Towards structure–agency integrative theories for information access disparity

2019 ◽  
Vol 75 (3) ◽  
pp. 458-477 ◽  
Author(s):  
Liangzhi Yu
Keyword(s):  
Information Science ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Information Access ◽  
Theoretical Background ◽  
Integrative Approach ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Bridge Structure ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Structure And Agency

PurposeBased on the assumption that information access disparity is a highly complex phenomenon demanding integrative explications that heed both structure and agency, the purpose of this paper is to outline the theoretical background against which endeavours to develop such explanations can be planned.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on a close reading of: existing explanations of information access disparity; research of other library and information science (LIS) issues that have demonstrated conscious attempts to bridge structure and agency; and cross-disciplinary integrative theories that have served as foundations for LIS research. Explanatory power of the first and applicability of the latter two are critically assessed; lessons for future research are drawn.FindingsThe examination shows that efforts to develop integrative theories for information access disparity are emerging but remain indistinct; integrative frameworks for other LIS phenomena exist but are developed primarily by adopting concepts from cross-disciplinary theories and are, therefore, both enabled and constrained by them. It also shows that cross-disciplinary integrative theories contribute to LIS by exporting the general integrative theorising approach and a range of specific concepts but, owing to their limitations in dealing with information-specific issues, their adequacy for explaining information access disparity cannot be assumed.Originality/valueThe study demonstrates that a promising way forward for developing integrative theories of information access disparity is to follow the general integrative approach, but to ground related concepts and propositions in empirical data alone, i.e., to begin the journey of integrative theorising theory-free.

scholarly journals The concept of neutrality: a new approach

2019 ◽  
Vol 76 (1) ◽  
pp. 333-353 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephen Macdonald ◽  
Briony Birdi
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Social Institutions ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
New Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Normative Framework ◽  
Contextual Awareness

Purpose Neutrality is a much debated value in library and information science (LIS). The “neutrality debate” is characterised by opinionated discussions in contrasting contexts. The purpose of this paper is to fill a gap in the literature by bringing these conceptions together holistically, with potential to deepen understanding of LIS neutrality. Design/methodology/approach First, a literature review identified conceptions of neutrality reported in the LIS literature. Second, seven phenomenographic interviews with LIS professionals were conducted across three professional sectors. To maximise variation, each sector comprised at least one interview with a professional of five or fewer years’ experience and one with ten or more years’ experience. Third, conceptions from the literature and interviews were compared for similarities and disparities. Findings In four conceptions, each were found in the literature and interviews. In the literature, these were labelled: “favourable”, “tacit value”, “social institutions” and “value-laden profession”, whilst in interviews they were labelled: “core value”, “subservient”, “ambivalent”, and “hidden values”. The study’s main finding notes the “ambivalent” conception in interviews is not captured by a largely polarised literature, which oversimplifies neutrality’s complexity. To accommodate this complexity, it is suggested that future research should look to reconcile perceptions from either side of the “neutral non-neutral divide” through an inclusive normative framework. Originality/value This study’s value lies in its descriptive methodology, which brings LIS neutrality together in a holistic framework. This framework brings a contextual awareness to LIS neutrality lacking in previous research. This awareness has the potential to change the tone of the LIS neutrality debate.

scholarly journals Time and temporality in library and information science

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jutta Haider ◽  
Veronica Johansson ◽  
Björn Hammarfelt
Keyword(s):  
Information Science ◽  
Temporal Dynamics ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Science Field ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Theoretical Approaches ◽  
Time Regime ◽  
Information Work ◽  
Late Modern

PurposeThe article introduces selected theoretical approaches to time and temporality relevant to the field of library and information science, and it briefly introduces the papers gathered in this special issue. A number of issues that could potentially be followed in future research are presented.Design/methodology/approachThe authors review a selection of theoretical and empirical approaches to the study of time that originate in or are of particular relevance to library and information science. Four main themes are identified: (1) information as object in temporal perspectives; (2) time and information as tools of power and control; (3) time in society; and (4) experiencing and practicing time.FindingsThe paper advocates a thorough engagement with how time and temporality shape notions of information more broadly. This includes, for example, paying attention to how various dimensions of the late-modern time regime of acceleration feed into the ways in which information is operationalised, how information work is commodified, and how hierarchies of information are established; paying attention to the changing temporal dynamics that networked information systems imply for our understanding of documents or of memory institutions; or how external events such as social and natural crises quickly alter modes, speed, and forms of data production and use, in areas as diverse as information practices, policy, management, representation, and organisation, amongst others.Originality/valueBy foregrounding temporal perspectives in library and information science, the authors advocate dialogue with important perspectives on time that come from other fields. Rather than just including such perspectives in library and information science, however, the authors find that the focus on information and documents that the library and information science field contributes has great potential to advance the understanding of how notions and experiences of time shape late-modern societies and individuals.

Differences between LIS and non-LIS undergraduates’ conceptions of smart libraries: a drawing analysis approach

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yun-Fang Tu ◽  
Gwo-Jen Hwang ◽  
Shu-Yen Chen ◽  
Chiulin Lai ◽  
Chuan-Miao Chen
Keyword(s):  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Preliminary Evidence ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Digital Resources ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Information Appliances ◽  
Technology Services ◽  
Access To Books

Purpose This study aims to compare similarities and differences in library and information science (LIS) and non-LIS undergraduates’ conceptions and perceptions of smart libraries via drawing analysis. Design/methodology/approach In this study, a total of 156 undergraduate students described their perceptions of smart libraries as drawings and textual descriptions. A modified coding scheme with 8 categories and 51 subcategories was used to analyse the undergraduate students’ drawings. Findings Most of the undergraduate students’ conceptions of smart libraries still involve self-checkout and learning/reading, focusing on information appliances, technical services, activities and objects. The differences are that the LIS undergraduates’ drawings showed smart libraries with robots, interactive book borrowing with technology tools, intelligent services, location-aware services or mobile applications, whereas non-LIS undergraduates presented smart libraries as readers (learners), other activities and no smart technology services. LIS undergraduates focused on providing patron services with technologies. Non-LIS undergraduates were more likely to draw a complex space with immediate access to books or digital resources, quiet reading and the freedom to engage in library activities. Originality/value The results provide a baseline for future research on the topic and provide preliminary evidence of using the methods to discern LIS and non-LIS undergraduates’ conceptions of smart libraries.

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.

Women Voters' Access to Political Information during the 2013 Kenyan General Election in Kakamega County

Mousaion ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 36 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas Ibrahim Okinda
Keyword(s):  
Information Seeking ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Information Access ◽  
General Election ◽  
Political Information ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Related Information ◽  
Close Proximity ◽  
Descriptive Survey

Information is considered an important resource for women’s political participation. However, little is known about women’s access to election-related information in Kenya.  Anchored on the uses and gratifications theory (UGT), this research examined women voters’ access to political information during the 2013 Kenyan general election in Kakamega County. This study adopted a descriptive survey in which data was collected from 372 women voters using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The results revealed that women voters mainly accessed political information via radio and interpersonal sources comprising family members and friends as they were in close proximity with them. Major constraints to women’s political information access were the following: inadequate and expensive media devices and power supply, limited time, and low education and interest in seeking political information. This paper provides insight into women’s access to various sources of political information and this is essential in identifying appropriate channels for reaching out to them in counties in Kenya. Women voters’ low levels of education and Media and Information Literacy (MIL) have implications for information providers. They should use both mediated and non-mediated sources of political information, and offer information services and MIL programmes tailored to women. This study provides directions for future research on political information seeking behaviour within the discipline of library and information science (LIS) by incorporating UGT from media studies.

Second national accessibility survey: librarians, patrons, and disabilities

2015 ◽  
Vol 116 (9/10) ◽  
pp. 503-516 ◽  
Author(s):  
Laurie J Bonnici ◽  
Stephanie L. Maatta ◽  
Jackie Brodsky ◽  
Jennifer Elaine Steele
Keyword(s):  
Strategic Alliances ◽  
Information Technologies ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Universal Access ◽  
Information Access ◽  
Disabled Persons ◽  
Social Capital Theory ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Persons With Disabilities ◽  
Content Type

Purpose – This study aims to determine the state of library services to people with disabilities in the USA since the last study conducted in 2008. Social capital theory provides a lens to reconceptualize equal access in a global context, and to offer insights on the effects of new information technologies for re-envisioning universal access. Strategic alliances with education and human–computer interaction researchers are proposed. Design/methodology/approach – Librarians serving the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS/BPH) were surveyed. Questions addressed clientele, services, technologies, career opportunities, leadership, library and information science (LIS) education and librarian demographics. Findings – Human resources, leadership, outreach and out-of-the-box solutions applying mainstream technologies are identified as major challenges to the future of information access for disabled persons through the NLS/BPH system. Research limitations/implications – The survey was limited to librarians serving the NLS/BPH. A similar survey distributed in other nations could expand the possibilities of future research and collaboration. Practical implications – Information from this survey can aid information professionals planning delivery of information services to disabled patrons. Suggestions for shifting from special access to universal access philosophy ensure access for all. Results can also help LIS educators prepare graduates to serve an aging population that will challenge standard methods of information access and services. Originality/value – This study provides the current perspective of services to persons with disabilities compared to findings by the researchers in 2008. Since the first survey in 2008, the service has been updated through a national effort of digitization. This study is the first comparative study of the NLS.

Opportunities for academic smart libraries in the Caribbean

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Adrian St. Patrick Duncan
Keyword(s):  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Information Access ◽  
The Body ◽  
Caribbean Region ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Technological Advancement ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Services Delivery ◽  
The Caribbean

Purpose The purpose of this paper hinged on the concept of smart libraries and their development for the furtherance of information access, dissemination and information resources and services delivery in Caribbean libraries. Design/methodology/approach To conduct this research, the literature of smart libraries and technologically driven and their application in libraries were reviewed by examining existing literature on information and communication technologies and technology in libraries. Findings The literature highlighted that this technological advancement is not yet fully on stream in academic libraries of the Caribbean owing to the lack of financial, technological and organizational resources. It further outlined that certain aspects of library automation are fostered through the inclusion of technology. Research limitations/implications The limitation of this study is that only academic libraries of the Caribbean region were assessed. Other regions should be explored in future research. Originality/value The concept of smart libraries is an emerging issue with limited scope for scrutiny; a systematic and extensive review of recent research on smart in libraries is unavailable. This paper presents an overview of smart libraries or technologically driven libraries, its findings for potential research opportunities and development for academic libraries. In addition, it will build on the body of knowledge that is presently non-existent on smart libraries in the Caribbean.

Scientific literacy, librarians and information literacy in the post-truth era

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Donna Ellen Frederick
Keyword(s):  
Climate Change ◽  
Scientific Literacy ◽  
Information Needs ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Cost Information ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Science Degree ◽  
Self Image ◽  
Professional Self

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to challenge librarians to reconceptualize their professional self-image and practice so that it more closely aligns with the information science discipline that is part of the Masters of Library and Information Science degree. Design/methodology/approach This column is primarily theoretical and philosophical but also draws on the author’s observations of trends and patterns in both librarianship and changes in information needs in recent years. Findings Urgent, high-cost information needs created by COVID-19 and climate change coexist in a reality where technological change has made traditional librarian roles and functions less critical. By developing their information science skills and strengthening their professional identity as information scientists, librarians have the opportunity to address the urgent information needs of the day while remaining highly relevant professionals. Practical implications Librarians will need to strengthen their science-related skills and knowledge and begin to promote themselves as information scientists. Social implications Librarians are in a position to make a meaningful contribution to two of the most pressing challenges of the day, climate change and dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. Originality/value This paper is relevant to all librarians at any stage of their career. It will help them to reflect on both their skillset and career path and to make any needed adjustments so that they can remain relevant in a volatile and demanding information environment.

Determinants of the firm performance of returnee entrepreneurs in Somalia: the effects of external environmental conditions

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohamed-Abdullahi Mohamed ◽  
Asmat-Nizam Abdul-Talib ◽  
AfifahAlwani Ramlee
Keyword(s):  
Firm Performance ◽  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Empirical Studies ◽  
Theoretical Background ◽  
Future Research ◽  
African Countries ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Somali Diaspora ◽  
Post Conflict ◽  
Perceived Environmental Uncertainty

Purpose This study aims to examine the role of returning Somali diaspora entrepreneurs on firm performance and their perceived environmental obstacles. Design/methodology/approach The paper draws on a broad literature review and covers a theoretical background to develop a research framework. It presents several propositions to be empirically tested to determine the influence of returnee entrepreneurs’ success and the challenges they face in the process. Findings The paper offers an overview of how Somali diaspora returnee entrepreneurs can use their resources to succeed in their business and the possible environmental uncertainties that could hinder them. The study highlights some under-researched areas and provides future research directions. Research limitations/implications A research investigation is needed to test the proposed conceptual framework empirically. Further research is also recommended to use other predictors when investigating the perceived environmental uncertainty faced by returnee entrepreneurs. Practical implications In the diaspora entrepreneurship literature, returnee entrepreneurs in post-conflict African countries did not get enough attention. Hence, the study will contribute theoretically to the literature. Originality/value The paper provides a conceptual framework that will help understand returnee entrepreneurs in post-conflict states in Africa, paving the way for empirical studies on the topic.

A secondary analysis of the library profession’s self-reported competence and comfort in working with patrons with disabilities

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
JJ Pionke
Keyword(s):  
Graduate School ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Secondary Analysis ◽  
Assistive Technologies ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Published Data ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Current State ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
The Continuum

PurposeThis article presents a secondary analysis of previously published data in order to drive discussion of the library profession’s current state of preparedness in working with patrons with disabilities.Design/methodology/approachThis article used a secondary analysis of survey data that have been previously published to determine what the continuum of data said about the current state of preparedness in the profession when working with people with disabilities.FindingsA comparison of the data from both surveys reveals that there are not only gaps in library graduate school education related to disability and accessibility but also that those gaps are not being addressed through professional development and staff training after students enter the workforce.Research limitations/implicationsThis was a secondary analysis of data, so no new data could be added. There was also no representation from library graduate school administration.Practical implicationsAn awareness is built that there needs to be more instruction for library graduate students and library employees on topics related to disability, accessibility and assistive technologies.Originality/valueThe topic has never been studied before in this kind of continuum of data, and the use of the secondary analysis of data with the library and information science profession is exceedingly rare.

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