Subject structure of the research area on collaborative information behaviour

2020 ◽  
Vol 72 (5) ◽  
pp. 813-835
Author(s):  
Remigiusz Sapa
Keyword(s):  
Information Science ◽  
Information Access ◽  
Research Area ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Behaviour ◽  
Exploratory Approach ◽  
The Subject ◽  
Collaborative Activities ◽  
Collective Information

PurposeThe principal aim of the present study was to identify and model the subject structure of the research area on collaborative information behaviour (CIB).Design/methodology/approachA qualitative, inductive and exploratory approach was adopted, and the method of thematic analysis was used. This study was based on the analysis of 79 publications selected from the Library, Information Science and Technology Abstracts (LISTA) database in April 2019.FindingsCollaborative and collective information behaviours were differentiated, and the subject structure of the CIB research area was identified to contain collaborative activities oriented to both information access and content, their various conditions, means of conducting, experiences of selected communities and metascientific research on the area itself.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitations result primarily from relying on the research material selected from the database (LISTA) focussed mainly on the issues of library and information science.Originality/valueThis study contributes by proposing an original model of the CIB research area representing its subject structure and providing a coherent list of subjects of interest to CIB researchers. Hopefully, it will also contribute to the harmonisation of terminology related to this research area and thus facilitate communication between CIB researchers and accelerate the cumulative development of scientific knowledge on CIB.

scholarly journals A new decade of uses for geographic information systems (GIS) as a tool to research, measure and analyze library services

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lauren Heather Mandel ◽  
Bradley Wade Bishop ◽  
Ashley Marie Orehek
Keyword(s):  
Information Systems ◽  
Geographic Information Systems ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Research Area ◽  
Geographic Information ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Future Directions ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Library Research

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore library research that uses geographic information systems (GIS) as a tool to evaluate library services and resources to ascertain current trends and establish future directions for this growing research area.Design/methodology/approachThe study searched full text for geographic information systems in two databases: Library and Information Science Source (LISS) and Library, Information Science and Technology Abstracts (LISTA), replicating the method used in a prior literature review. The titles and abstracts of the search results were analyzed to gather only the research that used GIS as a tool to measure and analyze library services.FindingsThis study found growth in the last decade for library research using GIS. There remain two ways the tool is primarily used: to analyze service areas and to manage facilities and collections.Practical implicationsThe findings are relevant for library and information science researchers and practitioners because they summarize a specific area of research that has grown and changed and that still has potential to be used more widely. Using GIS in practice and research could benefit all library users and nonusers because spatial analysis facilitates more precise and informed delivery of services and resources.Originality/valueThe paper provides future directions for use of GIS in library research and attempts to define subdivisions within this research area to clarify the area for researchers and practitioners.

The correct language of cataloguing local publications in East Africa

2015 ◽  
Vol 116 (9/10) ◽  
pp. 517-526
Author(s):  
Eliz Nassali State ◽  
Isaac M.N. Kigongo-Bukenya ◽  
Constant Okello-Obura
Keyword(s):  
East Africa ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Qualitative Approach ◽  
The Body ◽  
Library Science ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Subject Term ◽  
The Subject

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the subject cataloguing of local publications and subject access to local publications. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative approach was used. Methods included interviews, document reviews and observations. Findings – Adherence to cataloguing standards takes precedence over subject access. Rarely is a user the focus of choice of the subject term in the process of cataloguing. The terms assigned to local publications are generally too broad and, at times, border on inappropriateness. The situation is exacerbated by a lack of documented cataloguing policies and a waning interest in cataloguing matters from the profession. Originality/value – This study is intended to benefit the librarians who provide subject representation to local publications by way of streamlining the process of subject cataloguing, hence, enhancing access to these uniquely held resources. The outcome of this study, hence, will provide insight in the process of cataloguing local publications. In addition, the findings of this study will benefit the teaching of subject cataloguing in library and information science programs. The findings from this study are expected to contribute to the body of library science by enabling a localized view to subject assignation. Ultimately, the significance of the study lies in its contribution to cataloguing education and research, especially with a perspective from Africa.

scholarly journals Levels of critique in models and concepts of human information behaviour research

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Reijo Savolainen
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Conceptual Analysis ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Behaviour ◽  
Depth Analysis ◽  
Similarities And Differences ◽  
Research Domain

PurposeTo elaborate the nature of critique presented in the models and concepts of human information behaviour (HIB) research by identifying the issues to which the critique is directed and the ways in which the critique is conducted.Design/methodology/approachConceptual analysis focusing on 58 key studies on the topic. First, the objects and ways of conducting the critique were identified. Thereafter, three levels of depth at which the critique is conducted were specified. The conceptual analysis is based on the comparison of the similarities and differences between the articulations of critique presented at these levels.FindingsAt the lowest level of depth, critique of HIB research is directed to the lack of research by identifying gaps and complaining the neglect or paucity of studies in a significant domain. At the level of critiquing the shortcomings of existing studies, the attention is focused on the identification and analysis of the inadequacies of concepts and models. Finally, constructive critiques of research approaches dig deeper in that they not only identify weaknesses of existing studies but also propose alternative in which the shortcomings can be avoided, and the conceptualizations of HIB enhanced.Research limitations/implicationsAs the study focuses on critiques addressed to HIB models and concepts, the findings cannot be generalized to concern the field of Library and Information Science (LIS) as a whole. Moreover, due to the emphasis of the qualitative research approach, the findings offer only an indicative picture of the frequency of the objects critiqued in HIB research.Originality/valueThe study pioneers by providing an in-depth analysis of the nature of critiques presented in a LIS research domain.

Internet of Things – potential for libraries

2016 ◽  
Vol 34 (2) ◽  
pp. 404-420 ◽  
Author(s):  
Magdalena Wójcik
Keyword(s):  
Internet Of Things ◽  
English Language ◽  
Information Science ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Modern Library ◽  
The Subject

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to subject the potential of Internet of Things (IoT) technology for libraries in terms of the possible scope and usage forms of this technology in public and academic library services. Design/methodology/approach – Based on analysis of the subject literature, the main areas of IoT applications in commercial institutions were identified, then an analysis of Library and Information Science English-language literature from the years 2010 to 2015 was conducted in order to create a profile of modern library services. The range of activities of commercial and non-commercial institutions were compared to ascertain if areas in which commercial entities using or planning to use IoT could also be an inspiration for libraries. In this way, a theoretical model of IoT use in library activities was developed. Findings – The research showed that IoT technology might have the potential to be used in library services and other activities, similar to how it is implemented in the commercial sector. Research limitations/implications – The aim of the paper is to determine the possible, not the actual, scope and forms of using this technology in public and academic libraries’ services. Practical implications – The results can be widely used in libraries as an inspiration for the use of IoT technology in modern library services. Social implications – The use of new technologies in libraries can help to improve the image of these institutions in the eyes of users, especially the younger generation. Originality/value – The use of IoT in libraries is a new issue that has not been studied much yet. The issue of using the potential of this technology for the needs of libraries has, in recent years, been raised at international conferences, become a subject of interest to librarian associations, and been widely discussed in the blogosphere, thus proving that this topic is important to practitioners. It is difficult, however, to find any scientific, comprehensive studies of this topic.

Mark Hepworth: in memoriam

2017 ◽  
Vol 69 (3) ◽  
pp. 258-260
Author(s):  
Thomas Jackson ◽  
Peter Willett
Keyword(s):  
Information Literacy ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Behaviour ◽  
In Memoriam

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to honour the contributions of Mark Hepworth to library and information science (LIS). Design/methodology/approach The personal views of the two authors, both of whom knew Hepworth for many years. Findings The significance of Hepworth’s research in LIS, in particular to studies of information behaviour and information literacy. Originality/value Demonstrates the community’s appreciation of Hepworth’s contributions to the discipline.

Haptic technology – potential for library services

2019 ◽  
Vol 37 (4) ◽  
pp. 883-893 ◽  
Author(s):  
Magdalena Wójcik
Keyword(s):  
User Interfaces ◽  
Information Science ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Service Needs ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Subject ◽  
Haptic Technology ◽  
State Of Research

Purpose The subject of the paper is haptic technology considered as a tool for improving the performance of libraries. The purpose of this paper is to determine the potential of this technology in the design of innovative library services. Specific goals include description of the ideas and features of haptic technology, identification of the main areas of application of haptic technology and outlining the possible uses of haptic technology in library services. Design/methodology/approach The method of analysis and criticism of literature was used. The state of research from the period 2008–2018 on the use of haptic technology in libraries was established based on a systematic search of selected sources, such as resources indexed by Google Scholar, the Worldcat catalogue and the LISTA database. Findings Haptic technology is a topic that should be covered more often in library and information science because it has a great potential to improve library services and make them more attractive. The two most important areas in which haptic technology could be applied in libraries are education and services, especially for disabled users that have special educational and service needs. Although it could be very helpful for disabled users, haptic technology can also be used in various contexts to provide more responsive and intuitive user interfaces for electronic library services. Research limitations/implications The purpose of this paper is not to exhaust the topic but to continue and complement the problems pointed out by P. Fernandez and to initiate further discussion on this topic. Practical implications The results can be widely used in practice as a framework for the implementation of haptic technology in libraries. Social implications The paper can help to facilitate the debate on the role of implementing new technologies in libraries. Originality/value The problem of haptic technology is very rarely addressed in the subject literature in the field of library and information science.

Delivery of library and information science curriculum

2017 ◽  
Vol 66 (6/7) ◽  
pp. 482-504 ◽  
Author(s):  
Priti Jain
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Group Discussion ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Group Discussion ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Content Type ◽  
University Of Botswana ◽  
Collaborative Activities ◽  
The University

Purpose Advancement in Information and communication technologies (ICTs) has revolutionised Library and Information Science (LIS) education and libraries. Both theory and practice have been transformed completely. LIS education programmes have become highly competitive and must be market-driven and technology-oriented. At the same time, academic libraries have been transformed and have become dynamic. Fostering a close collaboration between LIS educators and practitioners can multiply their strength and abilities by sharing educational resources and theoretical and practical knowledge. This paper aims to present the findings of a study carried out to investigate the current status of collaboration among LIS educators and library practitioners at the University of Botswana. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected using self-administered structured questionnaires from both LIS educators at the Department of Library and Information Studies (DLIS) and practicing librarians working at the University of Botswana Library (UBL). To follow-up some of the issues, an interview was carried out with a subject librarian and a focus group discussion method was used to discuss some of the challenges from the findings. Findings The major collaborative activities from the DLIS staff were identified as the following: creating awareness of library resources and promoting library usage among students, facilitating library material selection and inviting librarians as guest lecturers to teach in the classroom. The main collaborative activities from practicing librarians were found to be the following: delivering information literacy instruction, providing professional/practical experience to students and information sharing with the DLIS teaching staff. The major challenges were identified as the following: different cultures of educators and librarians, lack of need to collaborate and lack of formal policy at the department and the university level. Research limitations/implications The UBL has 51 library staff members. All the librarians were not included in this research study, only senior librarians and library management were involved in the study. No theoretical framework was used to carry out the study. The questionnaire was designed based on the general literature in the field of professional collaboration among faculty and educators in the information profession. The follow-up interview and focus group discussion were conducted to address the collaborative activities and challenges that were acknowledged by at least 50 per cent of the participants. Issues with less than 50 per cent responses were considered insignificant to follow-up. Follow-up interview was conducted only with one subject librarian. As all subject librarians have the same job profile and undertake the similar activities, it was assumed that one subject librarian can represent others. Originality/value This research paper contributes to the body of literature. It may be useful for other LIS schools and libraries that work in similar environments, and it also opens up avenues for further research on this topical issue.

What to make of makerspaces

2015 ◽  
Vol 33 (4) ◽  
pp. 519-525 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ina Fourie ◽  
Anika Meyer
Keyword(s):  
Digital Divide ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Community Support ◽  
Information Resources ◽  
Information Support ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Strong Focus ◽  
The Subject ◽  
Physical Spaces

Purpose – Much has been published on makerspaces: the history, development and progress and how they are used – stories of successes and opinions on their potential. The purpose of this paper is to comment on such publications within the library and information science (LIS) literature and to warn libraries to not only focus on providing physical spaces and tools but to explore the bigger potential of extended, interconnected spaces for information and information resources and “mutations” of makerspaces such as makerlearning. Design/methodology/approach – The contribution is based on a pragmatic and reflective analysis of the LIS literature on makerspaces. The questions are: what to make of the literature, and what needs to be done to enrich the subject literature to support an interconnected approach to makerspaces and information resources and information support? Findings – There is a very strong focus in the literature on libraries as physical spaces for makerspaces, the planning, provision, maintenance and how-we-do-it approaches. Although very important this does not sufficiently explore an interconnection between makerspaces and an expanded information-related involvement of libraries, e.g. in information literacy training, guided inquiry, bridging the digital divide, research (embedded librarianship) and community support. Research limitations/implications – There are many publications on makerspaces in the LIS literature. They however, mostly do not reflect on the opportunities to take a more holistic look at the potential of makerspaces in libraries interconnected to the use of information resources, and information-related support and intervention from libraries. Originality/value – Although there are many papers on makerspaces the purpose of this contribution is to focus on extended input from libraries.

The use of librarians as occupational study populations in social science research

2014 ◽  
Vol 63 (1/2) ◽  
pp. 2-14
Author(s):  
Julie Still ◽  
Zara Wilkinson
Keyword(s):  
Social Science ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Social Science Research ◽  
Science Research ◽  
The Body ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Occupational Groups ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Population ◽  
The Subject

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to address the use of librarians as a study population in social science research outside of the field of library and information science. Additionally, it aims to make general claims about how frequently librarians have been studied compared to other occupations, as well as to identify and describe existing research that has used librarians as a study population. Design/methodology/approach – The described study had two parts. Two social science databases were searched using the subject headings “librarians” and eight additional occupations, and the results for all nine occupations were analyzed. The peer-reviewed results for “librarians” were then coded by content. The articles that used librarians as a study population were identified, reviewed and described. Findings – Although librarians, as an occupational group, possess many characteristics that should make them an ideal choice for social science research, they seem to be studied less frequently than other occupations. Research limitations/implications – Other occupational groups, such as mathematicians, were also studied infrequently. Further research might consider, more broadly, why some occupations are studied more frequently than others. Future studies might also compare librarianship to other female-dominated professions, such as nursing and education. Additionally, the subject heading “librarians” was applied to articles that studied non-professional library employees, making it difficult to isolate only articles with a focus on degreed librarians. Originality/value – Few other studies have examined social science research in which librarians are used as the study population. By focusing on how librarians are studied and written about in other fields, this paper will add to the body of literature on the professional image of librarians.

scholarly journals The Information Seeking and Communication Model

2015 ◽  
Vol 71 (5) ◽  
pp. 1043-1069 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrew Robson ◽  
Lyn Robinson
Keyword(s):  
Information Seeking ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Pharmaceutical Companies ◽  
Communication Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Behaviour ◽  
Practical Usefulness ◽  
Information Providers

Purpose – This study investigated the application in the field of healthcare of a recently developed model of information seeking and communication. The purpose of this paper is to test the model’s validity and to identify insights that it may provide. Design/methodology/approach – To investigate the model’s application to information users, the findings from published literature on physicians’ information behaviour were studied. To investigate its application to information providers, interviews were carried out with staff working for the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and with employees of pharmaceutical companies. The findings were examined using deductive content analysis. Findings – The findings endorse the validity of the model, with minor modifications. The model provides practical insights into the behaviour of both users and providers of information and the factors that influence them. It can be used to identify ways in which information behaviour may be positively modified in both finding and communicating healthcare information. Originality/value – This research demonstrates the practical value of a new model of information behaviour which was developed using insights from earlier models. In doing so it answers criticisms that research in library and information science often fails to build on previous research and that it has little practical usefulness.

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