International Journal of Librarianship
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254 research outputs found
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Seeing Humanity in Technology: Library Innovations in the Context of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)
Full text linkEvolving with FOLIO: Enhancing Durban University of Technology Library’s services through continuous upgrades
Full text linkPurpose
This paper explores the impact of continuous upgrades to the library services platform. Specifically, it focuses on the EBSCO FOLIO library services platform at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Library.
Design/methodology/approach
The research utilises a case study approach, examining DUT Library’s newly acquired library services platform, EBSCO FOLIO, its advantages and limitations, as well as the functionality that is delivered as part of the continuous upgrade process.
Findings
The findings highlight the improvements in library efficiency, user satisfaction, and the system flexibility that have resulted from adopting EBSCO FOLIO. It also outlines the challenges that have arisen, particularly as a result of the upgrades.
Originality
This paper offers a unique perspective by documenting the specific experiences of DUT Library with EBSCO FOLIO, contributing to the broader discourse on library systems migration and the evolution of library services through continuous technological upgrades
Strategies for Assessing and Enhancing Electronic Journal Collections: A Data-Driven Approach for Supporting New Academic Programs and the College of Medicine
Full text linkThe introduction of 22 new degree programs and the establishment of the College of Medicine at the University of Houston (UH) prompted a comprehensive assessment of the Libraries' electronic journal collections to align with evolving academic needs. This study adopts a data-driven, evidence-based approach to analyze collection strengths and coverage gaps, utilizing tools such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Alma. Findings reveal significant journal coverage for most programs, while also identifying specific areas requiring enhancement. Methodological challenges, including data accuracy and benchmarking limitations, are discussed alongside strategic recommendations to strengthen collection development and support academic excellence. The study contributes to growing discussions around patron-driven acquisition and equitable resource allocation. This assessment identifies strategic growth areas and highlights the Libraries’ evolving role as a responsive academic partner in enhancing resource alignment, improving user satisfaction, and supporting institutional research and learning outcomes
Designing and Prioritizing Key Performance Indicators in Evaluating and Improving the Productivity of Special Libraries (the organization under study: Water and electricity industry of Iran)
Full text linkThis research study aims to determine and prioritize essential performance criteria and indicators for evaluating and enhancing the productivity of special library services within the public sector’s water and electricity industry of Iran. Focusing on the perspective of the Objectives and Key Results (OKR) system, we first addressed the pathology of library service quality. This was done by measuring the integrated LibQUAL service quality model and the Three-pronged model. BSC and PPM were applied to analyze management structures and library performance, forming the basis for identifying critical success factors and designing key performance indicators (KPIs). The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method played a key role in our evaluation, as it helped us to weight and rank a list of critical success factors (CSFs) according to success criteria (SC). In the following step, KPIs were designed and selected using the Six-step method proposed by Zis et al. (2023), based on these factors. The research findings revealed eleven critical success factors that influence the productivity management of libraries. The most significant criterion identified was the learning culture (95.0%), followed by customer satisfaction (72.0%), a positive experience (64.0%), and access to information resources (61.0%). Finally, seven key performance indicators for libraries were introduced as follows: satisfaction, net promoters, acquisition cost, repeat purchase/loan rate, customer experience, experience management, and customer churn rate
Perception and Use of Large Language Models by Library and Information Science Students
Full text linkLarge language models (LLMs) have ushered in transformative information retrieval, organisation, and dissemination possibilities. The study investigates the utilisation of LLMs by library and information science (LIS) students. A survey through a case study was done to unveil the evolving role of LLMs in LIS education and practice. Stratified and purposive sampling was used to select 59 students doing a degree in LIS at a public university in Zimbabwe. An online questionnaire was used to collect data which was analysed using content analysis. The findings showed that the students were aware of ChatGPT which they used for content generation. The major challenge was misinformation, bias, and the ethical considerations in using ChatGPT. The authors recommend the importance of training both students and educators on the ethical use of LLMs and the introduction of artificial intelligence literacy programmes. No study was done on the perception and use of LLMs by LIS students in Zimbabwe. The study contributes to a better understanding of how emerging technologies are reshaping the field and how students are at the forefront of navigating their opportunities and challenges. The results can inform curriculum development, training programs, and policy formulation for incorporating LLMs into library and information services
An Activity Theory Study of China’s Rural Book House Project: Two Dialectical Dynamic Mechanisms
Full text linkThis study explores why China’s rural information projects tend to be inefficient by identifying the dynamic mechanisms driving the construction and development of China’s Rural Book House Project (RBHP). A qualitative survey was used to collect data from 35 participants in the RBHP and to analyze the data through the lens of activity theory. Two dynamic mechanisms were found, namely power coordination and benefit protection, with the former characterized by compulsion, self-interest, and inefficient punitive measures and the latter by the participants’ differing objectives when pursuing benefits. The interaction of these mechanisms drove the RBHP forward. The findings of the study suggest the development process of the RBHP and other similar projects need to be reanalyzed from an integrative, dynamic and connected perspective. By way of concluding, insights concerning the measures the Chinese government could take to resolve the issues confronted in rural information service development as well as the need for information professionals to take a critical stance toward their community practice are offered
Teamwork in Libraries: 1R and 3Cs
Full text linkThis research paper examines the dynamics of teamwork in library settings, with a particular focus on addressing challenges related to cultural diversity through effective communication and collaboration. The study explores cross-cultural communication within library teams and proposes strategic solutions. Introducing the 1R (Respect) and 3Cs (Communication, Cooperation, Collaboration) framework, the author provides a guide for fostering successful teamwork. The paper offers practical insights and emphasizes the continual significance of these aspects to shape positive and collaborative work environments in libraries, ensuring the delivery of optimal services
Develop an Interactive Python Dashboard for Analyzing EZproxy Logs
Full text linkThis paper describes the development of an interactive dashboard in Python with EZproxy log data. Hopefully, this dashboard will help improve the evidence-based decision-making process in electronic resources management and explore the impact of library use
