From Divergence to Convergence in Hungarian Librarianship: Towards a Common Digital Platform

Libri ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 68 (4) ◽  
pp. 315-329
Author(s):  
Péter Kiszl ◽  
Rita Radó ◽  
Miklós Péter Hubay
Keyword(s):  
Information Systems ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Professional Activities ◽  
Community Organisation ◽  
Digital Development ◽  
Library Network ◽  
Development Plans

Abstract Hungarian librarianship and related research are sadly underrepresented in international literature. With this article we intend to fill this gap and inform the experts of library and information science of some of the most recent Hungarian innovations. After showcasing the international professional connections of Hungarian librarianship, we present the structure of the Hungarian public library network and its mode of operation. We also analyse current and future main digital development plans, projects and the most important related professional activities of Hungarian libraries. Emphasis is placed on information systems promoting cooperation between libraries and the issues of the National Library System Project, which is a large-scale modernisation programme carried out between 2016 and 2018, designed to develop the IT system of the National Széchényi Library. After introducing the information systems of academic and specialised libraries and the access models of scientific databases provided by multinational and Hungarian content services, we also discuss the endeavours of public libraries aiming for multifunctionality and community organisation. The paper ends by providing insights into how the outcomes of the recent initiatives have been fed back into Hungarian LIS training courses offered in higher education.

Democracy, digitisation and public libraries

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Bo Skøtt
Keyword(s):  
Digital Media ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
National Library ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Staff Members ◽  
Media Types

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate what democratic challenges the digitisation of the public libraries in Denmark has entailed. Using the concepts from a national library professional strategy from 2012, an analysis of 9 librarians’ experiences with digital dissemination in practice is conducted. Design/methodology/approach The paper is a part of a larger research project called “If digitisation is the answer, then what was the question?”. This sub study builds on the semi-structured interviews with library staff members, case-descriptions of two central providers of digital public library materials, as well as literature studies of missions, vision and strategies from different public library policy institutions. To frame the study, a literature review has been conducted. Findings The author detects the presence of several incompatible conditions in digital dissemination. These conditions are predominantly of an organisational nature, potentially containing major consequences for citizens’ free and equal access to information, knowledge and culture. Among other things, the Danish public libraries risk substantiating an already existing and problematic polarisation between technologically capable and incapacitated groups of people. Originality/value The digital transformation of society has only just begun. Therefore, it is important to examine the consequences of the transition to digital media types for central cultural institution such as the public libraries. The present study is an early and minor contribution to the illumination of a process requiring many more and large-scale studies.

Public Libraries in Ireland II. Public libraries and the visual arts today

2000 ◽  
Vol 25 (3) ◽  
pp. 41-44
Author(s):  
Deirdre Ellis-King ◽  
Marjory Sliney
Keyword(s):  
Visual Arts ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Cultural Institutions ◽  
Library Service ◽  
The Public ◽  
Library Network ◽  
The Many

In recent years increased interest in the visual arts has led public libraries to increase stock to support this area, to organise exhibitions and to make connections with other arts-related bodies. The recognised extent, quality and value of the public library network lie both in its service to users and in good-quality and centrally located buildings. Imaginative links have been made between the library service and other cultural institutions in Ireland and elsewhere in Europe, particularly in the many thinly populated areas of the country which could otherwise be isolated from the cultural facilities available in the larger conurbations.

scholarly journals Management of acceptable use of computing facilities in the public library: avoiding a panoptic gaze?

2015 ◽  
Vol 71 (3) ◽  
pp. 572-590 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christine Gallagher ◽  
David McMenemy ◽  
Alan Poulter
Keyword(s):  
Discourse Analysis ◽  
Qualitative Methodology ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Geographic Region ◽  
Power Relationships ◽  
Local Authorities ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Key Features

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the language utilised in Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) in Scottish public libraries. Through this examination the paper aims to ascertain if power relationships between local authorities, public libraries and users are apparent. Finally, the paper aims to determine if Foucault’s theory of panopticism is relevant to public libraries in this context. Design/methodology/approach – The paper analyses all 32 of the AUPs used in Scottish public libraries, applying a Foucaldian discourse analysis to the content of the policies. Findings – By thorough examination of the literature the researchers were able to extract ten key features that ought to appear in an AUP. It was found that only one of 32 local authorities included information relating to all of these features. It was also found that one local authority contained as few as four of these key features. The median number of features included in the policies was seven. It was also found that power relationships are evident and can be perceived throughout the AUPs. By identifying the key Foucauldian themes of discipline, surveillance, knowledge, and power and resistance throughout the AUPs, the researchers were able to analyse and identify the existence of power relationships and consider the implications these could have on users and on the library services being provided. Research limitations/implications – The study examines one geographic region, and is only indicative of the region concerned. In addition the usage of the qualitative methodology utilised could be deemed to have elements of subjectivity. Practical implications – The study would be of benefit to researchers and professionals interested in issues around AUPs and surveillance of library users. Originality/value – The use of Foucaldian discourse analysis is limited in library and information science research, and this study helps fill this gap. It is the first study the researchers have found that critically examines a range of public library AUPs.

scholarly journals FORMATION OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARY MODEL IN THE CONDITIONS OF UNITED TERRITORIAL COMMUNITIES OF THE SOUTH OF UKRAINE

2021 ◽  
pp. 12-20
Author(s):  
Irina Burmis
Keyword(s):  
Information Technologies ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Library Services ◽  
The South ◽  
The Public ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Library Network ◽  
Library Staff ◽  
Comprehensive Study

Purpose of the article. The analysis of the specificities of formation of the public library model in the conditions of creation of the united territorial communities (UTC) of the South of Ukraine. The methodology of the research is based on the complex of general methods (analysis, synthesis, generalization, and modeling) and approaches (system, socio-communicative, modernization). The scientific novelty of the work is to conducta comprehensive study of the possibility of choosing libraries of Odesa, Kherson, and Mykolayiv a certain profile and their own path of development in the formation of UTC as centers of legal and regional information in the form of centers of public initiatives, socio-communication platforms, multimedia mobile libraries or multicultural centers. Conclusions. Suggestions that are based on the comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed models of reforming the library network are made regarding the development of the optimal model of functioning of public libraries in the South of Ukraine, which provides for the following important elements. Firstly, automation, that is based on the development and implementation of the newest information technologies, which, in turn, activates the material and technical base modernization, organization structure, and the library staff training; providing new services or products. Secondly, renovating the activity and staff management methods. Thirdly, providing stable financing to UTC possibilities, applying marketing and advertising technologies of library activity popularization according to the UTC functioning. Next, saving the valuable stuff resource and technologies in library staff’ work. Then, organizing the UTC public library work as the informative intelligent center, cultural and leisure space, that is discovered on the Chornomorska library example. Finally, the introduction of non-stationary library services on the basis of the Law of Ukraine«On territorial communities’ cooperation». Key words: public libraries, the South of Ukraine, united territorial communities (UTC), modernization,model, profiling.

scholarly journals Homeless Patrons Utilize the Library for More than Shelter but Public Library Services Are Not Designed with Them in Mind

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (4) ◽  
pp. 174-175
Author(s):  
Samantha J. Kaplan
Keyword(s):  
Information Seeking ◽  
Information Needs ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Phenomenological Study ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Homeless People ◽  
Science Research ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Convenience Sample

A Review of: Dowdell, L., & Liew, C. L. (2019). More than a shelter: Public libraries and the information needs of people experiencing homelessness. Library & Information Science Research, 41(4), 100984. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lisr.2019.100984 Abstract Objective – The study sought to examine the information seeking behavior of homeless patrons and how public libraries meet the needs of homeless patrons. Design – Qualitative phenomenological study. Setting – Public libraries in New Zealand. Subjects – Four homeless patrons who were current library patrons and seven public library workers (senior managers and two front line workers). Methods – Purposive convenience sample of homeless patrons and library workers to participate in face-to-face, semi-structured interviews. The study utilized Creswell's four-step data analysis spiral to produce a synthesis. Main Results – Homeless patrons utilize public libraries for far more than daytime shelter, patronizing the collections, and accessing services. The participating libraries did not have existing policies, practices, services, or staff designed for the needs and wants of homeless people, however, current offerings largely met the needs of homeless patrons. Conclusion – Homeless people use public libraries much like non-homeless patrons and public libraries could develop specialized offerings for them, though they must take care to do so in a way that does not further marginalize this group. Additional research is needed to understand why some homeless people do not utilize the libraries. 

scholarly journals ‘The challenge now is for us to remain relevant’: Australian public libraries and the COVID-19 crisis

IFLA Journal ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 034003522110541
Author(s):  
Simon Wakeling ◽  
Jane Garner ◽  
Philip Hider ◽  
Hamid Jamali ◽  
Jessie Lymn ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Free Text ◽  
Open Questions ◽  
The World ◽  
Large Scale Survey ◽  
Almost All ◽  
Delivery Models

The COVID-19 crisis has had a significant impact on public libraries around the world. In Australia, almost all public libraries experienced some period of building closure, requiring libraries to adapt their services and delivery models. This article reports findings from a large-scale survey of public library managers in Australia, which was conducted in August 2020. In particular, it presents the results of a thematic analysis of the participants’ free-text responses to open questions asked as part of the survey. This analysis reveals important insights relating to responses to library closures, staffing issues, new and expanded services and programmes, relationships with parent bodies, and the role of public libraries during the crisis and beyond. While public libraries are perceived by managers to have been agile and adaptable, and to have utilised technology effectively, the findings clearly demonstrate the value to users of library buildings, with important consequences for understanding the role of public libraries.

Inviting and/or inclusive: A study of the Flemish public library sector

IFLA Journal ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 034003522110175
Author(s):  
Dennis Mathysen ◽  
Ignace Glorieux
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Regression Analyses ◽  
The Public ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Gender Education ◽  
Education Levels ◽  
Lower Education ◽  
Positive Effect

Comparing the results of two large-scale user surveys conducted in Flanders in 2004 and 2018 shows that the Flemish public library sector has successfully adapted to challenging circumstances, such as increasing budgetary stringency and the pervasive digitalization of society. However, it is also clear that attendance numbers have decreased in Flemish public libraries in the last two decades, especially among visitors with lower education levels, which is cause for concern. In this article, the authors present an overview of exploratory analyses that try to ascertain how many of the public libraries that took part in their study were considered to be significantly more (or less) ‘inviting’ by specific subgroups (age, gender, education level, etc.) of the visiting public. Moreover, regression analyses are presented, showing which library characteristics have a positive effect on the attendance of two under-represented groups among Flemish library users: men and the lower educated.

scholarly journals Convite à emancipação à luz da mediação da informação makerspace e inovações no contexto da biblioteca pública

2021 ◽  
pp. 71-85
Author(s):  
Mariana Rodrigues Gomes de Mello ◽  
Everton da Silva Camillo ◽  
Leda Maria Araújo ◽  
Fabiana Sala ◽  
Rosemari Pereira dos Santos Alves
Keyword(s):  
Information Science ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Research Problem ◽  
Social Dimension ◽  
Library And Information Science ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
The Public ◽  
The Social ◽  
Number Of Publications

The public library brings with itself the social dimension, which creates a space for training and social change. However, society requires innovations and libraries are part of this context. Thus, this work is justified by understanding the role that public libraries have for society. It lacks spaces for access to innovative technologies and information mediation actions. To make the research feasible, the research problem consists on the following question: to what extent do the investigations on public libraries aim at increasing innovation and makerspaces to reinforce their social function? Then, the aim of this study is to ascertain the number of publications in scientific journals that relate innovation and the makerspace in the emancipatory context of public libraries. Methodologically, it was drawn a qualitative and quantitative exploratory research. An exploratory search was carried out in databases considering papers pusblished by authors dealing with the themes, as well as in the abstracts of papers in journals and proceedings in the databases Library and Information Science Abstracts (LISA) and the Base de Dados Referenciais de Artigos de Periódicos em Ciência da Informação (BRAPCI). Findings reveal that it lacks the relationship between public libraries, makerspace and information mediation, concomitantly, in investigations in the area of Information Science between the years 2009 and 2019.

scholarly journals The Economic Value of Book Loans – The Case of the Municipal Library of Prague

Libri ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 66 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jan Stejskal ◽  
Petr Hájek ◽  
Tomas Rehak
Keyword(s):  
Information Science ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Contingent Valuation Method ◽  
Economic Value ◽  
Perceived Value ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Active Management ◽  
The Public ◽  
Valuation Method ◽  
Methodological Bias

AbstractIn recent years, the value of public library services has tended to be evaluated using the contingent valuation method. This is able to reveal readers’ hidden preferences. However, it appears that the total value of a public library as expressed by one number leads to a methodological bias related to the difficulty of assessing the value of one standard book loan. Moreover, this approach does not reflect the needs of public libraries’ management. Therefore, this study focuses on a detailed investigation of the most important public library service, book loans. For this purpose, we have employed statistical models to identify the significant determinants of willingness to pay (WTP) for book loans and WTP for purchasing books, respectively. The results suggest that loan services have the greatest perceived value for students, people who are economically active. Management who are interested in increasing the success of their institution across society must also know the perceived value of individual books so that they can adjust their library's acquisition policy. It was found that novels had the highest perceived value, followed by educational literature in the fields of economics and education as well as information science. This entirely new analytical method of measuring WTP for public services raises many new implications that could change the strategies of individual libraries – as well as the public policy strategies of donors and library ownership.

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