Showing papers in "New Library World in 2006"
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors provide an initial assessment of an Audience Response System (clicker) for library instruction as experienced at Texas A&M University Libraries and report on some of the benefits and challenges the authors encountered in the classroom.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this study is to provide an initial assessment of an Audience Response System (clicker technology) for library instruction as experienced at Texas A&M University Libraries.Design/methodology/approach – Clickers were tested in three different types of instructional sessions with unique class objectives and different student populations. The study provides an overview of the technology, followed by a report on some of the benefits and challenges the authors encountered in the classroom.Findings – Clickers are fairly easy to use, and provide a fun way to quickly turn traditional classroom lectures into interactive learning experiences.Practical implications – This paper provides concrete applications for how to access student knowledge and implement active learning techniques in the classroom.Originality/value – This paper demonstrates an innovative way librarians can improve library instruction in order to meet information literacy standards and other educational challenges.
108 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explore the implementations and implications of Grounded Theory as an exploratory and inductive research method in the LIS studies and illustrate the opportunities and challenges that this methodology has brought to the methodological paradigms of LIS research body.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the implementations and implications of Grounded Theory as an exploratory and inductive research method in the LIS studies. The paper seeks to illustrate the opportunities and challenges that this methodology has brought to the methodological paradigms of LIS research body. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on two blended constituents including a selective literature review and the author's personal experience in using Grounded Theory. Regarding the paper's scope it possesses a holistic approach to the issue and does not examine the results of individual reviewed studies in detail. Findings – The results suggest that up to now there have been a considerable number of studies in the LIS area that have successfully employed Grounded Theory. Nevertheless, it does not mean that this methodology is applicable in any research context. Accordingly, there is not a unanimous agreement on the usefulness of this methodology in the research community. Nevertheless, these arguments not only did not diminish the value of Grounded Theory but also helped grounded theorists to enhance this methodology's credibility and trustfulness. Research limitations/implications – Regarding the wide use of Grounded Theory it was not possible to carry out an exhaustive review of all studies that have employed Grounded Theory. However, the reviewed studies in this paper can be considered as a representative of the targeted research body. Providing the research community with an overall image of the applicability of Grounded Theory in LIS research is the main implication of the paper. Future researchers will benefit from the paper by finding out about the nature of this methodology and the aspects that they need to consider before using it. Originality/value – Although Grounded Theory is a widely used methodology, there are few publications about its applicability in LIS research. Therefore, this paper can contribute to the area through providing a holistic picture of the role of this methodology in LIS research.
97 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigated and analyzed internet usage among seniors on the basis of a case study showing the actual situation in Slovenia, and found that among the senior, participation in these programs means they are eager to learn new things and that they have access to computers.
Abstract: Purpose – In our modern society there is a prevailing belief that computers and the internet are mainly used by younger generations, who grew up with modern technology, and are generally all information literate. However, research shows that through the past ten years more and more older people have started to learn how to use computers and, of course, how to use the internet. The aim of this paper is to investigate and analyse internet usage among seniors on the basis of a case study showing the actual situation in Slovenia.Design/methodology/approach – A survey was carried out among seniors, the participants of different Third Age University programmes, by using a questionnaire, designed for this study. This particular group of seniors was chosen because they lead more active lifestyle than average seniors and the results should be more relevant. Participating in these programmes means they are eager to learn new things and that they have access to computers.Findings – It was found that among the senior...
47 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explore connections between the presence of a library at two schools in rural Uganda and certain student academic engagement indicators, such as scholastic performance, reading habits, study habits, and library use patterns.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this research is to explore connections between the presence of a library at two schools in rural Uganda and certain student academic engagement indicators, such as scholastic performance, reading habits, study habits, and library use patterns. The study is not intended to demonstrate strong correlations between these items, rather, it is a limited exploration of certain questions meant to inform further enquiry in the area. Five specific questions guided the research: Do students with a school library read more? Do students make good use of the library? Do students recognize the importance of having the library? Do students use the library materials for other than class‐related work? Are there any noticeable differences between the grades of students with the library at their school, and those without?Design/methodology/approach – Researchers gathered both quantitative and qualitative data from two different schools in the Masaka District, one school with a library, the Kitengesa...
45 citations
TL;DR: Action research is a suitable approach for teaching librarians, as it allows them to experience the role of teacher, researcher and reflective practitioner all together, thus favouring reflection on the complex, "multitask" role that they are playing today as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper presents an overview of the action research methodology and asserts its suitability as an approach to enquiry and practice in the field of information literacy (IL). An experience of action research is briefly presented and some strengths and weaknesses of this methodological approach are critically discussed.Design/methodology/approach – Action research was adopted for investigating the impact of an IL programme on a homogeneous group of students at the University of Parma (Italy). The project consisted of a cycle of four stages: observing, planning, acting, evaluating. Peer observation was adopted both as a validation method and as a support for the reflection on the research process.Findings – Action research is a suitable approach for teaching librarians, as it allows them to experience the role of teacher, researcher and reflective practitioner all together, thus favouring reflection on the complex, “multitask” role that they are playing today. Moreover, action research puts teac...
42 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors compare user perspectives on visits to in-person and virtual reference services conducted by participants in the Library Visit Study, an ongoing research project, and compare satisfaction rates, identify staff behaviours that influence user satisfaction, and suggest how both face-to-face and online reference can be improved.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to compare user perspectives on visits to in‐person and virtual reference services conducted by participants in the Library Visit Study, an ongoing research project.Design/methodology/approach – This paper compares satisfaction rates, identifies staff behaviours that influence user satisfaction, and suggests how both face‐to‐face and virtual reference can be improved. Since 1990, participants in the Library Visit Study have been MLIS students who ask questions at in‐person and virtual reference desks, and report on their experiences. In addition to these accounts, students complete questionnaires on their experiences. Level of satisfaction with the in‐person or virtual transactions, based on the “willingness to return” criterion, are computed. Satisfaction is compared with other factors such as correctness of answers and friendliness of library staff. Underlying problems that influence satisfaction are identified. Findings – Data from 261 in‐person and 85 virtual ref...
40 citations
TL;DR: A new collaborative electronic platform available to libraries of all types and viewed as a platform with many advantages for timely and efficient collaborative efforts, there is still a sense of lack of accountability and cumbersome technological hurdles.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this article is to examine a new collaborative electronic platform available to libraries of all types.Design/methodology/approach – Introduces potential application of wikis discussed by academics and librarians, along with personal viewpoint.Findings – A wiki is a very good example of the best of democracy in which self‐organizing behavior enforces community norms. Typically, wikis are open to everyone and erroneous information could easily be entered, but they are monitored by dedicated members and information is corrected quickly. While viewed as a platform with many advantages for timely and efficient collaborative efforts, there is still a sense of lack of accountability and cumbersome technological hurdles.Originality/value – Wikis offer the opportunity for wide project collaboration and the possibility of a better product in the end.
36 citations
TL;DR: How the Kitengesa Community Library in rural Uganda, which serves as both a community library and a school library, might be seen as a model for other similar libraries in developing countries is provided.
Abstract: Purpose – To provide background on how the Kitengesa Community Library in rural Uganda, which serves as both a community library and a school library, might be seen as a model for other similar libraries in developing countries. To use a case study of the library to highlight certain characteristics of rural libraries as developed by B.J. Mostert and presented in his 1998 article.Design/methodology/approach – The information in the article comes from a two‐year study of the Kitengesa Community Library. The methodology included focus groups, interviews, door‐to‐door visits, questionnaires, examination of library circulation information, and many hours of observation. Information from the study was then used to support the comparison to Mostert's characteristics of the rural community library. A review of the professional literature is also provided.Findings – Findings indicate that the Kitengesa Community Library is a successful working model that might be used in other similar rural villages to serve both...
31 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a new Research and Information Service and education (RISE) initiative and an emerging professional knowledge management model illustrate participants' "deep learning" as leaders realign the organization within the broader context of the academic enterprise.
Abstract: Purpose – At California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, USA, systems thinking practice guides strategic organizational change. A new Research and Information Service and education (RISE) initiative and an emerging professional knowledge management model illustrate participants' “deep learning” as leaders realign the organization within the broader context of the academic enterprise. This study aims to examine this initiative.Design/methodology/approach – This “thought leadership” approach uses soft systems methodology (SSM) to support collaborative learning focused on re‐examining organizational contexts and assumptions. Fortified by data‐driven dialogue, library faculty and staff learn how to think holistically about repurposing resources, redirecting programming, restructuring staff, and retooling expertise.Findings – Rethinking activities guided by SSM build library staff capacity to improve systems and services through active learning experiences focused on interpreting results and ap...
30 citations
TL;DR: A survey of four UK specialist employment agencies was undertaken in 2005 using semi-structured interview schedules as discussed by the authors, which identified the various specific employability areas that recruiters felt were needed for 11 library and information management (LIM) sectors.
Abstract: Purpose – This research paper describes the results of a survey of specialist UK library and information sector (LIS) employment agencies concerning employability of library and information management (LIM) graduates and introduces the follow‐up actions that are being undertaken to create new teaching materials that address their concerns.Design/methodology/approach – A survey of four UK specialist employment agencies was undertaken in 2005 using semi‐structured interview schedules. The aim was to identify the various specific employability areas that recruiters felt were needed for 11 LIM sectors. Quantitative research of individual employers has been undertaken previously, but it was felt that agencies had a unique perspective of sector requirements. This was followed by visits to LIM academic departments to discuss whether the results matched the perceptions of academic staff.Findings – It was clear that different LIM sectors had different emphasises in terms of the employability skills required. Secon...
29 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigate and critically assess the notions of "information poverty" in LIS by highlighting its connections with development discourse, and establish information poverty and the "information poor" are assigned specific positions in the discourse of LIS as the result of overlapping, sometimes conflicting discursive procedures.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this research is to investigate and critically assess the notions of “information poverty” in LIS by highlighting its connections with development discourse.Design/methodology/approach – The article takes a discourse analysis approach, which starts from Michel Foucault's understanding of discourse. “Information poverty” is posited as a statement and investigated in its relation to other statements. The focus is on discursive procedures that emerge from the repeated connections between statements. The article draws on the interpretative analysis of 35 English language articles published in scholarly and professional LIS journals between 1995 and 2005.Findings – “Information poverty” and the “information poor” are established as being assigned specific positions in the discourse of LIS as the result of overlapping, sometimes conflicting discursive procedures. The concept emerges as a possibility in LIS by anchoring it in the dominant discourse of development. Traces of development d...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors describe the challenges involved in developing and delivering a pilot library skills course to a group of international bridging studies students from China and Pakistan, which formed part of an accredited Critical Thinking & Research Skills module.
Abstract: Purpose – To describe the challenges involved in developing and delivering a pilot library skills course to a group of international bridging studies students from China and Pakistan. To provide guidelines for other libraries who may be faced with similar challenges.Design/methodology/approach – The paper documents the development and delivery of a pilot course for international students. The course described formed part of an accredited Critical Thinking & Research Skills module. The challenges of the project are described and a number of recommendations for its future development are outlined.Findings – The project underlined the challenges involved in teaching library skills to international students. The main barrier that emerged throughout the course related to communication difficulties. Language levels amongst the group were poorer than anticipated. The group did display excellent IT skills, however, and enjoyed class work that actively engaged them in the learning process.Research limitations/impl...
TL;DR: This project assigned comprehensive scores for each of the libraries and grouped them into groups of high, medium and low performing libraries, based on composite scores made up of eight weighted performance indicators.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this article is to report on the methodological approach taken in a project which was to create a Facilities Master Plan for the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County in the United States. Libraries are changing drastically: they function as community centers, where programs and classes are held; they provide access to the internet to socio‐economically weaker groups; and they accommodate the needs of different age groups, such as children, teens, adults and seniors.Design/methodology/approach – Innovative in the approach to the project is the combination of geographic information system (GIS) and building performance evaluation (BPE) methods. This project assigned comprehensive scores for each of the libraries and grouped them into groups of high, medium and low performing libraries. The rankings are based on composite scores made up of eight weighted performance indicators: staff survey, facility evaluation, service area, usage, building, site, staffing output, and ca...
TL;DR: In this article, a small scale research study conducted in a small town in Northern Italy between December 2003 and April 2004, that gathered quantitative and qualitative data about adolescents aged 11 to 19 who answered 20 questions on their experiences, expectations and perspectives on library use and services.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review some considerations about a small scale research study conducted in a small town in Northern Italy between December 2003 and April 2004, that gathered quantitative and qualitative data about adolescents aged 11 to 19 who answered 20 questions on their experiences, expectations and perspectives on library use and services.Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative‐qualitative research method based on triangulation of data acquired was devised to increase reliability and validity of the survey.Findings – Teenagers have proved to be a demanding and challenging public, with clear ideas regarding innovation of services and implementation of resources. They believe that libraries are important place to find up‐to‐date information, and to discuss with peers.Research limitations/implications – The group participating in the survey was about 50 per cent on the total targeted population. Results show that surveys about library services can be of value in order to t...
TL;DR: This paper explores the positive and negative experiences of Dutch children on the web, based on a survey of 391 children aged eight to 13 years who have home access to the internet.
Abstract: Purpose – More and more children have access to the internet. Surfing the web can be a wonderful experience but also one fraught with danger, and not all parents and educators are aware that children can be exposed to unsuitable content online. Another question rises, and that is what is disturbing for children online? Are there gender and age differences and very important what do children do when they encounter disturbing or harmful information? Aims to discuss this issue.Design/methodology/approach – This paper explores the positive and negative experiences of Dutch children on the web. It is based on a survey of 391 children aged eight to 13 years who have home access to the internet.Findings – Children's most common positive experiences are playing games, using ICQ or MSN and chatting. Almost 50 percent of the respondents have had a negative experience on the internet. Children most frequently reported encountering pornography, followed by violence, computer viruses and/or their computers crashing. A...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors show how librarians today need to be cultural entrepreneurs in order to create and maintain thriving libraries in the Internet age, which is in line with a new and dominant trend seen in many countries in which cities promote themselves as centres of creativity.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this research is to show how librarians today need to be cultural entrepreneurs in order to create and maintain thriving libraries in the Internet age.Design/methodology/approach – The “creative class” theory developed by Richard Florida (2002) has been widely and rapidly embraced by many policy makers around the world.Findings – Cultural entrepreneurship in libraries is in line with a new and dominant trend seen in many countries in which cities promote themselves as centres of creativity. It is creativity, not the traditional values of trading in goods and services, that is now seen to be the force behind economic growth, especially in metropolitan areas. Growth is mainly determined by the ability to attract creative people, develop a creative atmosphere and build creative clusters.Practical implications – This creativity development and the interest of local authorities in the creative industry are both opportunities for librarians to promote their libraries and demonstrate the...
TL;DR: It is evident from the research that students do not bypass the physical library and it is also evident that the use of physical libraries and digital resources complement each other.
Abstract: Purpose – The paper analyses students' use of public libraries for study purposes and discusses the public library as a substitute or a complement for educational or academic libraries. The paper also investigates which segments of students rely heavily on public libraries as services for study purposes.Design/methodology/approach – The research is based on a comprehensive survey of Danish students from both universities and other higher institutions of education. The data collection was carried out by an online survey and the sample consists of students from all over the country covering a multitude of different institutions and subject areas.Findings – It is evident from the research that students do not bypass the physical library and it is also evident that the use of physical libraries and digital resources complement each other. The place of Google in the students' information behaviour is prominent and positively correlated to use of traditional library resources. Nearly 60 per cent of all students...
TL;DR: In this article, a literature review, a review of existing models for evaluating research evidence, and a pilot project based on a qualitative, naturalistic research design that employed content analysis and statistical techniques are presented.
Abstract: Purpose – This article is based on a paper presented at the 2005 IFLA World Library and Information Congress. It brings together the findings to date of the author's research project on research quality, to address issues related to research quality as a basis for the use of research evidence in evidence‐based practice.Design/methodology/approach – The methods used include a literature review, a review of existing models for evaluating research evidence, and a pilot project based on a qualitative, naturalistic research design that employed content analysis and statistical techniques.Findings – While a number of strategies have been developed for the evaluation of published research, all have their limitations. The same is true for the models that have been proposed for assisting practitioners to evaluate research evidence as a basis for evidence‐based practice. The literature review identified four different approaches to the assessment of quality in research reporting. The pilot study identified three di...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors provide a description of renovation and promotional efforts applied by the Michigan State University Libraries during the 1990s in an attempt to bring users back into the physical library.
Abstract: Purpose – To provide a description of renovation and promotional efforts applied by the Michigan State University Libraries during the 1990s in an attempt to bring users back into the physical library.Design/methodology/approach – A number of specific steps taken by the Michigan State University Libraries to reorient and refurbish the first floor of its main library are described in detail and supported with evidence from other studies and library renovation projects. Each section focuses on a different aspect of the renovation: relocating reference, adding a cafe, adding new carpeting and furnishings, expanding library hours, providing alternatives for coming to the library, and greatly increasing computer technology.Findings – Provides information about each step taken in the renovation project, along with considerations for taking each action. Recognizes that these actions may not ultimately alone result in increased patron usage of the library's physical location, but have increased patron activity an...
TL;DR: The authors argue that the future of the US public library depends on a commitment to the library as a place within the public sphere for the intellectual development of a community primarily through books and reading, where service to the public is framed by professional librarians.
Abstract: Purpose – To argue that the future of the US public library depends on a commitment to the library as a place within the public sphere for the intellectual development of a community primarily through books and reading, where service to the public is framed by professional librarians.Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses supportive literature from within and outside librarianship to provide an alternative perspective to Michael Sullivan's Public Libraries' article of 2003, which argues that the future of the public library is fragile because of its inflexibility before the pressures of the internet, failing public commitment, and a potential shortage of librarians.Findings – Public libraries continue to be identified as places for reading and books. Despite the public's embrace of the internet for ready reference, there are still questions best answered through print reference materials and professional assistance. Through active collection development, libraries remain places of heterogeneity and ...
TL;DR: The paper presents and discusses the main benefits, the concerns and the difficulties of the use of ISO 9000 mentioned by the analyzed literature, as well as ordering according to the eight principles of quality management.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper focuses on the use of ISO 9000 standards for the introduction of quality management in information services, with a special emphasis on the Brazilian experience, aiming to provide support to information services managers in the use of quality management.Design/methodology/approach – The research is based on a comprehensive review of the literature, from the earliest citations to those published more recently, principally articles relating to the application of quality programs in Brazilian information services.Findings – The paper presents and discusses the main benefits (ordered according to the eight principles of quality management), the concerns and the difficulties of the use of ISO 9000 mentioned by the analyzed literature.Research limitations/implications – Although the literature describes several practical experiences and theoretical studies that analyze the application of ISO 9000 in information services, each organization has its own typical characteristics and their intern...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigate senior university managers' views of the development of information-related competencies (IRC) within European open and distance learning (ODL) universities and find that the importance of IRC and the lack of these competencies among students and staff were acknowledged by the university senior managers.
Abstract: Purpose – To investigate senior university managers' views of the development of information‐related competencies (IRC) within European open and distance learning (ODL) universities.Design/methodology/approach – A multiple case study in six ODL universities, identified as examples of “good practice” of IRC, in five European countries.Findings – The findings of the research indicated that the importance of IRC and the lack of these competencies among students and staff were acknowledged by the university senior managers. National policy supported IRC development via different initiatives, but the integration of IRC into learning was in the beginning stage in all institutions studied. The role of the university library and collaboration with librarians were regarded as important. However, a general attitude towards librarians was not so positive.Research limitations/implications – This study was limited to six ODL universities in Europe; the university managers' views and attitudes elsewhere will need furth...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors outline the structure and development of a library-based Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) training programme at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) and describe its origins, implementations and long-term goals.
Abstract: Purpose – To outline the structure and development of a library‐based Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) training programme at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) and to describe its origins, implementations and long‐term goals. To explain why WIT Libraries was prepared to diversify from its traditional role and to take on the challenges involved in this project.Design/methodology/approach – Case study report on the VLE training initiative as it has progressed at WIT. Describes WIT Libraries' experience as the main instigator of the WebCT training programme at WIT and questions whether or not this has been an effective medium for the introduction of WebCT to WIT.Findings – Concludes by stating that the Library Unit is capable of implementing a varied, diverse and successful VLE programme. Stresses the importance of the personnel involved to the success of the project to date.Research limitations/implications – The project is still at an early stage of development. The study provides a short‐term view ...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors conducted a field study in information infrastructure of rural areas of Romania and found that the literature on information infrastructures has focused primarily on macro issues (those national and international in scale), this project centered on micro (local) issues.
Abstract: Purpose – To report on the findings obtained through a field study in information infrastructure of rural areas of Romania.Design/methodology/approach – Researchers interviewed Romanian villagers using the same interpreter regarding a village's information needs and requirements. The village's information infrastructure was also surveyed. Because the literature on information infrastructures has focused primarily on macro issues (those national and international in scale), this project centered on micro (local) issues. A history of Romania's information infrastructure is presented and relevant literature reviewed. This is followed by a discussion of research methods used, and then the findings are presented and analyzed.Findings – The research determined that global information infrastructure (GII) and national information infrastructure (NII) literature is incomplete and needs to give more attention to local and rural (micro level) issues. The findings also raise the question of whether the term equity i...
TL;DR: It is argued that an inquiry into proprieties of librarians' actual and potential tools allows for establishing firmer grounds for present and future librarianhip.
Abstract: Purpose – To contribute to and evoke ongoing reflections on librarians' professional identity, i.e. librarianship. Inherent hereto is a questioning of the feasibility of collections and collections control as basic constituents hereof. Instead, it is argued that an inquiry into proprieties of librarians' actual and potential tools allows for establishing firmer grounds for present and future librarianship.Design/methodology/approach – In a number of analytical steps, the concept of librarianship is deconstructed.Findings – Collections and collections control are shown to equal conceptual quicksand for librarianship at a time where access to information is largely outside librarians' control. Alternatively, an understanding of actual and potential librarians' tools may potentially provide firmer conceptual basis.Practical implications – It is suggested that librarians are to reflect critically on the appropriateness of actual and potential tools applied.Originality/value – Questions whether collections and...
TL;DR: In this article, the influence of modern social behaviour on library provision, with specific reference to how interior display and complementary furniture play their part in fulfilling customer needs, is examined through case studies taken from across UK and from Point Eight's own experience as a manufacturer of products for this sector.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper seeks to look at the influence of modern social behaviour on library provision, with specific reference to how interior display and complementary furniture play their part in fulfilling customer needs.Design/methodology/approach – Evidence of library evolution and its impact on customer popularity is found through case studies taken from across the UK and from Point Eight's own experience as a manufacturer of products for this sector. Specific reference is made to Coventry's Arena Park Library. Location, architecture, infrastructure and services are highlighted and discussed as factors contributing to increased footfall and a general resurgence of library popularity. References are identified through domain links.Findings – Findings are based on information and figures published by library services and local authorities. Evidence suggests that many libraries are winning their fight against new and evolving competition through reinvention. Examples of embracing change positively, rathe...
TL;DR: The research deals with issues surrounding organisation structures and examines levels of information fulfilment in micro substantive settings and uses ethnography as the research tool.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to introduce the idea of information fulfilment. The networked society provides many opportunities for information flow. However, information professionals readily accept that, although one is surrounded by information of many sorts, in many formats, what is important is whether users consider that they ever achieve what is known as “Information Fulfilment”. i.e. occurrences when there has been information which is accurate, timely, current and presented in an appropriate and useful format to allow (work) tasks to be completed.Design/methodology/approach – This first paper contains a literature review which informed the study. The study (which will be reported in detail in a later paper) was interpretive and used ethnography (through participant observation) as the research tool. The research deals with issues surrounding organisation structures and examines levels of information fulfilment in micro substantive settings.Findings – The paper serves to introduce backgr...
TL;DR: The Oviatt Library at California State University Northridge as mentioned in this paper used federal grant money to contribute to Latino student success by strengthening library collections, archives, and information competence, which is a project funded by a Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) Program grant from the US Department of Education.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to describe how an academic library is using federal grant money to contribute to Latino student success by strengthening library collections, archives, and information competence.Design/methodology/approach – This paper examines the inequalities faced by US Latinos in higher education and how the Oviatt Library at California State University Northridge is addressing this through a project funded by a Hispanic‐Serving Institutions (HSI) Program grant from the US Department of Education. The grant project has three objectives: 1) Increase students' library use by expanding the library's collection of Latino‐related materials, library instruction program, and outreach; 2) Acquire and provide access to primary archival materials related to Latino individuals and organizations in the local community; and 3) Create and administer valid and reliable information competence assessment tools.Findings – Grant money can be an important tool for contributing to a library's ability to respond...