Purpose This study examines the influence of strategic marketing on the visibility of academic libraries in Nigerian universities within the context of the digital age, where users increasingly bypass traditional library systems for online alternatives. The study is grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Design/methodology/approach A descriptive survey design with a correlational approach was adopted. Data were collected through electronic questionnaires from 314 library personnel purposively selected across the North-Central, South-South and South-West geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation. Findings The findings revealed a high level of overall library visibility (x̄ = 3.10), although online visibility was only moderate. Strategic marketing practices were also adopted to a high extent (x̄ = 3.06); however, libraries tended to prioritise physical accessibility and collection development over digital access strategies. Key challenges identified included limited funding, inadequate ICT facilities, and staff resistance to innovation. The study further established a significant positive relationship between strategic marketing and library visibility (r = 0.53, p < 0.05), indicating that increased marketing efforts are associated with improved visibility. Originality/value This study provides empirical evidence on the relationship between strategic marketing and library visibility within the Nigerian academic context. It contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the need for a more integrated and digitally oriented marketing approach to enhance the relevance and visibility of academic libraries in the digital era.
Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the completeness of public library profiles on Google Maps in Bushehr Province, Iran. Design/methodology/approach The study analyzed 67 public libraries in Bushehr Province. Data was extracted from the National Library System (SAMAN) and matched with their Google Maps listings in early November 2024. Key variables included the accuracy of name, category, photos, contact number, and library web address. Findings Of the 67 public libraries studied, 46 (68.65%) were located in urban areas and 21 (31.34%) in rural areas. Most libraries (76.12%) were visible on Google Maps. Two-thirds of the libraries (33.33%) had corrected names on Google Maps, while 54.9% were correctly categorized. Approximately one-third (33.37%) had photos, but none had uploaded videos. Urban libraries generally maintained more complete profiles than their rural counterparts. The findings indicated that less than 10% of public libraries had no internet address on Google Maps. Practical implications The findings reveal significant gaps in the digital visibility of public libraries. Library administrators should focus on claiming and updating their Google Maps profiles. This will improve discoverability, accessibility, and service use, particularly in rural areas. Originality/value This study reveals the poor digital visibility of Bushehr public libraries on Google Maps. As incomplete digital profiles represent a widespread global challenge, the findings offer practical solutions applicable to other regions. This research is the first to systematically assess the completeness of online public library data in Google Maps and offers recommendations for enhancing library management practices globally.
Purpose Remote learning opportunities increased in higher education institutions (HEIs) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this study analyzed the remote learning modes used by selected library and information science (LIS) schools in KwaZulu-Natal during the pandemic.Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research approach was adopted. It involved an online survey of the target population, which comprised eight lecturers from two selected LIS schools in KwaZulu-Natal. The analyzed data was presented descriptively.Findings Most respondents preferred online (synchronous) learning modes. This is because the synchronous learning mode allows for real-time interaction, flexibility, increased immediate feedback and the ability to maintain a more traditional classroom dynamic. Other strategies, such as constant training, provision of technical resources, use of flexible learning modalities and drawing clear guidelines and frameworks, were found as necessary towards adopting appropriate learning modes during the pandemic.Research limitations/implications This study specifically focuses on lecturers who taught undergraduate students during the 2020-2021 academic year in selected LIS schools in the KwaZulu-Natal Province. The study excludes those who were not teaching undergraduates during that period.Practical implications The identification of effective remote teaching modes can enable institutions to build resilience against future disruptions and ensure continuity in education delivery. Furthermore, institutions can use the study's insights for strategic planning to develop long-term plans for integrating remote teaching into their curricula and ensure readiness for future disruptions.Social implications By identifying and implementing effective remote teaching modes, institutions can build resilience against future disruptions, ensuring continuity in education delivery. Furthermore, institutions can use the study's insights for strategic planning, developing long-term plans for integrating remote teaching into their curricula and ensuring readiness for future disruptions.Originality/value The paper's originality lies in its identification of the modes of remote learning that were successfully adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic in selected KwaZulu-Natal LIS schools. It is also reflected in the provision of effective strategies on how to support the lectures in LIS to adopt remote learning modes for effective teaching during a pandemic.
PurposeThis study aims to identify the most critical soft skills for success in both academic and professional pursuits within the field of Library and Information Science.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed a mixed-methods design to identify the various components of a Library and Information Science curriculum. Data collection involved reviewing websites of Library and Information Science programs at top universities worldwide, analyzing YouTube videos, examining published research and conducting interviews with Library and Information Science students and professionals. Additionally, the study utilized Web of Science to gather relevant data. This comprehensive approach enabled the study to delineate the various components that comprise the typical curriculum.FindingsThe Library and Information Science curricula can be categorized into three primary skill sets: soft skills, hard skills and research skills. This passage specifically addresses soft skills, which encompass the interpersonal abilities and personal qualities essential for success in the field. The study identified 18 key soft skills crucial for the professionals. These include adaptability, effective public speaking, persistence, open-mindedness and a positive attitude. Notably, these skills hold significant value regardless of the specific information role or work environment.Practical implicationsThe curriculum should no longer solely prioritize textbook knowledge. Curriculum developers must ensure students are equipped with the real-world skills necessary for success, particularly soft skills such as communication and teamwork.Originality/valueThis study is the first attempt in the country that tries to identify the most essential soft skills needed for Library and Information Science students.
PurposeThe aim of the research is to explore the role of transformational leadership (TL) in promoting service innovation (SI) in academic libraries in Bangladesh.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative survey using an online questionnaire was conducted with library professionals working in public and private university libraries in Bangladesh. The study employed a purposive sampling technique. A total of 54 responses were analyzed using thematic coding techniques, including open, axial, and selective coding.FindingsThe study found that four major components of TL - idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration - have a significant impact on service innovation in academic libraries. Leaders who act ethically and are committed to service innovation empower and encourage library staff to implement cutting-edge practices. A leader's inspirational motivation guides library personnel toward shared goals, while intellectual stimulation encourages staff to think critically and develop innovative solutions to problems. Individualized consideration from leaders helps staff perform complex and challenging tasks, strengthens interpersonal connections, and enhances the collective capacity for service innovation.Originality/valueThis is the first study to explore the relationship between transformational leadership and service innovation from the perspective of academic library professionals. A theoretical framework, acronymized as TLSIAL, was developed based on the proposed strategies and findings, providing a foundation for future research in the Library and Information Science (LIS) field.
PurposeThis study examined the role of a learning culture in sustaining library operations and enhancing knowledge retention.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed an exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach, beginning with qualitative interviews of three university librarians to inform a questionnaire for quantitative data collection from 62 professional librarians. Data were meticulously analyzed using ATLAS.ti 24 for qualitative insights and SPSS for quantitative statistics, ensuring rigorous examination and coding of responses to facilitate effective analysis.FindingsThe results showed that learning culture strategies like job shadowing, job rotation, communities of practice, mentoring and storytelling are crucial for encouraging skill development, collaboration, creativity and knowledge retention. Despite their advantages, implementation issues persist because of insufficient institutional support and policy frameworks. The study stresses the significance of encouraging professional growth and establishing an environment at work that values ongoing learning, collaboration and flexibility. It is suggested to formalize workplace learning opportunities, offer financial and non-financial incentives and bolster policy support in order to preserve library services and stop knowledge loss.Practical implicationsThis study contributes to the research on knowledge retention by providing empirical support for the establishment of a strong learning culture as a strategic approach to sustaining public university libraries amid rapid social and technological change.Originality/valueThe study represents a substantial advancement in efficient knowledge management within library practices by creatively examining the integration of learning strategies into library operations with the goal of improving knowledge retention and library sustainability.
Purpose This article highlights managers’ practices and approach to a department realignment at an academic library serving an R1 institution. It discusses planning, implementation and assessment of realignment activities conducted from January to June 2023. Design/methodology/approach This paper takes a case study approach, providing an in-depth summary of the structure and process of a department realignment organized through a functional analysis approach. All members of the department Leadership Team have contributed to this work, and the article is written from a management perspective. Findings This paper reports on the successful realignment of five programs (organizational units) within one department at an academic library. It discusses visioning, process, implementation, outcomes and reflects on the realignment’s successes and need for iterative adjustments post-realignment. Originality/value This case study provides in-depth insight into the results of a realignment at an academic library at an R1 institution. As with all organizational structures, many of the components are unique to our institution but the structure, phases and activities are broadly applicable to others.
Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the characteristics and perceptions of gamification strategies as a means to enhance library resource exploration among information science students and professionals. Design/methodology/approach The study utilized a descriptive survey research design with a two-stage sampling method. It focused on four universities in the North Central and South West regions of Nigeria, representing both private and public institutions. The population consisted of 296 Library and Information Science students, from which a purposive sample of 198 was drawn. Data collection was conducted via a self-designed questionnaire on Google Forms, achieving a 66.89% response rate suitable for analysis. The questionnaire was distributed through WhatsApp, with research assistants in each department overseeing the completion process. Findings The data highlights the essential role of academic libraries in supporting student learning and research, underscoring their impact on LIS students’ information-seeking behaviors. A strong emphasis on information technology reflects the field’s digital transformation, though limited interest in archives, preservation and public libraries points to a need for broader exposure to these areas. Most students use digital resources regularly, underscoring the importance of digital literacy, but some face barriers like awareness and usability. Additionally, a knowledge gap regarding gamification suggests potential challenges in effectively incorporating it into library services, despite its perceived benefits. Originality/value This research is original and valuable as it explores the innovative application of gamification in enhancing library resource exploration among information science students and professionals. Its findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge in library science, inform practical strategies for improving user engagement and pave the way for future research in this evolving field.
Purpose This research explores the challenges of providing accessible Arabic materials for non-native speakers through small library systems, particularly within small linguistic groups such as Czech, Greek, Polish and Romanian. It aims to address gaps in the availability of localized Arabic translations and effective learning aids, emphasizing the role of libraries and collaborative networks. Design/methodology/approach The research employs a case study approach, analyzing material request patterns and fulfillment data from LearnCuID Arabic Groups during 2023–2024. These groups rely on private library networks and informal translation efforts to access Arabic resources. Data on translation efforts, native-language coverage and the reliance on major-language resources were analyzed to assess the accessibility and effectiveness of existing materials. Findings The research highlights systemic gaps in the availability of Arabic learning resources, with native-language coverage being particularly low (8–19%) for the languages studied. LearnCuID’s efforts to create ad-hoc translations and simplified study materials fulfilled 25% of requests, while reliance on materials in major languages like English and French accounted for 45%. Despite these efforts, 15% of total requests remain unmet, reflecting persistent challenges in bridging linguistic and cultural barriers in Arabic learning. Originality/value This research contributes to understanding the barriers in accessing Arabic literature for non-Arab learners, particularly in underrepresented linguistic groups. It underscores the critical role of libraries and community networks in developing scalable, culturally sensitive solutions and provides actionable insights for enhancing accessibility to Arabic resources in non-major European languages.
Purpose The open science movement is growing in unimaginable ways and incorporating more knowledge areas such as Indigenous knowledge. We argue that open science and open Indigenous knowledge (OIK) go hand in hand and therefore must be explored and developed together as social justice for the benefit of the society that support knowledge. This paper conceptualizes the link between open science and open Indigenous knowledge with the aim of creating an understanding of the linkages and their manifestations. Design/methodology/approach This is a conceptual paper that emerges from some traditional literature review and bibliometric analysis of Scopus (focusing on open science) and ebsco (focusing on Indigenous knowledge) ranging from 2010 to 2024 conducted to determine the magnitude of research on open science and open Indigenous knowledge. Experiential knowledge based on previous research by the author on IK was used in conjunction with the two approaches for holistic analysis and discourse. Findings This article recognises the fundamental pillars of access to knowledge within applied ethics and international (e.g. UNDHR, SDG) and national frameworks (e.g. IK policies and legislations). It underscores the value of understanding indigenous knowledge and open science so that they can be applied appropriately and correctly when dealing with open indigenous knowledge which depends on their understanding and development to thrive. The growth of research on OS and IK is recognised through the limited bibliometric analysis in the paper. It is acknowledged by analysis of both SCOPUS and EBSCSCO databases that there are hardly any studies on open indigenous knowledge. We note the possibility of interfacing OS and OIK despite the limitations and suggest areas of attention in Tables 2 and 3 worth further exploration. OIK is likely to benefit more from the IK and OS challenges and opportunities to find its rightful place in OS movement in the future. Library and Information science education and research should be part of OIK growth. Research limitations/implications It is acknowledged by analysis of both SCOPUS and EBSCSCO databases that there are hardly any studies on open indigenous knowledge. Despite its limitations, a broader, deeper and better understanding of open indigenous knowledge for research and development is expected to originate from this paper. Practical implications This paper contributes to ongoing research, discourse, teaching and learning on Indigenous knowledge by providing understanding and a framework for developing open indigenous knowledge now and in the future. Social implications The paper will have an impact on policy, research, teaching and learning as well as Library information services. Originality/value The paper explores and provides new scope and a framework for understanding and developing open indigenous knowledge.
Purpose This study seeks to investigate the impact of workplace bullying on organizational commitment, with a particular focus on the mediating roles of work-related stress and work engagement within Vietnamese academic libraries. Design/methodology/approach The research was carried out through the collection of responses from 570 Vietnamese librarians. To test the hypotheses, linear regression analysis was utilized. Findings The findings reveal that workplace bullying has a partial effect on both organizational commitment and work-related stress. Furthermore, work-related stress partially mediates the relationship between workplace bullying and organizational commitment. This study contributes to the theoretical framework of workplace bullying in the context of the library sector. Practical implications The results offer several practical recommendations for Vietnamese academic libraries. First, it is crucial for leaders and administrators to implement policies aimed at reducing the negative effects of workplace bullying. Second, supervisors and managers should provide targeted training to help librarians understand the detrimental effects of workplace bullying and work-related stress and develop strategies to address these issues. Originality/value This research broadens the theoretical understanding of workplace bullying by examining its relationships with work engagement, work-related stress and organizational commitment. Given the limited previous research on these four organizational variables within academic libraries, this study aims to fill an important gap in the literature.
Purpose The purpose of this study is to identify challenges to recruitment and retention in academic libraries in the southeastern United States and to identify possible solutions that can be shared with other academic library recruiters. Design/methodology/approach This study reports on a survey of academic library administrators that investigated the challenges to recruitment and retention in academic libraries in the southeastern United States after the pandemic. Findings The study demonstrates that elements of the workplace, such as compensation, diversity efforts, work arrangement accommodations and external factors, impact recruitment and retention. Originality/value This study broadens the current research on recruitment and retention in academic libraries by bringing the experiences of rural and small libraries to the foreground and positing regional perspectives on library employment.
Purpose The aim of this paper is to examine the impact of family facilitation (FF) and work facilitation (WF) on work-life balance (WLB) of female library professionals in Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach A survey questionnaire was distributed to female librarians identified through various professional networks. The questionnaire included demographic questions and scale items measuring satisfaction levels regarding FF, WF and WLB. Ordinal regressions were utilized to analyze the effect of demographic and job-related factors on WLB. Moreover, structural equation modeling was applied to assess the proposed relationships among FF, WF and WLB. Findings A total of 158 female librarians participated in this study. Participants expressed satisfaction with family support and colleague relationships but had moderate to low satisfaction with work flexibility and compensation for extra work. Their WLB satisfaction was also found to be moderate. The results of ordinal regressions revealed significant associations between several demographic and work-related factors and different levels of WLB. The results of the structural equation model showed a significant impact of family and work facilitations on WLB. It also revealed the significant indirect effect of FF on WLB through the mediation of WF. Originality/value This is the first study to assess the influence of FF and WF on WLB among female library and information science professionals in Bangladesh. The study findings emphasize the need for implementing policies and practices to improve their WLB.
Purpose This research explores how Canadian university libraries participate in program review, a key component of quality assurance in post-secondary institutions and an important way for libraries to show their value. To become aware of how libraries provide impact, it is necessary to understand what other libraries are doing with processes occurring at a university-wide level. Design/methodology/approach The researcher sent an exploratory survey to university librarians across Canada asking who played a main role in program review tasks, how coordination worked and what was going well and could use improvement in the overall process. Findings Themes emerged on workflow, visibility, schedule, feedback and effects on library work. Although there are different ways of reaching the same goal, academic libraries are involved in helping reach the university’s mission. Originality/value Very little is written about this in the literature (library or otherwise). Most research is not current or only looks at specific components of library involvement (i.e. collection assessment). Not only is this helpful strategically for libraries but getting a sense of how other libraries engage with university and library colleagues will benefit those operationally tasked with supporting academic program review.
Purpose This paper examines the enduring importance of printed books in academic publishing, especially for small humanities publishers. It explores why authors, readers, libraries, and reviewers continue to prefer print despite increasing digitalization. The argument is made that the materiality of scholarly publications plays an emotional, trust-building, and sustainable role that digital formats cannot fully replace. Design/methodology/approach The analysis is based on an empirical survey conducted among authors and editors of the publisher Mohr Siebeck, as well as qualitative interviews with librarians and scholars. Additionally, internal sales statistics and case studies are used to assess the importance of print compared to digital publications. Findings The results show that the surveyed authors consider the high quality of print products a decisive factor in their choice of publisher. Printed books serve as a personal business card and a symbol of academic achievement. Libraries prefer print media due to its long-term availability and cost efficiency. Despite open-access alternatives, print book sales remain stable, with only a moderate 10% decline for open-access titles. Reviewers favor print books for deeper engagement with content. There is currently no reason to assume that the printed book is on the verge of extinction. Research limitations/implications The study focuses on a single publisher and specific humanities disciplines, limiting the generalizability of the findings. Future research could explore additional publishers and disciplines to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the interplay between print and digital formats. Originality/value This paper provides a nuanced perspective on the continuing relevance of printed books in the digital age. The findings are particularly valuable for smaller academic publishers, demonstrating that print is not merely an outdated tradition but an essential element of scholarly publishing.
Purpose The purpose of this study is to comprehend the factors and components enhancing the librarian’s research productivity. This study will help to bridge the gap in literature and will discover the facilitating factors of research success. Design/methodology/approach This study employed a quantitative research design. Individual Attributes, Peers and Community, and Institutional Structures and Supports were three categories of criteria that participants were asked to address together with reporting of their research outputs. We received 118 useful responses with a response rate of 83.10%. The responses thus gathered were statistically analyzed to find correlation between research output variables (weighted output score and number of peer-reviewed articles) and three categories, elements and components in those groups. Findings A large portion of research output of participants was composed of presentations, peer and non-peer viewed articles, and posters. For both variables, all three categories were substantially correlated with research output. Factors comprising these categories were also found significant against weighted output scores except intrinsic motivation when tested against peer reviewed articles. Among demographics, the only factor that showed significance was age, while for Education and Experience, three elements were found significant: (1) institutions from where the participants graduated, (2) post-MLIS training, (3) and any advance degree participants had or working on. Originality/value All discussed categories showed a significant effect on research productivity highlighting that personal growth, peer interaction and institutional support enhance research output. This study also pinpoints the factors that can be analyzed in future research such as exploring the effectiveness and influence of institutional support on research activities.
Purpose This study aims to develop and validate a measure for identifying important factors of online library service adoption in India. The objectives of this study are to determine the factors that enhance the technology adoption of Online Library Resources (OLRs) and validate a tool for evaluating attitudes toward OLRs. Design/methodology/approach Around 200 respondents’ data were utilized for the purpose. The data were gathered using surveys and further analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and descriptive statistics. Findings In total, five factors with satisfactory reliability and internal consistencies were obtained. The factor structure was confirmed with application of CFA using SmartPLS. The measure has been named as OLRs Holistic Measure (OLRHM). Research limitations/implications Due to survey-based approach and voluntary participation, the generalization of findings is to be avoided. The factors determined can be restructured or revisited with better sample size. Practical implications The practical implications are for various stakeholders. Learners, Users, Service providers, Researchers, Institutions and Publishers can utilize the insights on OLRs dimensions of particularly Quality and Usefulness of Resources (QUR), Training Effectiveness (TE) Engagement, Reliability and Usability (ERU), Learnability (L) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Features Effectiveness (AIE). Originality/value The research is a unique attempt to validate a holistic measure of online library services technology adoption. It includes newer dimensions in the field.
Purpose This research aims to develop a standardized scale to measure performance management within the academic library sector, encompassing five core dimensions: preliminary conditions, strategic planning, performance assessment, progress review and performance implementation. Design/methodology/approach The study utilized a 15-item scale, employing both exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to evaluate the five performance dimensions. The sample consisted of 16 academic libraries and 325 librarians. Findings The constructs demonstrated strong internal consistency and reliability. The measurement model fit well, leading to the creation of a new performance management scale for the academic library sector. Research limitations/implications This study validated the scale using EFA and CFA. Future studies could expand on this research by including a broader range of contexts, particularly academic libraries in various countries. Practical implications The primary aim of this study is to establish the reliability and validity of the performance management scale for academic libraries. The results confirm that all five dimensions – preliminary conditions, strategic planning, performance assessment, progress review and performance implementation – are reliable and validated, making the model applicable to academic libraries. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by introducing a performance management scale that fits well within the academic library sector. Additionally, each dimension can be independently assessed based on specific research requirements.
Purpose This paper reports on the findings of a study that was conducted by means of LibQUAL to establish user satisfaction with the current and perceived library resources and services at Aloe Park SAPS National Library in Pretoria. Design/methodology/approach The study used the interpretivist research paradigm, the qualitative approach and a case study research design. Findings The three core elements of LibQUAL – (1) affect of service, (2) information control and (3) library as place (physical library space) – were used to measure user satisfaction. Results related to the affect of service revealed a strong positive response: 16 (80%) of the 20 participants expressed satisfaction with the quality of service provided by library staff. In terms of information control, the findings indicated that most users were aware of library resources such as books, library databases and the computer centre. However, they were not using these resources optimally for various reasons, such as a dated collection, irregular or non-subscription to library databases and inadequate computer systems in the computer centre. For example, out of the 20 sampled participants, 12 (60%) were aware of the existence of the computer centre, but eight (40%) of them did not have sufficient knowledge about the computer centre. Concerning Library as Place, 14 (70%) participants responded positively, while six (30%) expressed dissatisfaction with the unfriendly library environment, inadequate study space and intermittent noise in the library. Research delimitations There are various special branch libraries that are linked to the main South African Police Service National Library, but the focus of the study was only on the main library. Therefore, results for the study can be extended to other special libraries with caution. Practical implications Findings for this study would help in understanding gaps in terms of the three LibQUAL dimensions that were assessed. Additionally, findings of the study would help library management to understand users’ information needs and thus respond accordingly. Social implications Future studies of the special libraries, particularly SAPS libraries across the country, should focus on the development of policy frameworks that cater for the information needs of their users. Originality/value The review of available literature points to limited research on library user satisfaction in special libraries, such as the Aloe Park SAPS National Library. As such, the findings of this study provide valuable insight into potential service gaps across the three LibQUAL dimensions assessed. These research findings can assist library management in understanding users’ information needs and tailoring resources and services accordingly. It is recommended that future studies of the special libraries, particularly SAPS libraries across the country, should focus on the development of policy frameworks that cater for the information needs of their users.
