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Since 2016, UOW Library staff have been engaged in developing a culture of agility, strong digital literacy, and experimental exploration as part of the Future-Ready Library and the Thriving Digital Library strategies. This culture enabled the trial and implementation of a proactive chat widget at University of Wollongong Library prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualitative and quantitative data show how valuable proactive chat was to the students and staff at UOW during a period of high uncertainty. Pro-active chat achieved the goal of equitable provision of resources to library users at a time when visitor and travel rules restricted physical access to UOW Library buildings and on-site staff. The pandemic has been declared over, however, UOW Library continues to utilise proactive chat and to build upon and expand its functionality. The lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic have shown that to withstand and succeed in the face of continued change to the provision of services in the GLAM sector, the attributes of agility and flexibility as well as strong and ongoing growth in digital literacy skills are vital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital libraries are considered a type of library that operates within the digital realm and uses digital technologies to serve users in the digital age. They serve diverse user communities and offer access to a wide range of scholarly and educational resources. Digital libraries can be viewed as extensions of traditional libraries, prioritize user-centered and personalized services, aim to provide equitable access to information, and function as a global knowledge network. They also embrace open access and open knowledge principles. This article explores various definitions and visions of digital libraries and highlights their role in facilitating access to information, promoting knowledge creation, and advancing research, education, and cultural enrichment in the digital age. The article also includes examples of the digital transformation taking place in digital libraries, such as improving accessibility for users with disabilities, integrating multimedia books into airline services, and adopting immersive technologies. It also discusses the adoption of big data analytics, the management of libraries in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and the use of social media platforms like Twitter by libraries. The article concludes with an interview on cyber security for digital libraries. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: This study aims to determine the requirements and find out the challenges for the use of digital library services for rural areas of Capricorn District Municipality, Limpopo province. The research questions of the study are: What are the requirements for the use of digital library services in rural areas of Capricorn District Municipality? What are the challenges of accessing digital library services in rural areas? Design/methodology/approach: Data was analysed thematically and deductively in this study, as researcher required to accomplish the purpose of the study through consistent structure (Zalaghi and Khazaei, 2016). In deductive analysis, the researcher starts with a set of categories, which are then used to categorize and organize data (Bertram and Christiansen, 2020). The researcher got familiar with data from the interviewing process and when transcribing data from audio tape. The transcription process was done for the coding purposes. Coding allows the researcher to simplify and focus on specific characteristics of data. Findings: The study findings advocate for the establishment of digital libraries in rural areas. The library authorities are challenged to adapt digital ways of information provision. Since librarians have been providing digital content in libraries for use on users' laptops and other gadgets, this implies that the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has been lagging behind in finding innovative ways to provide information, especially in rural areas. To successfully keep libraries as sources of information, transformative measures have to be taken, and where possible, revisit the policies and keep drifting with the societal changes. The library authorities have to delve into new ways of providing LIS to the communities. Unquestionably, information and communication technologies have penetrated our societies and became a way of life. In addition, there are unlimited benefits which can be derived from digital technologies, especially given the lack of physical libraries in rural areas. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, the academic research is original and has not been published anywhere before. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Book banning predates the United States and has survived and thrived in a splintered twenty-first century political climate. As the fight for the minds of the public continues, state and local governments have ramped up their efforts to ban books in public and school libraries. Public libraries, as limited public forums, must ensure their restrictions on access to information are reasonable and viewpoint neutral. School libraries receive some reprieve under a slightly more deferential Pico test. However, e-book services present a unique set of challenges. Also known as digital libraries, e-book services provide digital access to thousands of books, magazines, and other titles. Frequently, libraries will contract with e-book services, allowing library patrons access to titles beyond what libraries have in physical copy. However, a number of conservative states are attempting to restrict e-book services via legislation or blanket suspensions. This Note aims to make sense of e-book services and book banning against the backdrop of the First Amendment. Part I argues e-book services should be considered extensions of public libraries and public school libraries. It draws analogies from other, more established areas of law to propose e-book services are a part of the library under a nexus theory or another theory of government reliance. Part II argues banning or suspending a full e-book service is comparable to banning or suspending access to a whole section of the library to target one book--a violation of the First Amendment because it is politically motivated viewpoint discrimination. E-book services severely complicate First Amendment doctrine regarding book banning. This Note attempts to clarify the intersection between this new technology and longstanding Supreme Court precedent dictating state officials' right to ban books and patrons' right to read them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ICT has revolutionized the way we create, share, and promote content. From crowd-sourcing to crowd-funding, ICT has made it easier than ever, including libraries and their users, to share, share, and promote library resources, services, and products. As a result, libraries are in a better position to leverage the power of ICT for the benefit of their resources and services. For centuries, information has played an important role in our lives. Librarians and information centers have always been seen as the custodians of information. However, with the ever-increasing amount of information available in the digital age, it's become increasingly challenging for libraries to provide the right information at the right time. Despite countless attempts to deliver the right information in the right place at the right time, there are moments when the necessity of libraries is questioned. This is where Crowdsourcing comes into play. Nowadays, with more and more catalogs and information being available online, users can perform various activities. For example, they can fine-tune the metadata of records. They can add new subject headers to records that library staff has missed. All of these activities revitalize the existing library services. As libraries continue to grow and add more services, they need an audience that can support them as they do so. With the development of technology and Web 2.0 ideas, Web users are increasingly supporting the concept of openness and knowledge sharing, as well as global collaboration. The concept of crowdsourcing was first introduced by Jeff Howe (2006), as 'the process of taking tasks traditionally performed by an agent and outsourcing them to an indeterminate, mostly large, group of people in the community through an open call.' Crowdsourcing itself is a combination of two words: crowd, which refers to a large group or community, and outsourcing, which refers to obtaining goods or services through a contract from an outsider. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the role of public libraries in bridging the digital divide in the Kerala State Central library (KSCL), Thiruvananthapuram. The study employed a descriptive survey method using a structured questionnaire distributed among library users. It discussed the use of ICT and internet services in the library, the purpose of using the internet, digital services, e-governance services, e-resources provided by the library and factors that cause the digital divide. The findings revealed that the majority of the users are not aware of ICT (47.0 %) and internet services (39.4%) provided by the library. The users preferred photocopy (43.2 %) and OPAC (31.8 %) services. The library users access the internet for education, reading news, and employment purposes, and mostly use computers to access e-journals and e-books provided by the library (52.2 %). M-governance (12.8 %) and E-district (12.0 %), were the most frequently used e-governance information services provided by the library. The users opined the primary factors that causes digital divide are lack of ICT skills and illiteracy. Non-parametric test showed the significant differences between the purpose of internet usage and the place of living, as well as the factors driving the digital divide. Public library services are essential for common people to overcome the digital gap and the library can bring new technologies to reduce the digital gap of public users and can assist them in getting education, employment, and government services. The respondents suggested that the library should conduct user awareness program about emerging technologies and orientation for users to familiarise the services provided by the library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Art is all around in library collections. Nevertheless, art is not seen to be a common subject for libraries despite for art libraries. Works of art exhibited in or created out of library collections offer new perspectives including the library system itself. Our article gives an overview of where and how art can find its place in libraries. We share insights gained from three art programs based on digital library collections organized in the context of the project "Open Digital Libraries for Creative Users" at the Austrian National Library. Open content and an organisational culture of openness are pivotal for successful art programs. This article also intends to spark a community of practice (CoP) for cooperation between libraries and artists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Libraries have started incorporating game-like elements into their services, while the latter have added gamebased facilities to their collections. Now a days, Gamification is a well-known concept in education and marketing. It entails incorporating game-like features into a certain process. It can serve to attract people's attention, interest them in a specific activity, and affect their behaviour. Gamification can be used to grab library users' attention, engage them in game-like library activities, and impact their overall library user behaviour. Ten years of data from 2013 to 2023 was extracted from Web of Science, and R Software (Biblioshiny) has been used for visualising the extracted data. Findings are mainly based on indicators like-most relevant sources, authors, globally cited documents, affiliations, country scientific production, three field plot, word growth, keyword plus and co-occurrence network. This study emphasises the importance of Gamification in library culture as it motivates users and makes learning more engaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study provides a web-based view of the University library website in India. The study intended to gain some insight into the user access and usability of the University Library website. The University library website is an access point for libraries in this digital era. This Covid-19 pandemic affected the Library usage pattern drastically. The library website gives the user access to library resources and services. Information Architecture examines the flow of Information on a website. A good website has a user-friendly information design and does not just focus on website appearance- 'looks'. The research design involved 40 participants at a given time and space. Testing was conducted on the Bangalore University library website using the post-graduate students studying at the University. The Usability testing was conducted to test the navigation through the Library website. A demographic study of the test subjects was also used to understand the needs and evaluate the homepage of the Bangalore University Library, Bangalore (BUBL) website. User experience and usability of the BUBL website were tested using a set of tasks performed by the library users. The study found the trust level of the BUBL website to be high in users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the researcher investigated the roles of digital library services amidst COVID-19 pandemic in tertiary institutions in Imo State, Nigeria. Two research questions were asked and two corresponding hypotheses formulated to guide the study. The study employed a descriptive survey design. The population is 123 library staff which comprised 89 Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) library staff and 34 Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education (ALVAN) library staff. 123 respondents made up the sample for the study using census sampling technique. A 15-item researchers-constructed rating scale titled “Role of Digital Library Service amidst COVID-19 Pandemic Scale” (RDLSCPS) was used to collect data for answering the research questions and testing the null hypotheses. The instrument was validated by two specialists in Department of Library and Information Science and one specialist in Educational Measurement and Evaluation, all in Faculty of Education, Imo State University, Owerri. A test re-test method was used to ascertain reliability co-efficient of 0.79 using Pearson “r” statistics which indicated that the instrument was reliable. Research questions were answered using mean scores and standard deviation, while t-test statistics was used to test the hypotheses. The result of the study found that the roles played by digital library during the COVID-19 pandemic include provision of access to current electronic book, online resources, scholarly material produced by members of the institution and meeting the core academic needs of the library users in tertiary institutions in Imo State. Based on the findings of the study, government should ensure that the digital library projects are well funded and managed to support the digital libraries services in various tertiary institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to describe, analyze and understand international users' library experience in the Digital Age in order to inform library service design and ensure it provides an inclusive environment. In this study, the behavioral and experiential aspects of user library experience are merged to develop essential interconnections between information behavior (IB) and user experience (UX) in the context of the academic library with the goal of constructing a more holistic understanding of 'library experience. Design/methodology/approach: The study was built on the concept "library experience" through analyzing its essential components of IB and UX. It was developed through findings from mixed methods research, consisting of the quantitative investigation from a library log analysis, and qualitative investigations via cognitive mapping exercises and semi-structured interviews, both targeted on the largest single group of international students in United Kingdom – international Chinese students. Findings: The findings demonstrated the complexity and multilayered characteristics of international Chinese students' library context, and three unique contexts emerged from the data shaping their library experience. Building on the previous findings on the connections between IB and UX, the work attempted to redefine "library experience" by joining both behavioral and experiential aspects. It is found that the key components of cultural library experience are the multilayered context, cultural group's perception needs, sense-making process and subjective evaluations. Originality/value: This study joins the behavioral and experiential perspectives together to explore library experience in a more holistic way and proposes a systematic structure to understand and analyze library experience, especially that of international users in a cross-cultural context, which, in turn, will better serve their information needs and inform the design of a more equal and inclusive library system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose-The purpose of the study was to assess the usefulness of digital library resources & services, and the value of multidisciplinary databases among postgraduate researchers/students. This research study is an investigation of technology acceptance behaviours of university library users in Lahore, Pakistan. It also works on user's perception and usage of digital databases, user's level of satisfaction, user's ease of use and usefulness to use digital library databases and identifications of factors affecting accessing digital databases. This research study is based on the TAM model in the context of technology acceptance by postgraduate researchers. Design/methodology/approach-This is a quantitative research study based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and two basic variables i.e. perceived ease of use (PEOU) and perceived usefulness (PU) adopted to check the acceptance level of library users through an adapted questionnaire-survey of 243 post-graduate students of higher degree-awarding universities/institutes of Pakistan, accredited from Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. Findings-The findings of this study discovered that the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the system are significant predictors that play the primary role in accepting the particular system. The effect of moderating variables with respect to gender and age impacts the acceptance level. The findings of this research study also show that female researchers use online library databases conveniently and preferably, as compared to male researchers. Implications-The results of this research study will help out teachers, students, and institutional administration in their academic pursuits. The faculty can get a better idea of how to teach and lead researchers from the available digital information resources and services provided by the university libraries. It will also help in decision making about the selection or rejection of resources for the library's users/students. Originality/value-This research study provides valuable/important insights into key factors that impact and affect user's perception & intention to use and accept library technological services and digital resources from the Pakistani perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital Resource awareness was studied among Medical Deemed University Libraries students in Maharashtra. The study used a questionnaire to investigate four Medical Deemed University Libraries of Maharashtra. This study examines digital resource utilization, purpose, frequency, locality, and preference. The study indicated that Maharashtra Medical Deemed University Libraries users were moderately aware of digital medical resources and used them mainly for the education, Learning, and knowledge updating. Students use e-journals, standards, reports, patents, and trade reports. This survey explores how Maharashtra Medical Deemed University Libraries students use electronic resources. Customers of Medical Deemed University Libraries have difficulties using digital resources because of a lack of training or orientation, slow internet, an energy crisis or load shedding, a lack of printing facilities, the lack of full-text access to the majority of journals, a lack of awareness, information overload, and insufficient digital resource consumption. However, these factors are not statistically different from low levels of satisfaction and low internet speeds. The findings improve digital library services and resources. This research advanced medical e-resources and services. The results may enhance digital library services and virtual culture in designated medical Deemed University libraries, notably in Maharashtra. The author has considered medical students for this research survey. The structured questionnaire was randomly distributed among the four Medical Deemed Universities, which covered 200 UG and PG paradigms, with the scrutiny of the distributed questionnaire with speculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) associated with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in libraries. AI has the potential to transform library and information science, revolutionizing processes, and services. The strengths of AI in libraries include efficient information retrieval and management, enhanced user experiences through personalization, automation of routine tasks, and improved decision-making through data analysis. However, the weaknesses of AI in libraries encompass ethical considerations and biases, the potential lack of human touch and personalized assistance, technical challenges, and concerns about job displacement. The article also explores the opportunities presented by AI, such as advanced search capabilities, expanded accessibility of digital collections, support for diverse user needs, and collaboration among libraries. On the other hand, the threats and challenges of AI in libraries involve privacy and security risks, dependence on technology and potential system failures, user acceptance and trust issues, and the impact on traditional library services and roles. By considering these factors, libraries can make informed decisions and strategically implement AI to maximize its benefits while addressing the associated challenges. The findings of this analysis emphasize the importance of thoughtful implementation and human-AI collaboration to ensure the best outcomes for library users and stakeholders in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated user perceptions and challenges associated with accessing and utilizing electronic resources at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), including their implications for remote users. Using a quantitative research approach and survey methodology, the study involved 1,680 participants: 1,513 students, 140 academic staff, and 27 academic librarians. Employing a combination of probability (stratified random and systematic) and nonprobability (purposive) sampling ensured comprehensive representation. Participants completed self-administered closed-ended questionnaires distributed through online platforms, primarily Google Forms. Data collected underwent thorough analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings indicated that the NOUN library offers access to electronic resources such as journals and books. However, the overall perception of these resources by NOUN library users was below average. Both the library and users faced challenges like electricity outages and sluggish internet connectivity speed while accessing or utilizing electronic resources. Recommendations highlight the importance of library management creating awareness programs using modern communication tools. Furthermore, integrating electronic resource usage into the university's curriculum is suggested. This research explored user perceptions and challenges related to electronic resource access and usage at the National Open University of Nigeria. Through a quantitative approach, the study provided insights into current electronic resource utilization, pinpointing areas for improvement, particularly in terms of awareness and curriculum integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Japanese describe themselves as a “nation of readers”. This is not incorrect if you look at the history of reading in Japan, which dates back to the 5th century, when the Chinese writing system arrived in this country. The Japanese gradually adapted it to their own language. The creation of the kana syllabic alphabet enabled the flourishing of literature, and thus the copying activities, especially at the Japanese imperial court. The monks in the temples were also engaged in copying Buddhist texts, but they were the first to accept printing with wooden blocks, which arrived from China. Over time, the printing of books of various genres began. Itinerant merchants and numerous bookstores where books were also rented, tried to satisfy the hunger for reading of all social classes. The book market grew more and more, and the real reading revolution came with the period of intensive modernization of the country in the second half of the 19th century, when Japan made all its efforts to reach and overtake Western models. Publishing, as well as the developed library activity of modern society, rest on such foundations. The reading culture of today’s Japan is reflected in the number of published books, but also in the steady growth of the number of libraries, both public and special, as well as libraries within the educational system in Japan. Today, all segments that form that culture, such as education, printing, publishing and library activities, etc., adapt to the new era defined by globalization and digitalization progress. Although the impressive growth of the figures, which illustrate the size of the book and magazine market, has stopped in recent years, they still prove the fact that the Japanese are truly the “nation of readers”. Libraries also manage to keep up with new trends, so digital libraries appear on the Internet, while all others have available digital catalogs and reading materials. If we look back at the centuries-old attachment of the Japanese to books and reading, and if we look at the technologies we are surrounded by, it is clear to us that librarians are constantly faced with new challenges. Just as the copyist at the Japanese court supplied court ladies with the latest readings, the traveling merchant did his best to make the book reach the most remote mountain villages, the modern librarian also does his best to overcome all obstacles and meet the expectations of increasingly demanding library users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bibliotheken wollen und sollen inklusive Orte für alle Menschen sein und eine positive und wertschätzende Atmosphäre schaffen. Teil davon ist der respektvolle Umgang mit Nutzenden, sowohl im direkten Kontakt vor Ort als auch beim Kontakt über Anmeldeformulare und Webseiten. Im Rahmen des digitalen Denklabors „Critical Library Perspectives“, das im Mai und Juni 2022 von der Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin und der Universitätsbibliothek der Freien Universität Berlin veranstaltet wurde, haben wir uns mit gendersensibler Sprache im Kontakt mit Bibliotheksnutzenden auseinandergesetzt. Im ersten Teil werten wir stichprobenartig Anmeldeformulare und Webseiten aus, um ein aktuelles Bild vom Stand der Umsetzung und Anwendung gendersensibler Sprache in diesen Bereichen zu erhalten. Im zweiten Teil verknüpfen wir Anmelde- sowie Auskunftsgespräche vor Ort und deren Ziele mit der Anwendung gendersensibler Sprache. Aus dieser Verknüpfung entsteht eine konkrete Handlungsempfehlung für Mitarbeitende in Auskunftssituationen, wenn diese eine Person misgendert haben. Libraries want to and should be inclusive places for all people and create a positive and appreciative atmosphere. Part of this is respectful interaction with users, both in direct contact on site and in contact via registration forms and websites. As part of the digital Scholar’s Lab "Critical Library Perspectives", organized by the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin and the University Library of Freie Universität Berlin in May and June 2022, we explored gender-sensitive language in contact with library users. In the first part, we evaluate registration forms and websites to get an up-to-date picture of the state of implementation and use of gender-sensitive language in these settings. In the second part, we link on-site registration as well as reference interviews and their goals with the use of gender-sensitive language. This link results in a practical recommendation for librarians on how to act in case they misgendered a person face-to-face. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New technologies and digital services influence the current forms of reading, and public libraries respond to these possibilities by offering new services based mainly on ebooks. The constraints resulting from the recent waves of the COVID-19 pandemic have reinforced this trend. This work introduces the development process of new library services based on open web books experimentally developed at Masaryk University and the Municipal Library of Prague. Our initial research focused on people's behavior when reading a book in a browser, on elements of user interface interactions, and the overall context of reading on different types of devices, especially mobile. Through a Research through Design approach, qualitative inquiry, and prototyping, we have identified patterns in reading behavior and library users' needs, to which we have responded by designing a new service. We converted the new service concept into interactive prototypes in the Figma tool, which we further tested and iterated. The research supports reading in the digital world and brings new information about reading behavior in the age of instant digital services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The final paper is Research-in-Practice paper and explores the B I Use of social media by academic libraries in Australia i b . Finally, there is also a Research-in-Practice paper describing the use of social media by academic libraries in Australia. We kick off 2023 with a rich issue consisting of diverse research papers that cover many aspects of Library and Information Science, including library history, library accessibility, library research and LIS education, and also a paper by a researcher and user of academic libraries detailing a complicated project about compiling sociology PhDs in Australia, which involved expert help from some amazing academic libraries and librarians. [Extracted from the article]

Based on the survey results of the leading scientific libraries of Ukraine, the article reveals the current trends in the digitization of library collections. The authors explore the current state of search services for digitized documents by libraries; user access modes to digital copies of documents (public, restricted, local); the ways to register the users for access to fulltext digital repositories. The necessity of adopting the National Program for Digitization of Documentation Heritage and its implementation at the corporate level is substantiated. Recommendations for improving the efficiency of digitization of documents by libraries of Ukraine, improving search tools and user-friendly access to digital repositories are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why not digitize library membership as well? The digital library card of the Goethe-Institut's makes plastic cards superfluous and at the same time bundles the libraries' digital offerings and services in a single application. Designed as a mobile application for Android and iOS, the digital library card is already in use at more than 50 libraries in the Goethe-Institut's worldwide network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article will discuss the library digital lending of e-books according to three points of view: as a part of the library seen as platform of knowledge, as a way of reading, as a way to circulate books and promote reading. It will examine the technological and distributive aspects of digital lending and those connected to it, together with the relational aspects related to digital reading and digital lending. We are going to focus on the concepts of disintermediation (and new mediation) and digital platform; then on the concept of library as a platform and on the paradigm of social librarianship, that is essential for interpreting the phenomena in depth. After that, the focus will be on some aspects concerning the new book system, increasingly marked by the integration between the physical and digital dimensions. The core part of the article is entirely dedicated to digital lending. In particular, it highlights the connection between the features of the service and the various aspects concerning the digital lending platform, the digital publishing and the libraries. Thanks to the social librarianship approach, it is also possible to enhance the digital lending relational aspects linked to the perceptions of librarians and the needs of library patrons. Therefore, we must analyze the digital lending service from different points of view, paying particular attention to the way the library patrons use the service and the vision of librarians. All these aspects are fundamental for the development of a new library service in constant evolution such as the digital lending service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the usage of university library-based electronic resources by undergraduates at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, and Ondo State. Nigeria. The study design was a descriptive survey. Data was collected through questionnaires. The study population comprises undergraduates who visited the university electronic library during the 2020/2021 academic session. One hundred and fifty (150) copies of the questionnaire were administered, and 130 were retrieved giving a response rate of 86.7%. The data were analyzed using frequency count and percentages. The findings of the study revealed that the majority of the respondents were female. The majority of the respondents use university library electronic resources twice a week, class assignments and preparation of class seminars were the primary purposes of university-based electronic resources usage, and access to comprehensive information and access to current data/information were the main reasons for a university library based electronic resources usage. Interrupted power supply and slow access speed were the significant challenges militating against university library-based electronic resource usage. It is recommended that the University library should acquire electronic resources that are relevant to the student's needs in order to attract library users and provide effective information delivery, provision of solar power system that will supply electricity round the clock to the university library, and increase in internet bandwidth to provide fast internet services among other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This study aimed to look into the interest in and use of WhatsApp technology among National College of Business Administration & Economics (NCBAE) University Pakistan library users. Design/methodology/approach A Google Forms questionnaire was designed and emailed to students from various departments at the National College of Business Administration and Economics University of Pakistan. SPSS 22 was used to tabulate and analyze the data for this paper. Findings According to one study, WhatsApp is a robust and cutting-edge technology that might be integrated with digital library services to reach out to library consumers. This technology will assist library patrons in receiving high-quality services. Some technological and human resource variables may impact service delivery and hence must be addressed. As a result, library management is advised to take the required steps to integrate WhatsApp with digital library services to ensure efficient and effective service delivery. Practical implications WhatsApp is one of the most widely used social networking applications, with many organizations, including libraries, using it. This technology is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to patrons on campus and in remote locations. As a result, the quality of library services will improve, and users will be more satisfied. Originality/value This research examines WhatsApp technology in the context of Pakistan's National College of Business Administration and Economics University. This is the researcher's first attempt to address a vital topic. This research will benefit the National College of Business Administration and Economics University's library patrons and the whole academic community in Lahore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aims into library science students at Patna University in Bihar's understanding and use of electronic resources and many other relevant topics. In this investigation, the researcher adopted a descriptive strategy. The main objective of the paper is to get an understanding of the use of electronic resources by the library user. Overall, 90 questionnaires were distributed, whereas only 72 were filled and returned as a sample. To collect data from the users, a systematic questionnaire was constructed. The study aimed to determine the users' requirements and level of consciousness and use of electronic resources. According to data, many users were satisfied with infrastructure facilities, required information, or other reasons for using e-resources and services. However, some users could not use the e-resources due to the lack of user education and awareness campaigns, language difficulties, and IT skills and understanding. As a result, libraries should actively launch well-planned user awareness and education initiatives, expand infrastructure, and subscribe to more eresources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This study aimed to investigate the interest and use of WhatsApp technology among the library users of National Defence University Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire in google forms was created shared with the students of five departments of National Defence University Pakistan via email. The data were tabulated and analyzed using SPSS 22 for this paper. Findings This study revealed that WhatsApp is a robust and state of the art technology that could be embedded with digital library services to approach the library's patrons. This technology will help the library users getting quality services. Some technical and human resource factors could affect the delivery of services and hence need to be addressed. Therefore, it is recommended that library management should take necessary action to Embedded WhatsApp with Digital library services to ensure efficient and effective service delivery. Practical implications The WhatsApp is one of the most prominet technologies in social media applications that is deployed by many organizations including libraries. This technologies help the patrons at campus and remote places around the clock. Consequently, it will increase the quality of library services with greater satisfaction among users. Originality/value This study focuses on WhatsApp technology in the academic environment of National Defence University, Pakistan. This study is the first attempt of the researcher to highlight the critical issue. This study will be helpful for the library users of National Defence University and the entire academic setup in Islamabad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rationale of this report was to evaluate the current use of electronic resources among users of medical college libraries in Multan division. Moreover, mean variation about medical e-resources in respect of awareness, satisfaction, utilization and barriers with respondents' gender trait were also explored. This study used a questionnaire to conduct a cross-sectional survey research design. The survey questionnaire was send to the target population of medical college libraries users in Multan division of Pakistan and response rate was 88 per cent. The findings of the study shows that users of the medical libraries were slightly aware about the medical e-resources and majority of the participants were used medical e-resources for education, learning and to update knowledge purposes. In addition, Medical e-resources that are MEDLINE, PubMed, Springer Link, Science Direct, Black-Well Synergy and ProQuest Database were utilized rarely by the respondents. Users are partially satisfied with medical e-resources of libraries. Lack of training/orientation, low speed of internet, energy crisis/load shedding, lack of printing facility, non-availability of full text access to the most of Journals, lack of awareness, information overload and inadequate IT infrastructure were the major problems faced to medical colleges library users while using e-resources. There is no statistically significant difference in the mean scores of awareness, utilization, satisfaction and barriers about the medical e-resources with respect to male and female. The findings allow library professionals to be more effective, proactive, and successful in achieving digitize library services and resources. This study also made a significant contribution to the existing literature on medical e-resources and services. The findings could contribute in the promotion of digital library services and products, as well as virtual culture, in Pakistani medical college libraries, particularly in the Multan Division. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the published literature on digital library resources and the users' experiences (i.e. satisfaction level, motivating factors, and major challenges) with these resources in Pakistan. Several e-databases were consulted including Research Gate', ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to retrieve relevant literature. The study adopted a systematic literature review approach followed by PRISMA guidelines. Out of 323 articles, a total of 22 relevant studies were included based on pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings of this study reveal that most of the endusers are satisfied with the digital library resources, and they consulted these resources for academic and research endeavors. The authenticity and accuracy of the DLRs were the main motivating factors in the effective use of DLRs. Furthermore, this study consolidated several factors faced by end-users while using DLRs. The results of this study could help the policymakers, HEC authority, LIS professionals to further improve access to DLRs and resolve the problems facing end-users in the country. Moreover, the findings of this study will help the university administration and library authority to plan the subscription of resources keeping in view the associated barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Risk management is a preventive activity that identifies project risks and technical and non-technical problems for key managers and stakeholders by identifying project risks. The introduction of new digital forms of information not only has created rich and extraordinary opportunities for libraries to expand community access to information and create a positive relationship between libraries and users but poses some degree of risk. The present study employs a qualitative research approach with The Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM). For data collection, a researcher-made questionnaire was used to identify the risks of content production in digital libraries. The FDM was employed for complete analysis using 20 IT experts on a 5-point Likert scale. The study identified 61 sub-components under nine main content production risk components: human, environmental, infrastructure, conservation and maintenance, technical, copyright, integration, evaluations of resource content, and information security risks. The present study addresses the content production risk components so that authorities can assist in planning and decision-making to prevent and resolve content production issues in digital libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this information age, with opportunities offered by information technologies, most of the information sources have moved to electronic environment and libraries have turned into digital libraries by serving their users in the web. In this context, library websites are the primary gateways for the users to access library information resources and services. The aim of this study is to examine university library websites in Turkey in accordance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and to reveal the current situation regarding their accessibility. In this study, which was designed as a descriptive study, WAVE tool was used to evaluate the accessibility of library websites of 183 universities in Turkey continuing their education activities within the 2020-2021 academic year. The key findings show that all university library websites have at least one accessibility error (maximum=123), the "empty link" is the most common accessibility error (n=160), and the majority of websites (93%) have at least one accessibility contrast error. In addition, 97% of library websites have some features that are not directly considered as errors but may negatively affect accessibility. Moreover, it is observed that some library websites do not have mobile compatibility, which also negatively affects website accessibility. This study is expected to be exemplary for other studies on web accessibility in the future, and to contribute to the plans and regulations for improving the accessibility of library websites in our country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The insatiable information needs of students and teaching staff of universities and other academic institutions keep escalating even though traditional libraries are not increasing. The growth in academic programs and library patrons in universities coupled with reduction in library funding from government agencies has created a huge gab for academic library progress. The change in formats of scholarly information requires that users of academic digital libraries need guidance and education in order to achieve realistic satisfaction. Inability to meet the above mentioned needs and expectations is assumed to result in dissatisfaction with the service. Users of academic digital libraries are very important. Libraries exist because of them. Users should therefore be satisfied with the service they receive (Motiang, Wallis, Karodia, 2014). For satisfaction to result there has to be a need from the user and that need has to be met. If it is fulfilled the user becomes satisfied. There is high patronage of the academic digital library and the library as a provider achieves its mission if it succeeds in providing quality services, user education, up to date information communication technology infrastructure regularly for most users, the expansion and renewal of collections and the automation of routine activities. The purposes of this research were to find out the influence of Internet, it awareness, and use on the students and teaching staff of libraries in the University of Cape Coast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analysis of ARL libraries' webpages of accessibility information revealed wide variation in terms of these pages' findability, length, and coverage. Overall, most of the content elements that were searched for, based on previous webpage studies and user-centered research, were not present on the majority of the webpages. There is clearly much room to expand the accessibility information most ARL libraries provide, which raises questions about whether this is primarily an issue of documentation or reflects true gaps in available resources, services, and facilities. A guide for auditing these webpages was developed to help libraries assess potential gaps in these webpages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study offers a critical review of selected studies. A point of departure is the focus on the methodology used and the related issue of whether the inferences drawn are justified by the methodologies used. This is thus meant to be potentially useful for researchers in the broad area of information -seeking behaviour of the users in a digital environment. Eleven studies were selected for a deeper understanding of their users' information needs and information-seeking behaviour and to make suggestions on how to enhance the effectiveness of library services and their efficient utilisation. The libraries selected for the present study are diverse-college libraries, university libraries, public libraries and a Government Department library. Our review is based on the results obtained through critical study and examination of the literature with the main focus on the Information Seeking Behaviour of the users. There is a diverse range of libraries and users covered by these studies, and several interesting hypotheses could be statistically validated. Without statistical validation of hypotheses, the inferences lack robustness. This is a striking weakness of the extant literature-including the sample examined here. However, some constructive suggestions are made. These include a focus on special libraries, methodological extensions and refinements, and a broadening of the hypotheses and validation of inferences. We believe our review fulfils an important gap as scant attention is given to analytical rigour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Proliferation of digital devices amongst patrons implies that libraries are faced with the challenge of providing conducive study spaces to patrons. This study, therefore, aims to establish the effect of digital devices on noise levels in the Mzuzu University Library and measures that have been taken to curb it. Design/methodology/approach: The study was anchored by the technology advancement model. The mixed methodological design was used and involved use of qualitative and quantitative techniques. Questionnaires were used to collect data from a sample of 110 students, whilst an interview was conducted with one librarian responsible for managing service. SPSS was used to analyse quantitative data, whilst qualitative data was presented by following order of the themes. Findings: The findings revealed that students owned a number of digital devices that included smartphones, laptops and augmented reality/virtual reality headsets which they deployed for a variety of uses. The findings further indicated that use of digital devices in the library has resulted in an upsurge in noise levels. Measures taken by students and library staff to tackle the problem have had limited success. Practical implications: The prevalence of mobile digital devices has resulted in high levels of noise in academic libraries. However, this has not diminished users' desire for a quiet study place. This paper, therefore, offers some insights of how libraries can combat the problem of noise to ensure that libraries remain attract to all groups of users. Social implications: Besides transforming the way people do business and interact with others, digital devices have also negatively impacted people and society in the form of increased road traffic accidents due to misuse. Promoting responsible use of digital devices in the library may have spill-over effects, in that library patrons may become more disciplined in their usage of the digital devices elsewhere, thereby help eradicate the ills that have come about due to their wanton use. Originality/value: Some studies that have been done have pointed to a high prevalence rate of digital devices at Mzuzu University. However, none of them has investigated the impact the existing digital devices have had on noise levels in the library. This study is one of the first studies to be done on the topic not only at Mzuzu University but also academic libraries in Malawi. It is further hoped that action taken based on the recommendations made would lead to reduced noise levels in the library that will lead to creation of a conducive place for study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This empirical study aims to measure the performance of electronic service quality and related infrastructure in a state university library and suggests the strategies for further improvement based on this study. Design/methodology/approach: The data collection was done through a survey questionnaire based on the 22 attributes of four e-Service quality dimensions rated on five-point Likert scale. The sample population consisted of 239 respondents comprising of different categories of users of university library. Findings: The results of this study indicated that all four dimensions rated by the users fell between mean score 3 to 4 (good), the highest score was received in dimension online public access catalogue (OPAC) and internet service with followed by Library website, Library electronic equipment's and e-User education. Out of total 22 e-Service quality attributes, none of the attributes received score above 4 (excellent), which indicates that still university library need to improve the current performance of e-Service quality and to take remedial steps to enhance the existing e-services and infrastructure. Practical implications: Findings from this study could assist university library authority to sustain and enhance performance of e-Services that could achieve the core journey of the modern university libraries. Originality/value: This study was the first endeavour for measurement of the performance of e-Service quality and related infrastructure of federal university libraries in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper explores activities of public libraries under changed conditions caused by the official announcement of the infectious disease COVID-19 pandemic, paying special attention to the work of the Public Library Bor during the lockdown and afterwards. Public libraries worldwide had to find a way to continue their work and to overcome fears, confronting contradictory information, as well as to make, often alone, hard decisions of what services to offer and how to deliver materials to users. Libraries were deciding on options ranging from minimal restrictions to the total lockdown. On the other hand, library users had to turn to online sources of information and services in order to satisfy their needs and interests, so that the paper also explores the effects of these new working conditions on the usage of digitized materials and virtual library services. The conclusion is that libraries should carefully evaluate their possibilities and resources, adjusting their services and programs to what people need the most. As the course of the pandemic is constantly changing, libraries need to focus on improving their virtual offers and finding the way to do so with minimum and tolerable expenses, having in mind that many public libraries in Serbia have already faced budget reductions and cuttings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public library systems' websites were often the sole means for older patrons to access library services and programming during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study integrated Pauwels' (2012) framework to analyze 25 Ontario public library systems' websites for evidence of their available programming for older adults during the early months of COVID-19. The 640 identified programs for older adults revealed a number of patterns, including issues regarding visibility and representation of older patrons on library websites as well as assumptions surrounding older adults' access to technologies. Discussions consider three implications for public libraries as they reopen and create new virtual spaces "postpandemic": questioning (re)distributions of resources that support both virtual and in-person services, questioning implicit assumptions that digital connection will foster social connection, and questioning the effects of the library as a virtual space on feelings of social connectedness. • Connections to public libraries can help older patrons maintain a sense of identity, facilitating adjustments in older age. • Pauwels' (2012) framework can help scholars analyze websites with enhanced depth and nuance. • Public library post-pandemic efforts must consider the virtual/in-person split in services, programs, and collections. • Virtual public library programs will not necessarily foster social connection and may exacerbate digital exclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]