scholarly journals The Viewpoint of Library Directors on the Introduction of E-book Services in Japanese Public Libraries

10.9776/14282 ◽  
2014 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Public Libraries ◽  
Library Directors

Democratic librarianship in the Nordic model

2022 ◽  
pp. 096100062110696
Author(s):  
Masanori Koizumi ◽  
Håkon Larsen
Keyword(s):  
Political Parties ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Freedom Of Speech ◽  
Nordic Countries ◽  
Book Clubs ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Democratic Community ◽  
Managerial Decisions

The purpose of this research is to examine the evolving democratic librarianship and its robust connection to the Nordic societal model. Through an analysis of libraries in Oslo, Tromsø, Stockholm, Aarhus and Helsinki, as well as recent changes in library laws, we have analysed contemporary democratic librarianship in the Nordic countries through four essential factors: (1) citizens in democratic activities within libraries, (2) library managerial decisions, (3) activities of political parties within public libraries and (4) library laws. Through the analysis, we show that this robust and unique ecosystem is supported by (1) discussions at book clubs and shared readings events connected to common societal concerns, (2) criteria of library directors and managers, such as neutrality, freedom of speech and clauses of the Library Act, (3) perception of politicians regarding public libraries as the centre of the democratic community and (4) the Library Acts critically impacting democratic librarianship.

The governance and management of public library services in Nigeria

2018 ◽  
Vol 39 (6-7) ◽  
pp. 389-401
Author(s):  
Abdulsalam Abiodun Salman ◽  
Janneke Mostert ◽  
Tinashe Mugwisi
Keyword(s):  
Service Delivery ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Library Administration ◽  
Library Users ◽  
Public Library Users ◽  
Academic Qualifications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the managerial and governance issues that impact on service delivery in public libraries in Nigeria. Within many countries this seems to be a challenge often resulting in an ineffective service delivery resulting in underutilisation thereof. This study was conducted among administrators and managers of public libraries in Nigeria to establish the current status quo concerning governance and management issues impacting on service delivery. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative study using interviews was used to illicit data from three permanent secretaries, six public library directors, and six heads of rural community libraries, purposively selected for the study. Findings The findings show that variables such as relevant academic qualifications, years of experience, and designation of the administrators and managers of public libraries affect service delivery. A huge dependency on government bodies for decision making and funding was established. Impediments to good management of the libraries were found to be inadequate funding; lack of involvement of stakeholders in public library administration; and inappropriate public library legislation. Practical implications The study recommends the promulgation of a public library-specific act in order to regulate the administration and management of this public unit, involve stakeholders in public library administration, as well as the provision of alternative forms of funding in order to alleviate the dependence on governmental budgets. Originality/value With very little research available on these issues in Nigeria, this paper will create awareness among all stakeholders of specific governance and managerial issues impacting on effective service delivery to public library users so that it can be addressed.

Public libraries: roles in Big Data

2018 ◽  
Vol 36 (1) ◽  
pp. 133-145 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ming Zhan ◽  
Gunilla Widén
Keyword(s):  
Big Data ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Research Field ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Service Oriented ◽  
Research Gap ◽  
Method Approach ◽  
Clear Support

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the roles of public libraries in the context of Big Data. Design/methodology/approach A mixed method approach was used and had two main data collection phases. A survey of public libraries was used to generate an overview of which professional roles connect public libraries with Big Data. Eight roles were identified, namely, educator, marketer, data organiser, data container, advocator, advisor, developer and organisation server. Semi-structured interviews with library directors and managers were then conducted to gain a deeper understanding of these roles and how they connect to the library’s overall functions. Findings Results of the survey indicated that librarians lack a proper comprehension of and a pragmatic application of Big Data. Their opinions on the eight roles are slightly stronger than neutral. However, they do not demonstrate any strong agreement on these eight roles. In the interviews, the eight roles attained more clear support and are classified into two groups: service-oriented and system-oriented roles. Originality/value As an emerging research field, Big Data is not widely discussed in the library context, especially in public libraries. Therefore, this study fills a research gap between public libraries and Big Data. In addition, Big Data in public libraries could be well managed and readily approached by citizens in undertaking such roles, which entails that public libraries will eventually benefit from the Big Data era.

scholarly journals Peran Perpustakaan Umum Kota Depok pada era teknologi digital

2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (2) ◽  
pp. 137
Author(s):  
Margareta Aulia Rachman ◽  
Yeni Budi Rachman
Keyword(s):  
Public Space ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Information Culture ◽  
Digital Era ◽  
The People ◽  
Main Challenge ◽  
Community Issues

Introduction. The purpose of this study is to identify the roles of digital technology in the Depok City Public Library. The main challenge of the digital community is the increasing digital divide and the weakening of the identity of local communities which can result in low social participation and involvement in community issues. This study focuses on the characteristics of the people of Depok City to assess the role of public libraries that have the potential to be public spaces and places for social and physical meetings in the digital era.Data Collection Methods. This was a qualitative research with  interviews involving librarians, library directors and  users.Data Analysis. The data was analyzed by involving the process of data reduction, interpretation, and conclusion. The research setting at the chosen was the Depok City Public Library, close to the Capital of Indonesia.Results and Discussion. The results showed that Depok City public library of has several roles in the field of education, information, culture and recreation. These roles can be increased by involving  technology  as a means of library promotion.Conclusion and recommendations. The space and infrastructure in the library can be used optimally for various activities in order to enhance the role of the library as a public space and places for social and physical meetings in the digital era.

scholarly journals Book Review: 40+ New Revenue Sources for Libraries and Nonprofits

2017 ◽  
Vol 56 (4) ◽  
pp. 296
Author(s):  
Joshua Jordan
Keyword(s):  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Broadcasting ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Revenue Sources ◽  
The Future ◽  
Revenue Streams ◽  
The Many

Drawing on the many similarities between public broadcasting and public libraries, 40+ New Revenue Sources for Libraries and Nonprofits is a compelling volume designed to help libraries stay afloat despite dwindling funding. Appropriate for library directors, development specialists, branch managers, and librarians tasked with securing funding, Rossman’s work advocates that libraries should not merely increase their revenue streams, but diversify their income, to remain sustainable well into the future.

scholarly journals Leadership and innovation within a complex adaptive system: Public libraries

2018 ◽  
Vol 52 (2) ◽  
pp. 451-463 ◽  
Author(s):  
Darin Freeburg
Keyword(s):  
Complex Adaptive Systems ◽  
Adaptive Systems ◽  
Adaptive System ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Complex Adaptive System ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Leadership And Management ◽  
Complex Adaptive ◽  
Leadership Approaches

Viewing public libraries as Complex Adaptive Systems, the current study analyzed leadership within these systems in terms of complexity and innovation. This included a leader’s capacity for ambiguity and emergence, features of leadership in different contexts, and perceptions of success and innovation. From a list of current public library directors and managers, 15 participants completed a 30-minute phone interview that followed a semi-structured guide. By analyzing the intersection of complexity of approach with complexity of context, eight leadership approaches were uncovered through coding. Results suggest that most participants engaged with most of the leadership approaches at some point. In addition, most of these approaches were seen as successful and innovative—though in different ways. Findings suggest that traditional hardline distinctions between leadership and management—or innovative and non-innovative—are no longer useful. This study is an important contribution to the study of public library leadership, as it applies theories of complexity to both approach and context.

Influences on New Jersey public library budget requests

2016 ◽  
Vol 29 (2) ◽  
pp. 86-96 ◽  
Author(s):  
Edith K. Beckett
Keyword(s):  
New Jersey ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Research Literature ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Funding Decision ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Library Funding

Purpose This research study aims to examine influences on the public library funding decision from the perspectives of New Jersey mayors and public library directors. Design/methodology/approach Content analysis was used to explore statements of 84 public library directors and 45 mayors about what was most/least effective in a recent library budget request. Findings Although they may differ on the relative importance of a specific concept, the public library directors and mayors in this study have high levels of agreement about what information is important in the budget decision process. Research limitations/implications The primary limitations of the findings of this study stem from the reliability of self-reported data and the low response rates. While the researcher believes that the findings and conclusions are valid for the survey respondents, it is less certain that they are valid for all public libraries in New Jersey, and it is not recommended that the conclusions be extended to public libraries outside of the state which differ in state mandates and other circumstances. Practical implications Understanding more about the factors that can influence library funding decisions provides insight into the very complex public library funding process and may help public library directors and mayors engage in mutually satisfactory budget negotiations. Originality/value This study contributes to the Library and Information Science research literature on library budgets by examining influences on the public library funding decision, specifically adding the perspectives of mayors and public library directors on a recent budget cycle.

What threatens public libraries? The viewpoints of library directors in Sweden

2014 ◽  
Vol 115 (9/10) ◽  
pp. 426-437 ◽  
Author(s):  
Katarina Michnik
Keyword(s):  
Public Libraries ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Western Society ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Library Research ◽  
Local Decision ◽  
Local Decision Makers

Purpose – This article aims to identify threats perceived by Swedish public library directors as the most prominent. Design/methodology/approach – A web questionnaire was sent to public library directors in all of the Swedish municipalities. The data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Findings – The findings reveal that the main threat was considered to be the tension between the current activities of the public library and the expectations of the public, or of local decision makers. One reason for the lack of correspondence between activities and expectations is that public library managers regard the expectations on the public library as unrealistic. Another reason is that lack of resources prevent public library staff from meeting many of these expectations. Public libraries are thus prevented by both ideological and practical barriers in fulfilling expectations. Originality/value – A central issue in current public library research concerns how change in Western society affects public libraries. Many of these studies are either theoretical or based on interviews with politicians. Few researchers investigate how public library directors perceive the situation of public libraries today. Therefore, this article identifies perceptions made by public library directors.

Servant leadership theory in practice: North America’s leading public libraries

2018 ◽  
Vol 52 (1) ◽  
pp. 249-270 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patrick Lo ◽  
Bradley Allard ◽  
Na Wang ◽  
Dickson K.W. Chiu
Keyword(s):  
Servant Leadership ◽  
Narrative Analysis ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
The United States ◽  
Leadership Theory ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Leadership Management ◽  
Library Leadership

This study aims to understand the current North American public library directors’ views and perceptions of successful library leadership in the 21st century. It was carried out based around a series of semi-structured interviews with 10 top-level directors of public libraries in the United States and Canada, which were published in the book World’s Leading National, Public, Monastery and Royal Library Directors: Leadership, Management: Future of Libraries. The data collection method for this study consisted of narrative analysis of the 10 interviews utilizing Robert Greenleaf’s servant leadership theory, which highlights the leader’s desire to serve others first and foremost. With the current trends of increased globalization, digitization, and cultural diversity, among others, public libraries need to have leadership focused on creating shared-power environments encouraging collaboration. Analysis of these interviews showed that many of the directors’ responses were quite similar to the concepts discussed in servant leadership. The library directors, through their leadership philosophies, benefited in boosting team cohesion, fostering collaboration, increasing creativity, and promoting morality-centered self-reflection amongst leaders, thereby helping their libraries gain and maintain competitive advantage, and improving the overall ethical culture of their organizations. The results of this study would be of interest to library professionals interested in management as well as LIS students who want to understand how library directors view successful traits of library leadership.

scholarly journals Working Together: Joint-Use Canadian Academic and Public Libraries

2014 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 5-19
Author(s):  
Rachel Sarjeant-Jenkins ◽  
Keith Walker
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Shared Vision ◽  
Research Data ◽  
Limited Information ◽  
Library Directors ◽  
Telephone Interviews ◽  
Working Together

The research purpose was to learn about existing joint use public-academic libraries in Canada including their establishment, structure, benefits, and challenges and to determine the requirements for successful partnerships. Following a literature review, a short survey was conducted to gather data on the number, location, and types of public-academic library partnerships. In-depth telephone interviews were then held with key personnel from joint use libraries to learn more about the libraries and the nature of the partnerships. The research surfaced three unique examples of joint use public-academic libraries. In addition, key requirements for successful partnerships that were posited through the literature review were supported by the research data – commitment, a shared vision, and a need that requires fulfillment. Possible limitations of the research are the initial survey’s reliance on responses from academic library directors and the survey timing. There is limited information about partnerships between Canadian public and academic libraries and no single document that brings together data on partnerships across Canada. With this study, public and academic libraries will learn of successful joint use Canadian public-academic libraries along with the key requirements for sustainable partnerships.

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