Showing papers in "New Library World in 2005"
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors provide a review of recent trends in the open access (OA) movement, as well as discuss the significance of those trends for information access in developing countries.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to provide a review of recent trends in the open access (OA) movement, as well as to discuss the significance of those trends for information access in developing countries.Design/methodology/approach – An analysis of the recent literature was carried out, focusing on the benefits of a greater information access in developing countries. The paper also brings together the diverse experiences from the authors on OA publishing and archiving with institutions in a number of developing countries.Findings – Knowledge workers in developing countries are now getting access to scholarly and scientific publications and electronic resources at a level that is unmatched historically. This is highly significant, if developing countries are to meet the millennium development goals. The OA movement and the growing number of Open Archive Initiative‐compliant institutional repositories promise to provide even greater access to resources and publications that were previously inaccessible. These lo...
173 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors report from a valuation study of the Norwegian public libraries, aiming to provide a better understanding of their total value, both use and non-use value, as viewed by the population.
Abstract: Purpose – The paper reports from a valuation study of the Norwegian public libraries, aiming to provide a better understanding of their total value, both use and non‐use value, as viewed by the population. An objective was to explore whether or not the citizens found that their benefits outweighed the costs to provide them.Design/methodology/approach – The study applies the contingent valuation method, developed in economics to valuate non‐market goods. Contingent valuation is based on representative questionnaire surveys and has been used to valuate several cultural goods, including a few library valuation studies.Findings – The empirical data based on a representative population sample demonstrates that the value of the Norwegian public libraries decidedly outweigh their costs. Elicitation of the population's awareness of property rights to their local library showed that an overwhelming majority of the population (94 per cent) perceive they have such rights. The valuation result indicates that the bene...
75 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors report on the findings of the HEFCE-funded outcomes project which aimed to investigate strategic planning in UK academic libraries and find that the key issues which need to be addressed by academic libraries in terms of strategic planning are: the involvement of library staff; communication of library aims and plans externally; level of active involvement in institutional and departmental planning; evaluation and target setting; and involvement in more difficult institutional aims such as income generation and widening participation.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper reports on the findings of the HEFCE‐funded outcomes project which aimed to investigate strategic planning in UK academic libraries.Design/methodology/approach – The research consisted of a literature and documentation review, followed by interviews with academic library directors and senior institutional managers. There was also a survey of all UK HE libraries.Findings – The key issues which need to be addressed by academic libraries in terms of strategic planning are: the involvement of library staff; communication of library aims and plans externally; level of active involvement in institutional and departmental planning; evaluation and target setting; and involvement in more “difficult” institutional aims such as income generation and widening participation.Research limitation/implications – The response to the various activities of this research project indicate the lack of interest in outcomes assessment within the academic library sector. There is little rigorous evidence in th...
55 citations
TL;DR: The challenges that rapid growth in the number of electronic resources and in the complexity of managing e‐collections has posed for libraries are examined, and the progress in developing tools and setting standards to address such challenges is traced.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to provide an overview of the trends and standards in electronic‐resource management (ERM).Design/methodology/approach – This paper examines the challenges that rapid growth in the number of electronic resources and in the complexity of managing e‐collections has posed for libraries, and traces the progress in developing tools and setting standards to address such challenges. Particular emphasis is given to the work of the Digital Library Federation Electronic Resource Management Initiative (DLF ERMI) to develop ERM systems not only for managing e‐collections throughout their life cycle but also for aiding collection‐development decision making. The integration of such systems in existing library environments and the mechanisms that make such integration possible are highlighted. Finally, the paper describes the collaborative process through which one vendor, Ex Libris, designed its ERM system, Verde.Findings – Collaboration between vendors and customers – in this example, Ex Lib...
54 citations
TL;DR: The different learning and working styles between generations in the authors' current digital environment are outlined, to outline the importance of gaining a better understanding of the learning styles and tastes of young people.
Abstract: Purpose – To outline the different learning and working styles between generations in our current digital environment.Design/methodology/approach – Connects common theories of popular author and library industry study. These are presented alongside personal views on the current trends.Findings – As native speakers of digital language, young people think and process information in an entirely different way from previous generations. Experts suggest that they may have remapped their brains.Originality/value – The article stresses the importance of gaining a better understanding of the learning styles and tastes of young people. Libraries should consider tapping into this resource for future development, since these people are the future support base for libraries.
48 citations
TL;DR: Branding properly planned and developed may be one way in which the public library service can raise its image and allow employees to take ownership of the service as mentioned in this paper, which would interest practitioners and academics alike.
Abstract: Purpose – To provide an overview of branding activity in the UK public library service.Design/methodology/approach – A review of branding literature was undertaken. The primary research was conducted over a four‐week period and consisted of a questionnaire survey distributed to heads of services in order to gain data regarding branding of the service.Findings – The research indicated that heads of service do give consideration to branding in their marketing plans. Branding properly planned and developed may be one way in which the public library service can raise its image and allow employees to take ownership of the service.Research limitations/implications – Owing to the time element involved in the gathering of data responses were not as high as previously anticipated.Practical implications – A good insight into the application of branding in the UK public library sector which would interest practitioners and academics alike.Originality/value – Contributes to the domain of knowledge which is weak in th...
41 citations
TL;DR: These libraries are not in a position to provide the best library services for visually impaired and physically handicapped individuals: it was seen that there are still many things to correct and improve.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this research was to determine the current status of the library services for visually impaired and physically handicapped people in Argentina.Design/methodology/approach – A survey was made of 20 different libraries throughout Argentina that provide services for visually impaired and physically handicapped people. A questionnaire composed of 114 questions based on American Library Association guidelines was developed and delivered by e‐mail and post to participating libraries. Additionally, visits were made to ten of these libraries with the objective of obtaining information by means of interviews with their respective directors as well as library personnel and users who were present at the time of the visit.Findings – It was concluded that these libraries are not in a position to provide the best library services for visually impaired and physically handicapped individuals: it was seen that there are still many things to correct and improve.Originality/value – It is considered ...
39 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present an analysis of the development of schools of librarianship and information science (LIS) in the European Union (EU) applicant states until 2004.
Abstract: Purpose – The paper seeks to present an analysis of the development of schools of librarianship and information science (LIS) in the European Union (EU) applicant states until 2004. It discusses the potential and actual changes in their organisation, notably their curriculum.Design/methodology/approach – The comparative analysis of LIS programmes was performed. The model presented by T.D. Wilson in 2001 was selected as the model for analysing the data. The aim was to support the Wilson model with some empirical data from the specific countries.Findings – The results show that the long history of traditional library education in these schools was not a great obstacle to adapting the curriculum to new professional and political standards. LIS schools have generally changed their curriculum towards those of modern LIS schools and have also embraced the EU outlines regarding higher education, especially the Bologna Declaration.Research limitations/implications – This study has its limitations as it is based o...
37 citations
Abstract: Purpose – This paper describes a comprehensive user survey carried out in an Irish higher education academic library (Waterford Institute of Technology library service) as part of a strategic initiative to engage with library users.Design/methodology/approach – Two major user groups – full‐time undergraduate students and academic staff – were surveyed. The survey instrument was a hardcopy questionnaire. The paper outlines the relative merits of different survey types and the reasoning behind the final choice of survey instrument.Findings – The main results of the survey are synopsised. The paper also includes selected free‐text comments made by survey respondents and the library's response to the results in terms of how issues highlighted will be addressed.Research limitations/implications – The survey focused on two specific user groups, which leaves scope for future research by this institution into how the library is used by other types of users, such as distance learners.Practical implications – The s...
30 citations
TL;DR: The research reveals that student users tend to select tables to study, especially tables equipped with electrical and internet connections, compared to academic library users, who have a preference of study carrels over tables for studying.
Abstract: Purpose – This research seeks to observe the occupancy of study areas in a university library over a period of several months with the aim of evaluating the efficiency of library resources usage.Design/methodology/approach – In undertaking the research, study facilities of a library, such as chairs, sofas, carrels, and tables, were first drawn as features on maps using a GIS application. Geospatial databases were then created to store data of occupancy of the facilities by library users, which were observed by the author. On connecting records in the databases to features on the maps, GIS functions were explored to analyze observed data and exhibit the analytical results on the maps.Findings – The findings of this research challenge the predominant opinion that insists that academic library users have a preference of study carrels over tables for studying. Instead, the research reveals that student users tend to select tables to study, especially tables equipped with electrical and internet connections. A...
29 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a comparison of methods for evaluating the performance of library services in three European countries (Lithuania, Slovenia and the United Kingdom) is given, with emphasis on developing trends and novel methods.
Abstract: Purpose – A comparison of methods for evaluating the performance of library services in three European countries – Lithuania, Slovenia and the United Kingdom – is given, with emphasis on developing trends and novel methods.Design/methodology/approach – The published and unpublished literature is analysed and evaluated, to bring out themes and comparisons.Findings – Common themes are identified, and suggestions made as to how the competences of the library profession can be improved, and practitioners supported, in embedding performance evaluation into a more evidence‐based practice.Originality/value – This is the only paper to date making explicit international comparisons of evaluation of library services.
TL;DR: In this paper, a conceptual paper aims to discuss a few concerns in the title categories of literacy, aliteracy, and lifelong learning and illuminates the scholarly concern about a global population increase of people who either are unable to read or are uninterested in reading.
Abstract: Purpose – This conceptual paper aims to discuss a few concerns in the title categories of literacy, aliteracy, and lifelong learning and illuminates the scholarly concern about a global population increase of people who either are unable to read or are uninterested in reading.Design/methodology/approach – The juxtaposition of discussion about the three title categories and conclusions excerpted from the literature about these categories shows the predicament of the person today who is ill‐prepared in basic literacy. The predicament includes the individual's lack of ability to read, write, or reason; but also their limited capacity for successfully engaging technology or future lifelong learning. A discussion of marginalized populations relates how marginalized groups are unable to participate fully in their societies. Regardless of economic, gender, religious, or other reasons for group marginalization, members of these groups often suffer from illiteracy as well.Findings – It is concluded that librarians...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors address the need for ethical and informed leadership in professions in general and library and information science in particular, and the challenges of professional education in library and Information Science in providing a theoretical basis for professional work that incorporates an understanding of ethical principles.
Abstract: Purpose – This article seeks to address the need for ethical and informed leadership in professions in general and library and information science in particular, and the challenges of professional education in library and information science in providing a theoretical basis for professional work that incorporates an understanding of ethical principles.Design/methodology/approach – The article provides an overview and analysis of ethical leadership issues in a range of international, organizational and individual circumstances. While the private and public sectors provide a frame of reference for considering library and information science education, the nature of the professional values in library and information services is also presented. In addition, the research related to limitations in ethical decision‐making ability among individuals is presented, in highlighting the need for educational approaches that support conscious consideration of biases and application of ethical principles.Findings – There...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors define the digital divide and examine the significant differences in, and implications of, the extent of internet connectivity both globally and specifically within the European Union (EU).
Abstract: Purpose – Attempts to define the digital divide and examines the significant differences in, and implications of, the extent of internet connectivity both globally and, more specifically, within the European Union (EU).Design/methodology/approach – The paper was designed using and combining objective data and literature, adding the author's personal experiences and opinions.Findings – After 1 May 2004, when the EU was enlarged from 15 to 25 member states, the digital divide in the EU widened substantially (national connectivity varying from less than 10 to more than 60 per cent), caused by regional lack of technological infrastructure as well as cultural and psychological factors.Research limitations/implications – Many “most recent” national data on internet‐connectivity are two years old.Practical implications – Inequality in internet‐connectivity in the EU will increase dramatically, with all consequences for communication, dissemination of information, economy (e‐commerce!), etc. Consequently, paralle...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors provide theoretical and practical perspectives on the library as space debate as well as an update of an earlier (2002) New Library World article on one university library's attempt to re-position itself through physical change.
Abstract: Purpose – To provide theoretical and practical perspectives on the “library as space” debate as well as an update of an earlier (2002) New Library World article on one university library's attempt to re‐position itself through physical change.Design/methodology/approach – The first part examines the need to fashion academic libraries as desirable destinations for students in the face of the 24/7 availability of both library and non‐library electronic sources of information. The second part provides an account of some of the latest initiatives undertaken by the library at Saint Mary's University, an urban, primarily undergraduate university of 8,000 students on Canada's east coast.Findings – The critical importance of providing a comfortable and stimulating environment for students and the rewards for doing so are confirmed, with reference to various Canadian and US schools. Some of the almost‐universal characteristics of today's students are identified within the context of the changing nature of academic...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examined the effects of telecommunications infrastructure on national development, broadly measured in the areas of economic, social, and political change, and cultural development, and reported the results of a structural equation model designed to examine the bi-directional relationship between telecommunications infrastructure and national development for countries worldwide.
Abstract: Purpose – To examine the effects of telecommunications on national development, broadly measured in the areas of economic, social, and political change, and cultural development.Design/methodology/approach – The results of a structural equation model are reported, designed to examine the bi‐directional relationship between telecommunications infrastructure and national development for countries worldwide. The economic, social, and political development, and cultural changes that result from telecommunications infrastructure are investigated.Findings – Telecommunications infrastructure effects extend beyond economic impacts to include social, political, and cultural change.Research limitations/implications – Criteria used to measure development and change, particularly those that examine the effects of telecommunications on culture, are inadequate and do not adequately measure the effects of telecommunications on national development.Practical implications – Alternative methods of assessment or measure are...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigate the special services for immigrants which are offered by Swedish libraries on their different levels (regional, local and school) and how these services conduct themselves to the development of the harmonic multicultural society.
Abstract: Purpose – To investigate the special services for immigrants which are offered by Swedish libraries on their different levels (regional, local and school) and how these services conduct themselves to the development of the harmonic multicultural society.Design/methodology/approach – The methods used in this research were interviews with librarians, the study of documents, followed by a comparative analysis. The guiding theory was a three‐phase model mentioned by Gillis Herlitz, according to which a newcomer goes through stages in an adaptation period. Phase 1 is described as a positive “honeymoon” phase, while phase 2 is a critical period of negative emotions, dominated by disappointment, which then ideally should be resolved in phase 3, where the individual reaches a balancing stage of cultural integration and successful adaptation.Findings – The performances of public libraries on different levels seem to operate in a way that corresponds to the different phases in this model. The approach of the local ...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors reviewed the history of gender inequity in libraries, outline salary issues in libraries and attempt to define what an electronic resources librarian is, with systems librarians being used for comparison.
Abstract: Purpose – The position of electronic resources librarian emerged as a specialty to deal with the management of digital resources, but little has been written about the librarians now working in this specialty. This article aims to review the history of gender inequity in libraries, outline salary issues in libraries, and attempt to define what an electronic resources librarian is, with systems librarians being used for comparison.Design/methodology/approach – Electronic resources librarians were surveyed for gender, salary, and other demographic information in an attempt to determine whether gender equity or gender stratification is occurring within their specialty.Findings – The majority of respondents work in the USA, but 20 percent worked around the world. Results appear to indicate that males are not being favored over females for employment in this library specialty. Experience and geographic location were found to be the only significant factors affecting salary.Research limitations/implications – F...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors report a study into the current status of, and future prospects for, community informatics (CI) services in libraries in Pakistan, based on a questionnaire survey of academic and public libraries, and community centres, in the major cities of Pakistan.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper reports a study into the current status of, and future prospects for, community informatics (CI) services in libraries in Pakistan.Design/methodology/approach – It is based on a questionnaire survey of academic and public libraries, and community centres, in the major cities of Pakistan, backed up by interviews with librarians and community leaders.Findings – It is found that while most libraries provide community information services, these are of traditional kind, and there are very few examples of information and communication technologies‐based CI. There is enthusiasm for developing such services among librarians, and high regard for library services in the community. Essential factors are funding for provision of equipment and training, and awareness raising in the community.Research limitations/implications – The study was limited to a sample of libraries in large cities.Practical implications – Proposals for development of a government‐sponsored CI initiative are presented.Orig...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors provide reliable data for the development of efficient information literacy education in a department of a higher educational institute in Thessaloniki, Greece, where two surveys were conducted among both students and faculty.
Abstract: Purpose – To provide reliable data for the development of efficient information literacy education in a department of a higher educational institute in Thessaloniki, Greece. It requires in‐depth understanding of the current situation as well as future expectations.Design/methodology/approach – Two research objectives were set. One was to record the use of resources by students and their perceptions, as well as the expectations of faculty regarding information literacy skills. The other was to examine the preferences of students and faculty regarding information literacy education. Two surveys were conducted among both students (cluster sampling) and faculty (census) by the utilization of relative structured questionnaire.Findings – The project reveals that the percentage of students who use the e‐resources of the library is relatively low, and that the few students who attended the bibliographic instruction seminar use the e‐resources more for the completion of their assignments. Also faculty were found t...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigate the organisation of e-journal titles from a user viewpoint, in order to find out what influence the approach adopted by the library may have on the use of e‐journals and what characteristics the organization of e•journals should have to enable an easy discovery of resources.
Abstract: Purpose – Research was carried out at the University of Parma with the purpose to investigate the organisation of e‐journal titles from a user viewpoint, in order to find out what influence the approach adopted by the library may have on the use of e‐journals and what characteristics the organisation of e‐journals should have to enable an easy discovery of resources.Design/methodology/approach – The case study involved students, faculty members and library staff in classics and medieval studies. Research methodology comprised a mixed qualitative and quantitative approach: a focus group, observations, interviews, and a questionnaire.Findings – The group of users appeared still reluctant to use e‐journals, the main barriers to use being lack of awareness and limited number of relevant resources. Users were favourable to being provided with multiple points of access to e‐journals. Their preference appeared to be based on the familiarity of the method and similarity to the organisation of their physical libra...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors provide an overview and analysis of the general issue of change in the literature review, as well as a discussion of war and terrorism, civil and natural disasters, social movements, medical and healthcare crises and needs, and large-scale economic and technological shifts.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper addresses the coverage of issues related to crisis and societal change in the scholarly literature in relation to libraries, information services, and access to information and the leadership role of librarians and libraries in addressing such issues.Design/methodology/approach – The paper provides an overview and analysis of the general issue of change in the literature review, as well as a discussion of war and terrorism, civil and natural disasters, social movements, medical and healthcare crises and needs, and large‐scale economic and technological shifts. The research results address the extent to which these major economic, political, technological and social changes have been addressed in four quarterly, peer‐reviewed library and information science journals over the past six years and the extent to which the focus of the published research and discussion has shifted over the past six years.Findings – Research based on analysis of the journal literature reflects the documentati...
TL;DR: In this article, the main aim of the research conducted was to identify whether the particular country environment of today's professional librarian impacts upon his/her skills capabilities as well as upon his or her access to opportunities for continued development.
Abstract: Purpose – The main aim of the research conducted was to identify whether the particular country environment of today's professional librarian impacts upon his/her skills capabilities as well as upon his/her access to opportunities for continued development.Design/methodology/approach – Data was sourced by means of a survey administered to professional librarians mainly from the developing Caribbean Region and the developed North American countries. Firstly, the satisfaction level of librarians with regard to six recommended skills and characteristics was measured. These areas are detailed as follows: communication; training; information technology (IT); managerial; commitment and subject knowledge/profiling. Secondly, professional development opportunities were measured via skills, services and attitudes, key areas also recommended for staff development and training.Findings – Findings demonstrated that librarians' perceptions showed noteworthy similarities and fewer differences than expected between the ...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors argue that library web sites embedded in a new media environment initiate and demand new kinds of communication and new communication skills, and they argue that the web is a hypertextual media environment and all web sites are part of a global media environment.
Abstract: Purpose – To argue that library web sites embedded in a new media environment initiate and demand new kinds of communication and new communication skills.Design/methodology/approach – The paper is a short version of findings related to the author's research of the internet as a medium in libraries, especially in the domain of imaginative literature. The paper is based theoretically on findings of new media research. The approach is a theoretical clarification of what is new about new media and why new media may move librarians to new kinds of publicity and communication. This is illustrated by a presentation of the Danish library web site litteratursiden.dk, produced by librarians to inspire readers of fiction among library patrons.Findings – Theoretical and practical findings by new media research have indicated several new media features concerning the internet and the web. The web is a hypertextual media environment – all web sites are part of a global media environment, a global publicity. Local web c...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examine the ethical perspectives of library and information science professionals prior to their entry into the profession and find that initial reactions of participants to the scenarios were similar to their reactions after reading and applying the assigned code of ethics.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this study was to examine the ethical perspectives of library and information science professionals prior to their entry into the profession.Design/methodology/approach – The population consisted of 46 graduate students enrolled in a library and information science program during summer 2003. Three scenarios related to general, legal, and health ethical issues were used. Participants were randomly assigned to a scenario. First, they read the scenario and provided initial reactions. Second, they read the professional code of ethics related to the scenario. Finally, they re‐read the scenario and provided reactions based on the professional code of ethics.Findings – The initial reactions of participants to the scenarios were similar to their reactions after reading and applying the assigned code of ethics. For example, participants initially reported that the library director should permit staff to attend the American Library Association conference in Toronto even with the SARS issue...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explore changes in Danish public library managers' perception of the environment, their own knowledge about management methodologies and tools and their perceived need for further education.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to explore changes in Danish public library managers’ perception of the environment, their own knowledge about management methodologies and tools and their perceived need for further educationDesign/methodology/approach – The exploration of the changing attitudes and perceptions is based on two comprehensive and comparable surveys conducted in 2001 and 2004 The frame of reference is the very distinctive changes in the public library system due to a very innovative employment of the technology and the turbulent political and economic environment resulting from plans of merging the municipalities and counties into fewer units Another important element in the context is the comprehensive effort to develop leadership capabilities in the library sectorFindings – The paper finds some very distinctive changes in managers’ outlook and attitudes The most important is probably the discovery of a more conscious and professional position in relation to the leadership role T
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explore the issues related to acquiring copyright permission with the goal of determining effectiveness and efficiency using the least complex process using a random sample of books, relevant information was recorded, request letters were sent and tracked, and results (permission received or denied) were analyzed with respect to publisher, publication data, time required, and issues related with the process.
Abstract: Purpose – The aim was to explore the issues related to acquiring copyright permission with the goal of determining effectiveness and efficiency using the least complex process.Design/methodology/approach – A random sample of books was chosen, relevant information was recorded, request letters were sent and tracked, and results (permission received or denied) were analyzed with respect to publisher, publication data, time required, and issues related to the process.Findings – About 52 percent responded with a yes or no with 24 percent yes responses. Nearly 25 percent never responded, addresses were not found for about 16 percent, approximately 7 percent were too complicated to pursue and response time averaged about three months.Research limitations/implications – Results were affected by the limited staff time available to work on the project, the many changes in staff, and the sometimes lengthy time between follow‐ups.Practical implications – The low rate of positive responses indicates the need to focus...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors describe the first steps in a process of service re-engineering in the information services division (ISD) of the University of Salford in the UK.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper describes the first steps in a process of service re‐engineering – business process re‐engineering (BPR) – in the information services division (ISD) of the University of Salford.Design/methodology/approach – This paper begins by describing the recent changes within HE and the impact of these changes to support services. The structure of ISD (and customer services within that) in the University of Salford is described, and the need for process change is analysed. The CRISP (Customer Resolution and Information Services Project) teams are then described, as are the principles behind the planned process mapping exercise. Finally, change management issues and customer relationships are discussed, as is our vision of a learning organisation.Findings – The ISD will re‐engineer its key processes providing a customer‐focused service with resources directed specifically to where they are required. The process has already met challenges, even though its scope is just being defined. Those challe...
TL;DR: In this paper, a comparative review of the teaching of readers' advisory services in schools of library and information science in selected schools in the USA, Canada and Europe is presented, based on their known activity in providing readers advisory service courses or on their national ranking.
Abstract: Purpose – To provide a comparative review of the teaching of Readers' Advisory Services in schools of library and information science in selected schools in the USA, Canada and Europe.Design/methodology/approach – After reviewing the literature, schools are selected based on their known activity in providing readers' advisory service courses or on their national ranking (in the case of US schools) to provide a snapshot of current level of readers' advisory instruction.Findings – Instruction in readers' advisory services is a very small part of the total curriculum in schools examined. Librarians who wish to gain more insight to readers' advisory services must depend on continuing education opportunities, such as workshops and conference programs, not on courses in the curriculum of schools of library and information science.Originality/value – This paper raises questions as to the relationship between library and information science curricula and the needs of practicing librarians to provide services to l...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explore the application of a particular theory to the diffusion of CINs in one particular library through internet connectivity and, through this theory (diffusion of innovation), to assess the conditions which make these networks feasible.
Abstract: Purpose – This research seeks to extend our understanding of how community information networks (CINs) are used by public libraries in New Zealand, and to assess key factors in adoption of the internet for CINs. It also aims to explore the application of a particular theory to the diffusion of CINs in one particular library through internet connectivity and, through this theory (diffusion of innovation), to assess the conditions which make these networks feasible.Design/methodology/approach – Face‐to‐face interviews were conducted with five key CIN staff of one NZ public library as a means of gathering data on the perceptions, motivation and attitudes of those directly involved in developing and managing the CIN. From the data gathered, the research has analysed the potential influences on the adoption of CINs, including the attributes of innovation in public libraries. This is based on the attributes of an innovation in Rogers’ theory of diffusion of innovation.Findings – The research findings are summar...