Search

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to document how the library at Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey Campus came to use the open source Drupal with other freely available tools as the basis for an extensible platform for current and future information discovery gateways. Design/methodology/approach - After informal gathering of user opinions, formal usability testing of the current OPAC and Digital Library, and an evaluation of available options, Tecnológico de Monterrey's Library decided in October 2007 to build and test a prototype version of a new portal in April 2008, which after usability testing and interviews was improved and released for its users in June 2008. Findings - The development team found out that Drupal, despite its steep learning curve, was a solid development platform which could achieve all the functionality the library set out to achieve through its freely available modules or custom, locally-developed modules. Originality/value - This paper documents the steps required to build an information discovery tool using Drupal and other freely available tools, thus demonstrating that Drupal is a viable and extensible development platform for libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — The purpose of this paper is to present how, in May 2008, the Ad Hoc Committee on Federated Search was formed to prepare a preliminary report on federated searching for a special meeting of Librarians Academic Council at Memorial University Libraries. The primary purpose is to discuss current implementation of federated searching at this institution, explore what other institutions have done, examine federated search technologies, and offer recommendations for the future of this resource. — Design/methodology/approach — Information was drawn from a recent usability study, an informal survey was created, and a literature/technology review was conducted. Findings — These four recommendations were proposed and unanimously accepted: actively develop the current federated search implementation by developing a web presence supporting "federated search in context", re-evaluating the need for consortial purchase of a federated search tool, continuing to assess the current federated search marketplace with an eye to choosing a next-generation federated search tool that includes effective de-duping, sorting, relevancy, clustering and faceting, and that the selection, testing, and implementation of such a tool should involve broad participation from the Memorial University Libraries system. Originality/value — Provided is an inside look at one institution's experience with implementing a federated search tool. The paper should be of interest to anyone working in academic libraries, particularly the areas of administration, public services, and systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - This paper aims to shed light on federated search engine solutions by documenting how Westminster College implemented a new system after a failed attempt. Design/methodology/approach - The librarians became interested in a new federated search solution after a previous vendor was unable to provide a satisfactory product. After seeing demonstrations from several vendors, the librarians decided on WebFeat. This paper chronicles that decision and its implementation, which surprisingly took less than three months. Findings - The librarians found WebFeat to be a superior product in comparison with the first federated search engine. WebFeat made an immediate impact on how the students and faculty searched for information. The seamless integration into the library web page made it easier for users to search databases and the library catalog without confusion and frustration. Originality/value - The value of this paper comes from the fact that the library became a ‘federated search casualty’ after adopting a system in 2003 that did not live up to expectation and eventually had to be terminated. WebFeat was the next choice, and it has performed above expectations. The librarians witnessed the failure of one federated search engine solution and the success of another over the past three years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate usability testing methods currently in use outside of library science, primarily in the business world, and to find important techniques that can be applied to library science to improve usability testing in libraries. Design/methodology/approach – Objectives are achieved through a review of the business literature on qualitative and quantitative web site usability testing. The approach to the topic is based on an assumption that businesses are constantly refining their testing methods in order to make a profit; therefore, their testing methods are evolving and may ultimately be more efficient and effective than the techniques currently in use in libraries. Because businesses are dependent on consumer choice, they must provide user-friendly web interfaces developed out of usability testing. Findings – The findings of this paper illustrate that there are many useful kernels of information about testing that can be gleaned from the business literature and applied to testing in a library environment. Testing methods not in use in libraries that are covered include: process-oriented testing, side-by-side testing, hybrid testing, and unique qualitative data gathering methods. Practical implications – There are many testing methods discussed in this paper that can be implemented in libraries. The paper suggests how these methods can be adapted to fit a library testing setting and improve the current testing process in place in most libraries. Improved testing methods will ultimately result in improved web site interfaces, which will increase user access to information and help libraries fulfill their missions to make information and online resources accessible to all. Originality/value – Usability testing methods currently not in use in libraries are proposed. The methods discussed can help librarians change and improve their testing methodologies in order to help libraries compete in the increasingly crowded information marketplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - To address the UNLV Libraries movement toward a predominantly electronic journal collection including evaluation of library collection and reevaluation of organizational structure, staff resources and workflow to find the best ways to provide library users with timely and reliable access to electronic resources. Design/methodology/approach - A range of UNLV Libraries initiatives in building and managing electronic resources is described to demonstrate how the library moved from a predominantly print environment to a predominantly electronic environment. The paper consists of sections: development of the electronic resources collection, reengineering acquisitions/periodicals, new responsibilities and new skills, next steps, and conclusion. Findings - Since 1999, the composition of the Libraries journal collection has been dramatically changed. The percentage of print-only subscriptions decreased from 59 percent in 1990 to 20 percent in 2004, while electronic journals jumped from 35 percent to 75 percent. The percentage of Libraries materials acquisitions budget spent on electronic resources rose by at least 10 percent each year. The proliferation of electronic resources had a major impact on the acquisitions/serials activities from handling physical objects to initiating and ensuring ongoing access to electronic resources. It has resulted in a workflow that requires ongoing review and change to accommodate the constant technological developments that have impacted the management of information delivered electronically. Originality/value - The focus of this paper on changing workflows in the implementation of electronic resources is unique. As Libraries incorporate electronic resources into their collections, the necessity to develop new workflows presents challenges at all levels from daily activities to long-term planning. The experiences at Lied library offer other Libraries practical examples of ways the challenges have been met. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - To document a library web site redesign from start to finish, with special attention and emphasis placed on process what worked and what did not. Design/methodology/approach - Documentation and techniques used in the redesign are discussed in depth, with special attention as to why these techniques were chosen, how they were integrated into the process, and what problems were encountered. Findings - One of the biggest problems with a redesign is the political dimension and communication issues involved, rather than the technical problems. Deciding what testing methodology to use to gather patron input and using that input efficiently in the site design are also a challenging area. Research limitations/implications - Since this is a case study, some of the problems encountered may not be applicable to other libraries in different environments. At the same time, many of the findings relating to problems with communication are general and could apply to redesign efforts in a variety of environments. Practical implications - It is hoped that this paper may serve as a foundation on which a more generic process for effecting a redesign can be developed, one that may apply to all or most redesigns in all or most libraries. Originality/value - There are very few papers in the literature dealing with the process of managing a redesign most focus on other aspects, such as skill sets or test findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper identifies the importance of space management in support of the functions of academic libraries. It reviews current solutions on library space management by pinpointing their advantages and disadvantages, and it introduces GIS (geographic information systems) as a tool for library space management, because of its capacity for analyzing spatial data and interactive information. A proposal is outlined that attempts to highlight the process of developing, implementing, maintaining, and utilizing a GIS system for academic libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the particular characteristics under-pinning resource sharing among university libraries in Australia, and describes a series of projects aimed at improving the technical infrastructure of interlibrary lending. It also outlines the links between these national projects and a European flagship project aimed at building distributed information services environments. By way of conclusion, there is a summary of the challenges inherent in creating global information infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In late 1997/early 1998, we conducted a survey dealing with library provision of electronic journals and other electronic resources. We compared the responses from a census of Association of Research Libraries (ARL) to a sample of non-ARL Master's, Doctoral, and Research institutions. Of the 299 libraries surveyed, 250 surveys were returned for a response rate of 83.6 percent. Analysis of the responses emphasizes the number and types of computers available in libraries, electronic resources in libraries, past and future cancellation decisions and archiving responsibilities. It was determined that both ARL and non-ARL libraries offer extensive electronic services to their constituents. Libraries are beginning to cancel paper journals in favor of electronic versions. There is little consensus about who will archive electronic journals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore art and design students’ use of smartphones for accessing library services and learning at the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI). Design/methodology/approach – A questionnaire survey involving 51 HKDI students was conducted to examine the students’ utilization of apps and the internet on mobile devices to find information for the purpose of academic learning, social networking, and collaborative learning. Findings – Survey results showed that while the HKDI students were all smartphone owners and active users of such mobile communication devices, only a minority of them “frequently” use these mobile devices for formal learning purposes. They demonstrated a keen preference to use search engines, social communications, and other diverse use of smartphones. Except for research and image/audio-visual needs, the rest of their needs and usage behaviour is similar to mainstream university students. Practical implications – The results suggest opportunities for the libraries to develop services and facilities that could better fulfil students’ information needs, and to improve the network coverage outside the library. Originality/value – This is probably the first study of its kind to explore art and design students’ use of smartphones for learning needs. In particular, the recent capability of smartphones and mobile internet speed are comparable with desktops, it is vital to re-examine the much changed environment and user needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify the ability of college freshmen to successfully use common academic software and manage files. Design/methodology/approach – In total, 39 college freshmen from three college campuses were recruited for the study. An online test environment and screen recording software were used to measure student proficiency in using PDFs, Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel, Gmail, and Windows. Data were collected in September 2013. Findings – Student use of academic technology is common, but their software skills are not comprehensive or deep. Students were most proficient at using PDFs and Microsoft Word. Microsoft Excel tasks were the most difficult for the students, and many struggled to use Gmail to compose a message and send an attachment. Students were able to open a PowerPoint document and view a slideshow, but they were less comfortable navigating the software’s printing environment. Originality/value – Having concrete data about student technology skills, rather than anecdotal data from reference desk interactions, can help librarians design improved instruction and tutorials that target areas of student technology weakness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to determine the usability of the mobile library App of Chongqing University and to provide recommendations for improving the experience of App users. Design/methodology/approach – Usability testing, which comprised pre-test questionnaires, accomplishing tasks, and post-test surveys, was conducted in this study. The effectiveness and efficiency of the App, as well as user satisfaction with it, were measured. Findings – The mobile App was proven effective but the efficiency of the App required improvement. With regard to user satisfaction, the factors “clarity” and “usefulness” received the lowest and highest scores, respectively. The descriptions of mobile services were unclear and confused users; nonetheless, the services provided by this App were appealing and useful to the users. Based on the measured user experience, this study proposed several recommendations for enhancing the usability of the App. Originality/value – An increasing number of domestic and foreign libraries have begun to use mobile Apps to provide new services to patrons. In the future, smartphones are likely to become crucial to the delivery of information services. Given the extensive use of the Super Star Mobile Library system adopted by Chongqing University Library in China, the usability of such a system must be investigated. Improving the usability of the mobile library App can help enhance user experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore multiple factors affecting online library resource selection by undergraduate students. Three dimensions of factors are investigated including usefulness and ease-of-use, resource quality, and individual differences. Design/methodology/approach – An instrument was developed to measure various aspect factors and online library resource use intention. A survey was administered to 332 undergraduate students. Quantitative analysis, including structural equation modeling, ANOVA, and t-tests, was used to statistically examine the effects of the identified 11 factors on the use intention of online library resources. Findings – The findings indicated that both usefulness and ease-of-use positively influenced the undergraduates’ use intention of online library resources. Also, five resource quality constructs – accessibility, credibility, coverage, currency, and format – were the determinants of online library resources use intention. Interestingly, the effect of accessibility was the strongest, while that of credibility was the weakest. In addition, this study found that familiarity with sources and use of good search skills had a significant effect on users’ use intention at the individual user level. Originality/value – This study is one of the few studies investigating multiple factors comprehensively that influence online library resource selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- In an effort to ensure vendor compliance with Section 508, some libraries have begun requesting Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates (VPATs) or other documentation of accessibility compliance. The purpose of this paper is to assess the accuracy of vendor-supplied compliance documentation, and to identify common accessibility issues highlighted by the VPATs. A detailed discussion of vendor responses to each Section 508 checkpoint is provided in the Appendix. Design/methodology/approach -- Researchers compared 17 VPATs with the results of an automated accessibility scan to identify inconsistencies and common problems. Findings -- Vendors reported being fully compliant with 64 percent of the applicable VPAT items, and partially compliant with a further 24 percent. However, in 16 of 17 cases, there were discrepancies between the information on the VPAT and the results of the scan. Of the total 189 VPAT checkpoints the author scanned, 19.6 percent had errors (meaning the information on the VPAT was inaccurate 19.6 percent of the time). Research limitations/implications -- Several VPAT checkpoints could not be automatically verified by the scan. Instead they require manual/visual verification, which the author did not do. Because the author only scanned three pages of each resource, the author was not able to check all content. Practical implications -- Vendor-supplied accessibility documentation should not be taken at face value, but requires verification and follow up to ensure its accuracy. This study also identified some of the most common accessibility issues, which will help both librarians and vendors improve their products and services. Originality/value -- Other studies have analyzed the accessibility of library resources and specifically vendor databases, but none have assessed the accuracy of vendor-supplied Section 508 compliance documentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- The purpose of this paper is to describe the availability of discovery functions on mobile devices at academic research libraries in order to determine if research libraries are providing the mobile services that students believe that they need for academic success. Design/methodology/approach -- The researcher surveyed 53 academic library mobile apps and mobile web sites at Carnegie rated RU/VH universities to determine the number and variety of discovery functions available. Findings -- All of the libraries had some level of research functions available, but there was a discrepancy between those that offered a full range of services and those that offered a minimal level. Research limitations/implications -- Due to the transitory nature of the electronic universe, the data offered represents the state of academic library research services in a single moment in time and is subject to change. Practical implications -- The research provides other libraries with a description of what comprises an adequate suite of essential services and a way to evaluate their own library's offerings. Originality/value -- This is the first study to evaluate and quantify the level of services provided by libraries at Carnegie Foundation RU/VH institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Category: Case StudyPurpose: To report on the content management system designed to manage the 30 web-based research guides developed by the subject liaison librarians at the Georgia State University Library.Methodology/Approach: The web development librarian, with assistance from the web programmer, designed a system using MySQL and ASP. A liaison team gave input on the system through rigorous testing and assisted with the design of the templates that control the layout of the content on the guides. A usability study and two surveys were also completed.Findings: The new system met and exceeded the baseline expectations for content collection and management, offering a greater control over appearance and navigation while still offering customization features for liaisons. Improvements are planned for the templates in addition to better promotion of the guides on the library website. Initial and ongoing training for the liaisons should have been more effectively addressed. Despite their observed and future potential advantages, the CMS model has not been universally adopted by academic libraries.Practical Implications: Regardless of the technology involved, libraries preparing for a CMS transition must give at least as much attention to user issues as they do to technical issues, from the organizational buy-in and comprehensive training to internal/external usability.Originality/Value of Paper: This paper contributes to a small but growing collection of CMS case studies. It covers the technical, functional, and managerial developments of a CMS, while also addressing the practical user factors that sometimes get lost in the process.Keywords: content management systems, web-based guides, database-driven websites liaisons, academic libraries

Purpose – This paper aims to explore Web 2.0 technologies usage and trends in the top 100 US academic libraries as exemplified through the academic library websites. Design/methodology/approach – The top 100 universities were selected from the US News & World Report's (USNWR) 2013 ranked list's top 100 of the best colleges in the USA. Content analysis was used in terms of quantitative approach. A checklist was developed as the main research instrument based on other checklists and questionnaires. Each of the selected university library websites was visited within a period of two weeks to explore implementation and usage of web tools, including SNS, blog, RSS, wikis, podcast/vodcast, and social bookmarking/tagging. Findings – All 100 academic libraries had a social media presence on Facebook and Twitter, making SNS the most widely applied Web 2.0 tool. The wiki was the least applied Web 2.0 technology, with a 34 percent participation rate. Blog was the second most popular tool with a 99 percent participation rate, followed by RSS and IM/Chat with 97 percent and 91 percent respectively. The vodcast and podcast had 47 percent and 46 percent participation rates respectively, while social bookmarking/tagging were also used by 39 percent of the academic libraries. Research limitations/implications – This study is completely based on publicly available data regarding usage of Web 2.0 applications. Web 2.0 tools used on library intranets were not analyzed for this study. Outcomes suggest that academic libraries are increasingly using Web 2.0 applications to promote themselves, enhance library services, and highlight resources to patrons. Originality/value – This is the first research that draws an overall picture of the usage and trends of Web 2.0 applications in the top 100 US academic libraries. This study demonstrates some noticeable patterns regarding usage, trends, and adoption which are relevant to how Web 2.0 applications are perceived and used within academic libraries. The study provides academic libraries with helpful information to better meet their user needs by effectively applying Web 2.0. Additionally, library managers, librarians and other libraries may also find this research beneficial as they plan to deploy Web 2.0. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discover how many of the authors' own university students own internet-enabled mobile devices and how they use them. That information will be incorporated into the design of a user-centered library mobile web site. Design/methodology/approach – SurveyMonkey was used to create a web based survey which was distributed through a stable URL hosted on the Hunter College Libraries' web site. Findings – This study illustrates that Hunter College students are increasingly using their mobile devices for educational purposes. Students are reliant on these devices even when other internet-enabled devices such as laptops and desktops are available. Research limitations/implications – The principal tool used, SurveyMonkey, did not enable high level restrictions on potential participants. As a result, multiple demographic questions were used to establish a respondent profile. Practical implications – The findings of this study provide a framework for the creation of a mobile survey to discover users' habits and preferences. The data collected may also give an indication of what users may desire in a mobile library web site. Further investigation is needed to explore the relationship between commuting and how students use their mobile devices. Originality/value – This is the only study which provides data on the devices urban college student library users own, and how they utilize these devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present longitudinal data on the accessibility of 56 North American academic library web sites, as well as insights into the connection between accessibility and certain design methods and technologies. Design/methodology/approach – Bobby 3.1.1 was used to evaluate compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 1.0. Also studied were the main method of page layout (CSS versus HTML tables), whether a content management system was used, and whether skip-navigation links were employed. Findings – The percentage of Bobby-approved pages has remained consistent around 60 per cent in 2010 and 2012. However, the percentage of errors per page, a metric more sensitive to the pervasiveness of accessibility barriers, has steadily and significantly decreased. Sites whose layouts are built with cascading style sheets have fewer errors per page than those that use tables for layout. Sites that use a CMS have considerably higher percentages of approved pages and fewer errors per page than sites that are not built with a CMS. Research limitations/implications – The principal tool used, Bobby 3.1.1, is capable of detecting only a subset of accessible design principles. Future studies should examine compliance with the newer WCAG 2.0 guidelines. Practical implications – The use of a content management system may have a positive impact on accessibility. While this study reveals some promising trends, more education and continued advocacy is needed to increase web accessibility at libraries. Originality/value – This is the only study that provides up-to-date trend information about the accessibility of a broader set of academic library web sites (a set not limited to one state) over an extended time period. It is also the only accessibility study comparing academic library web sites that use a content management system to those that do not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – Library consortia have played a vital role in sharing information resources among participating libraries. In India, engineering college libraries subscribe to many electronic resources through the Indian Digital Library of Engineering Science and Technology (INDEST) consortium. This paper aims to identify the collection development of electronic resources through INDEST to predict the most required and useful model for engineering colleges. Design/methodology/approach – The list of colleges that subscribe to electronic resources through INDEST was studied online and analyzed. Findings – It is evident that most colleges only subscribed IEL online through INDEST. Some colleges have subscribed to different resources from more than one publisher. The bundles of resources subscribed through INDEST have not fully supported all the courses offered by the institutions. It is revealed that the bibliographical databases for searching the literature in technological sciences were not subscribed to by any colleges participating in INDEST. Originality/value – The results of this study are useful for engineering college libraries to develop the collection of online journals in the digital era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The main objective of this paper is to analyse and evaluate the use of e-resources by the engineering academics of Rajasthan state. It aims to consider the various factors of e-resources usage such as purposes, impact, importance, problems, acceptance, and satisfaction with e-resources. Design/methodology/approach – A survey method of research was applied to ascertain the present status of use of e-resources. The survey was conducted with the help of a structured questionnaire followed by interview as and where it was felt necessary. Two formats of questionnaire were prepared; first, a printed format and second, an electronic format using Google Docs spreadsheet. The data so collected were analysed and interpreted with the help of MS Excel. Findings – The study finds many aspects of e-resources use among engineering academics of Rajasthan. It reveals that academic staff were using many types of e-resources. They were also using the latest sources of information like e-groups, virtual conferences. Using the e-resources, their academic/professional competency also improved. The teaching methodology also involved the e-resources uses and the students' ability was also affected in a positive manner by this methodology. Some problems were also explored in using e-resources. The majority of users were quite satisfied with using e-resources. Originality/value – The study was an attempt to evaluate the use of e-resources by academic staff of engineering colleges of Rajasthan. Results from the study are encouraging and it is hoped that the findings will provide meaning and a useful platform for further research as well as usability among engineering academics will also be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The study described in this paper aims to identify the progress made in the efforts to model current online public access catalogs (OPACs) after the next generation catalog (NGC) in academic libraries in the USA and Canada. Design/methodology/approach – A random sample of 260 colleges and universities was selected from Peterson's Guide to Four-Year Colleges 2009, an estimated 10 percent of the total population of 2,560 listed academic institutions. A checklist of 12 features of the NGC was used to evaluate the OPACs of the 260 libraries in the sample. The authors took as the OPAC that which the library linked to as its "catalog," even though some might be more properly considered "discovery tools" or "discovery layers." Some libraries used more than one OPAC interface simultaneously; in this case, each OPAC was analyzed separately. In the case of several institutions using the same consortial OPAC, only the first instance of the OPAC was analyzed. About 15 percent of the institutions (n=40) in the sample either did not have web sites or did not provide access to their online catalogs. In all, a total of 233 unique instances of OPACs were analyzed. Data were collected from September 2009 through July 2010. The findings can be extrapolated to the population at the 95 percent confidence level with a confidence interval of ±3. Findings – While bits and pieces of the next generation catalog are steadily working themselves into the current catalog, academic libraries still have a long way to go. About 16 percent of the OPACs in the sample did not show any advanced features of the NGC. More than half of the libraries (61 percent) had only one to five advanced features in their OPACs. Many of those with six or more NGC features were discovery tools. Only 3 percent of the OPACs in the sample (n=8) demonstrated seven to ten out of the 12 functionalities of the NGC, and they were instances either of WorldCat Local or Summon. The weak areas were federated searching, relevance based on circulation statistics, and recommendations based on patron transactions. Originality/value – This is the first and only study on a large scale conducted thus far that evaluates the progress towards the NGC in academic libraries in the USA and Canada. The findings help academic librarians to recognize and pin-point the weak links in implementing a true next generation catalog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose--The purpose of this paper is to describe the further evolution of electronic resources access support at Texas A&M University Libraries with recommendations for incorporating ER support into a virtual reference (VR) service. In a previous article, the implementation of a two-tiered electronic resources (ER) HelpDesk service was discussed. While an improvement, that service existed in parallel with the library's VR service, requiring separate staff and expertise. After considerable discussion and exploration, it became apparent that the needs of ER support could be met, with some modification, within the VR service. Design/methodology/approach --A project at the Texas A&M University Libraries sought to utilize an existing VR service, staffed by reference librarians and staff, to expand and improve handling and resolving ER access problems. Findings--VR software is effective for managing an electronic access problem reporting system. Integrating ER support into VR more broadly and equitably distributes responsibility for access and supports improved service for patrons and increased transparency and functionality for staff who respond to electronic resources access problems. Practical implications--Virtual reference and electronic resources staff can merge similar responsibilities for better service to patrons. Originality/value--This article offers experience-based guidance on utilizing VR technology and staff to effectively address and resolve electronic resource access problems. Our research suggests that there has not been another report of the use of integrating electronic resource problem reporting into virtual reference services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose--The purpose of this paper is to report on the content management solution for 50 subject guides maintained by librarian subject specialists at the University of Nevada, Reno Libraries. Design/methodology/approach--The Web Development Librarian designed an SQL Server database to store subject guide content and wrote ASP.Net scripts to generate dynamic web pages. Subject specialists provided input throughout the process. Hands-on workshops were held the summer before the new guides were launched. Findings--The new method has successfully produced consistent but individually customized subject guides while greatly reducing maintenance time. Simple reports reveal the association between guides and licensed resources. Using the system to create course-specific guides would be a useful follow-up project. Skills learned in training workshops should be refreshed at regular intervals to boost confidence and introduce changes in the system. Practical implications--The advantages of centralizing content and separating it from presentation cannot be overstated. More consistency and less maintenance is just the beginning. Once accomplished, a library can incorporate Web 2.0 features into the application by repurposing the data or modifying the ASP.Net template. The now-organized data is clean and ready to migrate to web services or next-generation research guides when the time is right. Originality/value--This paper uniquely reports on an SQL Server, ASP.Net solution for managing subject guides. SQL Server includes data management features that increase application security and ASP.Net offers built-in functionality for manipulating and presenting data. Utmost attention was given to creating simple user interfaces that enable subject specialists to create complex web pages without coding HTML. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- The objective of this article is to describe how two small non-profit, primarily grant-funded music projects are working to provide solutions for scholars and students in an environment dominated by for-profit companies and aggressive rights regimes. Technology in some ways levels the playing field for organizations such as ours while at the same time forcing a more rapid pace of innovation because of heightened user expectations. Design/methodology/approach -- This article is a case study. It describes each of the authors' projects and how technology has aided their efforts in certain areas: organizationally: what technologies have aided us in terms of staffing and project organization; how technology has impacted the kinds of services and products we are able to provide; and how the overall environment of rapid innovation in music sometimes makes our work more difficult than in other areas of content creation. Findings -- The paper finds that overall the projects would not be possible without recent innovations. The authors are finding it challenging to meet the needs of the generative web, but are reacting as quickly as their projects allow. Originality/value -- This is the first joint case study published by the authors' organizations and, in the authors' literature review, they did not find any other study about music product utilization and innovation by non-profits serving library populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — The purpose of this article is to review the trend in academic libraries toward including scholarly communication, and by extension, electronic publishing, as part of their core mission, using the Cornell University Library as an example. Design/methodology/approach — The paper describes several manifestations of publishing activity organized under the Library's Center for Innovative Publishing, including the arXiv (http://arxiv.org/), Project Euclid (http://projecteuclid.org), and DPubS (http://DPubS.org). Findings — Libraries bring many competencies to the scholarly communications process, including expertise in digital initiatives, close connections with authors and readers, and a commitment to preservation. To add publishing to their responsibilities, they need to develop expertise in content acquisition, editorial management, contract negotiation, marketing, and subscription management. Originality/value — Academic libraries are making formal and informal publishing a part of their core activity. A variety of models exist. The Cornell University Library has created a framework for supporting publishing called the Center for Innovative Publishing, and through it supports a successful open access repository (arXiv), a sustainable webhosting service for journals in math and statistics (Project Euclid) and a content management tool (DPubS) to enable other institutions (libraries, scholarly societies, presses) to engage in similar ventures to increase the dissemination of scholarship and to lower the barriers to its access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - To report on the University of Toronto's implementation of an institutional repository. Design/methodology/approach - Describe decision making process. A range of qualitative research methods were used to solicit early adopter and library concerns. Findings were then used to guide implementation. Findings - Provides the rational behind decisions made. Argues that modified qualitative research methods may be useful to new library projects. Research limitations/implications - The report is specific to an institution. Practical implications - Prioritizing actions, focusing on faculty and leveraging resources, notably student assistants is key. Originality/value - This paper provides practical information and a model which may be useful for others implementing repository services or other emerging technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper discusses the current status of information technology development in Kenya and assesses how the public universities along with their libraries in the country should respond in order to compete effectively in the new technological dispensation and become part of the global information society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Libraries in the university environment in Eastern and Southern Africa are making efforts to join and participate effectively in the information revolution. However, these efforts continue to be hampered by many problems both internal and external. This paper reviews information technology (IT) developments in the university environment in Eastern and Southern Africa, and illustrates what university libraries can do to meet user expectations and remain relevant. The current scene in the region is assessed and analysed through selected literature reviews, the author’s personal experience working in the region, visits to some universities, other key institutions such as the Telkom telecommunications and Eskom electricity companies of South Africa, and discussions with professional colleagues in national seminars and regional conferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]