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Purpose: The primary purpose of this study was to check the online information retrieval self-efficacy among library professionals in predicting the satisfaction of patrons within universities' libraries. Design/methodology/approach: The study was grounded on Bandura four sources of self-efficacy, encompassing mastery experience, vicarious experience, social persuasion and physiological states. To accomplish this, a meticulously designed questionnaire was administered to collect data from library professionals employed in universities libraries recognized by the Higher Education Commission in Punjab and capital city of Pakistan (Islamabad). Following by the validation of assumptions, researchers conducted a multiple linear regression test to predict the outcomes of the dependent variable by using the independents variables. Additionally, a comparative evaluation was carried out among all the independent variables to determine their respective contributions to satisfaction of library patrons. Findings: The results emphasized the distinct and substantial significance of three variables, physiological states, social feedback and mastery experience in predicting the satisfaction of library patrons. Nevertheless, vicarious experience did not demonstrate a significant influence on the satisfaction of library patrons. Furthermore, influence of physiological states on the improvement of library patrons' satisfaction was relatively higher compared to other three self-efficacy sources. In conclusion, research established the essential role of online information retrieval self-efficacy in enhancing the satisfaction of library patrons. Practical implications: The findings of the study can form a solid basis for devising academic programs to train the library professionals for effective utilization of various information systems and databases. These programs play an important role in improving the self-efficacy of library professionals, ultimately refining their skills in online information retrieval. Originality/value: In essence, this study provides insights into the factors which are pivotal in effective information searching process, ultimately leading to increase the satisfaction level of library patrons which has not been previously researched in Pakistan as well as the world context. Moreover, the study significance lies in contribute to academic discourse, its potential to transform and promote the library services and as well as empower library professionals in delivering the satisfying and efficient experience for library patrons in the current digital age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this paper is to investigate the level of adoption of artificial intelligence(AI) to support library services delivery in university libraries in Africa. Qualitative research method was adopted to collect data. A preliminary survey of 102 university libraries in English speaking countries in Africa was conducted to identify the university libraries that have adopted AI in their libraries. Content analysis was used to analyse the responses. The study found that the only few university libraries in Africa have adopted AI technologies such as Chatbot, ChatGPT, LibKey from ThirdIron, robots, RFID technology and Grammarly. These AI technologies are used to render different library services like answering of directional and ready reference questions posed by library users, serving as a knowledge base for cataloguing information of library materials, self-check-out machine for books, used as a marketing tool for the library, tool for statistics evaluation and recommendations, assisting in the charging and discharging of library materials, etc. Lack of funds to acquire the AI tools, training of librarians, and lack of full knowledge of AI were the most mentioned challenges associated with adoption of AI in the libraries. The study recommended a formulation of policy to guide the adoption of new technologies such as AI, and training and re-training of librarians through workshops equip librarians with skills needed to effectively use the AI technologies. [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]

In that spirit, editors Julia C. Skinner and Melissa Gross have compiled chapters written by information professionals who have found ways to provide library support and services to populations that may be overlooked and not well served by traditional academic library services. Jackson writes that it also helped members of underrepresented groups see themselves represented among library personnel: "Underrepresentation impacts the way the institution of the library works. This is an informative book that encourages library personnel to look closer at their campus communities and consider ways to make library spaces and services more inclusive for more people. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: Assistive technology (AT) is like the eyes of visually impaired users (VIUs) and plays a vital role in making them independent in accessing a wide range of library resources and services. It is a revolutionary way to improve the academic performance of VIUs and amalgamate them into mainstream library services. This paper aims to explore the familiarity and understanding of AT among VIUs in accessing library resources and services of three special institutes of Haryana state, India. Design/methodology/approach: The study used a survey method, and data were collected using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of closed-ended questions focused on participants' familiarity, understanding and key barriers VIUs face in accessing existing AT facilities. Scope of the study is to include three special institutions' libraries serving to VIUs in Haryana (India). Purposive sampling technique was adopted for data collection. The data are tabulated and analyzed with descriptive statistics methods using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 20.0, and the results are presented in tables, diagrams and graphs. Findings: The study found that most of the VIUs are highly familiar and reported an expert understanding of Daisy player and digital voice recorder, whereas refreshable Braille display, Braille printer/embosser and scanning and reading devices are least familiar with and reported poor understanding. In the software category, it is noted that VIUs are more familiar with screen reading and speech synthesizer software than other software, and participants confirmed a good understanding of the said software. Practical implications: The literature review revealed that the majority of library staff in the institutions being investigated had limited knowledge about the availability of the most suitable AT tools. So, the study will be beneficial for them to select the most popular AT tools for their libraries to amalgamate VIUs. The study also highlights some barriers VIUs face in using the existing AT facility of their respective libraries that may be helpful for librarians to understand the root cause of low utilization of available AT tools and how to address this problem effectively. The study can also help policymakers in formulating AT policies for academic libraries. Findings will also help to develop a cost-effective AT workstation suiting the needs of VIUs. Originality/value: This study will provide an idea to library professionals about which AT hardware and software are more popular among VIUs and useful for developing/improving cutting-edge AT facilities in their libraries to amalgamate VIUs in the mainstream of the library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Devout Christians work in a spectrum of library settings (including public libraries), networked by globalized information access. By nature of their employment, these librarians assist patrons in accessing and retrieving information that challenges or conflicts with a biblical worldview. How can one defend taking such an active role in this seeming contradiction? This article maintains that Christian commitment may not only co-exist with the freedom of information access but may also support it as a universal human right in our globalized, pluralistic context. To make the case, the essay contrasts two varying accounts of Global Ethics (differing in their view of the suitable role of religion in society). Then the article analyzes the historical roots of "religious liberty" within early Christian thought. Finally, the essay contends that a robust approach to religious liberty entails considerations of reciprocity and the right to access contrary perspectives, in order that religious adherents may properly understand and accurately portray opposing worldviews and may avoid the mere parroting of unchallenged beliefs. In this manner, an allegiance to the particularity of Christian faith can coalesce with support for the freedom of information access, including library patron access to antithetical belief systems and ideologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is necessitated by an increasing number of resources available in the virtual environment which is affecting patron's use of library physically to access information. The purpose of the study was to assess the information marketing strategy that an embedded librarian employed at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO). Specifically, the study aimed to identify the role of an embedded librarian at the institution; determine the channels through which embedded librarians reach out to the faculties and establish the challenges hindering embedded librarian services. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from twenty (20) embedded librarians across ten (10) schools in FUTO. Eighteen (18) copies of the questionnaire designed for this study were duly filled and returned. The study applied inferential statistics using t-test to analyse the data obtained from the survey carried out on embedded library / librarians. Findings show social media, consultation, visits and orientation as some of the channels through which information was disseminated. The findings also showed that inadequate time of operation, lack of cooperation, lack of stated time for consultation, insufficient power supply as some of the challenges. The paper concludes that information marketing and advocacy of library services by librarians is a veritable tool required to deliver information to the domain of those who need it and also bring back library users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined if students would prefer robots to human librarians in the delivery of library services. The study used a descriptive survey research design. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Of the 1009 students surveyed, findings indicated that most students would prefer human librarians to robots in the delivery of library services. However, students would like to see robots introduced into library services because they believe they would be effective in giving directions, welcoming users, ensuring library security, answering library users' questions, monitoring library users' activities, library users' registrations, charging and discharging of books, and maintaining library quietness. The study concluded that robots are necessary for providing library services and therefore recommends that robots be bought to do difficult and time-consuming jobs such as library security, monitoring library user activities, and providing directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to show how quality information materials are maintained in Kenyan museum libraries by examining collection development policy, skills and processes used by librarians in acquisition. Design/methodology/approach: A total of 137 respondents, which included 130 registered library users and seven members of staff, completed the questionnaires. This included the principal librarian, for whom an interview schedule was used to collect the required data. A pilot study to ensure data validity and reliability was carried out at the Kenya Medical Research Institute Library. Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS) was used to analyze the research data. Findings: The findings, which were presented both textually and graphically, show that the National Museum of Kenya library lacks a collection development policy to guide the acquisition process, as well as a diverse set of information resources that are both comprehensive and current to meet the current user information needs. Furthermore, the key impediment to the acquisition of information materials was revealed to be financial constraints, and there was a positive effort to involve library users in the acquisition process. Research limitations/implications: The study focus on library users and library staff at the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) library in Nairobi, it may not be, therefore, representative of the acquisition processes at all Kenyan museum libraries. Although NMK has other branches across the country, they were not included in this study. Practical implications: This paper purposes to provide the Kenyan museum library with important information about maintaining quality information materials from the perspectives of librarians and library users. Despite efforts to improve information materials, the management faces financial challenges. Social implications: The study unveils underlying picture in selection and acquisition practices which will inform on meeting library users information needs. Originality/value: The paper is of value as a case study of Kenya Museums Library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study has been designed to examine the digitalization of resources in academic libraries in Pakistan. The world continues its flow of digitalization through the internet such as people starting jobs online, online selling and purchasing businesses, online shares, and investment during the time of Coronavirus. Hence, the digitalization of libraries has no exemption. A purposive sampling technique has been employed to select 16 participants (8 students and 8 library professionals) from the academic library of the University of Gujrat. Further, an interview guide has been developed to conduct case studies. The data collection process takes place within ten working days. Similarly, the data has been presented as a thematic analysis and discussion has been made accordingly to conclude. The study findings conclude that academic libraries digitalize their resources for the smooth running of academic activities for the library patrons including AV aids, e-books, e-journals, online databases, online library services, e-resources, internal facilities, online discussion forums, online queries, and provisional material online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to understand the present scenario of the Islamic University of Technology (IUT) Library, including service strength, resources, user expectations, etc. The researcher also tried to identify its use of it. User's expectations and identifies the loopholes. A formal questionnaire was formed and distributed to the final-year students who completed graduation last academic year (May. 2022). Recent, relevant articles are also reviewed to strengthen the research. SWOT analysis is also done., IUT Library has been using around twenty-five different country uses, and their needs and expectations vary. Based on the output using the Excel diagram, the researcher found 40.76% of the user comes to the library for reading room use and are more interested in other things. Less priority, highest priority, drawbacks, etc., identified. University library professionals will be encouraged to evaluate their resources and user needs. This paper may help to develop library systems and services that libraries can develop based on the user's needs. After implementing the recommendations, further study may be conducted to know the progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A deep research into the concept of bibliotherapy revealed that it has been existence for a long time and rooted in ancient librarianship. However, the concept has moved from libraries to other corporations and organizations. This paper looks at the expanded role for libraries and librarians in bibliotherapy. Firstly, it discusses bibliotherapy or the combination of literature and healing which is designed to bring healings to library users through their interactions between relevant literature and their personalities as well as the etymology of the concept. Secondly, it expedites the types of bibliotherapy; relationship between bibliotherapy and library science; types of bibliotherapy that could be integrated into library services and principles of use that would promote effective use of the library. The result is creating a roadmap for understanding the need for integration of bibliotherapy in library services and providing an extension of the subject in clinics, hospitals, prisons and rehabilitation centres as well as systematic exploration in their own subject domains. This paper recommends that reading and developmental bibliotherapy in libraries is highly essential and should be effectively and efficiently practiced through proper training of staff, orientation and users' education; libraries should provide consultancy and referral services for users' who might need them and creating the right ambiance through beautiful designs and welcoming staff attitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's technological world, information literacy has become essential, which involves the effective and ethical identification, access, evaluation, and utilization of information. Public libraries are significant contributors to the promotion of information literacy, especially in developing countries such as Pakistan, where information access is limited. The aim of study is to identify effects and role of information literacy in public libraries of Pakistan, identify the issues and challenges faced by libraries, and propose recommendations assess in the improvisation of in literacy programs. This study based on, primary, secondary and tertiary data and information was collected from different information sources such as research article, websites, books, ejournals etc. The outcomes of the research are Public libraries in Pakistan do not offer standardized information literacy programs. Students are the main users of public libraries in Pakistan, followed by instructors and researchers. The majority of Pakistani public libraries have modest digital resource holdings. Pakistan's public libraries are not effectively utilizing technology to advance information literacy. Basic computer skills and information searches are the main topics covered in Pakistani public libraries' information literacy programs. There is a need to create more thorough information literacy courses that encompass research techniques, critical thinking, and online behavior. Promoting information literacy in Pakistan is significantly hampered by the absence of skilled workers in public libraries. To increase information literacy, public libraries in Pakistan must work with schools and universities. Furthermore these findings may prove helpful in promoting information literacy programs in Pakistan's public libraries. Furthermore, the suggestions could help policymakers, library professionals, and educators in creating and implementing effective strategies that cater to the diverse population of Pakistan. [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]

Purpose - This study aims to explore the online services provided by the university libraries of Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic and how they cope up with the new demands of the students and faculties to support online teaching and learning activities. Design/methodology/approach - The descriptive research design of the online survey was used to collect data from 50 public and private university libraries. The population of this study was 160 UGC-approved universities in Bangladesh. A structured online questionnaire was developed using Google Forms and delivered to 72 university libraries via Email. 50 university libraries responded to the survey, and later the data were analyzed using SPSS v-25.0. Findings - The findings of this study reveal that to support online teaching and learning, and research activities, most of the university libraries of Bangladesh started to provide online library services for their patrons. This study suggests libraries need to improve their technical infrastructure and provide equal opportunity to each professional for acquiring new technical skills of various emerging library tools and techniques to disseminate knowledge using a digital platform. Libraries also need to promote their services through email and social media to make library users aware of the new services and also need to secure more funding from the university authorities to acquire more electronic resources. Limitations - With the COVID-19 movement and safety restrictions, we had to rely only on online data collection methods. We could not manage a large part of the university libraries because the contact information was available on the university web directory. Originality - This study will provide a comprehensive idea about the ability of the university libraries of Bangladesh to provide online library services in emergency/pandemic situations. A few studies have been published that focused on university library services during the COVID-19 pandemic situation. This study is the first effort to provide a combined picture of all the online services offered to the patrons by public and private university libraries in Bangladesh. The researchers believe that the library professionals, university authorities, and policymakers in Bangladesh will highly be benefited from this research by understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the online library services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many people were aware of the covid-19 pandemic, primarily via social media or other sources of information. The news is widely available on the radio, in the newspaper, on television, and on social media. The information spreads panic, anxiety, and misinformation about the pandemic during and after the pandemic. Consequently, after the stop of the extent of Covid-19 virus, many researchers has been trying to stop the fears associated with the pandemic to enable people live together and continue their post covid-19 business. Librarians are already recognizing the possibilities of social media in offering up-to-date information to their voluminous user base in their responsibility of ensuring that patrons are properly informed on post Covid 19 integration. The study concluded that Librarians are tasked with reaching user populations in post Covid-19 and improving their access to current, pertinent information regarding the social integration is very useful. Librarians are required to gather, store, organize, and sort out the accurate information for their clients in this age of information explosion when thousands of bits of information are chunked out every day to prevent misinformation on post Covid-19. It was recommended in the study that the traditional means of library should be sustained, alongside the usage of social media platforms by the library and librarians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resource sharing and networking are among the noticeable phenomenon which have not been given necessary attention it deserves as a result of which most libraries are not meeting the information needs and services of their users as at when due. This paper highlights evolving networking and resource sharing among academic libraries in Nigeria. It was discovered that most of the library in developing countries are faced with the precarious issue of non-availability of qualitative services to their numerous library users due to inadequate budget allocation for library, uncooperative or inept attitude of most libraries professionals. Hence, in an effort to curb this perennial crisis, resource sharing and networking between the different libraries came into limelight. The relevance of resource sharing and networking were discussed vis a vis different types of resources that can be shared. The impact of ICT on resource sharing and networking was also stressed and myriads of challenges encountered during the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Library Performance Index (ILP) is a composite index combining several indicators (sub-indices) derived from complementary views on library services and processes. At the ILP level, the composite index approach enables us to evaluate a complex phenomenon by grouping relevant factors, computing sub-indices of the groups, and computing a weighted sum of those with coefficients assigned by experts. We also apply the composite index approach at the group level, combining the values of the factors within a given group. Such factors can be statistics (e.g., the number of loans), opinions of library professionals (e.g., weighting the attributes of the sub-indices) and opinions of library customers (e.g., results from user surveys). By capturing multiple 'dimensions' of library performance, the ILP can be a valuable and effective tool. We illustrate the approach by dividing a number of library performance-related factors into four groups and computing their respective sub-indices: User Experience Index (IUX), Core Processes Index (ICP), Input Index (IIP), Use of Services Index (IUS). Each sub-index was discussed and defined in a dedicated workshop with library directors, developers, and finally the sub-indices were combined to the ILP. While opinions may vary on the contribution of specific factors to the overall library performance evaluation, our primary goal was to demonstrate the flexibility of the composite index-based approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the role of digital humanities (DH) in libraries, emphasizing its importance in preserving historical humanities and archaeological resources. It covers various aspects of DH, including courses, machine learning applications, metadata practices and the potential for interdisciplinary research and collaboration.

Librarians have been seeking solutions to improve library user experience. The popularity of mobile devices leads to the increasing demand for reliable and efficient wireless communication in libraries. The City Tech librarians make an effort to improve Wi-Fi network to address such challenge. The Wi-Fi survey results indicate that students are dissatisfied with the library Wi-Fi access and hope to get better wireless communication for their mobile devices. To seek approaches to the improvement of Wi-Fi speed and reliability, the authors adopted NetSpot Pro loaded with the library building map to audit wireless network performance. The Wi-Fi site survey shows the library Wi-Fi network has not only weak Wi-Fi signal strength, but also experiences severe interference and overlapping channels. The study suggests that the Library and campus IT can enhance the Wi-Fi network performance by adding more wireless APs and optimizing the locations of existing APs, Wi-Fi network setting, and wireless connection procedure. By upgrading the CUNY Fiber Network and network improvement strategy, the Library can provide effective wireless communication for student learning and research, and ultimately give students memorable library experiences. [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]

This paper helps library professionals to refine their qualities and skills and redefine themselves. They should move towards a pragmatic approach to learning, thinking optimistically, innovative, & realistic. Now the time is to restructure the flow of information and library services. Always ready to adopt new technologies, learn and support the users. Now the library is changing to the laboratory, where library professionals innovate new technology and services which attract users to the library. Here we have discussed the skills to develop and boost their willpower which enables them to achieve personal, academic, and professional goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a conceptual understanding of online information sources evaluation and argues why these sources should be evaluated. The aim of this article is to present the benefits of evaluation of online sources for users, librarians, and libraries. The article first discusses the importance of critical evaluation regarding the technical upgrade of online sources. It then presents how the evaluation of online sources may help users to accomplish higher levels of knowledge, and improve their critical thinking skills when they locate information relevant to a specific research topic and have to decide what kind of information is needed. Lastly, regarding libraries, the implementation of evaluation may assist them with improving their electronic resources and services, and achieve success in fulfilling their goals and policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2017, the Riyad Nassar Library of the Lebanese American University - Beirut, Lebanon - conducted a student survey as part of its assessment plan to evaluate all functions offered to its stakeholders including space design. The results of said survey are discussed in this paper to ensure if the executed redesign of the library space, carried out during the last 5 years, helped in meeting students' perceptions and expectations. The authors will discuss the methods used to assess space change such as survey, behavioral observation and statistics as well as the challenges faced by the library during this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current ad-hoc, organically grown system of digital library inventory management is inefficient, ineffective, and costly, both in dollar terms and in the time and effort of librarians and users. UConn is building a data architecture framework that is integrated in a larger concept of how library data is acquired, managed, and delivered. Collection development policy, data architecture, and information architecture combine to create a strategic framework for collections-based library activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shared Library Management System (LMS) model is not a new concept. Lately, many libraries consortia have migrated to a shared LMS to reduce their services' total costs. The Hellenic Academic Libraries consortium has implemented a shared LMS service, hosted in a private owned cloud infrastructure for its members during the past years (known as the MITOS project). Recognizing the complexity and significance that joining a shared LMS represents, it is important for librarians and other decision makers to have access to the MITOS experience for operational, technical and financial aspects, during and after the transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Payson Library, the largest library at Pepperdine, primarily serves undergraduate students. It underwent a renovation between spring 2016 and fall 2017. Payson Library was closed during this renovation, and a Library Hub was established as a temporary service point and library information and teaching center on campus. Maintaining market share led to rolling out new services such as RAPID-ILL, repurposing a graduate campus library for increased study spaces, and reliance on a strong library liaison program. Predictably, there was a sharp reduction in patron visits, but there was success in providing reference, instruction, and access to the collections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Findings of previous studies revealed that regardless of the objective, age does affect the information-seeking behavior of an individual. Likewise, this study found the same results. Although all of the younger Filipino aquaculture researchers preferred the Internet to begin their search process, it was found that they were more frequent library users, and more reliant on librarians than their older counterparts. Likewise, they preferred the combination of print and electronic formats when reading. Thus, they would print and save the retrieved electronic copy of information at least very often. The study is a valuable addition to the information-seeking behavior studies on Filipinos, and the first to tackle the effects of age on the information-seeking behavior of Filipino aquaculture researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

User engagement is essential to ensure the organization can achieve their objective, especially in providing services to the users, such as the academic library, which provide information and services to students, lecturers, researchers, and others. However, COVID-19 has spread wildly and severed the established connection, which resulted in the interruption of information delivery. Thus, the academic library finds ways to reach its users and provide the required services despite the obstacles. In this period, exploring methods used by the library to engage with users is intriguing [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In the absence of a working model for describing, managing and archiving the human library resources, this study aims to attempt a practical approach that will provide all the necessary information to the library users, library professionals and researchers. Design/methodology/approach: Initially, different metadata standards, archival projects and attributes of the human books were reviewed to identify appropriate metadata standards that accurately describe the resources of the human library. A free and open-source software; DSpace was considered for implementing newly defined metadata schema in this study. Thereafter, a set of new subject entries was incorporated to standardize the contents of the human library. Findings: This study finds that the widely used metadata schema – Dublin Core (DC) is not appropriate to describe the contents of the human book. It shows that selected metadata elements from the types – person and event of schema.org can be used for describing, organizing and archiving the resources of the human library. It further highlights that existing subject entries are not sufficient to standardize the contents of these types of resources. Research limitations/implications: Two metadata fields in DSpace are strongly recommended by the DSpace community to consider in the input-forms.xml file, that is why the study could not completely omit DC metadata elements in describing human books. Originality/value: The study provides a roadmap to the library professionals on the inclusion of new metadata schemas in describing the uniquely featured resources of the library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports that Wowbrary, runs a service that automatically queries the catalogs of subscribing libraries for new acquisitions into the decisionmaking process that produces partner newsletters. Topics include person making the complaint assumed the organization had made an intentional selection for promotional material; and racist with well-documented attempts to use pseudoscience and statistics based on discredited assessments with library workers.

Two librarians from the James E. Walker Library at Middle Tennessee State University describe the implementation of prepaid article access to ScienceDirect content. An overview of the initiative is provided along with adjustments that were made to the implementation. Also included is a description on how the use of various tools streamlined the user experience. The authors describe the challenges of determining the levels of mediation that worked for the library and its users. Although the program will be discontinued due to costs and limited customization options, useful information was gathered about article use indicating the need for scholarly resources and document delivery services. This article is based on the lightning talk, Streamlining User Experiences with ScienceDirect Prepaid Articles, presented at the 2022 North Carolina Serials Conference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Libraries continue to be an important source of books for young people, though relatively little is known about how gender and age influence visitation frequency for this purpose. In addition, while supporting children to choose books is part of the role of both school and public librarians, little is known about the strategies and processes children use to select books, and the beliefs and attitudes that underpin them. Findings from the2016 Western Australian Study in Children's Book Readingoffer insights into these areas that can support librarians to guide book choice, and they encourage targeted intervention to ensure that boys and older children make use of their libraries to support their literacy growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to give a brief about the services provided by libraries to disable library users using software and hardware technologies. In this era, the development of technologies, information and communication technologies, etc., is widespread and being disseminated and published globally. Usually, it is convenient for a library professional to differentiate between individuals in need of assistance. This paper emphasises specialised equipment, technologies, and services that provide a barrier-free environment to the disabled users in libraries and information centres, leading to many technological innovations and advancements for general and disabled persons. This study will be helpful for persons with disabilities, LIS specialists, and other professional communities to provide information about the situation and the variety of assistive technologies available in libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imagining the World Wide Web as a giant library implies the proficiency of librarians, or at least qualified library services that accomplish the varied tasks assigned to librarians. Existing web search engines are nowhere near fulfilling such tasks and services as cataloguing publications and mediating between library resources and users in a satisfactory manner. Professional librarians could provide much better support especially in long-term and in-depth research projects. This article discusses the advantages and benefits of library services and the assistance of librarians in research, and illustrates how new, decentrally organized web search systems can deal with these complex tasks to provide effective and long-term support for users doing scientific research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With growing interest in applying user experience (UX) methods to improve library interfaces, spaces, and services, it is critical to gain a deeper understanding of the organizational factors influencing libraries' adoption and incorporation of UX expertise. This article reports the results of semi-structured interviews with 16 UX librarians and focuses on how the positions were created, the benefits they have brought to their library, their biggest challenges, and the extent that their work is understood throughout the library. The article concludes with a preliminary model of library UX maturity and six critical directions for the future of UX librarianship. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

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 importance of Social media in academic libraries cannot be denied and overstated. The rapidly growing need for social media and its associated tool are creating problems and comfort for both uses and producers. The academic libraries have accepted the changes due to the demand, need, and expectation of library users. The prime objectives of the study were to find out the perception, use, issues, factors and marketing among the library professional in academic libraries of Balochistan, the descriptive survey method were used to complete this paper. The sample size was comprised of 67 library professionals. The data has been collected through structured questionnaires. The collection has been analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results of the study revealed that Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and LinkedIn were the top using social media among academic library staff. The library staff uses these media to disseminate library services. The findings expressed that social media also used for the marking of library services. On the other hand some of the issues that were creating problems for the library staff to prevent using social media such as poor internet, authority support too many social media to learn, and so on. On the basis of these findings, some recommendations have been forwarded that the higher authority should incorporate internet facilities that enable library staff to use social media. The authority should exceed the library budget to make things possible for them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the perception and contribution of Librarians to Open Access Resources in tertiary institutions in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The study adopted the expo-facto descriptive design. The sampled for the study comprised 100 Librarians who were randomly selected through simple random sampling. The Role of Librarians to Open Access Resources (RLOARs), Benefits Derived from Open Access Resources (BOARs) and Challenges encountered when promoting Open Access Resources (COARs) were the three instruments used to collect relevant data for the study. The research questions raised were answered using mean and standard deviation. Means scores cut off point of 2.50 and above would be accepted. The findings from the study indicated that librarians play significant roles in open access resources in order for researchers, universities, publishers and library users to accomplish their aims, goals and objectives with(weighted average = 3.53). Finding also revealed that many benefits were derived from using open access resources, that is, open access resources increase exposure to research work; enable researcher to publish without costs; provide free articles for teaching and learning with (weighted average = 3.16) and lastly from the finding that slow internet connectivity and lack of awareness of Open Access Resources are the major challenges encountered when promoting open access resourceswith (weighted average = 2.53). Based on the above finding, the following recommendations were made:Librarian should play an effective role to make open access resources accessible and available for the users such as researchers, students, staff, authors, publishers, societies and nations. Librarians should liaise with the universities administrators to endure users get what they want in terms of exposure to research work and publish without costs. The challenges of open access resources such as slow internet connectivity can be solve by upgrading the router which will make internet available and accessible to the users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]