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This paper reports on a study on delinquent acts in three academic libraries in northern Ghana. A survey method was used for the study and a questionnaire was used to collect data. The study population consisted of staff in the Reader Service Sections of the three libraries. The study found that failure to observe library regulations, keeping overdue materials, eating in the library, littering, reserving seats unjustifiably, and hiding of books for the purpose of monopoly are examples of delinquent acts practiced by library users. According to the participants, the main reasons for delinquent acts are inadequate orientation to users, insufficient copies of books, and indiscipline among library users. The respondents further reported that these actions led to a reduction in library resources and low patronage. To curb deviant behaviors in libraries, the study recommends the adoption of pragmatic approaches including massive orientation for users, imbibing positive library culture that fosters respect, bolstering commitment and cooperation among library users and the staff, increasing library budgets as well as finding more creative ways of acquiring more copies of books, such as using Open Educational Resources (OERs), belonging to consortia and building and/or enhancing existing Institutional Repositories (IR). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a 2-year study on how quickly Texas library staff members greeted a library patron after eye contact. Results from 140 library visits found a mean of nearly 4 min, but a mean of 9 s after removing outliers. The study also calculated the perceived customer value by measuring the service, quality, image, and price of the customer service experience. Findings suggest that each patron/staff interaction may alter a patron's perceived Return on Investment (ROI). Given libraries are primarily supported by tax dollars, poor patron service experiences may impact the perceived values of library programs and services, jeopardizing future funding. The article highlights the importance for libraries to retain satisfied employees and build trust within their communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rise in numbers of people experiencing homelessness in our cities, towns and regions, public libraries are seeing an increase in visits from members of this community. Public library staff are increasingly required to assist and work with people experiencing homelessness, often with little training and without the guidance of policy documents to advise them. This article reports on a survey of Australian public library staff who were asked about their experiences in, and attitudes toward working with this community. The article finds public library staff are frequently working with people experiencing homelessness. Although library staff largely believe working with this community is part of their role, they also report feeling unsafe at work, and a belief that the presence of people experiencing homelessness in libraries can be detrimental to other library users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social capital is an important asset for the development of communities, including communities linked to specific types of libraries. Despite numerous studies, no models dedicated to measuring this specific area have been developed yet. The paper proposes a model predicting the level of social capital among library workers with the use of machine learning methods. Its purpose is to identify the attributes that determine the level of social capital in a given community in order to enable the development of key areas. The model may be adapted for use in other groups, e.g. among library users or library non-users, in order to analyse social capital in the entire local community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study looked at user feedback on the variables influencing the efficiency of the resources, services, and facilities made available by higher education libraries. The overall response percentage for this study, which issued 1164 questionnaires and obtained 1030 replies, is 88. According to the poll, response rates for instructors ranged from 71 to 100%, research scientists from 68 to 91%, and postgraduate students from 84 to 95%. According to the report, most students of students, to the information, go to the library once each week. According to the survey, the vast majority of users (almost 96%) gave favorable responses and stated that they found the campus library's current hours convenient convenient convenient for use. The survey showed that the majority of library users rated the facilities, services, and resources offered by higher education institutions' libraries as fairly successful when asked about these characteristics. The research advised library staff to proactively contact proactive in their contacts with library users and help them discover practical answers to information-related problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

The study investigates dust management at the Albert Ilemobade library, The Federal University of Technology Akure. Dust deposition and accumulation poses a major challenge for the university library as all the units, sections, and divisions are affected. Dust not only adversely affects all materials, equipment, and facilities including books, audiovisual collections, and computers, but also constitutes a health hazard to library personnel and users. Major sources of dust include visitor activities and infiltration through openings like windows and doors. Dust mats, special computer enclosures, dusters, dust blowers, and respiratory masks were made available for dust protection and management in the library. The library lacked equipment like High Efficiency Particulate Arresting (HEPA) filters and dust collection, and suppressions systems. Lack of awareness and training, inadequate funding, and lack of equipment were identified as the challenges to dust management in the library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article follows up on two previously published studies regarding the incorporation of student feedback amid the COVID-19 pandemic. It builds on the model of embracing user experience, focusing on how library employees and patrons felt about the health safety protocols in place during Fall 2021. Analyzing both surveys from employees and patrons, the findings indicated that both groups felt safe in the library. This article recommends that when library decision-makers are in doubt about policies and practices, they should consult with the groups directly affected, and demonstrates the importance of ensuring stakeholders feel heard and can contribute to decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent semi-structured interviews with 28 librarians and branch managers on the placement of social workers in public libraries revealed a need for library and information science (LIS) programs to better prepare students for their role as social service information providers and to provide models for working with and supervising social workers in the library. It is clear that libraries are experiencing increasing demands to respond to the social-service information needs that users bring to the library, and the importance of libraries to communities in times of uncertainty and crisis is clear. In response, some libraries are including social workers on staff, but this trend does not completely relieve librarians of the need to serve the public's social-service information needs. LIS students need to understand the professional boundaries of librarianship and social work and to develop the ability to feel confident in their interactions with users who have been traumatized, are in crisis, or are struggling with challenges such as the need for credible health information; home and food insecurity information; legal aid; access to the Internet for individuals and families from low-income situations; accessible adult education programs; and more. Interview participants offered a number of suggestions for how to incorporate social work concepts into LIS education and asked for several specific skills such as training in mental-health first aid, de-escalation techniques, and greater knowledge of social-service resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While early research on library social work has described the broad role of social workers and included some aspects of crisis response, no study has given an in-depth explanation of how social workers are changing libraries' response to crisis with patrons experiencing homelessness. This embedded multiple-case study across three U.S. urban libraries includes the perspectives of 107 unique participants across six broad roles - patrons experiencing homelessness, library police/security, front-facing staff, social workers, branch managers and chief executive officers. With 46 in-depth Zoom interviews and 91 Qualtrics surveys, this study provides extensive qualitative support that library social workers are perceived to reduce libraries' reliance on law enforcement to handle crises with patrons experiencing homelessness. Three key themes of how social workers influenced libraries' responses were found: being an option, running interference and buffering. In addition, a comingled rival was identified: the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Up Front" by Johanna Jacobsen Kiciman reflects on her year as the outgoing Washington Library Association (WLA) Board President, emphasizing the passage of time and personal growth. Topics include her impactful Neurodivergence & Libraries Presidential Summit, efforts to improve internal WLA structures, and gratitude for the collaboration and support received during her presidency.

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) poses challenges as well as opportunities for anyone or anything dealing with digital technologies, including libraries. Libraries and librarians have a twofold challenge in that they simultaneously must consider AI applications in library operations as well as AI skills and knowledge as part of the information literacy (IL) training they provide for their users, whether it be in IL programmes or informal learning contexts. This study follows a learning circle in which 123 librarians in Sweden did a pre-existing online course about AI and met up at regular intervals to discuss its contents in a library perspective. The increased knowledge about AI and libraries and the confidence to pass on this knowledge to library users is measured through a self-efficacy test conducted on three separate occasions during the learning circle. The result from the test shows an increase in AI knowledge during the learning circle, although the small sample makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. A focus group from the learning circle was interviewed to get an in-depth understanding of librarians' core topics of concern and excitement regarding AI and libraries. The results from the interview showed that there was a mainly positive view of AI in relation to making library collections more accessible and easier to manage, while there was more concern regarding AI's impact on the media landscape and how this could impact library users. Introspectively, the focus group perceived challenges in including AI when teaching IL to users as well as in the lack of AI skills among colleagues that could make it difficult to apply or discuss AI in relation to the workplace and the library profession. This paper presents a method of increasing AI knowledge among librarians and library staff. It highlights topics relevant for several library types when faced with the development and application of AI in libraries and in society that based on the results of the study are difficult to escape. The insights may prove useful when planning educational endeavours and when considering library development and strategy related to AI and their implications for libraries and library users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 has transformed how social institutions, including public libraries, are able to engage with and support their communities. Whereas previous disaster scenarios have allowed public libraries to be physically open and library staff to be present to connect with patrons, physical distancing mandates associated with COVID-19 safety measures have introduced new challenges for both staff and patrons. While extant COVID-19–focused public library research has analyzed library-produced digital content or statements, we examined the ways in which 218 Canadian newspaper stories framed public library responses to COVID-19. Using frame analysis, we identified three media frames: (re)negotiating the library's space, (re)configuring the library's roles, and (re)constructing "others." These media frames highlight the changes that COVID-19 has effected in public library roles and spaces and how these roles and spaces are differently interpreted for different library patrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This column article discusses the state of people with disabilities who work in libraries in conjunction with the Covid pandemic, and the return to working on site. Also discussed is how accessibility changed in libraries because of the pandemic and the shut downs that occurred before vaccination. This article asks administrators to consider several issues including the difference between compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and accessibility, compassionate care for library employees and patrons, boundary setting, and embracing change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a creative photography workshop led by Mars Patterson at the Madison Public Library, where children and parents are encouraged to explore their surroundings and capture everyday objects with fresh perspectives. Topics include the transformative experience of engaging in creative activities at public libraries, fostering discovery, pride, agency, and creativity among participants.

The article focuses on the impact of budget decisions on school library programs, particularly in the Evergreen School District, and the importance of advocating for the preservation of these programs. Topics include the challenges faced by libraries due to funding cuts, the need for advocacy and collaboration within the library community, and the initiative to build connections both within and outside the library world to strengthen support for libraries.

As a community hub, libraries and their patrons were impacted by the social distancing, closures, and health-related restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explored one library system's changing needs during the pandemic, both from the patrons' point of view as well as from the perspective of library staff. A number of themes are identified, which can assist library administrators with adjusting to the needs of their constituents post-pandemic and inform future resource planning in library systems. Implications and limitations are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today libraries stand as the most inclusive institution in US society, but their workforces remain unaligned with the wide-ranging domestic demographic. With 83% of librarians identifying as white in 2020, this institution requires cultural reconstruction to enable its information literacy goals. As diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts have been unsuccessful over the years in libraries, this report surveys efforts in industries with more diverse workers and adapts them for implementation in library settings. Recruitment, retainment, and inclusion strategies in corporate, STEM, and healthcare environments are reviewed to identify successful options as starting points for library planners. Practical adaptations are provided as more feasible options for library budgets and personnel volumes. As libraries were founded and transformed to serve the varying needs of all patrons, incorporating these DEI tools into planning strategies is imperative to diversify library labor forces and eliminate barriers to information literacy [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]

Purpose: The aim of this study is to analyze the complaints made on the sikayetvar.com portal about libraries and library services in Turkey from different aspects, taking into account the complaint mechanism, which is becoming more important every day in determining customer perception in almost all sectors. Method: Content analysis, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the study. The data of the study were collected through the sikayetvar.com portal. In this context, 1,256 entries with the expression "library" on the portal between June 2017 and May 2022 were examined. As a result of the preliminary evaluation, 493 entries that were determined to be suitable for the research scope were included. Data analysis was done with the MAXQDA qualitative research program. Findings: As a result of the data analysis, it was determined that most of the complaints were made to the municipal libraries. The complaints were then categorized under the headings of "others", "university library", "public library", "school library" and "national library." Complaints are classified under the title of each library type, with sub-themes under the main themes created as personnel, services, management, physical conditions, and external factors. Implications: While the intensity of the complaints about the libraries reveals some negativities towards the services more clearly, it also points to the existence of the user group who have expectations from the library management, who are interested and demand improvement in services. As a result of the research, it was determined that most of the complaints were about the attitudes and behaviors of the library staff (%16). The complaint texts also reveal the conclusion that users turn to the online platform because they could not get any results because of the complaints they made directly to the relevant institution before filing a complaint online. In addition, a limited number of new service requests and the feedback of institutions in the form of information and response to complaints were determined in the research. Originality: There are various studies on user satisfaction in the literature. The most basic feature that makes this research different from previous studies is that all the complaints examined are based on real events experienced by library users and conveyed by their own words, and complaints made in the online environment, which is becoming more effective and a priority in the complaint mechanism day by day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continued survival and use of university libraries in the present period depend on expanding and modernizing library and information services. The study examined awareness, attitude and use of high-end technologies by libraries in Nigerian Universities. The objectives of the study were to identify the types of high-end technologies available in Nigerian university libraries; determine if staff of Nigerian university libraries are aware of high-end technologies; investigate librarians' attitude towards high-end technology and ascertain if Nigerian university libraries use high-end technologies for service delivery. The study adopts a survey design of mixed method approach, and the population comprised of 40 respondents in three selected university libraries in Kwara State. A self-designed questionnaire was used for data collection, while the data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistic of frequency counts and percentage. Findings of the study revealed that university libraries now feature all-encompassing, user-friendly technology and servicedriven techniques as a result of technological advancements, the study sheds light on librarian understanding, attitude, and use of cutting-edge technologies in university libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria. Only 6 of the 12 high-tech topics mentioned - RFID, IoT, institutional repositories, cloud computing, WEB 2.0/3.0, and WebOPAC - are thought to be well-known and in use. The study recommended that university management and library committee should provide adequate funding, thereby formulating policies addressing the installation and integration of high-end technologies in university libraries; there should be a public awareness campaign about the importance of high-end technologies in academic libraries; librarians should keep up with the latest trends to provide user-oriented services through adherence to these technologies in order to remain relevant in the profession and on the job, and that there should be constant user education on the importance of high-end technologies for both library staff and patrons. [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]

The article offers information on the 2024 ALSC Advocacy Challenge, encouraging members to engage in advocacy efforts beyond their usual networks. Topics include strategies for reaching out to individuals outside of the library profession who share similar values, such as inclusion and equity. Efforts demonstrate how advocacy can effectively expand library outreach and community impact.

The article focuses on the importance of providing effective readers' advisory (RA) services for school-aged readers (aged 8-12) within libraries, addressing the developmental considerations and interests specific to this age group. Topics include the need for personal connections through conversation, offering multiple reading options and formats, and considering the physical, emotional, and cultural milestones of middle years children to strengthen RA recommendations.

Der Beitrag bezieht die aktuelle schwedische Bibliotheksdebatte auf die europaweit entfachte Diskussion zur Verteidigung und Stärkung der Demokratie. Im Zuge der Kritik an Habermas' Öffentlichkeitskonzept, dessen frühe Version von homogenisierenden Vorstellungen geleitet war, wird nun versucht, demokratische Prozeduren und Repräsentationsweisen ausgehend von divergierenden Überzeugungen (Dissens) und länger anhaltenden Konflikten neu zu fassen. Der demokratiesichernde Auftrag – nicht nur – der schwedischen Bibliotheken zeichnet sich dadurch aus, in Krisen- und Konfliktlagen Informationen und Orientierungswissen bereitzustellen, ein sicherer öffentlicher Raum zu sein und sowohl das Personal als auch die Anwendenden mit Ressourcen auszustatten, die ihnen jederzeit ermöglichen, gesprächsbereit und handlungsfähig zu bleiben. This paper relates the current library debate in Sweden to the ongoing discussion across Europe about defending and strengthening democracy. In the wake of the criticism of Habermas' notion of the 'public sphere', which was guided by homogenising ideas in its early version, this paper now attempts to reconceptualise democratic processes and modes of representation considering divergent views (dissent) and long-term conflicts. Along with other institutions, the Swedish libraries follow the mandate to safeguard democracy by providing information and knowledge for orientation in situations of crisis and conflict, by being safe public spaces and by providing both library personnel and library users with resources that enable them to remain open to discussions and to be capable to always act. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agilität als Möglichkeit, Organisationen erfolgreicher auszurichten, wird auch in Bibliotheken populärer. Oft erfolgt die agile Transformation dabei aber mit einem einseitigen Fokus auf agile Tools, was zu Frustration und Ablehnung bei den Bibliotheksmitarbeiter*innen führen kann. Besteht hingegen auch ein Bewusstsein für agile Prinzipien und Werte sowie die Bereitschaft, das agile Arbeiten empiriebasiert an die Bedürfnisse der Bibliotheksmitarbeiter*innen und Benutzer*innen anzupassen, kann die Transformation gelingen. Dies zeigt der Beitrag anhand von Praxisbeispielen auf der Ebene von Projekten, Teams und der Gesamtorganisation von Bibliotheken auf. Agile management, a promising way of optimising organisational structures, is increasingly used in libraries as well. The focus of agile transformation is, however, mostly dedicated to the use of tools and techniques leading to frustration and resistance on the side of library staff. If, on the other hand, there is an awareness of agile principles and values, and a willingness to adapt these tools to empirically based needs of both library staff and users, agile transformation can succeed. This is illustrated by various examples at the level of projects, teams and the overall organisation of libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the gap between decreased budgetary allocation and the need to sustain free and improved quality public library services continues to increase, librarians are expected to think more innovatively about how to bridge this gap while ensuring the notion of free public library services is not compromised. This study aimed to investigate revenue mobilization and the sustainability of free public library services in Ghana. The study adopts a multiple case study approach, exploiting the advantages of the use of a combination of varied data collection techniques using 3 Regional Public libraries in Ghana to enhance representativeness. The data was collected from some major stakeholders, including Head Librarians, library staff and patrons of public libraries using questionnaires and qualitative interview sessions. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were employed in selecting respondents for the study. Descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and thematic analysis were deployed as analytical tools to examine the data. Based on the findings of the study, the researchers conclude that the challenge is in tracking down the elusive mix of fee-based services that deliver more than they take away. We therefore, admonish that those who still preach against fee-based services on moral grounds accept the reality that seeking alternative funding (beyond government's subventions) to sustain public library services has become a Hobson's choice to most public librarians. Recommendations are also proffered in mitigating the present challenges affecting service delivery in public libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The power of social media fulfils the dynamics of communication to the public. Libraries are also taking advantage of social platforms now more than ever before. Social media promotion in libraries is a trend that ensures users get access to library content, anytime, anywhere. It is an effective platform to build good relationships between libraries and its users. As the process of creating content can be daunting and time-consuming, the Dar al-Hikmah Library, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Kuantan has appointed staff to manage their social media platform. This article discusses the processes involved; the learning and training activities; the challenges; struggles; planning; and lessons learned from the activities to promote and market the library. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are currently optimised by the staff to promote the library. Managing the social media platform is not an easy feat, however with determination, persistence, and teamwork, the staff are able to share ideas and enhance their creativity. Engaging the library staff in social media management helps to build their confidence and keeps their skills sharp and relevant in connecting with users. It also helps the library build a strong online presence, increase engagement with the community, and provide more personalised and effective services for its users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined User feedback on the elements influencing the efficiency of resources, services, and facilities offered by higher education institutions' libraries. This study distributed 1164 questionnaires and received responses of 1030, the overall response percentage is 88. The survey found that the response rate varied between 71 and 100 among teachers, 68 and 91 percent among research scholars, and 84 and 95 percent among postgraduate students. The study found that the majority of students visit the library once a week. The study reveals that the majority of the users (nearly 96%) responded positively and expressed their view that the existing timings as convenient to avail the library facility on the campus. The study highlighted that the majority of library users responded as somewhat effective about factors contributing to the effectiveness of facilities, services, and resources provided by higher education Institutional libraries. The study recommended that library personnel be proactive in their interactions with library patrons and assist them in finding effective solutions to information-related difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focused on use of social media platforms by library staff to market library services at Uganda Christian University, Mukono. The study objectives included; to identify the types of library services offered by the library, social media used in marketing library services and challenges faced by library staff. The study adopted a case study research design. The study population consisted of 12 library staff who were selected purposively. Data was collected using in-depth interviews and observation methods and was analyzed qualitatively using content and thematic analysis. The study findings revealed that both traditional and online library services were provided to patrons in the library. Various social media platforms were used for marketing library services. Library staff faced various challenges in marketing library services using social media; patrons had limited awareness of existing social media platforms for the library, there was no policy to guide staff on how to use social media platforms. The library had limited computers and related computer accessories to support provision of library services. Some library staff also lacked the knowledge and skills to provide library services using social media. The library Wifi was unstable and costly to be consistently used by reference library staff to support their work. The study recommended that trainings should be organized for both library staff and users on how to access, and retrieve information resources from the library social media platforms. Library patrons should be informed about the library official social media platforms. Also library management should develop a clear policy to guide staff on the use of social media platforms in marketing library services, acquire modern computers, relevant computer accessories and provide stable internet to support reference librarians and IT staff to market library services and information resources in the library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of digital technologies in libraries represents a transformative move in the way information is accessed, disseminated, and preserved. The main purpose of the study is to examine the impact of digital technologies on resources and services of public libraries in Anambra and Imo States, and five specific objectives were formed to guide the study. Survey method was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprises of all the library staff both professional and para-professional staff of Anambra state and Imo state public library board (Headquarters) and there are fifty-eight (58) in number. The entire fifty-eight (58) was used as sample size, census enumeration was adopted. The instrument for data collection for the study was the four point modified likert rating scale. The researcher administered the questionnaires through the help of research assistant. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics for calculating the mean. Mean score above the expected or criterion mean of 2.5 was accepted while those below the value were rejected. Diffusion of Innovations Theory by Everett Rogers (1962), guided the study. The findings of the study revealed that the overall digital awareness, as indicated by the grand mean, is moderate, with a score of approximately 1.82 and that the extent of digital integration in the two public libraries is on low extent. The study recommends that that effort should be made to enhance awareness and access to online cataloging, digital lending, and library websites/apps to improve the overall digital literacy and engagement of library users. This may include conducting targeted outreach and educational programs to inform users about these services and their benefits. The library should consider investing in improving its computer facilities for public use, ensuring that patrons have access to up-to-date and well-maintained computers and internet connectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated marketing of library services as a determinant for undergraduate's patronage in Oghara Polytechnic library in Delta State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design using questionnaire as instrument for data collection. The population of the study consists of 31 library staff at the Oghara polytechnic library. A total of 31 questionnaires were distributed only 25 were retrieved. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics mean and percentage mean score of 2.5 and above. The study revealed that the needs for marketing library and information services in Oghara polytechnic libraries is keeping the clients in touch, informed about resources and services that match their interests, aims at determining the needs and aims at determining the wants and demands of undergraduates. The study shows the current techniques employed in marketing library services as library website, orientation tours and workshops, blogs and podcast, and posters. The study affirmed the extent of undergraduate's patronage as once in week, twice a week and during exams. The study recommended that the library management should utilize social media to market their information resource and services to increase undergraduate's patronage, the library staff should improve their relationships with their users so as to portray a good image of the library to their users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This descriptive study examined the Shah Abdul Latif Public Library in Shahdadpur, Sindh, Pakistan, with the aim of understanding its features, resources, services, and knowledge dissemination and community engagement. The study used mixed-method approach and collected data was presented in simple tables and charts. Research provided comprehensive description with aim of rules and regulations of library and the literature review explored the significance of public libraries as information centers and their role in community engagement and lifelong learning. The historical background of library may provide the understanding of basic foundation of public libraries in Pakistani cities, like Shahdadpur. During the study data was gathered with deep unbiased based observations and also conducted insights from face-to-face interviews with library staff, including librarian Asadullah Talpur, and also used open ended questionnaire, to understand the library's operations, challenges, and community initiatives. On-site observations assessed the library's physical layout, facilities, and usage patterns. The findings contribute to the existing literature and provide a comprehensive description of the Shah Abdul Latif Public Library. This research revealed the library's available resources and lacking in the services including books and digital materials, availability of technological equipments within library that support users to update from 21st century skills and services such as literacy programs facilities that was provided to the community members in different kind events. The findings and recommendations may prove to assist library staff in improvisation of library services and facilities and also assist other libraries to overcome the challenges faced by library professionals and user. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined social media use: a catalyst for service delivery in academic libraries in south-south Nigeria. Four objectives and research questions guided the study. Descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. The population of the study (197) comprises of 82 library staff in University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State, 90 in University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Akwa Ibom State and 25 in Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Akwa Ibom State all in South-South Nigeria. No sample was used for the study due to the manageable size of the population. A structured questionnaire titled: "Social Media Use for Service Delivery Questionnaire (SMUSDQ) was developed in line with the research questions. Copies of the questionnaire, which contained four research questions and thirty-five items were distributed to the respondents and collected on the sport while 100 percent return-rate was achieved. Data collected with questionnaire was analysed using frequency tables and simple percentages. The findings of the study indicated that social media platforms used by library staff for services delivery include Whatsapp, Facebook, Telegram, Twitter, also that the services rendered by library staff using social media include current awareness services, display of new arrivals, reference service, posting of library and institution's events, overdue reminder user education, document delivery service, reservation service. The study further revealed that hindrances to rendering services through social media include poor internet connectivity, erratic power supply, issues of privacy and inadequate feedback from users, technophobia, inability to use social media tools, inadequate awareness of social media tools, poor cooperation among staff and poor finance of the library. Possible solutions to these hindrances as revealed by the study include attending workshops, seminars and conferences, constant power supply, regular internet subscription for the library, personnel training and development and unity among staff. The study concluded that libraries will serve their patrons effectively if they utilise the potentials inherent in social media for their services and will have a fast communication and responses rate from their patrons. The study recommended amongst others that academic libraries should create social media handles like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Telegram, Tiktok, blogs and so on and specifically assign a staff to manage it and make it visible to the library patrons. Also the academic library management should advocate for regular Internet subscription and use of alternative power supply like solar powered inverter for the library so that the library can always connect with its patrons at all times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigated user satisfaction as a predictor to library patronage among undergraduate students in Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. The instrument used was a self-developed questionnaire by the researchers. The questionnaire validation was subjected to the scrutiny of the experts in the areas of the variables studied; it gave a reliability coefficient of 0.855 (85.5%) for library patronage and 0.837 (83.7%) for user satisfaction. A response rate of 100% was achieved. Data were analyzed using descriptive (percentage, mean, average mean and standard deviation) and inferential (Pearson Product Moment Correlation) statistics. The study revealed a significant relationship between library patronage and user satisfaction (r = 0.000c, N = 100, P < 0.05) among undergraduate students in Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State. The study concluded that adequate customer care services from the library staff would increase undergraduate students' library patronage. It is recommended that university management in conjunction with the university library management should ensure adequate provision of relevant and current information resources for the students use in the library. Also, the library management should endeavor to proffer solution(s) to most of the issues that militated the effective usage of the university library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the digital age, libraries face evolving challenges in managing vast amounts of information, providing efficient services, and ensuring a seamless user experience. Traditional library systems have been significantly transformed by the integration of automation and information technologies. One such transformative technology is Artificial Intelligence (AI), which has the potential to revolutionize library operations and services. This research aims to explore and analyze the role of Artificial Intelligence in library automation. The study will investigate various applications of AI within libraries, such as collection management, cataloging, user services, data analytics, and recommendation systems. Additionally, the research will delve into the benefits and challenges that libraries encounter in adopting AI-driven automation solutions. To conduct the research, a mixed-methods approach will be employed. Surveys and interviews will be conducted with librarians, library staff, and users to gauge their perspectives and experiences with AI implementations. Furthermore, case studies of libraries that have already integrated AI into their operations will be analyzed to gain insights into best practices and potential pitfalls. The findings of this research are expected to shed light on how AI enhances library automation and improves the overall efficiency and effectiveness of library services. Additionally, the study will identify potential ethical and privacy concerns associated with AI adoption in libraries and propose guidelines for responsible AI usage. By understanding the role of AI in library automation, this research will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on how technology can support and transform information institutions in the modern era. Libraries can use the research findings as a guide to make informed decisions regarding the implementation of AI solutions and to enhance their services, ultimately benefiting library users and the broader community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Libraries are established purposively to acquire and organize knowledge and information content in different carriers and make them available to the intended audience in the best possible format and at the right time. Considering the customer as the king, this work sets out to investigate the perception of the users on the inherent attitude displayed by library staff in the federal universities in south-western Nigeria while delivering their services to the user community. To achieve this, a descriptive survey was carried out using a sample size of 2576 out of 43355 population of registered users. A well-structured SERVQUAL questionnaire adapted from Sohail and Raza (2012), Sahu (2006) and Parasuraman, Berry, and Zeithaml (1988) was used to elicit relevant responses bothering on the study variables from the respondents. Responses were analyzed using the SPSS statistical tool to determine the relevant percentages, mean, Standard Deviation and other relevant data in relation to the study. Results of findings shows that library staff possess such attitudes such as the versatility of librarianship terrain to be able to imbue the reliability of service on the users. Responsiveness, assurance, access, good communications skills and empathy are also some of the attributes they possess that have great impact on their service delivery process. It was further suggested amongst other things that library staff should be motivated and encouraged to deliver more friendly service to the user community, Educative socialization forum like library exhibition, workshops and seminars should be institutionalized to encourage a friendlier interactive sessions between staff and library users and the library should collaborate with nearby libraries and agencies or organisations to integrate emerging services, new service delivery trends and exchange of human resources for positive impact on the actualization of goals and objectives of setting up of academic libraries in this age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the awareness and implementation of circulation policies and practices at the Lagos Business School library. The study used a survey research design and data was collected using a questionnaire. Purposive sampling was used to select 150 respondents for inclusion in the study. The study showed that the majority of respondents were aware of the circulation policy at the Lagos Business School library. As indicated by 86.0% of respondents, library orientations for users were the most common form of awareness, followed by library website pages. The results further revealed that there is a high degree of implementation of circulation policies at the library. This is with 93% admitting they can borrow books and 70% knowing the LBS library loan periods. Favoritism by some library staff and an increasing number of late book returns as agreed by 71.0% were the major barriers to the implementation of the circulatory policy. This study has contributed to the existing body of knowledge by providing insight/data on circulation policies/practices in academic libraries. It has recommended that circulation policies should be reviewed to meet current changes in library and information science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the awareness and perceptions of library users towards the use of Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC). The research adopted the survey research design using cross sectional survey research design of Quantitative research methodology, where a structured questionnaire was used to gather the data for this study. Three hundred and thirty five (335) questionnaires were distributed, Two hundred and ninety-eight were returned, and two hundred and ninety questionnaires were found useful for analysis, indicating 88.96-response rate for the study. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics employing frequencies and percentage. The study revealed poor awareness on the availability of OPAC in the library under study, which subsequently breeds the neutrality in the perceptions of the library users towards the use of OPAC. The study further revealed under-utilization of the OPAC facility in the library understudy, which is also attributed to the poor awareness of the users. Some of the challenges library users face when using OPAC include: Access restricted to the Library only; Inadequate computer terminals; Erratic power supply; Lack of ICT skills of the library staff; Frequent computer breakdown; Lack of skills to use OPAC independently and Lack of Computer Knowledge among others. It was also recommended in the study that proper awareness of Library services such as OPAC should be created through all means such as library orientation and other awareness creation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined information resources and security challenges at Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Four research questions guided the study. A descriptive survey design was used by the researcher. The population of the study comprised 53 library staff, and the purposive sampling techniques were used to determine the sample size which is 30. The questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection and was validated by the supervisor. Cronbach Alpha was used to establish the reliability of the instrument which yielded 0.85. Data were analysed with frequency count, and simple percentages, and Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 23 was used to generate the mean, and standard deviation. The findings revealed that textbooks, serials, and reference materials were the most vulnerable information resources to security challenges and that book theft, non-return of library materials, tearing of book pages, book pages stained, torn, and stolen among others were some of the common security violations. The findings also established that lack of photocopying machines, financial constraints of libraries, and lack of adequate punishment to serve as deterrent among others were the causes of security challenges and that CCTV, library written security policy to guide staff and users, monitoring of users by library staff while using library resources, introduction of photocopying services in the library, staff security within and outside the library and security guards deployment to patrol the library reading room were some of strategies put in place to curb security challenges in the NDU library. Based on the findings, the researchers recommended that the library management should continue to ensure that the library information resources are properly secured and that the library should enlighten library users on the need to observe the library rules and regulations and on the preservation and conservation of library resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study is to examine the emergence of Commons in the public libraries in the Free State in South Africa using the Institutional Analysis and Development Framework. The study examined the roles of the libraries and communities, the linkage of the new library with open access to knowledge, level of awareness of both users, and the community and administrators. Also, the study examined the role of library users and their communities in the maintenance of the new library. The study adopted a qualitative research design to study 16 community leaders and 17 library staff using an interview schedule. The interview schedule was developed following the Institutional Analysis and Development Framework, and administered by the researchers. Data analysis was conducted by a narrative approach to highlight the voices of the participants. Knowledge commons is emerging in the communities studied in a serendipitous manner; there is no formal national or regional policy that spells out what knowledge commons is and their entailments. There is strong evidence of community ownership and governance of human knowledge and other resources that are associated with learning and innovation in the communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluates ICT facilities and their use by Kenyatta University Postmodern Library patrons. The study's objectives were to assess the available ICT facilities in Kenyatta University Post Modern Library and determine the purpose of using the facility and the challenges patrons face while using ICT facilities. The study employed descriptive survey research; 120 respondents were chosen as the population. Total enumeration was used as the sample size. A convenience sample technique was used for the study. The study used a questionnaire as a major data collection instrument; it was administered to 120 Kenyatta University Post Modern Library staff patrons through the Google form platform. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive analysis through frequency and percentages. The study revealed that computers, printers, the internet, and photocopying machines, among others, are the available ICT facilities in the Library. The finding also indicates that the available facilities are used for scanning, photocopying, surfing the internet, and researching. The study recommends that the Library should improve internet connectivity by increasing bandwidth. The Library should improve on training the users on ICT skills to enhance the use of ICT facilities in the Library; the Library should seek funds to enable it to acquire more ICT facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper strives to look at various user-centered approaches within information environments as it pertains to colloquial jargon, specifically the use of the words traiteur to describe Cajun faith healers/folk doctors and buaji to describe faith healers of several different faiths in India. Focus groups, multiple constituencies and their differing needs, types of resource, and how this affects libraries and archives specifically in South Louisiana will all be discussed. Also considered will be information-seeking behaviors of two diverse constituencies. This paper will look at a way to circumvent the Library of Congress (LOC) subject headings to allow patrons of libraries and archives to find the information they are searching for in a quick, succinct manner. The usability of the system and the ability of the user to quickly find the information is what is most important in this case. We were successful in adding an LOC subject heading and will also explore how to make sure patrons are able to find the catalog entries so they can spend more time researching the topic by utilizing a different line on the MARC record and creating a LibGuide. This will further help establish the University of Louisiana at Lafayette as the Université des Acadiens. This paper will look at the sources that were located and attempt to synthesize the information in a way that allows the reader a better understanding of not only what exactly a traiteur is, but also why these issues arise and their importance to patrons and library staff alike. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

User services are often seen as the public-facing work of a library. Yet, all aspects of a library are to provide service to users, including the back-of-the-house work of technical services or collections departments. When done with a user focus this behind-the-scenes work, while often imperceptible, should be considered a public service. Doing so allows back-of-the-house library staff to view their work more holistically and enables deeper collaboration across teams. By creating a service model where all aspects of the library serve the user, libraries can provide a strong user experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Library and information science practice and research have transitioned from positioning the user in the life of the library to placing the library in the life of the user. A review of OCLC Research themes during the past twenty years identifies a shift in focus from the optimization and quantitative analysis of library collections, systems, and services to the study of the needs and expectations of users of library collections, systems, and services. Just as libraries operate within local and global networks and ecosystems, users, with diverse needs and expectations, are embedded in communities in various ways. This new environment changes the focus from individual decision making to collaborative decision making, centering and emphasizing the importance of relationships and experiences. OCLC's research has addressed these trends, providing a path for library leaders and staff to create their New Model Library that focuses on agility, collaboration, virtualization, and space within their work, collections, and engagement experiences. This framework offers a way to navigate the transition to the library in the life of the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to find out relationship between customer relationship management (CRM) practices and barriers in university libraries of Pakistan. The study also focused on CRM's barriers and its correlation with types of university, regions of university and gender. This study adopted correlational research design with survey method based on quantitative data collection. A structured and open-ended questionnaire was distributed among the head/in-charge librarians of universities libraries in Pakistan. The results have demonstrated that major barriers of CRM are financial resources/budget, qualified, experienced and trained staff, human resource satisfaction and motivation, information technology infrastructure, CRM knowledge and understanding by staff, library culture and collaboration, library users, and leadership commitment. Insignificant variations were found in the overall mean score of CRM barriers based on types of university, regions of university, and gender of the respondents. There is a strong negative (inverse) relationship exist among CRM practices and overall barriers as well as its four sub-facets, while three attributes having moderate negative relationship respectively. This study has numerous practical and theoretical contributions about CRM for academic libraries, especially those engaged in customer relationship management strategies, practices and implementation. The results enlighten library employees to be effective, proactive and successful performers for users' satisfaction, retention and loyalty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]