and attitude among rural communities could produce better information on the service provision towards the establishment of rural libraries in low literacy rate areas in Malaysia. This would also increase the utilisation of reading sources and services provided.,The paper provides better understanding on the reading habit and attitude among the rural communities in the low literacy rate areas in using the facilities provided by the rural libraries. The findings may be useful to the rural literacy and library development community in the developing countries.

Are they even following us? Using market research data to understand students’ social media preferences

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is the exploration of students’ preferred social media (SM) tools for receiving information about their academic library. The authors administered a questionnaire at their prospective institutions: the College of Staten Island (CSI), City University of New York, USA and the University of Western Ontario (UWO) in London, Ontario, Canada. The authors examine students’ preferences for various SM tools, and analyzed the types of information students expect from the library’s SM accounts. The authors argue that the library’s SM postings should be curated based on market research that provides a better understanding of the target audience.,The authors explore the SM preferences of students at their prospective institutions. The authors examine the SM channels students visit and the types of SM content they wish to seek out. The authors ran the authors’ study from September 1 through December 31, 2016. The authors used convenience sampling and a printed questionnaire to collect data from students in information literacy instruction sessions (n=633 at CSI, n=602 at UWO).,The authors found that more students (at both institutions) used Facebook and YouTube, as compared with other SM platforms. If they viewed their library’s SM accounts, students from both institutions preferred to read about news and current events, followed by announcements about new library services.,The authors illustrate that conducting market research helps SM managers understand their target audience. Market research is the key to successful SM management. It also helps in the development of a marketing plan and provides insights on students’ preferences regarding SM content.,This study compares students’ SM preferences across two academic institutions from two countries, the USA and Canada. The authors wished to investigate the similarities and differences among these students’ preferences.

Consortia from past to future

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to review the global history of library consortia from ancient times until the present and propose further development of consortia to address journal costs and research distribution. Design/methodology/approach The global history of consortia is reviewed, with a concentration on the early years of the American Library Association. Findings Consortia have proved their value in making libraries more efficient and in advancing research through combined efforts in developing indexes and catalogues. Research limitations/implications The paper encourages libraries to build on their history of cooperation and extend it by linking their repositories, using their own strengths to battle excessive subscription fees, and become publishers in their own right. Practical implications Consortia are encouraged to work together to build a global repository, to stand firm against predatory pricing and to take the lead in the dissemination of scholarship. Originality/value This paper proposes that libraries join in broad regional consortia to oppose unjustifiable prices imposed by the major publishers and that libraries, with their institutions, work regionally and internationally to take control of the distribution of research.

Continuing professional development and special librarians in Jamaica

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to examine the continuing professional development (CPD) activities undertaken by special librarians in Jamaica, their motivation, the challenges faced and the areas of interest for professional development.,Special librarians working in Jamaica were surveyed using an online questionnaire which was disseminated via e-mail.,The study indicates that special librarians in Jamaica were engaged in both formal and informal CPD activities. They were motivated by factors such as keeping up to date with changes in librarianship and personal satisfaction. Challenges to participating in CPD include, lack of funding, time constraints and lack of worthwhile options. Areas of interest for CPD were mainly information technology-based.,The study was limited to the contact lists of the special libraries section of the Library and Information Association of Jamaica (LIAJA) and the Government Library and Information Network of the Jamaica Library and Information Network (JAMLIN).,The results have implications for the planning and implementation of continuing professional activities for Jamaica’s special librarians. It also fills a gap in library literature regarding the continuing professional activities of special librarians.,The paper is one of few studies focusing on the CPD activities of special librarians undertaken in a developing country.

The Finna service: meeting the new measurement challenges in libraries

Abstract: Purpose In the transformed information environment, the impact and value of the services are not adequately shown using the traditional library metrics It needs to be supplemented with user-centered ways of measurement The paper aims to discuss these issues Design/methodology/approach The paper is a case study of the new Finna service and the measurement challenges it presents Findings The standards guiding the measurement and evaluation of libraries cannot offer a “cook-book” for the organizations to follow The paper suggests that as a one possible response to this, the Net Promoter Score can be used as one indicator in measuring the impact of new services Research limitations/implications The findings of the paper are preliminary, because so far there is not a wide experience of the use of NPS in libraries This calls for further study The results are encouraging, but more testing is needed with different services Originality/value NPS has not been widely used in libraries before

Libraries as learning environments: the example of “Libraries for Everyone”

Abstract: Purpose In this paper, the Libraries for Everyone Project and the studies carried out within the scope of the project are presented; the role of libraries as learning environments is discussed; and the data obtained from the library usage research/survey are shared. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach The research includes the findings of a questionnaire study that was applied in May, 2017 to 4,566 respondents from 147 libraries participating in the project. The population is represented with a 99% confidence level and a sampling error of 0.02. The sample size was decided based on the number of registered members in the libraries. Findings Municipal libraries have potential to be used as learning environments. Originality/value The usage survey reported in the study is the most comprehensive usage study on municipal libraries so far in terms of the number of participants. The Libraries for Everyone Project is the most extensive project implemented at municipal libraries in Turkey.

A bibliometric services workshop for subject librarians

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to report on the development and analysis of an internal bibliometric services workshop for subject librarians. Primary goals of the workshop were to create an opportunity for collegial knowledge and skill sharing, and to identify discipline specific gaps and future support requirements. Design/methodology/approach Two campus librarians who typically offer bibliometric support services used pre- and post-surveys to plan and assess the workshop for subject liaison librarians. Findings Subject librarians from across the university expressed interest in developing bibliometric support services. The 12 workshop participants (30 percent of subject librarians) support diverse areas including the humanities, social sciences, life sciences, education and outreach, and the school of business. Post-workshop survey respondents highlighted the contextualization of available measures and the appropriate application of metrics in different disciplines to be the most helpful topics covered. Finally, while the institution subscribes to several citation analysis databases, more familiarity with Google Scholar citations was requested to address user needs and preferences across the various disciplines. Most participants expressed interest in attending additional workshops. Originality/value This study showcases the experience of campus librarians working together across academic schools and disciplines to respond to the increasing demand for bibliometric and scholarly impact support services. While services such as citation analysis have typically been siloed in specific job descriptions or subject areas within the library, these are service areas that can benefit from internal library-collaboration opportunities and knowledge sharing.

The transparency of CSUC member university libraries

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to analyse the level of transparency of the libraries of Catalan universities that are members of the Consortium of University Services of Catalonia (CSUC).,The analysis involved reviewing the information available on the websites of the ten libraries belonging to CSUC. For each library’s website, the presence of 18 indicators was explored. These indicators had been defined by the Commitment and Transparency Foundation (Spain).,There is a notable difference between the level of transparency of Catalan universities and their libraries. Moreover, the universities’ culture of transparency is not reflected in that of the libraries. Four of the libraries can be considered transparent because they have accomplished from 12 to 18 indicators; three can be considered “translucent”, due to their indicators ranging from 11 to 7 points; and three are considered opaque as a result of obtaining from 1 to 5 indicators.,There is a need to review the volume and quality of information that can be consulted on library websites, considering that all services and entities funded with public money must inform citizens of the principles that govern their management and the results obtained.,The information regarding transparency is incomplete and should be organised with parameters that make it easier to find. Libraries that occupy the lowest positions in the ranking all belong to private universities. Their poor results are due to the lack of information justifying their management or providing information on how the service is organised. Some conclusions of this study are very similar to those of the study on Madrid’s Madrono Consortium (Pacios Lozano, 2016) which has been taken into account in this paper.