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Purpose – The purpose of this column is to examine the current environment of 3D printing and its suitability for use in the library. Design/methodology/approach – Literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by professionals, researchers and practitioners. Findings – The library is more than its collection. As 3D printing joins the technology selections available in the library, it offers patrons the opportunity to create and further develop their skills, in order to explore and potentially innovate, in a welcoming environment of intellectual stimulation and experimentation. Originality/value – The value in addressing this issue is to present the basic details around this new technology and suggest that it has value for its inclusion into the current array of library services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Age philosophies are having an increasingly important influence on contemporary life. They offer a challengingly holistic view of human potential, and are available in numerous publications and formats. Public library collections often marginalize New Age materials, and find selecting and acquiring them a challenge. Argues that greater awareness of what such materials have to offer would answer growing demands from users and provide spiritual and cultural benefit for the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to present a virtual library plan created by library directors of the 23 California State University (CSU) system campuses. The information literacy portion of the project offers a repository of high quality interactive digital learning objects (DLOs) in the MERLOT repository. Therefore, DLOs created locally at the Dr Martin Luther King, Jr Library at San José State University (SJSU) focus on topics that supplement the "core" DLO collection. Design/methodology/approach - This case study presents planning assumptions for developing local content that complements a California State University (CSU) system collection of high quality interactive information literacy DLOs. The authors also offer suggestions from the professional literature that guide their application of such Web 2.0 tools as wikis, podcasts, and tagging to create supplemental learning modules for their local information literacy instruction program. Findings - Web 2.0 Digital Learning Objects are essential components of an efficient academic information literacy program comprised of face-to-face and "on demand" virtual approaches. The California State University (CSU) system has identified a core set of DLOs, which are easily available in the MERLOT open access repository. Local development efforts, then, focus on the design and creation of DLOs of local significance. Practical implications - Librarians at the Dr Martin Luther King, Jr Library in San José, California, USA, are developing local content for Web 2.0-enabled information literacy instruction. These developments occur within the context of a 23 campus initiative, originating at the Chancellor's Office, which has identified high quality information literacy digital learning objects (DLOs). This core open access collection intends to fulfill academic libraries'core instructional needs and is freely available to any library through the open access MERLOT repository by any library Originality/value - This paper recommends an approach for local production of virtual information literacy content which benefits from harvesting the "best of the best" currently available on the internet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The University of Kansas (KU) libraries has faced increased requests for streaming video in the past five years. While we have provided access to many databases of films, feature films remained a problem. To write a collection development policy, the library undertook three investigations to ensure the outcome reflected the needs of the university.Design/methodology/approach Film titles included in Swank 300 and Criterion-on-Demand were checked against the CanIStream. it? website to check for availability through streaming, rental or purchase services. Student library users were surveyed to determine if they had streaming subscriptions and, if so, which ones. KU librarians also examined academic library collection development polices to understand how others have addressed this issue.Findings More than half of the feature films provided by the two vendors are available through subscriptions, renting or purchasing methods. A majority of students subscribe to one or more of these services. Many academic libraries are deciding not to provide streaming feature films.Originality/value There are no previous studies on students’ subscriptions to streaming services linked to availability of feature films offered from commercial vendors to libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This study aims to investigate public library users’ perceptions of information professionals. Specifically, it focuses on exploring users’ perceptions regarding librarians’ status, work duties, performed work and educational background.Design/methodology/approach The method of questionnaire was used to enquire on the users’ perceptions of six different public libraries in the wide area of Attica, Greece. Between November 2014 and February 2015, 320 questionnaires were distributed, and, in total, 291 users participated in the study with response rate 90.9 per cent.Findings This research revealed that public library users have a positive image of the librarians’ status, duties and work performed. Users acknowledge that it is important for librarians to obtain a bachelor’s degree in library and information science (LIS) education and specialized LIS knowledge, as well as general, pedagogical and new technologies knowledge to perform their tasks. Overall, “serving of people” predominates as a task and a series of collection-oriented tasks.Research limitations/implications Perceptions of non-users of public libraries and public librarians themselves were not examined in this study. In addition, some user groups based on level of education (e.g. doctoral degree) had a low level of participation.Originality/value It is one of the few studies that examined public library users’ perceptions of information professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This paper aims to suggest performance evaluation of university libraries in India using qualitative and quantitative parameters provided by librarians to be collected, analysed and disseminated by a national agency apart from LibQual user surveys. Design/methodology/approach – The status about the university libraries in India provided by the Association of Indian Universities publication Universities Handbook would help to assess the quantity and quality of collection and services offered by these libraries. The framework for performance evaluation of university libraries is presented in three heads: parameters, players and procedures. Parameters cover the various qualitative and quantitative data to be collected for the purpose of evaluation. Players include a vast network of institutions involved in this exercise. Among these, the first and foremost is the individual libraries. There should be a national agency to be identified for collecting, analysing and disseminating the consolidated evaluation reports on a national scale. There may also be international agencies or services involved to support and guide user survey such as LibQual. Procedures involve the processes, actions and activities undertaken by the various players to achieve the basic objective of performance evaluation of these university libraries. Findings – The performance framework suggested when implemented every year by university libraries present the qualitative and quantitative outcome of their functioning and reveal their worth in the university landscape. This may also aid in planned and organised development of university libraries in the country. The results provided by this exercise should influence judicious collection development decisions and pragmatic information service planning. Originality/value – India, perhaps, has the largest number of higher education institutions in the developing world. The national directory Universities Handbook only presents information about library of a university without any attempt to analyse the statistics collected to arrive at national trends or patterns. This may be the first attempt to provide a holistic picture to assess the performance of a varied spectrum of libraries as far as infrastructure, resources and services are concerned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to examine the indexing method used by Caribbean libraries to describe special collections and manuscripts. Design/methodology/approach - Various types of finding aids spanning 1960-2014 are used to show the pattern of descriptions adopted by the librarians. At the same time, the factors which have sustained the approach at national libraries and university libraries are highlighted. Findings - The paper concludes that while the indexing approach may be labour-intensive, this practice is perceived as developing a national and regional documentary heritage. The materials used for this study are primarily accessible to the public inclusive of published guides and online databases. Originality/value - The literature is replete with theories and cases from places such as the UK, the USA and Australia, this paper presents a perspective on the development of archival description in the Caribbean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- The purpose of this paper is to review current strategies in collections, selection and the access libraries provide, to present scenarios that illustrate the roles libraries are beginning to play and to discuss viable strategies for libraries in the future. Design/methodology/approach -- An extensive review of the literature was conducted to identify current strategies in collections and selection, and to explore innovations in access strategies that reveal future directions. Findings -- Librarians are redefining collections and selection, implementing new strategies to provide information that is more relevant to today's needs, focusing more intently on niche collections and experimenting in access strategies to market information and increase use. Practical implications -- Libraries' survival depends on re-thinking the philosophy and approach to collections, selection and access. Social implications -- Libraries need this shift in thinking and approach to find their place in the new information world. Originality/value -- The paper provides an overview of current thinking in collections, selection and access, prompts thought about new directions in this area and provides a forum for discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to determine the types of collaborative activities public youth services and school librarians in rural locations engage in and to ascertain whether there are methods that youth service librarians believe can be employed to improve collaborative activities with public school librarians. Design/methodology/approach – A mixed method design was implemented with an online self-administered survey. The survey contained open and closed-ended questions. Findings – The findings indicate that many public librarians serving youth in rural locations find it important to collaborate with school librarians. Yet, they struggle to build strong collaborative relationships. Factors such as time, a lack of school librarian administrative support, and a lack of understanding about the roles of school librarians and public librarians, are collaborative barriers. Research limitations/implications – The study was limited to a purposive sample of 80 public librarians serving youth in rural areas in the United States. Practical implications – Librarianship training programs can help school librarians and youth services librarians learn how to form collaborative partnerships through mentorship programs, requiring pre-service school and youth services librarians to collaborate on projects, and educating them about the similarities in their goals. School and public librarians can also benefit from training to teach them how to build community partnerships. Originality/value – The results provide evidence that public librarians serving youth in rural areas favor building stronger collaborative relationships with school librarians. Building these relationships can improve the quality of education for youth in these locations. This article also includes proposed strategies for improving these relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this column is to review an assortment of the latest non-traditional materials lent by libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The paper surveys a selection of items, both technological and traditional, used by libraries in an effort to expand their horizons with a keen eye towards responding to the needs and expectations of their borrowers. Findings – The paper finds that libraries are eager to enhance an ever-expanding universe of items to support the borrowing of non-traditional materials. Once entered into the circulation system, the sky's the limit. The only limitation is the library's budget and creativity in selecting which items to purchase and circulate. Originality/value – The paper provides useful information on the latest non-traditional materials lent by libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This paper aims to explore the emergence of digital services in the public library domain via an extensive study of the websites of all Scottish public library services. Design/methodology/approach – In a four-month period all 32 of Scotland's public library authority websites were visited by a researcher. The goal of the researcher was to record the options available from the library homepages in the following way: role of library in providing page content: content provider or access provider; was the page providing a digital service; what was the audience for the page: adult, child, or not specified; description of page content; and any noted usability issues. Each site was only visited to three levels below that of the initial homepage. Findings – The study found a good standard of innovation in digital services around LMS functions, offering users the ability to keep in control of their borrowing and reserving. In addition there was a consistent set of electronic reference resources subscribed to by multiple libraries, offering high-quality information both within the library and for library members from their home or workplace. Problems were found with regards to guidance on the usage of these resources, as well as confusion and inconsistency in terminology usage across different library services. Research limitations/implications – The paper only examines Scottish public library sites, and thus can only claim to be representative of that country. It also can only represent the sites at the time they were examined. Practical implications – The paper should be of interest to public and other librarians interested in patterns across websites in their sector. Originality/value – This is the first national study of Scottish public library websites and its findings should be of value as a result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This is the second article focusing on rural library services in Bangladesh. The main aim of this paper is to empirically measure the performance and impact of rural library activities in northern districts of Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach – The study was carried out separately in ten rural communities with library facilities. Background data about library collections were collected. Point-of-exit interviews with library users were carried out to gather their opinion on library collections, performance and impact. Findings – The point-of-exit interview highlights the users' demographic characteristics, their library use and information needs, and their opinion on library collections, performance and impact. The constraints faced by users in using these libraries are also identified. The results show that most users are generally satisfied with the performance and impact of these libraries. Originality/value – This paper is the first attempt to measure empirically the performance and impact of rural library activities in Bangladesh. The authors expect more research on impact assessment of rural library activities in other developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This paper aims to provide an overview of current research on the use of e-books and e-book readers as they gain popularity in libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is a literature review and a case study of a public library which has a Kindle lending program. An e-book case study is examined, highlighting a mid-sized public library which implemented a Kindle e-book lending program. The article includes a follow-up discussion as to how libraries are including digital content in their collections, and changing the way they do business to accommodate the new technologies that people are increasingly asking for. The paper also gives tools for librarians looking to start their own e-book lending program, and provide additional information on what resources are currently available. Findings – One conclusion can be made. E-books will not be going away any time soon. The Kindle lending program at the library has been extremely successful and well received by patrons Research limitations/implications – Because of this very small case study approach, the research results may not be generalizable. Originality/value – This research trend is new, and has not had much study. It gives a wide variety of opportunity for pilot studies, and subsequent ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to explore the process of implementing LibAnswers, a reference statistics collection and analysis software, at multiple service points in an academic library and to outline the benefits of the process. Design/methodology/approach – The article outlines the process used to implement a statistics software, including initial testing, development of categories and terms used to define the question types, and training of library staff. Findings – Implementing a statistics program at multiple service points takes flexibility and patience. The biggest challenge faced was developing common terms to define what each desk did and how the statistics would be used. While this process was useful for implementing the software, it also resulted in unexpected organizational development opportunity as it allowed others to see and better understand the functions of different service points. A total commitment to the new program developed through training and the experiences of those who had used LibAnswers during a test period. Practical implications – LibAnswers, and similar statistics collection programs, are fairly new applications in the library field. While they have multiple uses for expanding and simplifying the collection of reference statistics, this article demonstrates that while implementing statistics software across multiple service points can be difficult, the process of putting it in place can produce numerous benefits. Originality/value – Much has been written on the implementation of reference statistics, but little has been written in detail about developing a library-wide statistics program. This article fills some of the gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to communicate how an academic library can establish and implement a realignment process to prepare itself to serve users in the 21st century. Design/methodology/approach – The authors employed a case study approach to present the challenges of realigning an academic library. They describe the collaborative and interactive process that OSU Libraries undertook to envision what a 21st century academy library might demand and to realign its units to support this vision. They summarize the positive outcomes of this process and provide an overview of what next steps might be. Findings – A combination of visioning exercises and collaborative study of the appropriate LIS literature were key to establishing the direction that the libraries' realignment would take and the eventual organizational structure the libraries implemented. The realignment activities not only emphasized collaboration among unit heads, but also emphasized the importance of clear communication, ongoing assessment, and connection to the university's overall strategic goals and realignment in order to guarantee eventual success. Originality/value – This article describes a process that most academic libraries could emulate to shift the focus of legacy operations and departments to those that successfully meet the challenges of the twenty-first century academic library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to report on the challenges and lessons learnt by the Texas A&M University Libraries' processing team when trying to implement a "resource in common" high-density storage unit model between Texas A&M University Library and The University of Texas-Austin Libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The case study draws on the experience of the Texas A&M University Libraries' processing team when the university funded the creation of a jointly owned remote storage unit, which foundation would rest on a "resource in common" model. The creation of a new library building allowed Texas A&M University Libraries to free up stack space in order to create new learning spaces to meet the needs of the library users. However, as the processing began, initial theories of what a "resource in common" was, how to implement a "resource in common" and resources needed to implement the "resource in common" model began to be questioned. This study examines the lessons learnt when trying to implement a "resource in common" model. Findings – Based on the experiences of the Texas A&M University Libraries' processing team, increased communication and early participation in the decision-making stages is key when trying to implement a "resource in common" model. This processing team was responsible for updating the MARC records for all the items that were identified to go to the joint storage unit. They recognized that any collaborative venture of this magnitude required an excellent workflow and workload understanding by all parties, including those members of the TAMU Library initial project planning team who were active members on the initial library storage facility oversight committees. This understanding would allow everyone at TAMU involved in the massive project to have a clearer knowledge of the strains caused by the increased workload and could communicate to the full team the obstacles the library would be facing. Originality/value – This paper introduces the idea of "resource in common" and will be of interest to all libraries facing both space and funding shortages who might be considering building a storage unit. These libraries might consider implementing a "resource in common" model as a way to solve these problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which explored the relationship between library/information science (LIS) and education. The study made use of different sources, which include blog entries, academic journal papers, and books. Results suggested that there are means in which the duties and functions of information professionals and teachers coincide. The study also revealed the contrasts associated with and perceptions of information literacy, as well as the differences in the relative positions of information professionals and teachers within schools.

The article presents a small scale study concerning the library usage and information needs of long-established national minorities in eastern Croatia, particularly in relation to information and reading materials in their native languages. It mentions that the data were gathered using quantitative methodology and analysed using descriptive statistics and variant analysis. It shows that respondents need diverse information and reading material in their native language wherein they used public libraries less often than some other information sources including newspapers, internet, and local Serbian cultural associations. Moreover, the study could encourage systematic collection and analysis of information by librarians in Croatia about their local community minorities.

Purpose – This paper aims to examine the increased lack of clarity about the professional role of academic librarians, and where the future lies in the academic environment during this period of fast information environment change. Design/methodology/approach – The paper takes the form of a literature review and commentary on developments in the area of academic librarianship in a new information environment. Findings – The profession is finding ways to become equipped and incorporate new technologies into the existing framework of high-quality information service delivery. As the demands and wishes of end users transform, librarians have sought to re-define what the library building and services mean to those who use the library. Because the nature of the content librarians work with is dramatically re-structuring, so the profession is experimenting with new ideas for its capture, organization and delivery. Practical implications – It is important for academic librarians to work towards the transformation of their relationship with faculty to emphasize an ability to assist them with integrating information technology and library resources into courses. This is based on collaboration and networking. Originality/value – The paper reveals that change is happening in a new, increasingly competitive information environment in which the academic library is no longer necessarily the conventional resource of first choice for the academe it exists to serve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This paper seeks to deal with the "image problem" in the library and information science (LIS) profession from the cultural studies viewpoint. It aims to explore representations of LIS in LIS itself and to research the representation practices of LIS in the social and cultural environment. Design/methodology/approach – After identifying some main features of professional discourse on the LIS image, the empirical part of the research particularly explored two questions: how LIS is constituted and how it is embedded in broader social practices. More than 300 articles were collected from the Slovenian daily newspaper with the largest circulation. The sample was analyzed quantitatively and two-fold qualitatively. Findings – The results of quantitative analysis outline the formation of LIS's community nature. The results of qualitative analysis mostly show the signifying practices in differentiating between the "old" and the "modern" and representing practices in creating "zealous" librarians and "suspicious" users. The results also point to librarians as "organic intellectuals". Research limitations/implications – The study is exploratory and at this point the thesis on "organic intellectuals" cannot be confirmed; in addition to the limits in the analysis methods, the theoretical background needs to be further explored. The findings cannot be generalized due to social and cultural differences. Practical implications – The methodology can be applied to other research subjects. The results may be helpful for library managers and library public relations work. Originality/value – There are only a few studies of such theoretical and methodological design that have researched the role of the LIS in society. The paper also analyzes the "image problem" in the daily newspapers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This paper aims to discuss the development of a core set of information resources management (IRM) competencies and to detail a plan for their acquisition by IRM librarians of a large academic university library. Design/methodology/approach – The paper examines the work of librarians who manage information resources at the University of Arizona Libraries to inform the development of a set of core competencies. The planned implementation and assessment of a series of training sessions for developing these competencies is also discussed, as is the role of individual librarians who have been assigned specific tasks related to broader issues not easily addressed by a training session. Finally, a prioritized list of mastery-level competencies for future development is defined. Findings – By defining in detail the information resource-related tasks for which IRM members are responsible, the authors were able to develop a plan for training modules that are designed to ensure core competencies for all team members. Originality/value – This paper is a detailed plan for developing competencies needed to manage information resources at an academic library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to show how the addition of a next-generational overlay to an existing online catalog can lead to more-refined searching by users. Users of classic online catalogs have always had the ability to refine their searches and define better the specific type of material they want. However, research in the last two decades has consistently shown that few users take advantage of this extra step. Now with the rise of discovery platforms like Encore and Aquabrowser, the limiting capabilities are automatically displayed to the user, and this study aims to demonstrate that this creates a significant change in search behaviors. Design/methodology/approach – The library worked through months of its search logs for both the classic and online catalogs and compared data from the two platforms. Similar log data were obtained from other libraries to confirm that this was a universal trend. Findings – The study shows that users are 15-20 times more likely to refine their searches if they are searching in a discovery platform. Originality/value – Librarians can base their bibliographic instruction sessions on a better understanding of the search behaviors likely in the two kinds of catalogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to understand why users at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) are unable to locate locally held items from the university libraries' electronic and physical collections using the library web site and catalog. Design/methodology/approach – A combination of usability testing methods and quality control methods were used. Items for the study were selected from cancelled interlibrary loan requests. A cognitive walkthrough was performed for citations representative of the top categories of cancellation because the item is owned or available electronically. Quality control methods were used to determine likely user failure points to completing this path. Data from the cognitive walkthrough were compared with actual user behavior, as observed through usability testing. Findings – Participants in the study failed to locate known items for multiple reasons, but from the usability testing and analysis three major areas emerged: finding the correct starting-point for the search, information not indexed for a selected search, and clicking on the call number link. The complexity of library resources was the main contributor to these failures. Participants expected library searching to behave like their other search experiences. Research limitations/implications – The failure points identified in the study are in some cases specific to features of the UNLV Libraries' integrated library system. Originality/value – This paper could be useful to libraries examining the ease with which users can locate items using the library web site and catalog. The research team used a quality control method to analyze usability testing, which provides valuable quantitative data concerning the relationship between user and system failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this column is to examine the issues between library space and the pursuit of serendipitous browsing. Design/methodology/approach – The approach is via a literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by colleague institutions. Findings – While library space is at a premium on every college and university campus, even in light of access to digital material, a considerable portion of the collection still must be available in print, thus necessitating traditional shelf space, so that searching the physical collection and browsing can occur. Balancing the two issues is a challenge to each and every institution in its forward planning cycle. Originality/value – The value in addressing this issue is to examine the issues of insufficient shelf space versus browsing the collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- The purpose of this paper is to present the outcomes of digitisation of special collections: mapping, assessment, prioritisation (DiSCmap), a JISC and RIN-funded project which studied users' priorities for the digitisation of special collections within the context of UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Design/methodology/approach -- The project produced a list of 945 collections nominated for digitisation by intermediaries and end users and a user-driven prioritisation framework. Data were gathered via web questionnaires. Focus groups and telephone interviews with end users provided additional insights on the views of those working within particular domains or disciplines. Over 1,000 intermediaries and end users contributed by nominating collections for the "long list" and providing opinions about digitisation priorities. Findings -- The long list of collections nominated for digitisation provides evidence of identified user interest and is not merely a "snapshot" but a significant outcome. A user-driven framework for prioritising digitisation was also produced. The project suggests a flexible approach for prioritising collections for digitisation based on the use of the framework in combination with the long list of collections. Research limitations/implications -- The project did not undertake a representative study; the participation of intermediaries and end users was a matter of goodwill. Yet 44 per cent of HEIs in the UK nominated special collections to the long list. Originality/value -- The paper provides new insights and evidence on user priorities for the digitisation of special collections. It also suggests a user-driven digitisation prioritisation framework of benefit in future decision making, both locally and nationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- There has been a great deal of emphasis on the concept of "Legendary" customer service in the private sector these days. This concept has been reaching into more public sector organizations in recent years. Loosely defined as the pinnacle of outstanding service presently demonstrated by only a handful of recognized companies, when one examines many of the attributes of this model of service, many libraries have already adopted their own versions of it. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the environment in which librarians are providing the "Legendary" customer service model as emphasized in the private sector as a best practice, thus validating the profession's continued relevance. Design/methodology/approach -- The approach takes the form of a literature review and commentary on this topic that is now being addressed by colleagues. Findings -- With the increase in patron expectations fulfilled by librarians daily, the "Legendary" service model becomes even more important to validate the example of quality customer service, so that the debate regarding the relevance of the profession is silenced once and for all. Originality/value -- The value in addressing this issue is to recognize that the new model of customer service is already embedded into the work of today's librarians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The paper seeks to examine the challenges of implementing DSpace at the Main Library at the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago and highlights the creation of a digitization project at the Main Library that was used to promote DSpace to faculty members on the St Augustine Campus. Design/methodology/approach - The paper describes the Main Library's decision to implement an institutional repository using the DSpace platform, looking at the submissions of the Michael Goldberg Collection of Postcards and the University of the West Indies theses abstracts over a period of one year. Findings - The paper reveals that significant attention must be given to factors such as selection, content management, finance, training, metadata, security and copyright in setting up an institutional repository on the DSpace platform. It also concludes that the Main Library is yet to explore fully the capabilities of the DSpace software. Despite the constraints, it is clear that there are enormous benefits to be derived from utilizing DSpace to promote the intellectual output of the University of the West Indies, St Augustine and consequently the Main Library will continue to map a way forward in the realm of DSpace. Originality/value - The research draws upon the DSpace experience of the University of the West Indies, St Augustine and serves as a model for future projects in the implementation of the DSpace software, particularly in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose-The purpose of this paper is to introduce how the Taipei Public Library established an intelligent library that offers automated service equipped with radio frequency identification (RFJD) and a self-checkout system. The study concludes with suggestions offered for the reference of the Taipei Public Library and other public libraries in setting up similar automated libraries in the future. Design/methodology/approach-The study examines the functions of the Ximen Intelligent Library as provided to 106 patrons who are under observation. Afterwards, a questionnaire is distributed to obtain the personal information of these patrons and the specific nature of their patronage of the library. Items of observation and investigation include their use of the library's facilities and the return of library material to a return box located outside the library; patrons include those aged 12 years old and above. Findings-In comparing the aspects of human resources, capital investment, and library hours, between a public reading room and an intelligent library, it is obvious that the intelligent library has many more advantages. A major difficulty for the patrons of the library is their unfamiliarity in operating the automated circulation system, compounded by the fact that very few patrons call the service line for help when they encounter difficulties. Moreover, patrons cannot always locate on the shelves the books they intend to borrow, even though the catalogue indicates that they are on the shelves. Originality/value-The paper offers helpful information on understanding this type of library, including its patrons, their behaviour in the library, and how it operates. The results of this study can serve as a reference for improving current intelligent library services for librarians at the Taipei Public Library and at other public libraries that plan to set up RFID intelligent libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the 29th IATUL Conference on "Digital discovery: strategies and solutions" held in Auckland, New Zealand in April 2008. Design/methodology/approach - The article gives an outline of the issues, content, keynote speakers, social networking and location of this conference. Findings - The IATUL meeting presented a wide range of cutting-edge topics defining the future roles of librarians in a globalised information society. Participants gained insights into the workings and visions of librarians around the globe, had the opportunity to share experiences and best practice and to find new inspiration and encouragement for their own daily work. The conference included areas such as policies for the information society, digitalization strategies, open access initiatives, e-research developments, library support for e-science, library customer orientation, Web 2.0 applications for libraries, learning experiences of the Net generation, information literacy as well as data and knowledge management. Originality/value - The paper provides a conference report of value to library and information professionals, in particular to library directors and senior managers, regarding the development of a modern dynamic infrastructure for digital information and communication and the role of libraries therein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to review the current state of e-books, decamping their potential scope, highlighting information from recent ebrary surveys in connection with the author's on-the-ground experience with students, and discussing the challenges of these evolving works. Design/methodology/approach - The paper describes the need to broaden perceptions of e-books in light of their extensive potential and scope. It highlights significant points in the ebrary surveys and compares them with the author's on-the-ground experience in a medium-sized university with students who are less advantaged. It also presents the challenges librarians face, both currently and in the future, illustrating progress in some areas and emphasizing the growing complexity in managing these works. Findings - Even as librarians cope with what can now be considered "traditional" e-books, little attention is paid to the potential breadth and diversity of e-books. The surveys show that librarians are only partially aware of students' perceptions about e-books and that there are conflicting priorities among students, faculty, and librarians. Conclusions are that: even as librarians cope with the current state of e-books, they must also plan for future types of e-books; and there is a strong need for greater communication in the increasingly complex e-book arena of selection, acquisition, collection integration, and instruction. Originality/value - Much of the literature about e-books deals with the pros and cons, either of e-books or of e-book readers. The paper lays out e-book issues to foster further in-depth discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to create a parallel timeline between the Zimbabwe Librarian, the national trade journal for librarianship during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, government statistics, non-governmental information, media reports, and other secondary sources to determine the effects of Zimbabwe's political and economic fortunes on libraries. Design/methodology/approach - The primary methodology is a review of secondary sources in the form of trade journals, economic data and media reports. The approach of the paper is to compare the state of libraries in Zimbabwe during the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and 2005, showing the change in librarianship and library services as economic prosperity changed dramatically. Findings - The policies of three successive governments have promised support for libraries but have ultimately been unable to implement a national library system. Libraries in 2008 have fewer resources available than they had in the 1960s. Research limitations/implications - This paper is based on media sources as well as statistical data. The Zimbabwe Librarian ceased as a quarterly journal in approximately 1997. Since 2000, it has been issued as a semi-annual journal. The author had access to a limited span of the Zimbabwe Librarian; therefore, this article focuses on the period from 1969.1995. Media sources available in Zimbabwe after 2001 are frequently propaganda organizations. Originality/value - This article provides an overview of historical and current events in the Zimbabwe library community in the light of political and economic events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — This article sets out to describe the challenges and opportunities created by the presentation of a number of special collections to the library service of Waterford Institute of Technology. It aims to focus on the work done with the collections to date and plans for the future. Design/methodology/approach — This case study reports on the collections presented to WIT Library Service and the approach taken to their conservation and display. It also discusses the ongoing issues involved in special collections management in a modern academic library setting. Findings — The paper concludes that there is a delicate balancing act involved in accepting and managing special collections in contemporary academic libraries. Key factors to consider are expense, staff time and skills, and potential benefits to the library and its users. Research limitations/implications — The project is still in development. The study provides a view on one medium-sized academic library's experience of handling special collections. Practical implications — This account is likely to be useful for organisations in a similar position, faced with similar challenges of comparable scale. Originality/value — The paper offers practical insights for libraries in similar positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - "Guerrilla marketing" describes unconventional marketing strategies with which to achieve significant effects - with a fraction of the budget of "traditional" marketing campaigns. This article aims to give an introduction to "guerrilla marketing" principles and discuss suitability of this marketing approach for information services. Design/methodology/approach - Whether guerrilla marketing strategies may be suitable for introducing information services and the necessary prerequisites for that are explored based on applying cross-case analysis findings from industry examples to information services. This is based on a conceptual framework illustrating differentiating and positioning hypotheses for information services. Findings - It is argued, that guerrilla marketing strategies may be applied for information services whenever a product-like representation for such a service can be developed and a link to emotional values be established. Furthermore, for the product-like representation there must be coherent target groups to be identified and relevant user scenarios be created for them. Originality/value - This article provides a conceptual framework related to the question of how to increase acceptance and degree of utilization of information services in their relevant target groups. By discussing the possibilities of marketing strategies with limited resources, this article provides alternative ways of thinking and acting for information services mediators such as, for example, librarians. This is of particular relevance for this community, as information services mediators generally need marketing efforts to gain spread for their information services offer - but usually are faced with strictly limited marketing budgets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this article is to describe the need for and realization of a new kind of interface for searching and obtaining library materials, an interface designed around user needs and decoupled from, though interoperating with, current library systems. Design/methodology/approach - The paper describes a product that was released in May 2007 - the Primo® system from Ex Libris - as an example of a new solution for the discovery and delivery of library collections. The paper deals with the issues involved in the design of the product, the way in which the product was built to address the needs of both information seekers and libraries, and the use of usability studies to affirm the overall design and help shape fine points of the interface. Findings - The paper demonstrates how users' expectations, which emanate from the everyday experience on the internet, can be addressed by library software in a way that corresponds to librarians' requirements and suits and libraries' technological infrastructure. Originality/value - Using a concrete example, this paper demonstrates how the design of a discovery and delivery interface for library materials can satisfy the expectations of users who are accustomed to services on the web and can help libraries attract such users back to the library environment, where they can obtain credible, trustworthy scholarly content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — The purpose of this paper is to offer some insight into changes that are occurring in the expectations and behaviour of researchers seeking scholarly information and the ways in which libraries and vendors are addressing these changes in light of the availability of Web 2.0 technologies. Design/methodology/approach — The paper investigates current trends in information seeking, defines and describes factors that contribute to an up-to-date, user-centric library experience, and examines the movement of vendors and libraries toward such a library experience. Findings — The paper identifies aspects of new library interfaces that attempt to satisfy the needs of today's information seekers and describes a new approach for creating a user experience layer for library collections. The Primo® discovery and delivery system from Ex Libris serves as an example of a library interface that was designed in light of this new approach. Originality/value — As more organisations become concerned about the decreasing use of their library collections, this paper suggests ways in which libraries can adapt to the changing user expectations and maintain the relevance of their collections and services for today's information seekers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — The purpose of this paper is to review some considerations about a small scale research study conducted in a small town in Northern Italy between December 2003 and April 2004, that gathered quantitative and qualitative data about adolescents aged 11 to 19 who answered 20 questions on their experiences, expectations and perspectives on library use and services. Design/methodology/approach — A quantitative-qualitative research method based on triangulation of data acquired was devised to increase reliability and validity of the survey. Findings — Teenagers have proved to be a demanding and challenging public, with clear ideas regarding innovation of services and implementation of resources. They believe that libraries are important place to find up-to-date information, and to discuss with peers. Research limitations/implications — The group participating in the survey was about 50 per cent on the total targeted population. Results show that surveys about library services can be of value in order to tailor services to actual and unexpressed heeds of a target users' group. Practical implications — The survey has provided grounds for discussions within different categories of stakeholders such as administrators, carers, educators, and librarians. The results show that maintenance and implementation of services should be founded both on theoretical principles and evidence based practice. Originality/value — There are still few examples of small scale research studies on teens' experiences, expectations, and perspectives about library services and this paper shows that it is a valuable and rewarding challenge to embark in a target-oriented survey to explore users' needs and satisfaction on services offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — To define the elements of a gift books policy. Design/methodology/approach — Research based on a review of library gift policies. Findings — Provides libraries with general guidelines as to what should be included in a gift book policy. Originality/value — Provides assistance to libraries to find a way to explain to prospective donors how the library handles donations and gifts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — This paper addresses the coverage of issues related to crisis and societal change in the scholarly literature in relation to libraries, information services, and access to information and the leadership role of librarians and libraries in addressing such issues. Design/methodology/approach — The paper provides an overview and analysis of the general issue of change in the literature review, as well as a discussion of war and terrorism, civil and natural disasters, social movements, medical and healthcare crises and needs, and large-scale economic and technological shifts. The research results address the extent to which these major economic, political, technological and social changes have been addressed in four quarterly, peer-reviewed library and information science journals over the past six years and the extent to which the focus of the published research and discussion has shifted over the past six years. Findings — Research based on analysis of the journal literature reflects the documentation of practices and research results in library and information science. The research results indicate increased focus on war and terrorism and large-scale economic and technological change, as related to information services, in the literature, during and after 2001, but less focus on information access, despite the impact of war and terrorism on library collections and resulting legal and policy decisions related to access to information. Research limitations/implications — As a result of the limited focus on research and discussion of leadership in the peer-reviewed journals included in the research study and the fact that the articles that addressed the role of libraries and librarians in addressing various aspects of crisis and change did not also identify the roles as those of leadership, there is the need for research and publication to document the examples of library leadership that may be taking place, but which are not reflected in the research literature. Practical implications — The efforts undertaken to influence the policy-making and legislative processes, to provide access to information, and to design and provide information resources and services have not been articulated in the literature as leadership roles, in particular. Thus, the analysis of the literature appears to indicate further opportunities for leadership at the local, national and international levels, consistent with the numerous examples reflected in the literature. Originality/value — In general, there is limited focus on research and discussion of leadership in the scholarly journals in library and information science. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the major economic, political, technological and social changes internationally, over the past six years, and addresses the extent to which the efforts of librarians and libraries to address these issues have been documented in the research literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — This paper describes a comprehensive user survey carried out in an Irish higher education academic library (Waterford Institute of Technology library service) as part of a strategic initiative to engage with library users. Design/methodology/approach — Two major user groups — full-time undergraduate students and academic staff — were surveyed. The survey instrument was a hardcopy questionnaire. The paper outlines the relative merits of different survey types and the reasoning behind the final choice of survey instrument. Findings — The main results of the survey are synopsised. The paper also includes selected free-text comments made by survey respondents and the library's response to the results in terms of how issues highlighted will be addressed. Research limitations/implications — The survey focused on two specific user groups, which leaves scope for future research by this institution into how the library is used by other types of users, such as distance learners. Practical implications — The survey was a good way of communicating with users. This was the first time such a project has been undertaken at WIT and WIT library service will continue to survey users on a regular basis and to use the results to inform service delivery. Originality/value — As the first comprehensive survey to be undertaken in the Institute of Technology sector in Ireland, the paper is of potential value to library practitioners in this, or indeed in other sectors, who are considering doing a survey of their users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a spin off of a keynote address that was delivered by the author at the IFLA-Africa section workshop on "developing and managing digital libraries" that was held in Gaborone Botswana from 23-27 February 2004. The author points out that libraries in Sub-Saharan Africa like their counterparts in the rest of the world are continuing to experience a period of rapid change as they prepare to participate in the global information society. In this endeavour, the libraries face various challenges of economic, technological, content, and information literacy nature. In a global information society, there is need to democratize access to information using ICTs, provide adequate and relevant local content to users and equip them with requisite information literacy skills to efficiently find their way in a maze of information networks. This paper discusses the patterns of ICTs diffusion within libraries in Sub-Saharan Africa and the implications for the development and management of digital libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The government, from both national and regional sources, is the primary source of funds for universities and their libraries in Australia. Student numbers and financial allocations are set by the federal government. Government policy changes in relation to higher education funding have impacted considerably in the last few years and the percentage of total income emanating from the federal government has steadily deteriorated. Student fees, on both a partial and full basis, have been introduced as part of the funding mix. Most university libraries in Australia are funded by their parent organizations, usually through a fixed percentage of overall university income. Cost pressures have been experienced by university libraries through reductions in government income, and excessive increases in the costs of library materials, but also through a steadily falling value of the Australian currency against other major world currencies. This paper reviews the environment of Australian university libraries and focuses on the University of Queensland Cybrary as a case study, reviewing initiatives that have been adopted to increase income. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors address the training needs of archivists, librarians and museum staff involved in preserving the national heritage and consider how these domains' needs might be met in a co-ordinated and collaborative manner across the cultural heritage sector, and within the context of educational provision. The paper draws on a recent Library and Information Commission funded research project, "Review of current preservation management training in the UK and abroad", and the 1999 National Preservation Office seminar on the subject. It relates this to work of the National Preservation Office, Resource, and other professional initiatives, and suggests how sector-wide training and education might be developed. It poses questions for the consideration of LIS educators. Recommendations encourage the development of existing links and training initiatives, widening involvement and collaboration within and without the sector, and co-ordination of preservation management training nationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This keynote paper considers each of the three facets included in the title of the conference: continuity, culture and competition. Each facet, it is argued, challenges the academic community in library and information science (LIS) to retreat from a narrow view of knowledge transfer in society founded on textual documentation as the channel of communication, and libraries as the means of gaining access to such documentation. The case against continuity in the design and teaching of LIS curricula is made by forecasting the likely socioeconomic context of information resource management in 2005. The widening availability of digitally-integrated cultural artefacts signals the need for a convergence of librarianship with professional activity within other forms of memory institution. Competition from the subject discipline of computer science to provide the knowledge and skills deemed most appropriate for the information professional of the future suggests that LIS academics should collaborate, rather than compete within their community, the better to present a strongly unified discipline provision as the basis for a convergence of interests and influence with information system developers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction stresses the role of the library in the environment and the importance of marketing thinking in the management practice of libraries. The main characteristics of library services as well as the importance and the definition of the perceived quality of services are dealt with. Reveals the current situation concerning research into service quality in libraries, and focuses on the structure of importance and the level of the service quality components in the library at the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Maribor, Slovenia. Discusses the reasons for the project and its goals, analyzes the results and submits proposals for the improvement of the overall service quality in libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports on the ground-breaking work by Herbert Van de Sompel while associated with Ghent University, Belgium, and at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, which has led to the creation of an open linking framework for scholarly research. The open linking framework proposed by Van de Sompel puts libraries firmly in control, allowing them to determine the scope of their institution's interlinked research environment both in terms of extent and range of link services offered to their users. It places librarians in the "trail-blazers" profession, predicted by Vannevar Bush in 1945: they enthuse in the task of establishing useful links between resources. The creation of such an open linking environment requires the collaboration of all the stakeholders in the information industry; and underlying the success of this is an emerging standard, the OpenURL, now on a fast track path to acceptance by NISO. Van de Sompel's research work led to the development of the SFX server technology, which was demonstrated in operation at both the Ghent University and the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Ex Libris subsequently purchased the SFX server technology from Ghent University in early 2000. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An article consisting of a series of reflections concerning the new elements that constitute libraries and presenting the characteristic terminology for the future. What will change is the form of application, and importance will be placed on bringing the information and the user closer together, regardless of the location and the format. Owing to new technologies, user demands are generating specific needs. In view of this, the library of the future will seek to attain access to, and ease of operation for, digitized information for users. It is necessary to analyze the Internet and those telecommunications which have undergone a rapid development of technology, especially in the area of electronics. Finally, attention is drawn to the role of education in resolving the questions related to the changes both at local and at universal level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the initial success of the eLib Programme for Higher Education libraries in the UK, the most recent phase of funding has been directed at hybrid library and clump projects. A clump is an aggregation of catalogues which may be physical - a traditional union catalogue - or virtual, being created at the time of searching. The most common protocol in use in clumps is Z39.50 which offers opportunities for creating gateways to a range of catalogues, thus allowing simultaneous parallel searching. Four clump projects have been approved by eLib and started work in January 1998: CAIRNS - Co-operative Academic Information Retrieval Network for Scotland; M25 Link: Access to London Libraries; Music Libraries Online (a geographically split subject clump); RIDING: Z39.50 Gateway to Yorkshire Libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

College library staff must work to bring students and information technology together, especially where college-wide computer literacy courses are not required. Teaching students to use constantly changing computer technology should start from an assessment of their skills, needs, and preferred training methods. However, surveying a student population with a high percentage of commuters risks inaccuracy; if surveys are distributed by mail or in libraries, the survey-takers are often self-selected and thus not representative. One solution is to administer the surveys in the classroom, using a course that most students are required to take. The results of such a survey, conducted at the College of Charleston, reveal a surprising variety of needs and preferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spotlights the Brent libraries' "Beyond the millennium project", planning ahead for the year 2008. Outlines the multicultural nature of the borough, the political context and the library service in general. Highlights the central aim of the project - to put libraries at the heart of local communities - embracing the values of effective service, positive customer involvement, commitment to excellence and imagination. Anticipates that by 2008 libraries will operate seven days a week, offer wide-ranging IT-based services, using the most advanced technologies, and become an enabler of lifelong learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comic books are now becoming a part of public library collections. In Brazil, public libraries are organizing special branches or departments for comic books, calling them Gibitecas. Discusses the reasons for public libraries to collect comic books, and reviews the range of motives that took Brazilian librarians to provide them to their customers. Also analyses the difficulties for collecting and disseminating comic books, with special attention to the characteristics of comic book publishing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]