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This study investigates metaverse literacy among library professionals and its implications for library services. The research aims to determine the extent of technological obstacles library professionals face in acquiring metaverse literacy, assess skill gaps in this domain, identify resistance to change and gauge the perceived benefits of developing metaverse literacy. A structured questionnaire was administered to 80 library professionals from various academic institutions and libraries across India. The findings reveal that while library professionals are relatively comfortable with virtual environments, skill gaps exist in specific metaverse literacy areas. The study identifies primary reasons for hesitancy in adopting metaverse literacy, such as concerns about job security and insufficient training opportunities. It also highlights the perceived benefits, including enhanced user experiences, expanded service offerings, and fostering innovative approaches to information dissemination. The research underscores the need for collaborative efforts, ongoing professional development, user-centric approaches, and privacy considerations to embrace metaverse literacy fully. By addressing these challenges and adopting recommended strategies, libraries can position themselves as navigators in the metaverse, enriching user experiences and expanding their impact on information dissemination and knowledge creation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe digital revolution has reshaped academic libraries, requiring new skills from library professionals. This study explores how library professionals at Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are adapting to this change through their metaliteracy skills. By surveying 144 library professionals across IITs, we uncovered a complex process of digital adaptation and professional growth. Our findings reveal that most professionals are confidently entering the digital era, with three-quarters showing proficiency in basic digital tools. However, beneath this digital fluency lies a more intricate picture. While many excel in traditional tasks like database management and information retrieval − 65% reported high proficiency – there is notable reluctance when engaging with emerging technologies and cybersecurity challenges. Surprisingly, gender significantly influenced how professionals approached information evaluation and synthesis. Experience, though important for many metaliteracy skills, seemed less relevant in addressing modern concerns such as privacy protection and detecting misinformation. One of the most revealing findings is the gap between competence and teaching ability: although many professionals possess strong technical skills, only 31.5% feel confident in teaching these skills to others. This highlights the urgent need for targeted professional development that considers both gender dynamics and varying experience levels. By shedding light on these patterns, our study offers a pathway to reinforce the digital infrastructure of India’s leading technical institutions, ensuring library professionals can guide future researchers through an increasingly complex information landscape. Our findings not only enhance our understanding of metaliteracy in academic libraries but also provide practical insights for designing training programs to address these gaps. Ultimately, this work contributes to the broader discussion on digital transformation in academic libraries and the evolving role of library professionals in the digital age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to scrutinize the effect of work-related stress on job performance and health of library and information professionals’. The study utilized a survey research approach; the participants of this survey were the LIS professionals working in various universities of Karachi. They were approached to record their views via a self-developed questionnaire, with a response rate of 76%. The collected data was scrutinized using SPSS through various descriptive and inferential statistical tests. The outcomes of study affirm that librarians experience a modest level of stress and it adversely affects their work performance such as negligence at work, difficulty in decision making, fear of failure, and late sittings at the office, but they consider stress did not affect their normal routine activities, errors at work, meet work deadlines. Job stress has a strong relationship with work performance, which means that academic librarians’ job performance is affected by work stress. Work stress has effects on library professionals’ health at a moderate level, and found that work stress has a positive relation with health of librarians. The respondents were on the same pitch because there is no substantial change found in their opinions with respect to their gender and type of institutions. So the study found that work-related stress has effects on work performance and library professionals’ psychological and physical health.

The impact of library information technologies on role conflict and professional commitment amongst librarians in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India is analysed in this paper. Due to the integration of liberal technology in schools, librarians feel the differences in the level of work challenges and options. The aim of the study is to ascertain the level of role conflict occasioned by these technologies, as well as the level of professional commitment. One hundred and nine librarians from public, academic, and special libraries completed a quantitative survey as part of the mixed method approach, while twenty respondents were interviewed in-depth. In the survey, it has been identified that 60% of people have high to very high experiences of role conflict due to the significant increase in the role of librarians brought by LIT. Organizational professional commitment was harmed by this kind of role conflict; indeed, it accounted for 40% of the variability observed in commitment levels. Still, more formal training in LIT was caused by lower role conflict and higher professional commitment among librarians. Based on these findings it can be argued that well defined professional development programmes can reduce the effects of technological advancement on libraries. The paper adds to the existing body of knowledge on roles of librarians in the context of the digital environment and provides suggestions on minimising the levels of role conflict as well as promoting professional commitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research study explored the understanding and views on artificial intelligence (AI) for library specialists in India by gathering responses from a total of 148 randomly chosen respondents. The findings indicate that while these professionals generally have an optimistic attitude towards AI, they also express concerns about AI potentially replacing librarians and the related difficulties for adopting AI tools for various library-related services. The article recommends that awareness about AI can be measured through two newly extracted variables 'AI in Core Library Functions', and 'AI in Library Applications'. Further, to measure the perception of AI among LIS Professionals, again two newly extracted factors can be used namely 'Challenges in Adoption of AI in Library', and 'Impact of AI on Library Personnel'. This study delivers a valuable insight for library fraternity decision makers in designing strategies for AI implementation in academic libraries, and addresses a gap in research related to the AI usage in organizational libraries in developing nations like India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of 24/7 library operations on the health and work-life balance of Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals in India. Using a mixed-method approach with 52 respondents, reveals significant physical and mental health issues, sleep disruptions, and dietary challenges. Qualitative insights highlight personal and professional hurdles, gender disparities, and concerns about workload and safety. The findings underscore the need for tailored support and infrastructure improvements in continuous library settings. The study contributes to understanding the multifaceted challenges faced by LIS professionals and provides recommendations to enhance overall well-being in 24/7 operational environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess the familiarity, understanding, and perceptions of immersive technologies such as Virtual Environments (VEs), Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR) among library professionals in India. It seeks to determine the importance of Metaverse literacy for librarians, explore their attitudes toward integrating Metaverse concepts into library services, identify potential benefits, and examine perceived barriers hindering the adoption of Metaverse technologies in libraries. A quantitative research approach was employed, involving a stratified random sampling method to gather data from library professionals across various universities and colleges in India. Familiarity with VEs, AR, and VR technologies was high, with mean scores above 4.0 for most items, indicating respondents' strong interest and understanding. The importance of Metaverse literacy was emphasized, with high mean scores (above 4.2) on its significance for enhancing library services and user engagement. Critical barriers identified included cost (mean = 4.13), lack of expertise (mean = 4.01), and privacy concerns (mean = 3.51). The results underscore the need for targeted training programs and resource allocation to support adopting immersive library technologies. Adopting Metaverse literacy in libraries can help bridge the digital divide and promote digital inclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This abstract delves into strategies aimed at boosting the productivity of library professionals by focusing on the essential skill dimensions required in the contemporary information landscape. Libraries serve as crucial repositories of knowledge, demanding a paradigm shift in the skill set of professionals to adapt and innovate effectively. The paper highlights the multifaceted skill dimensions pivotal to augmenting productivity in library settings. It explores technological proficiency as a cornerstone, emphasizing the need for adeptness in library management systems, digital archiving, data analytics, and emerging technologies like AI and machine learning. Additionally, information literacy skills and the ability to curate, evaluate, and disseminate information effectively are pivotal in facilitating seamless user experiences. Moreover, the abstract underscores the significance of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability. The evolving role of library professionals necessitates effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders, necessitating robust interpersonal skills and the ability to navigate complex organizational structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of new technological transformations in libraries and information centres, library professionals have experienced major challenges with changes in the generation, creation, dissemination, and preservation of knowledge in libraries. The objectives of the present study are to find out the hindrances to implementing ICT, and incorporation in libraries has a prominent place in fulfilling the needs of users, but one must not ignore the fact that ICT is not only the factor responsible for achieving the goals of libraries; it is also the library professional's positive attitude that endorses the implementation of the same. There are many factors that can help library professionals develop a positive attitude, including prior knowledge, proper training, and continuing education like in-service courses, workshops, and seminars. If the staff of the library shows a positive attitude towards the adoption of ICT in their organisation, it will raise their self-confidence, thereby increasing productivity, while also raising their morale and motivation among colleagues. On the other hand, a negative attitude will raise high levels of anxiety, lower levels of self-efficacy, technophobia, cyberphobia, and fear of losing their jobs. The negative attitudes of library professionals are the main hindrance to the implementation of ICT in libraries. The present study's findings can advance our understanding of ICT adoption in libraries and provide practical recommendations for maximizing the use of ICT resources in library services. The study concluded that the major objectives have been accomplished by those in the library industry who adopt a critical stance toward the adoption and rejection of new technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Library and information science professionals are considered to have appropriate skills and competencies with regard to copyright and related issues. Using a quantitative survey at the provincial level (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), the copyright literacy of library and information science professionals was investigated in Pakistan. Out of 311 respondents, 279 participated in the survey. The results indicate that library and information science professionals are somewhat familiar with copyright and related issues. The majority of them (94%) mentioned that published materials such as books and articles are under the protection of copyright. Similarly, 73% were aware of local copyright laws; however, they were less familiar with international copyright legislation. Library professionals mentioned that the current library and information science curriculum is not providing adequate knowledge about copyright, therefore, most (94%) expressed the need to include copyright legislation and basic concepts of copyright in the library and information science curriculum at all levels. The findings suggest practical measures to enhance the level of the copyright literacy of Pakistani library and information science professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objectives of the study were to examine the motivational factors influencing professional development activities, to find out the relation between motivation and librarians' professional development, and to identify challenges in the implementation of professional development activities. The study followed the "Preferred Reporting Items for the Systematic Review and Meta-analysis" (PRISMA) guidelines as the methodology of the instant study. Different searching methods and techniques were applied to find and locate the relevant literature to meet the set objectives of the study. The data were gathered from different databases, research repositories, federated tools, and core journals of the field. Twenty-four key studies were included after four steps known as identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion. The findings of the study revealed that five major categories of motivational factors known as IT advancements, active leadership, the role of library associations, personal interest, and institutional support influenced the professional development of library professionals. Satisfaction, facilities, rewards, work atmosphere, and autonomy were the key categories of motivation that encouraged information professionals to build professional expertise to implement innovative services for facilitating the end-users. Practical solutions attained through study-findings will guide the policymakers, decision-makers, and institutional heads to devise such strategies that might encourage library professionals to strengthen their knowledge and skills for developing smart library services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the "Adoption of mobile reference services as predictors of digital library service delivery. To achieve this, one objective and one hypothesis was formulated to guide the study. Literature was reviewed based on the variables under study. The survey research design was adopted for the study. All 253 library professionals and paraprofessionals in federal universities south-south, Nigeria formed the population of the study. The instrument used for data collection was the questionnaire. 205 questionnaires were correctly filled and returned, giving a return rate of 81%. Data was coded using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software and analyzed using frequencies, percentages and simple linear regression analysis. The findings revealed that mobile reference services significantly predicts digital library service delivery. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended among others that libraries should ensure that reference services are extended beyond library closing hours using mobile reference services such as emails, SMS and phone calls. It was also recommended that Information communication technology (ICT) infrastructure should be put in place in the University libraries. This will enhance the provision of digital library services through smart phones and other mobile devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated relationship issues in research visibility of Library and Information Science professionals in Imo State. It examined the indices for measuring research visibility of library and information science professionals; and established the relationships between use of research databases, academic networking sites, institutional repository, social media and research visibility of library and information science professionals. The study adopted correlational research design. The population of the study was 228 Library and Information Science professionals in Imo State which was also used as the sample. However, 152 copies of submitted instrument were used for the study. The instrument for data collection was an online Google form rated using four-point scale which was distributed through NLA Imo State Chapter WhatsApp group and individually. Data collected were analysed using mean and standard deviation for research questions while the hypotheses was tested using Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). The findings of the study revealed that; there are factors considered in research visibility of library and information science professionals; there is a low extent of utilization of most of the indices studied for research visibility. Result of the hypotheses showed that there is a significant relationship between use of research databases, academic networking sites, institutional repository, social media and research visibility of library and information science professionals. The researchers recommend Library and Information Science professionals should increase their use of research databases, academic networking sites, institutional repository, social media for research visibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this study is to outline the fundamental skills that information scientists (LIS) working in educational settings may provide. The core competencies needed by library science professionals working in academic libraries are covered in this paper. The study discusses the competencies that librarians need possess in order to offer full services to their patrons. The establishment of academic and professional programmes can benefit from an understanding of the skill needed to work in the field of library and information science. In the study, comprehensive services are covered. The creation of academic and professional programmes can benefit from an understanding of the competencies needed to work in the field of library and information science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major objective of the current study was to find out the impact of motivational factors on the job outcomes of librarians working in HEC-recognized university libraries in Pakistan. A survey research method followed by predictive correlational design was applied to test the constructed hypotheses in this study. The population of the study was library professionals working in the university libraries of Lahore, Pakistan. There were 13 public sector universities and 21 private sector universities. The census sampling technique was used to collect data from the respondents of the 34 universities. Data were collected with the help of a questionnaire. Out of 225 respondents, 189 completed questionnaires were received. Hence, the response rate was 84%. The gathered data were analyzed through SPSS software. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests were applied to find out the impact of motivational and behavioral factors on the job outcomes of information professionals. The findings of the study showed that different types of motivation influenced information professionals to carry out innovative and value-added services in the workplace. Rewards, a sense of honor, an amicable work environment, and autonomy were the key categories of motivation that encouraged information professionals to undertake efficient job performance. Recommendations provided through a framework based on the findings of the study will prove to be a benchmark for policymakers, human resource managers, and heads of institutions in order to formulate such techniques that might motivate information professionals for the implementation of user-centric services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occupational stress is a physical and psychological condition that can have negative effects. Librarians undergo significant levels of occupational stress. The study assessed levels of occupational stress and different coping strategies in response to it. 37.7 % of library and information science professionals in Jammu and Kashmir have low occupational stress, 32.6 % moderate, and 29.7 % a high level of occupational stress. It was confirmed that these professionals utilize both problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies to manage stress. However, the prevalence of emotion-focused coping is more noticeable among them. Role overload, low status, interpersonal problems, lack of respect, and other factors were identified as elements causing occupational stress. Occupational stress and coping strategies displayed a weak yet positive relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the effects of soft skills on the work productivity of academic library professionals in Pakistan. The study employed quantitative survey method. The data was collected through a self-compiled online questionnaire from academic library professionals, yielding a response rate was 83%. Findings of this study reveal that library professionals' level of different soft skills, interpersonal, emotional intelligence, leadership, motivation, and communication is high, which indicates that they are proficient in soft skills. Results of correlation test used to examine the relationship between the variables, soft skills, and work productivity of library professionals disclose a significant relationship between variables across the study. Moreover, soft skills have profound effects on the work productivity of library professionals, and no difference is found in library professionals' perceptions based on their demographic characteristics. Soft skills help librarians to manage and perform different jobs effectively. Based on the outcomes of the study, it is suggested that LIS schools, professional associations, and other organizations offering professional development programs should endeavor to develop soft skills among LIS students and professionals by incorporating necessary contents in LIS curricula and offering training sessions. The research paper is the first attempt to explore the relationship between soft skills and work productivity from the perspective of librarianship in Pakistan; it will make a unique contribution to the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses job satisfaction among library professionals in engineering colleges in South Tamil Nadu. Job satisfaction is a personal feeling which could cause by a variety of factors. The questionnaire method was used for data collection, and results were tabulated, and statistical technique such as Weighted Arithmetic Mean (WAM) was used for the analysis. The 235 questionnaires were distributed among the library professionals are working 'Engineering & Technology colleges in South Tamil Nadu. Among the 235, 210(89.36%) library and information science professionals were responded. The impact of ICT on Job satisfaction among the Library and information science professionals has given priority to 'Helped to keep me up-to-date. 'Increased my job satisfaction and 'provided more interesting and more variety in my work' are the purposes to visit the library and the second and third preference respectively given for them by the professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the challenges faced by Library professionals regarding adoption and uses of Koha in Dr. Mahmud Husain library. This paper aims to describe current status of library software being used in DMHL (University of Karachi) and highlights the issues and challenges that are being faced by professionals regarding implementation of Koha. A survey has been conducted among the professional staff of the library to collect the required data. Survey was consisting of interviews of professionals with written questionnaire. Findings shows the majority of professionals are satisfied to implement Koha but some major issues like lack of latest equipment, lack of supervision, maintenance cost, lack of technical help lack of funds are needed to address immediately to improve system and service. The article will guide decision makers in the planning of library automation and also can develop the understanding regarding Koha among professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims at job satisfaction among library professionals in First Grade College libraries affiliated with the University of Mysore, Mysuru. This study examines the type of employee, promotional benefits, job satisfaction on positive and negative statements, job stress, satisfaction about salary and fringe benefits, satisfaction with the job profile, organization culture, and satisfaction with personal growth and goals. For this purpose, the researchers prepared a well-structured questionnaire as a tool for data collection and the collected questionnaire has been analyzed and presented in the form of suitable tables. The article concludes with appropriate suggestions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We want to determine the impact of participation in a professional event on the competences of library professionals in the field of reading literacy. We are interested to find whether professionals are more motivated to work after attending a professional event, feel more confident in working in the field of reading literacy, more connected to others and see more sense in their work, and whether participation in the event affects their work activities after the event itself. Methodology: We used a case study with a quantitative survey method to collect data. First, we analysed selected scientific and professional literature to define the concepts of motivation, self-confidence, belonging and meaning, and responsibility of an individual's professional development. We linked our case study to the predefined theoretical starting points. The design of the questionnaire structure was linked to the impact assessment. Results: Understanding the concepts of motivation, self-confidence, belonging and meaning is crucial in strengthening the competences of professional staff. In the first part we compare the results over a three-year period, and in the second part we use the results to determine how participation in a professional event affects the individual. Comparative results of all three events show that obtaining the necessary information positively affects self-confidence at work. The research has shown that participation in a professional event has a positive effect on motivation, belonging, meaningful work and understanding of professional and personal role. Research limitations are linked to the size of the study, as it is based on one case study, but includes a large enough sample that can indicate the starting point for a more extensive study to determine the impact of professional events on motivation, confidence, belonging and acceptance meaningful in the professional field. Originality/value: Studies of the impact of participation in professional trainings on the competences of professionals are rare, so our research is an additional incentive to argue for regular professional training and monitor the development of individual key elements (i.e. motivation, confidence, meaning, belonging) of professional competencies. The research highlights the importance of an individual's commitment to promoting reading literacy and building reading culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of the study is to review the literature related to the use of emerging technologies by university libraries. The primary objective of the study was to examine the core literature related to emerging technologies used in the university libraries and to find out the changing role of the university librarians in these technologically equipped modern libraries. The study also focuses on the attitude of library professionals towards this modern environment. The findings of the study are based upon four themes, they are: "status of emerging technologies in the university libraries", "attitude of librarians towards the emerging technologies", "technological compatibility among the professionals of the libraries" and "barriers in the implementation of emerging technologies". Nevertheless, if there have been many researches performed at university libraries on emerging technologies, this study is primarily aimed at improving understanding of these expanding technologies by the library and information sciences profession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study is an attempt to explore the perception of the library professionals about research data management (RDM). It reports the present scenario of research data management in the libraries and explores the views of professionals on aspects of RDM like stakeholders, awareness on NDSAP, formulation of an institutional research data management policy, requirement of data management plan by research funding agencies, necessary areas of training for library professionals to provide research data management, motivations for library professionals and potential challenges for research data management. It has been found that researchers have approached the library for research data and most of the professionals have intentions to facilitate research data management. Out of the different benefits of research data management, library professionals rated top priority to the opportunity to learn new skills through RDM. Professionals perceived upskilling of library staff to provide RDM to be the most daunting task of all the challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing outbreak of Corona virus Disease (COVID-19) compelled the world to begin a new way of life. Social distancing is the best way to prevent the spread of it. Currently, the entire library system around the world is being closed, facing hard choices. Even at this drastic time, the library and its services cannot be completely closed. Libraries are to be reassigned and should reach out to users at the same time as respecting the rules and restrictions around social distancing. Social networking sites (SNSs) provide the library a new and exciting way to reach out to users. SNSs due to their popularity are globally used to exchange various kinds of information. This study was to assess and evaluate the use and awareness of library professionals and students to exchange and share library services during social distancing due to COVID-19 lockdown via SNSs in India. The outcome of the study suggested the necessity of SNSs in the library to exchange and share the services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]