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Shows how new terminology related to technological advances has affected communication among library professionals through a literature review and a selective survey of administrators of information technology, public services, and technical services in academic libraries belonging to the Association of Research Libraries. (Author/LRW)

Reviews the structure and historical development of ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center) and describes resources now available through the Internet. Concludes that ERIC's commitment to the adoption of information technologies has allowed the system to redefine the nature of its information services and suggests these resources should be incorporated into libraries' public services. (Contains 85 references.) (Author/LRW)

Discusses the need for a conceptual framework for librarianship and information seeking and suggests that the writings of M.M. Bakhtin can provide an important aid to theoretical groundings and for the rethinking of public services in libraries. Highlights include Bakhtin's views on phenomenology, dialogic communication, and information seeking. (Author/LRW)

Describes OCLC's CORC (Cooperative Online Resource Catalog) service. As a state-of-the-art Web-based metadata creation system, CORC is optimized for creating bibliographic records and pathfinders for electronic resources. Discusses how libraries are using CORC in technical services, public services, and collection development and explains the interoperability of MARC and the Dublin Core. (Author/LRW)

Discusses technical services as a reader service in academic libraries and suggests that the successful implementation of digital libraries needs a systems approach that crosses functional and administrative boundaries. Describes the need for the integration of technical services with other reader services and explains forces pushing for and against it. (Author/LRW)

Describes an ethnographic study that was designed to understand the nature and the role of public library service based on experiences at the Quebec public library. Using theoretical frameworks, the study provides an analysis of the two basic systems of meaning that service providers bring to their interaction with users. (Contains 65 references.) (Author/LRW)

Identifies major problems that affect reader's services departments in Nigerian university libraries. Highlights include the functions of the reader's services department, including circulation, collection management, user education, and interlibrary loan; student population explosion; funding shortages; staffing shortages; and suggested solutions, including automation. (LRW)

Discusses the Wright State University (Ohio) Library policy directive on customer service, and suggests this document as a model to follow in setting up service standards or guidelines for depository-library services. Draft-depository library public-service guidelines for government information in electronic format are appended. (JAK)

In today's electronic environment, government information librarians face new challenges, especially in the arena of quality public-service provision. Given the lack of clear guidelines that Federal Depository Library Program participants follow, and based upon suggested guidelines of reference-oriented literature, a new set of public services guidelines are suggested. (Author/JAK)

Describes a study that analyzed the differences between 1,133 public and technical services positions described in job advertisements in 1988. Content analysis was used to determine differences in the levels of computer skills, foreign-language requirements, previous work experience, education requirements, and minimum salary offered. (20 references) (LRW)

Discussion of the organizational structure of academic libraries focuses on a study that examined how the work of academic librarians is structured and whether the traditional functions of public services and technical services are still separated. Topics addressed include the role of subject specialists, attitudes toward reorganization, and library school curricula. (20 references) (LRW)

Discusses AACR2 rule changes that have the greatest impact on public service librarians. Topics discussed include sound recordings; computer files; materials for the visually handicapped; and access issues relating to pseudonyms, geographic names in the British Isles, and serial title changes. (three references) (LRW)

This theme issue presents eight articles that discuss managing changes in technical services in academic, research, and public libraries. Topics discussed include new technological products and services; personnel; budgeting; planning; online library systems; the relationship with public services; organizational structures; bibliographic access services; and future possibilities. (LRW)

Describes a study of a large urban public library system that compared levels and sources of stress and job satisfaction between public service and technical service employees. Relationships among work load, job content, and job satisfaction are examined, working relationships among employees are discussed, and the organizational climate is considered. (37 references) (LRW)

Examines the extent to which professional catalog librarians in academic libraries are involved in public services activities. Current literature is reviewed, results of a survey begun in 1983 and updated in 1986 and 1988 are analyzed and compared, and new areas in which an expanded role for catalog librarians would be beneficial are suggested. (14 references) (LRW)

Discussion of resistance to technological changes in libraries focuses on a study conducted at Algoma University College (Canada) to determine library users' reactions to the online catalog. The coexistence of traditional card catalogs and online catalogs is discussed, and the importance of the role public service staff play is emphasized. (nine references) (LRW)

This case study describes the management system of Dickinson College Library. Highlights include a rotating chair instead of a director; collegiality in decision making; rotating departmental responsibilities; developing an acceptable level of expertise in both technical and public services; and an emphasis on professionalism. (Author/LRW)

Discussion of CD-ROM networking using local area networks (LANs) in libraries focuses on the design and implementation of a public use CD-ROM network at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. The use of LANtastic is described, enlarging the network allowing access from remote locations is explained, and personnel requirements are discussed. (22 references) (LRW)

In the field of higher education, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has become a revolutionary influence, shaping how students access and use library resources. This study explores the intricate balance of both positive and negative effects that GenAI might have on the academic library experience for higher education (HE) students. The key aspects of enhanced discovery and retrieval, personalization and engagement, streamlined research processes, and digital literacy and information evaluation potentially offered through using generative AI will be considered. These prospective advantages to HE students offered by using GenAI will be examined through will be examined through the theoretical framework of the Technological Acceptance Model (TAM) introduced by Davis et al. in 1986, which suggests that perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use are key factors in determining user acceptance and utilization of technology. The adoption of GenAI by higher education students will be analyzed from this viewpoint before assessing its impact on their use of library resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of Large Language Models (LLM) to the chatbot landscape has opened intriguing possibilities for academic libraries to offer more responsive and institutionally contextualized support to users, especially outside of regular service hours. While a few academic libraries currently employ AI-based chatbots on their websites, this service has not yet become the norm and there are no best practices in place for how academic libraries should launch, train, and assess the usefulness of a chatbot. In summer 2023, staff from the University of Delaware's Morris Library information technology (IT) and reference departments came together in a unique partnership to pilot a low-cost AI-powered chatbot called UDStax. The goals of the pilot were to learn more about the campus community's interest in engaging with this tool and to better understand the labor required on the staff side to maintain the bot. After researching six different options, the team selected Chatbase, a subscription-model product based on ChatGPT 3.5 that provides user-friendly training methods for an AI model using website URLs and uploaded source material. Chatbase removed the need to utilize the OpenAI API directly to code processes for submitting information to the AI engine to train the model, cutting down the amount of work for library information technology and making it possible to leverage the expertise of reference librarians and other public-facing staff, including student workers, to distribute the work of developing, refining, and reviewing training materials. This article will discuss the development of prompts, leveraging of existing data sources for training materials, and workflows involved in the pilot. It will argue that, when implementing AI-based tools in the academic library, involving staff from across the organization is essential to ensure buy-in and success. Although chatbots are designed to hide the effort of the people behind them, that labor is substantial and needs to be recognized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The popularity and relevance of the library makerspace has been well-established and documented in the previous decade of researcher and practitioner work, including numerous hands-on guides from a variety of dimensions relevant to starting and operating a makerspace. Less studied, however, and the focus of this work are the applications of maker technologies within wider library work. Prior qualitative research conducted by the author included interviews with librarians to understand and document their use of maker technologies, such as the Raspberry Pi single-board computer, to support broader library work outside of the makerspace. The findings indicated that common use cases included running library display screens and collecting patron traffic numbers and environmental data. The objective of this subsequent case study is to examine the potential for wider use of such projects by librarians in an academic library setting, by introducing these projects into a new library setting and assessing the related code and educational materials developed by the researcher. This work reports on the findings of the case study, in which the projects were successfully operated in several usage contexts, as well as the challenges and broader implications for adoption within libraries of all types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For many patrons, libraries are synonymous with books and reading. However, people don't always take advantage of reader's advisory services offered by libraries. Rather than approaching librarians for suggestions of what to read, most people instead turn to their personal networks or express a preference for more passive approaches to recommendations. As a halfway point between in-person reader's advisory interactions and algorithmic recommendations, Worthington Libraries staff leveraged the NoveList and Polaris APIs to create custom book recommendation kiosks. Recommendation Stations, as we call them, allow people to scan a book barcode, browse read-alikes, check local availability and print shelf locations, all in the guise of an interactive fortune teller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction to articles published within the issue is presented, including one which identified and summarized trends in how libraries have or have not considered the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI), another on the steps taken by an institution to develop and implement a library chatbot, and one on the developments in AI-assisted music creation as well as the resultant challenges regarding copyright and cataloging work.

This study investigates the value of the public library service, and library buildings in particular, in qualitative terms, with a focus on how the public library can address issues of loneliness and belonging. A qualitative narrative approach is taken to develop "library stories" and provide a deeper understanding that complements quantitative studies and library statistics. A three-stage research approach is taken: an initial literature analysis to identify issues and themes leads to a directed content analysis of some of this material to generate micro-narratives, which are complemented by an evocative autoethnography. Interrelated connections emerge concerning where our bodies belong and regarding vulnerable and marginalized users. New types of knowledges are identified. This is a novel combination of methods for library/information research, with the potential to highlight in new ways the value of library services and buildings. The study deals with UK public libraries between 2000 and 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the potential of the Gamified Metaverse as a platform for promoting library services. The study compares the effectiveness of a traditional library program with a Metaverse- based library program in terms of knowledge acquisition and library anxiety. The research also examines students' perceptions of implementing gamification within the context of the Gamified Metaverse platform. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, including pre- and post-test analysis, statistical analysis, and qualitative data collection. The results indicate that both the traditional and Metaverse-based library programs effectively increased the participants' knowledge, with no significant difference between the two approaches. However, the Metaverse-based program was found to be less effective in facilitating interaction with librarians and reducing library anxiety. Additionally, students expressed positive perceptions of implementing gamification in the Gamified Metaverse platform, finding it engaging and motivating. These findings contribute to the understanding of the effect of the Metaverse as a tool for promoting library services and enhancing knowledge acquisition. However, it is not as effective in reducing library anxiety, particularly in terms of interaction with librarians and staff. It should be noted that the platform may have limitations such as high costs and potential side effects of virtual reality, making it more suitable as an additional tool for promoting library services, taking into account its feasibility and potential benefits for specific student populations and larger libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2020, Libraries and Cultural Resources (LCR) at the University of Calgary used Qualtrics XM to design and pilot a point-of-use survey to collect user feedback on the usability of our implementation of Primo, Ex Libris's web-scale discovery service. Over a two-week period, users were presented with the pop-up survey while searching and asked to provide feedback. This article summarizes how we designed and implemented this point-of-use survey and the lessons learned from this project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To promote an academic library makerspace, the University of Mississippi Libraries hosted a "3D selfie" booth which used body scanning technology. This booth, advertised on campus and set up outside the library during the first weeks of class, was designed to attract attention and perform outreach through the use of body scans to be printed in the makerspace at a later date. Although the hoped-for printing of "selfies" did not materialize, the project resulted in data about interested patrons and ideas for similar projects going forward. This paper serves as a case study for other academic library makerspaces interested in similar outreach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In China, developing the digital literacy of rural farmers is important to rural revitalisation, which requires developing and implementing a digital literacy framework for rural farmers. This study first designed a digital literacy framework built on the Digital Literacy Global Framework (DLGF), customised to Chinese rural farmers based on the research literature. Referring to the primary indicators of DLGF and its 26 secondary indicators, as well as to DigComp 2.2 framework from the European Commission, we designed more granular third-level indicators for the digital literacy of rural farmers in China, which was also informed by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Next, the framework was tested with 13 experts in the area using the Delphi method, followed by interviews with 11 rural farmers in Guangdong Province. Together they helped refine the proposed framework and adjust its constituent indicators. Finally, the paper discusses the limitations and implications of the framework, and its applicability for relevant entities in China and developing countries elsewhere for improving the digital literacy of rural farmers, including governments, enterprises, university outreach and for public services such as public libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers conducted an interview study in small and rural public libraries in four states to learn what health and wellness programs and services were offered, how they were implemented, what worked and did not work, and what challenges libraries faced in providing programs. The study additionally examined how libraries worked with community partners to develop programs and how successes were measured. Outcomes of the study include a model of community health ecosystems and the role of the public library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study created a visualized folksonomy classification that integrates topic icons and emojis to help children to find books that they like in library settings. The National Library of Public Information in Taiwan commissioned a book-navigation app using the proposed classification. We recruited 35 children to use this app to search for books to read, and they recorded their feelings about these books over a twelve-week period. A statistical analysis of 1,938 system logs was performed under three themes: thematic preferences, epistemic cognition, and social communication. The implementation of thematic and emotion icons in a folksonomy topic structure appeared to successfully aid young Taiwanese readers in finding books that they wanted. Evidence of complex relationships among cultural, psychological, cognitive, and social aspects of book-finding was found, suggesting the benefits of supervised learning in the extraction of gross-fine emotions in the sentiment analysis of multiple topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Academic libraries offer a range of activities and initiatives for their students and community users. However, wellbeing, as a concept in academic libraries, is not very well defined and is poorly understood. The objective of this scoping review was to examine the role of academic libraries in student and community wellbeing, identify the various kinds of activities and initiatives that they carry out to address their wellbeing, and uncover gaps that might require further research. Methods: An extensive search was conducted in the Library Information Sciences Association (LISA), Education Resources Information Centre (ERIC), Medline (OVID), Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS) databases. Grey literature was searched on a selection of library websites and digital repositories. Data were extracted from studies that met the inclusion criteria for the scoping review. Themes were identified by the authors and reported as a narrative summary. Results: Of the 5437 records identified, a total of 40 documents were included in this scoping review. The authors identified 11 different kinds of activities and initiatives carried out in academic libraries that promote student and community wellbeing, i.e., (1) animal-assisted activities; (2) facilitating dialogues about belonging and identity; (3) fun recreational activities; (4) study support; (5) physical activity promotion; (6) meditation, yoga, and mindfulness; (7) book clubs; (8) art exhibitions; (9) technology and digital support; (10) free food and tea; and (11) health awareness. These activities were found to promote the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of student and community users. Conclusions: This review highlights the need for further systematic research on the long-term effects of wellbeing initiatives and activities on both student and community users, and how they might impact aspects of wellbeing for specific population groups such as senior citizens and LGBTQIA members. This scoping review demonstrates the potential of academic libraries in promoting health and wellbeing for their users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the OER movement expands in higher education, libraries are increasingly seeking to add OER librarians to their organizational charts. As an emerging subfield, OER librarianship takes many forms, and there are many paths to OER work. This study examines OER librarians' paths to the field, including their motivations for entering and remaining in the field, their day-to-day work, and the barriers that they experience. The results of this study have implications for administrators seeking to develop or sustain OER programs in their libraries and on their campuses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to design the digital transformation model for university libraries based on the Delphi method using the Iranian public university libraries as the study case. Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative approach and the Delphi method were used to conduct the current research. In total, 15 experts in the field of digital transformation of libraries were selected through targeted and snowball sampling. They were asked to complete and finalize items identified from previous research to design a digital transformation model for public university libraries in Iran during successive Delphi rounds. The Delphi method was completed after the third round, upon reaching a favorable consensus. Findings: The findings obtained from the research led to the presentation of the model in 7 main dimensions, 25 concepts and 139 components. Meanwhile, the concept of "data-centered" and changing the concept of "optimal reorganization of library resources" to the concept of "acquisitions and optimal reorganization of library resources" are among the new achievements of this research. In addition, the components of "promoting data-oriented thinking in the decision-making of library managers," "encouraging employees to use and analyze data" and "planning to increase the digital literacy of librarians" were added to the concept of "data-oriented"; the components of "having knowledge of digital collection and its rules for the correct identification and evaluation of resources," "familiarity with digital metadata standards and data transfer standards" and "familiarity with open access platforms" were added to the concept of "librarian knowledge competencies"; and the components of "planning, coordination," "monitoring and evaluating the progress of library digital transformation projects" and "collaboration and networking with other academic library managers" in the concept of "library manager's management skills"; the components of "identification of new digital formats and resources," "creation, preparation and accessibility of game scientific content and free in the library," "updating the resource organization policy with new organization concepts and rules" and "updating the library collection development policy based on the information needs of users" were added to the concept of "acquisitions and optimal reorganization of library resources" and "Web 2.0 technologies" component were added to the concept of "use of digital technologies in the library." Research limitations/implications: This study is limited to Iranian public university libraries, and the findings may not be directly transferable to other contexts. In addition, the Delphi method, while effective for expert consensus, relies on subjective opinions and may not fully capture the complexities of digital transformation. Future research could explore the implementation challenges of the proposed model and its long-term impact on library services and user satisfaction. Despite these limitations, the study offers a valuable foundation for digital transformation initiatives in Iranian university libraries and can inform policy decisions and resource allocation. Practical implications: The proposed digital transformation model offers practical guidance for Iranian university libraries. By implementing the model, libraries can enhance their services through data-driven decision-making, improved resource management and the adoption of new technologies. Librarians can develop the necessary digital competencies to effectively manage digital collections and engage with users. In addition, the model emphasizes the importance of collaboration among library managers, fostering knowledge sharing and best practices. Ultimately, the practical application of this model can lead to more efficient, user-centered and innovative library services. Social implications: The proposed digital transformation model for Iranian university libraries holds significant social implications. By enhancing access to information and resources, it can democratize knowledge and foster innovation. Increased digital literacy among librarians will equip them to better serve diverse user communities. However, equitable access to digital services must be ensured to prevent the widening of the digital divide. The model's focus on data-driven decision-making can improve resource allocation and user satisfaction. By promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing, libraries can become more central to their communities and contribute to regional development. Ultimately, the success of this model depends on addressing potential challenges such as privacy concerns, digital security and the need for ongoing training and support. Originality/value: The proposed model, with its 7 main dimensions, 25 concepts and 139 components, provides a roadmap for enhancing library services, resource management and decision-making. By emphasizing data-centered approaches, promoting digital literacy among librarians and integrating Web 2.0 technologies, libraries can adapt to the evolving needs of users. Collaboration and networking with other academic library managers can foster knowledge exchange and collective problem-solving. By implementing the proposed model, libraries can adapt to changing user needs, enhance services and contribute to the academic community's success. However, implementing this model requires addressing challenges related to equity, privacy and accessibility, ensuring that all users benefit from the digital transformation. Overall, this research serves as a valuable resource for university library managers, guiding them toward effective digital adaptation and improved user experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem, research strategy, and findings: We explored the contributions of local public libraries to community resilience in the face of economic hardships, extreme weather events, and the COVID-19 pandemic using a survey of 415 library directors distributed through state library listservs in 13 Midwestern states, community-level census and presidential elections data, and library-specific data from the Institute of Museum and Library Services annual Public Libraries Survey. We found that public libraries provide invaluable resilience-boosting community services. They help patrons find jobs and access social services, often with one-on-one support. They act as daytime shelters during extreme heat and cold events, which is particularly important for unhoused and underhoused individuals. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they innovated to provide delocalized services and information access, such as installing WiFi hotspots. The provision of these essential resilience-boosting services is largely independent from library resources and community contexts and appear grounded in librarians' ethos. Our research was limited to Midwestern public libraries and thus results are not generalizable to other regions, private, academic, and specialized libraries. We did not explore the possible relationships between local political majorities that could affect local government funding and priorities and local libraries' funding sources, levels, and services. Takeaways for practice: Beyond collections and information access, public libraries provide many services relevant to community and economic development and to disaster response. In addition, local public libraries act as resilience hubs in the face of economic stressors and extreme weather events, as well as during the COVID-19 pandemic, and are ready, flexible, adaptable, and willing to support patrons in times of need. Planners seeking to enhance community resilience can work with their local public libraries to build disaster preparedness and response capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Research on Information Science & Public Libraries is the property of Iran Public Libraries Foundation and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article considers the borrowing patterns found within the Hunterian Museum Library after its donation to the University of Glasgow by its creator, Dr William Hunter, in 1807. It considers its move from a private collection to an institutional one and starts to unpack the role it was playing within the university and wider community at Glasgow. It considers who was able to borrow from the Hunterian Library at Glasgow and suggests that 'borrowing' was perhaps only part of a larger picture of 'use' of the library. It also examines trends in what was borrowed from the library to gain a picture of how it was being used, showing that it was largely for borrowing of books not found in the main university library (particularly rare imprints, manuscripts, and illustrated books). It concludes that the borrowers' register, and the contextual evidence around it, suggests that the library struggled to find a solid footing in the university in its first decades and as it transitioned from a private to an institutional collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital fluency is part of the early childhood curriculum in Aotearoa New Zealand but there is evidence that early childhood kaiako (teachers) lack confidence in this area of their work. Although many public library services maintain ongoing partnerships with early childhood education (ECE) providers, the extent to which these collaborations support digital fluency remains unclear. This research investigates the extent and nature of public library partnerships with ECE providers with a specific focus on collaboration on digital fluency. It explores the benefits and challenges associated with these partnerships in supporting the digital fluency curriculum in Aotearoa. A questionnaire consisting of multiple choice and open-form questions was sent to all public library services in Aotearoa gathering data on the types of programmes public libraries currently offer to ECE services, any focus on digital fluency, the benefits and challenges of the current partnerships, and plans and strategies for future collaboration. The findings reveal that most participating libraries have established partnerships, offering learning opportunities through storytimes, makerspaces, and various other activities. The use of digital devices, apps, and websites to support learning is evident, suggesting significant potential for public libraries to collaborate more extensively with ECE providers in fostering young children's digital fluency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the development of health information services for people with disabilities in public libraries in Taiwan, this study utilized a questionnaire survey to gather information on the current status of health information services provided by public libraries at the county and city levels and above. Subsequently, in-depth interviews were conducted to explore the professional knowledge and continuing education needs of public librarians in providing health information services. The study’s results indicate that public libraries in Taiwan primarily promote health information through activities such as film screenings and workshops. The content of these activities typically focuses on topics like daily health care, disease prevention and management, medication information, and health care resources. Librarians face challenges in delivering health information services due to a lack of relevant knowledge, insufficient library resources, concerns over legal and privacy issues, and uncertainty about reference resources. Nonetheless, librarians express a strong willingness to pursue continuing education in health information services, to enhance their professional knowledge and skills in this area. In conclusion, based on the comprehensive survey results, the study proposes recommendations for public libraries in Taiwan to promote health information services for people with disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article outlines the development of 'Prepare to Progress', a preapplication programme for potential Student Nursing Associate (SNA) applicants at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Created collaboratively by the Trust's Library and Knowledge Services and Professional Education teams, the programme aims to provide realistic course expectations, teach study skills and boost confidence in using library services. Evaluation results indicate increased understanding of the SNA course, improved application decision‐making, and enhanced academic confidence among participants. The programme demonstrates the valuable role of library services in preparing healthcare support workers for further education and addressing library anxiety. The study suggests benefits for both participants and library services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine the book titled "Defining Service Success in Research Libraries: The Example of ISAM Library", which was derived from Nuri Taşkın's doctoral thesis with the same name. The book consists of four chapters that include the evaluation of the factors affecting the service success of research libraries with the example of the Center for Islamic Research (ISAM) Library in line with user opinions. With this book, researchers will be able to obtain comprehensive information about research libraries and ISAM Library, as well as reach the results of a qualitative assessment on service success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, in order to remain viable and meet the needs and expectations of a global, entrepreneurial and learning society, public libraries must change and reinvent their roles in society, find new solutions for business, and actively engage in partnerships between education, business and local government. This paper presents the findings of qualitative research using an interview method and uncovers the possibilities of innovative services offered by public libraries to the business community. The qualitative analysis of the experiences of business representatives revealed that in order to become competitive organizations, public libraries need to focus not only on satisfying the needs of different communities, but also on providing innovative services to the business community by playing the roles of an information facilitator, an organizer of cultural and lifelong learning activities, a project partner and a developer of virtual social network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to identify the marketing field on public libraries services in the State of Kuwait. This study relied on the descriptive approach; a questionnaire was used to collect data to achieve theaims of the study: 1) Identifying the extent of librarians’ knowledge about marketing techniques in attracting their libraries users. 2) Techniques used by librarians when marketing their services.3) Exploring the obstacles facing public libraries when librarians market theirservices. The study sample consisted of (147) librarians. The results showed that despite the existence of plans for marketing information services in the libraries investigated,these plans are still modest and unclear to most librarians.The study also explored thatlibrarians have appliedseveral marketing activities for various information services to achieve user satisfaction, but they still need courses and workshops to increase librarians’ awareness of using current techniques to market information services.This studyfound several obstacles that prevent the marketing of information services in public libraries, including: the lack of a budget allocated to marketing information services, and there are no recent studies specialized in marketing information services, specifically for public libraries. The researchers reached several recommendations, the most important of which are: there is a need to develop a culture of information marketing among the librarians; employing marketing specialists in libraries; and finally, the necessity of establishing a department specialized in marketing information services that manages the marketing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study assesses the artificial intelligence (AI) literacy and perceptions among Master of Library Science (MLS) students in India. It aims to identify the most relevant AI knowledge areas for library science, examine students’ attitudes toward AI’s potential impact on library services, and explores the importance of AI literacy for professional practice. A quantitative survey administered to 118 final-year MLS students via WhatsApp groups and personal networks collected data on AI literacy levels, perceptions, and attitudes. The findings reveal that natural language processing (NLP) is considered the most transformative AI technology, with significant interest in other areas like recommender systems and data mining. Students express optimism about AI’s potential to enhance library services but raise concerns about ethical implications and job displacement. The study highlights the need for increased AI literacy training and integration into LIS programs, emphasizing its importance for future career competitiveness. The results provide valuable insights into how AI literacy can be fostered among MLS students to align with evolving library services and user needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although a significant share of undergraduates, first-generation college students (FGCS) remain difficult to characterize. Consequently, academic libraries are challenged to identify the services most important to FGCS. This study measured the perceived importance of and satisfaction with library services among undergraduate students at an R1 land-grant university. The study further compared FGCS's perceptions of library services with those of their non-first generation peers. Design/methodology/approach: The authors measured importance and satisfaction using the Measuring Information Services Outcomes ("MISO") Survey. They further analyzed responses according to first-generation status. The authors then compared mean scores and used the Wilcoxon rank-sum test to find statistical differences in perceived importance and satisfaction between first-generation and non-first-generation respondents. Findings: The difference between first-generation and non-first-generation student responses was statistically significant for 35% of library services. FGCS rated library services higher than their non-first-generation peers for both importance and satisfaction. FGCS perceived library services related to physical spaces and access/discovery as most important. Library services that provide student support or access to technology showed strong evidence of difference between first-generation and non-first-generation student responses. The authors also determined the MISO Survey is a measure for assessing FGCS perceptions of library services. Originality/value: This study adds quantitative evidence to research on FGCS and academic libraries, further demonstrating the importance of library services to FGCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate students' satisfaction with university library services in southern Punjab, Pakistan, emphasizing their perspective on service quality (SQ). Design/methodology/approach: A LibQUAL+® survey with 22 core items was conducted within university settings using convenience sampling. In total, 345 usable responses were returned through Google Forms. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, ordinal logistic regression test, Pearson and Deviance statistics and chi-square test to assess the satisfaction status of library users. Findings: The study found that libraries generally meet SQ standards. However, there were minor gaps in information control (IC) and library as place (LP). Practical implications: The study provides library administrators with actionable insights to enhance services, encouraging stakeholders to adopt optimal library practices for heightened efficiency and user satisfaction. Social implications: It highlights the crucial role of libraries in shaping future societal progress by emphasizing the need for elevated user services. Librarians can use this knowledge to modify their planning and take impactful initiatives that align with the evolving needs of their users. Originality/value: While many studies have utilized LibQUAL, this research is unique for its focus on addressing university library services in underdeveloped regions facing economic challenges. It attempts to fill the information gap by offering a transferable approach for strategic priorities in similar settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article comprehensively examines investments in India's smart cities1 with a specific focus on public libraries. A survey of 100 Smart Cities Mission projects was conducted to gather data on budget allocation and expenditure for public libraries, construction and renovation projects, and IT infrastructure and outreach programs. Results reveal investments in 27 library projects across 12 states geographically distributed throughout India, spanning new library establishments, renovations, digitization efforts, and IT integration with library services. The majority of funds (60%) support new libraries including business and innovation components, while renovation projects claim 30%. The article contributes valuable insights for public library development, targeting library authorities, municipal administrators, and local planners as statutory services at the heart of community development and engagement of public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In libraries, perceptions of high services quality to their target clients are typically able to draw out high level of satisfaction and engagement. Using the descriptive-regression research design, the study was conducted to determine the influence of service quality of public libraries on library user's engagement. It was performed using a survey questionnaire that was tested using Cronbach Alpha and Content Validity. Data were collected from 175 randomly selected respondents who are frequent professional library users in public libraries in Region XII, consisting of graduate students, businessmen and women, retired personnel, and those users who have pursued their law, master's, or doctor's degrees. The data were analyzed using simple linear regression analysis. Results from the quantitative analysis revealed that service quality of public libraries can significantly influence library user's engagement. Thus, it can be claimed that one effective way of enticing more individuals to use public libraries is to improve the level of service quality of public libraries. Based on the findings, it is strongly recommended that public library administrators provide public librarians with comprehensive and continuous professional development opportunities, including seminars, trainings, enrolling in library professional courses, and benchmarking effective strategies that build the confidence and competence of public librarians to improve the quality of services offered to library patrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined the reading habits of adult readers and use of library resources and services of Kotahena Public Library, Colombo: Sri Lanka. Readers who come to the library have different reading habits. Libraries are assisting in providing the right information to the right users, right format at the right time. This study was conducted using a survey method and adopted a deductive approach. Structured questionnaires through Google Forms were used to collect data. Questionnaires were distributed through WhatsApp to 80 respondents which covers the total population. The study found that reading has improved the lives of readers. Primary data was used for the conducted research. Data was collected through the questionnaire from two main questions and collected data was analyzed using quantitative techniques. The study found that adults' purposes, types of reading materials and time, allocation, place, language for reading by adult users that visiting the Kotahena Public Library. Findings of the study can be used to reinforce the services with which the users were satisfied, focus on services that need more improvement according to user concerns, and to take steps for resolution of identified problems to gain users' satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a research project focused on implementing knowledge mobilization (KM) tools within the United Kingdom National Health Service (NHS) Knowledge and Library Services to improve team performance and confidence in using KM methods. Topics include the integration of KM tools into team practices, the role of quality improvement (QI) methodology in the project, and the development of a merged KLS team following the merger of two hospitals.

The article focuses on the evolution and adjustments made to the Here For You Librarian mobile library service after facing the U.S. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) concerns. Topics include the shift from physical library spaces to a mobile service model, changes in hospital locations and schedules, and the challenges of balancing HIPAA compliance with the visibility and accessibility of library services.