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Making decisions on academic library opening hours is complex with many pressures on managers. This research surveys senior academic library managers from the UK, using a questionnaire to reveal views on library opening hours, the decision-making process, and the pressures which influenced their decisions. A variety of factors were found, in particular satisfying undergraduate demands. The research also revealed the sources of information important in making decisions on opening hours and the influence of 'political' issues in the decision-making process. Some institutions remove complexity by utilising 24/7 opening, though this is not an option for many. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Workflow mapping can yield valuable results wherever complex processes are used. Some of its many benefits include knowledge retention, identification of inefficiencies, and more effective decision making. However, despite the promise of improved productivity and stewardship of library resources, tackling diagrams of complex and often long-unexamined workflows can seem too daunting a task to even attempt—at least without the right tool. This review takes a look at the robust features for flowchart creation offered by Lucidchart, a free online software that greatly reduces the challenges of constructing complicated diagrams. Lucidchart's intuitive interface and built-in library of templates and design elements bring the benefits of visual mapping well within the reach of busy librarians and managers attempting to chart, understand, and streamline workflows in their units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective – By collecting and analyzing evidence from three data points, researchers sought to understand how library spaces are used. Researchers have used results for evidence based decision making regarding physical library spaces. Methods – Undergraduate researchers, sociology faculty, and librarians used mixed-methods to triangulate findings. Seating sweeps were used to map patrons’ activities in the library. Studentled focus groups discussed patterns of library use, impressions of facilities, and library features and services. The final step included a campus survey developed from seating sweeps and focus group findings. Results – Seating sweeps showed consistent use of the library's main level Learning Commons and upper level quiet spaces; the library’s multipurpose lower level is under-utilized. Students use the main level of the library for collaborative learning, socializing, reading, and computer use. Students use the upper level for quiet study and group work in study rooms. Focus group findings found library use is task-specific. For example, a student may work with classmates on a project using the main level Learning Commons during the day, and then come back at night to use the quiet floor for test preparation. Survey responses highlighted areas in which the library is deficient. For example, respondents cited crowdedness, noise levels, and temperature concerns. Conclusion – These data offer empirical evidence for library space needs. Some data aligns with previous space studies conducted at this library: access to power outlets, lighting, noise, and an outdated environment. Evidence also supports anecdotal concerns of crowding, graduate students lacking designated study space, and the need for quiet study space away from group study space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyze research works on air pollution published in 2005-2014 and indexed in Web of Science Core Collection.Design/methodology/approach The data of research publications on “air pollution” from the Web of Science Core Collection database were collected with following search strategy: publications with terms “Air contaminat*”, “Air pollut*”, “pollut* air” or “contaminat* air” in their titles for the period of 2005-2014 were collected. A total of 4,424 articles were published on air pollution during the period of 2005-2014, and the data were used for creation of database in Microsoft Excel for the analysis purpose. Bibliometric analysis techniques were applied wherever necessary.Findings Out of 4,424 articles published on air pollution in different languages, 4,276 articles were in English. The years 2013 and 2014 showed rapid increase in number of articles published, 563 and 638, respectively. The increased number of articles resulted in an increase in number of pages published and references cited in the articles. The articles published in the year 2006 had received more number of citations (12,318), and the average citation per article for the period was 17.59. Environmental Science was the major Web of Science subject category under which a greater number of articles were published. Article entitled as “Health effects of fine particulate air pollution: Lines that connect”, published in Journal of The Air & Waste Management Association by Pope and Dockery (2006), was the highest cited article (1,743) for the period, and the top most active journals that published huge number of articles were Atmospheric Environment and Environmental Health Perspective, with 11.79 per cent of the total articles (4,424) published.Research limitations/implications The findings of the study are limited to the journals covered under Web of Science Core Collection database and articles having the following keywords in their titles: “Air contaminat*”, “Air pollut*”, “pollut* air” or “contaminat* air”.Originality/value This study would be useful to researchers and policy makers to get an insight into the research trends of air pollution for effective decision-making and formulation of new research proposals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to understand the organizational level decision factors in technology adoption in the context of digital libraries. A qualitative case study approach was used to investigate the adoption of a specific technology, XML-based Web services, in digital libraries. Rogers's diffusion of innovations and Wenger's communities of practice were the theories used to frame the study. The data collected through interviews were triangulated with documentary evidence and a comprehensive member check. Four organizational level influences identified when making technology adoption decisions in the context of digital libraries were organizational structure, management style, focus and direction of the program, and relationships with external entities. Attributes including program size, organizational culture and availability of financial resources contributed to these organizational level influences whereas program size did not appear to have an effect. Informal communication mechanisms were found to inform and influence the decision-making process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditionally, librarians take a role in connecting researchers with resources. With the advent of the digital age, the nature of research is expanding; there are more, and different, sources of data, ways of collecting data, and methods of analyzing and interacting with data. If librarians are to remain relevant and able to serve their patrons, then they must engage in research as guides or even as partners in the research process. To do this, it is critical that librarians gain an understanding of the nature of research in the digital age and of the frameworks, methodologies, and issues related to digital research. The purpose of this article is to contribute to literature on digital research as it relates to librarianship. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A fundemental problem of practical sciences such as librarianship is that theory does not always match practice. To put it another way, the idealistic writings in books cannot solve the real problems which are encountered in library management. For this reason, it would be better if managers attempting to solve problems, instead of paying attention to applications which are fashionable in the field of library management and theoretical ideas in books, took decisions with reference to the administrative and economic structure of that particular library. Apart from this, a mistake is often made when managers take decisions based on their own ideas and judgements or on certain ideologies. These decisions which in the course of the decision-making process are made according to opinions usually lead to loss and failure for the institution. Evidence-based decision making, which is a subject which is relatively new to the field of librarianship, means to use the available data and realities within the existing situation in the best possible way and to stress that a solution which fits one library will not necessarily fit another. In this study, the concept of evidence-based decision making and its importance in library management will be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this qualitative study was to identify and explain challenges encountered by academic librarians when trying to incorporate evidence into their practice. The findings resulted in the identification of five main determinants that act as either obstacles or enablers of evidence use. The identification of these determinants provide librarians with a greater understanding of the complex processes and individual as well as organizational factors that impact decision-making processes within academic libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Swiss version of IFLA 's Code of Ethics there is no mention about whistleblowing at all. This is where this article starts some considerations about methods of implementing stipulated guidelines (especially of ethical quality). In general, there are three methods which can be distinguished corresponding to three different types of ethics : firstly, focussing on prescribing procedures (procedural ethics such as discourse ethics or deontology), secondly, evaluating values and their collocation (virtue ethics), and thirdly, considering pros and cons by scenarios (utilitarianism). In praxis, these methodic guidelines should be amended by didactic methods in order to support adressees in adopting their Code of Ethics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on the change in the circulation lay-out of the Jane Bancroft Cook Library from two separate desks for reference and circulation into one desk called an Integrated Service Desk in 2010. According to the authors, the decision was pursued because the administrators wanted to provide both reference and circulation services from one service point and to also respond to the problem of a low number of librarians. The effects of the change on the librarians are also discussed.

Abstract: How many monographs acquired in a particular year circulate in that year? What percentage have their first circulation each successive year? Does the pattern differ for different broad subject areas, i.e., humanities, the sciences, and the social sciences? This article tests the assumption that the first-circulation pattern differs by subject. We conclude that the pattern does not differ. The finding is important for decisions about off-site storage, assessing collection development, maintaining departmental libraries, etc. Regardless of subject, if a book has not circulated at least once within a few years after acquisition, it is unlikely to find its reader. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The authors discuss the most effective use of library space, particularly debating the allocation of space to either user services or books, as well as presents an introduction to the column. They address the shift in library services away from book collections and towards technology and user reference services. Other topics explored include sentimentality towards books, dependence on interlibrary loans, and library patron convenience.

This article describes a computer program developed by the author to extract subject-level usage and inventory data from Aleph system reports and to track usage trends by subject over time. Two implementations of the program are detailed, at the Institute of Fine Arts Library and the East Asian collection at Bobst Library, both at New York University. Use of the program in processing inventory, in-house usage, and circulation data in greater detail is demonstrated. Information about usage trends within major Library of Congress subject areas provides collection managers with more precise data for use in a variety of collection management decisions. The article shows that the program offers significant new functionality for collection assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Due to significant cutbacks in the Irish health service, the Adelaide and Meath Hospital incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) Library's budget was reduced by 25% in 2011, necessitating the cancellation of journals. This paper describes a journal review project that adopted an evidence-based approach to evaluate journals for retention or cancellation. A second project aim was to communicate to users that a major reduction to the Library budget was expected and to prepare them for journal cancellations. A decision-making process was designed which used journal metrics and user evaluations. 500 key users were surveyed to rate journals relevant, of whom 36% responded. The process informed the decision making for 80% of titles. Of a potential 286 journals, 73 (25%) were identified for cancellation. It also provided a basis on which to evaluate journals similar in price, impact and coverage which otherwise would have been difficult to differentiate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Information and Learning Commons mode of library organization has become more prevalent over the past few decades and allows academic libraries to provide wider-ranging and more cohesive services to their constituents. Several issues, including relying upon a single, mythical 'Patron' in planning for services; poor organization; a lack of cohesion and centralized leadership; and the 'digital divide' may hinder the effectiveness of the Commons and negatively impact both patrons and staff. If these problems can be surmounted, this model shows great promise for both current and future application in academic libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Using Evidence in Practice feature for this issue we invited Ghislaine Declève, a health librarian from Belgium who is active in Evidence Based Library and Information Practice, to provide a perspective on the uptake of the paradigm in non-English speaking countries. While her survey extends beyond the health domain it will prove of particular value to the HILJ readership, given that leadership of the movement continues to reside primarily within the health information sector. AB [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial presents the author's views on cataloging research projects that are guided by values of librarianship. The discussion focuses on the significance of accurate research data in decision making, the role of public libraries in a democracy, and the Library of Congress Subject Headings cataloging standard. The use of full-level cataloging and classification and high-quality cataloging records are noted.

The article discusses the crisis in evidence based medicine (EBM) and its implication on evidence based library and information practice (EBLIP). Topics discussed include some of the problems with EBM, proposed solutions to the EBM crisis of interest to librarians and actions proposed to address the problems in EBM that are relevant to EBLIP including a demand for better evidence and training that combines critical appraisal with judgement.

The article presents the proposals from the Deutscher Bibliotheksverband (dbv) Association of German Libraries, regarding the decision to establish a German digital library. Among the proposals are that the library is a national responsibility and should therefore receive federal funding, that financing of the project must be considered a long term issue, and that digitalization should include not only old acquisitions but also publications of the twentieth century.