Promoting the Development of Online Learning Communities for Library Professional Organizations

ABSTRACT

This paper discusses the use of online learning communities for library professional organizations to promote collaboration and learning. The addition of an online learning community component to a library organization expands collaborative and educational opportunities for members through a virtual environment. Although technologies used to support learning communities vary, standard features include a discussion forum, file-sharing capability, and chat functionality. More sophisticated sites provide Webcasts, podcasts, online courses, and databases. Moreover, the availability of file sharing and chat supports virtual meetings. Studies of library-oriented learning communities illustrate their effectiveness in using discussion forums and resources to foster collaboration and learning opportunities among members. This research also notes the role of discussion forums in decreasing feelings of isolation among users. Moreover, these articles highlight the member's participation in library learning communities through postings to discussion forums, selecting learning events, and contributing materials. The first step in creating a learning community centers on the administration of a needs assessment to the members. These evaluations identify the goals of the learning community and aid in the selection of appropriate technologies. In addition, learning community organizers need to develop an action plan that outlines a timeline for the project's implementation. Moreover, organizers should consider providing incentives and training to members to enhance their participation in the project. Finally, promotional and evaluation efforts are needed to sustain the growth of a learning community.     

From Magicians to Teachers

Summary

Electronic reference is a large part of today's library. Computer technology has clearly been the dominant catalyst for change in library service over the last few decades. Reference service has changed along with the prevailing technology. An exclusive group of searchers serviced electronic information requests during the online searching craze of the 1970s and 1980s. In the library of today, this model of electronic reference is no longer operational. Electronic information is now available to anyone on a computer terminal. In response, all librarians have become familiar with computer technology, and have a new emphasis on teaching and basic information literacy. This article will examine how this came to be, and the technologies that helped make it happen.     

Successful Web Journals

Summary

Two publishers of well-known print newspapers have launched successful Web versions. The editors described the evolution of their sites and discussed the advantages of Web editions: timeliness, depth of content, user-customized access to information, and community-building interactive forums. They detailed lessons learned, outlined future plans, and clarified similarities and differences between the two sites. Discussion centered on three main areas: library access and site licenses, the nature of archives and article retrieval, and advertising.     

Change and the News Library

Abstract

As a special library, the news library has undergone dramatic changes in the last decade. Technological advances have almost totally transformed the news library's environment, collections, and operations. The major changes include the use of commercial and in-house electronic database systems to store full-text news story and other necessary information, and the retrieval of them by librarians or journalists. In other words, computerized database has been exchanged for file drawer filing and retrieving. This paper will address the evolution of the traditional news library and its impact on news librarians.     

Analyzing Recorded Transactions to Extrapolate the Required Knowledge,Skills, and Abilities of Reference Desk Providers at an Urban,Academic/Public Library

ABSTRACT

Much has been written about the competencies that reference providers must exhibit to be successful at their positions given today's technology-rich, information environment. Many have proclaimed new mandatory technological and attitudinal qualities for librarians, while others have interviewed future, practicing, and hiring librarians for their perspectives on this topic. This study adds to the existing literature by examining a dataset of 9,683 recorded reference transactions collected during the fall 2012 semester in an urban, academic/public library. This dataset provides a very current look at the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities that reference providers need to be successful at this library.     

Providing Perpetual Access to Government Information

Abstract

The past few years have seen the Government Printing Office (GPO) move from managing predominantly paper based government publications to collecting, organizing, and disseminating government information electronically. Serious concerns have been raised about perpetual access and authentication of government information in the new digital environment. This article focuses on GPO's plans to preserve both electronic and tangible government information resources and the initiatives being taken by GPO in collaboration with the library community and other stakeholders to address these matters.     

Library-Led Faculty Workshops: Helping Distance Educators Meet Information Literacy Goals in the Online Classroom

ABSTRACT

At University of Maryland University College (UMUC), librarians have designed and led a number of multiday, asynchronous online workshops for faculty. The workshops teach faculty how to meet information literacy goals in the virtual classroom. Through hands-on activities and discussion among their colleagues, participants in the faculty workshops learn about the university's information literacy standards, library resources and services, free Web tools, and how best to design class assignments involving library research. Library-led faculty workshops at UMUC have increased library visibility and furthered collaboration between faculty and librarians. This article discusses 5 workshops, detailing workshop content and logistics and demonstrating how librarians can help distance faculty further information literacy goals for students.     

Strengthening Agricultural Libraries in Pakistan

Abstract

Inflow of current information is vital to support agricultural research for sustaining an adequate level of productivity. Agricultural libraries in Pakistan have extremely deficient collections. Little application of information technology has been made in these libraries. Deficiency of trained manpower has been another area of critical concern. These problems have prevented these libraries to cater tbr the information needs of the Pakistani's scientific community in an efficient manner. A library strengthening project, with financial assistance of USAID, was designed to elevate the status of agricultural libraries in Pakistan. One of the objectives was to develop multi-media collections in these libraries by providing core journals on microform and other electronic media. This paper discusses different facets of the project related to project design and development, and strategies used for collection development and application of information technology. It also discusses the criteria for the selection of library application software. The paper also recommends measures to improve library cooperation and resource sharing among agricultural libraries of Pakistan. Needs for appropriate funding and application of promotional activities are also highlighted.     

Lithuanian Library History

Abstract

This article deals with the most important features of Lithuanian library history and describes specific features of the Soviet period. It also describes the current situation of librarianship in independent Lithuania. Historical analysis shows that Lithuanian libraries status, level and rate of development are influenced by particular historical conditions, social, and economical demands of the society.

During the first stages of their history, Lithuanian libraries were a valuable part of the whole European library history. Their activities subsided when Lithuania lost its independence. This eliminated libraries from the national historical process. After Lithuania regained its independence, it became possible for libraries to recover. Unfortunately this process had subsided during the Soviet years. Society depreciated library activities and librarians work. Nevertheless, librarianship of this period has some achievements also. There is a rather good system of library education, several library networks and scientific research in library and information science.

The last period is very hard and difficult for Lithuanian librarianship. During the years of economic crisis, libraries must struggle for their existence. So we can speak only about the possibility to ensure minimal conditions of existence, about the possibility to survive. The technical basis of libraries is especially weak: few of them use computerized technologies. This new period of the Lithuanian library development raised new problems and sharpened the old ones. The Lithuanian state has to change the library system and its functions, and rearrange library activities. The current situation in Lithuania creates new premises for libraries to develop. The most important premise of these changes is restoration of Lithuanian independence. A lot of work is already done to deideologize library activities, and to consolidate in them the principles of democracy. This work must guarantee the right of all Lithuanian citizens to use information stored in libraries. Now Lithuanian libraries strive to restore and establish new international relations, and to integrate themselves into the world's information system.     

Digital libraries initiatives in India

Abstract

Digital libraries (DLs) have evolved, and developments in information technology have changed the concept of the library from one of print and paper media to digital media. The success of a DL depends upon the computers, communication skills, and knowledge of library professionals in connection with modern technology. In the present scenario, we stand at a transition from the traditional library to a global DL. The technology-based idea is to provide universal access to digital content available only in a DL environment.

Today the emergence of digital technology and computer networks has provided a means whereby information can be stored, retrieved, disseminated and duplicated in a fast and efficient manner. On a global level, DLs have made considerable advances both in technology and its application. India still has far to go if the nation is to benefit from this movement. Only sporadic and partial attempts have been made towards DL initiatives in India.

The basic objective of DL initiatives in India has been to preserve the art, culture and heritage of this country. All projects aimed at creating DLs concentrate only on specialized collections. The DL initiative in India is still at a nascent or embryonic stage. But with the initiative like DL policy, it can also be said that the nation is serious about DL implementation.     

ABD or EdD? A Model of Library Training for Distance Doctoral Students

ABSTRACT

Libraries have been struggling for years to move beyond 1-shot library training. In spite of efforts in the last decade to promote information literacy for undergraduate and graduate students alike, libraries more often than not are still not reaching the goals articulated in the Association of College & Research Libraries's information literacy standards. The problems are compounded when institutions serve students who also happen to be taking part or all of their classes online or at field-based sites. The model for providing a library training program for students in the Doctor of Education (EdD) program in a distance program focuses on providing students with training that builds sequentially and developmentally at the points of need for students in the 1st year of classes and provides additional support for students once they have completed their course work. This multistepped approach is designed to help doctoral students throughout the doctoral process.     

Academic library as learning space and as collection: A learning commons' effects on collections and related resources and services

A tremendous amount has been written about the library as a learning space and about this model's two most popular outgrowths, the information commons and the learning commons. Little to nothing, however, has been written about how reshaping an academic/research library and repurposing library space affects the library as a collection, its resources, and its collections-related services. This study looks at the immediate impact of opening a learning commons in an academic/research library on circulation, document delivery and interlibrary loan requests for returnables, and on- and off-campus database accesses at one institution.TaxonomyLibrary Collection Management; Assessment     

Complex Questions,Evolving Answers

SUMMARY

Since 2001, librarians at Oregon State University's Valley Library have been working to build a “teaching library” supported by a clearly articulated instruction program. From the start, we believed that we needed to assess the teaching library's impact, not only to determine the success or failure of our efforts but also to demonstrate the need for intentional, proactive information literacy instruction on our campus. No single assessment tool or method proved adequate to effectively measure student learning happening both inside and outside the library. We describe our evolving, multi-pronged approach to measuring the impact of the library on student learning in the context of current assessment practices in academic libraries and higher education.     

FROM THE EDITOR

Abstract

This paper reports on a survey of faculty perceptions of the role of the library in online distance education. The study is second in a series of related studies exploring The Pennsylvania State University's library services to patrons at a distance. In 2004, faculty of the World Campus (Penn State's online distance education program) were surveyed on their perceptions of e-learners' research needs. The faculty responded to questions on how their students access research information for their courses, whether they require their students to use the library as part of their courses, and their expectations of the library as an academic support service. The survey revealed that 60% of the responding faculty supply all of the required research information to students in their courses, and 62% do not require students to use the library as part of their course(s). The study concludes that online, distance-education faculty members have minimal to moderate expectations of the library in supporting their teaching and their students' research needs. Moreover, the study shows a significant lack of faculty awareness of existing library services and resources available to the e-learning community.     

Ariel: A Resource-Sharing Support in a South African Consortium

SUMMARY

The Gauteng and Environs Library Consortium (GAELIC) in South Africa is one of the nation's first attempts to pool resources in a multi-million volume regional virtual library. Through the linking of member libraries by networks and the utilisation of innovative technology, the vision is to provide access to information within the context of a 48-hour delivery system for books and to improve this delivery time for copied materials by utilising an electronic delivery system. Ariel, the electronic document delivery system of the Research Libraries Group in the United States, has been selected by the consortium as the standard for timely transfer of electronic information. A literature study of this system, which included a study of a test conducted by one of the GAELIC libraries and an assessment of the need for this delivery mode, indicated that Ariel could support resource sharing in the consortium.     

(2) Prague Documentation Centre

Abstract

This paper describes the development of the library profession and education in Ethiopia from its beginning to date in the context of such developments in the USA, UK and Africa. The recognition of the library profession in Ethiopia started with some short and informal courses in 1959, and in 1966 by formally starting a diploma minor programme. At present, it is providing library and information training at diploma, bachelor’s and master’s levels.     

Through the Lens of Theory

Abstract

This paper follows an earlier contribution which described the emergence of popular information networks, the resource centre fora in South Africa in the 1980s and 1990s. This update on the fora sketches their contribution to the National Education Policy Investigation’s Library and Information Services report which put forward national policy options. The resource centre fora’s role in the new Translis (Transforming our Library and Information Services) Coalition is described and their representation at the International Federation of Library Association’s conference in Barcelona in August 1993 noted.

Finally, the role of the resource centres and their fora in the shifting paradigms in library and information work leading up to, and shortly after, the April 1994 election is reviewed. Crucial challenges are identified as funding, resisting 'agenda setting' by funders, and serving the rural areas effectively. Practical suggestions are made about reaching women in particular, about training and needs assessment. Finally the importance of the fora’s meeting these challenges and making a contribution to reconstruction and development is noted.     

Pakistani University Library Web Sites: Features,Contents, and Maintenance Issues

ABSTRACT

This study explores the current status and features of Pakistan's academic library Web sites. A checklist describing features and content was prepared based on a review of the literature related to academic libraries’ Web sites. Then, all 85 library Web sites of Pakistani universities and degree-awarding institutions recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan were surveyed and analyzed using the checklist. Interviews with library professionals were conducted to learn more about the problems and issues with building and maintaining library Web sites. Results indicate that Pakistani academic library Web sites have effective features such as contrasting color schemes, easily readable text, minimal use of horizontal scrolling, and English-language text. Staff information, OPACs, and navigation features are also widely found on the Web sites. Features found less frequently include the use of Web 2.0 technologies, Web site aid tools, information about library buildings, and general library information. By offering information about the status of Pakistani academic library Web sites, the study can serve as a foundation for discussion between libraries and other parts of the university, as well as a benchmark for evaluating the progress of academic library Web sites in Pakistan     

IFLA and other International Library Associations,Institutions and Organizations

Column Editor's Notes

This workforce column, guest written by Jill Mierke, evokes memories of the saying, you are not alone. The challenges of workforce and workplace leadership for any library chief executive officer are many and varied. We come to those roles usually as experienced (if not seasoned) professionals, but we do not always have the theoretical grounding and specific professional practice experience a dedicated human resources professional might bring to the organization. A Master's in library and information sciences qualification is no guarantee that you will have the requite knowledge, skills, experience, and abilities to be a good people manager or a strategic leader of the library workforce. This article paints a compelling picture of what success for library human resource management and leadership can look like, through the lens of an experienced and seasoned human resources professional. Recent workforce research is telling us there are many roles within our libraries that are now being successfully filled by “other” professionals. In our ever changing and dynamic information landscape, the human resources strategic advisory role is one of them.

As always, I invite further contributions to our ongoing discussion! Please submit articles for this column to the editor at vicki.williamson@usask.ca     

Changing Research Patterns and Implications for Web Page Design

Abstract

Despite major, ongoing changes in the profession and in library school curricula, the basic principles of librarianship can and should always be applied, regardless of medium or situation. However, patrons have changed the ways they prefer to search for and access information. This means that librarians must both update their understanding of these principles and find ways to apply them more proactively. One effective response is to design and market library Web pages as preferred gateways to electronic information and instruction. Librarians can transform Web pages into “one-stop-shopping information portals” for users, providing not only information, but also instruction in how to find and evaluate information. Applying Ranganathan's Five Laws of Library Science to Web page designis a useful way to determine iflibrarians are providing the kind of Web pages their patrons need.