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Library Management
Number of Followers: 1243

Hybrid journal (It can contain Open Access articles)
ISSN (Print) 0143-5124 - ISSN (Online) 1758-7921
This journal is no longer being updated because:
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Evaluating national library mission statements in Ibero-America
- Pages: 274 - 293
  Abstract: Library Management, Volume 40, Issue 5, Page 274-293, June 2019.
  Purpose The purpose of this paper is to review the websites of 22 national libraries in Ibero-America to determine whether and how effectively they display these organisations’ mission statements, as well as any convergence/divergence among these texts. Design/methodology/approach A review was conducted of the national library websites of ABINIA’s 22 members to locate their respective mission statements. The statements identified were analysed and evaluated against the positioning and presence criteria and wording proposed by experts. Findings Website content clearly attests to national libraries’ eagerness to publicise their mission statements, which are readily accessible in most cases. Their functions are represented to a more or less standard pattern. Most are portrayed as institutions responsible for custodying, enriching, preserving and disseminating their countries’ cultural legacy. Other purposes mentioned include the promulgation of and accessibility to the heritage custodied. Practical implications The paper may prove useful for professional librarians involved in drafting or revising their organisation’s mission statement in the wake of changing circumstances or on the occasion of the formulation of a new strategic plan. Originality/value Of the very short number of analyses of libraries’ mission statements published to date, none discusses national libraries. This is the very first study of national library mission statement in Ibero-America. It forms part of a line of research dealing with national library mission statements defined and available on institutional websites for countries anywhere in the world.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2019-02-18T02:32:52Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-07-2018-0054
  Issue No: Vol. 40, No. 5 (2019)
An evaluation of community-managed libraries in Liverpool
- Pages: 327 - 337
  Abstract: Library Management, Volume 40, Issue 5, Page 327-337, June 2019.
  Purpose Community libraries now constitute a significant proportion of library provision in the UK; however, there is relatively little research on how the transfer to this model has affected those libraries and the wider balance of provision. The purpose of this paper is to broaden the discourse and understanding about the impact of changing libraries to community models. Design/methodology/approach The paper provides a qualitative evaluation of all the libraries transferred to community-managed models within a large city council region in the UK. Structured research visits were made to appraise each library. These are discussed in the context of published literature and data, both specific to the study area and nationally. Findings Transferring the management of libraries to community organisations is often reactive and perceived with negative associations. This study uncovers increases in use and diversification of services following transfer; however, support from the local authority and the previous experience of managing organisations are significant factors. The paper also reveals how the successful transfer of a library to a community organisation led to more being moved out of local authority control, but that the support they receive from the local authority can be inconsistent between them. Originality/value The paper provides a study of community-managed libraries across a large city council area, affording an in-depth understanding of their impact on overall provision over one region. It will be of value to those involved in library management and service provision at both local and strategic levels, including local authorities and community groups considering library transfer.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2019-05-15T12:48:01Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-09-2018-0072
  Issue No: Vol. 40, No. 5 (2019)
Project management in higher education: a grounded theory case study
- Pages: 338 - 352
  Abstract: Library Management, Volume 40, Issue 5, Page 338-352, June 2019.
  Purpose This paper analyzes project and portfolio management within a major research library, while it was undergoing a complete physical renovation and reinvention of programs and services. This is a complex, almost 100-million-dollar undertaking that implemented a project management (PM) methodology known as portfolio management. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the implementation and management of this process and provide a brief overview on project and portfolio management as a discipline. Additionally, it provides strengths and weaknesses as well as recommendations when implementing PM. Design/methodology/approach The analysis uses a qualitative research methodology case study with a theoretical foundation of inductive grounded theory. The case study is based primarily on seven interviews of project managers who are involved with the project. It also uses document analysis to assist in triangulating the findings and provide a contextual overview of a complex process. A number of themes emerged into overall categories and findings. Findings The key takeaways were the perceived strengths and weaknesses of the process. The strengths were improved communication and transparency, improved organization and documentation and formal decision-making process and resource allocation. The weaknesses were the hammer and the nail problem, the tools and paperwork, rigidity and the lack of agility within the process. This study also describes the process in detail and gives recommendations for improving the methods implemented in similar circumstances. Originality/value This paper analyzes strategic management concepts from an empirical grounded theory approach and real-world perspective with key recommendations.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2019-02-28T03:04:45Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-06-2018-0050
  Issue No: Vol. 40, No. 5 (2019)
Expanding libraries’ application of Mayer’s cognitive theory
of multimedia learning
- Abstract: Library Management, Ahead of Print.
  Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose the incorporation of Mayer’s cognitive theory of multimedia learning (CTML) into library digital initiatives, specifically open educational resources (OER). CTML contains established principles that maximize the impact of teaching material through optimizing the use of multimedia. As educators, librarians should adhere to CTML principles and advocate for them to be followed when library digital resources are created locally or used in a classroom. The paper looks at an OER title as an example and outlines changes based on CTML for improvements. Design/methodology/approach A literature review is used to identify the areas of librarianship where CTML already is in use and where research is lacking. Findings There are many opportunities to apply multimedia learning theory to aspects of library operations. The author should consider multimedia learning when making digitization decisions. OER projects should be accomplished with these principles and general learning theory principles in mind. Libraries should be aware of CTML principles when creating all digital scholarship. Research limitations/implications This paper is based on a literature review, not on research done specifically on this topic. It includes specific recommendations to improve an OER title as an example of what should be done on a broader scale. Practical implications Librarians are educators should be aware of learning theory and particularly multimedia learning theory as learners often are not directly accessible to provide feedback. Design is critical to learning and this paper provides practical recommendations for application. Originality/value Other papers have considered CTML as applied to online tutorials and instruction in general. Significantly less attention has been paid to applying CTML and cognitive learning theories outside of traditional instruction. This paper advocates expanding the use of cognitive learning theory and CTML to digital resources produced by the library.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2019-06-14T01:04:30Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-08-2018-0067
A qualitative study of barriers to innovation in academic libraries in
Taiwan
- Abstract: Library Management, Ahead of Print.
  Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore innovation barriers in academic libraries. Through analysis of barriers to innovation, the authors can further elucidate the nature of innovation in academic library settings, which can help remove factors that hamper innovation. Design/methodology/approach Using a qualitative case study to explore the innovation processes for two academic libraries, this study includes interviews with 28 interviewees, from senior leadership positions to practical librarians, to analyze the barriers to innovation they have experienced. Findings Building on a literature review, this study proposes a barrier to innovation framework for academic libraries. The qualitative findings identified two specific barrier types that academic libraries face, environmental and organizational barriers, identifying 19 barrier factors that intertwine to yield seven dimensions across the two levels of analysis. It is advised that library leadership team should both encourage innovative behaviors and eliminate the innovation barriers to enhance library innovation capacities. Originality/value The insights from this study can help the library managers of academic libraries to develop preemptive actions for dealing with various barrier scenarios, and thereby enhance possibilities of successful innovations.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2019-05-31T02:02:38Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-05-2018-0042
International book donors and public libraries as partners in primary
school literacy development in Kenya
- Abstract: Library Management, Ahead of Print.
  Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of international library materials aid in primary schools and to outline obstacles to effective utilization for maximum literacy benefits among primary school children. Design/methodology/approach Data were gathered via interviews, observation, focus group discussions and document analyses. Findings Findings indicate that teachers were trained by Kenya National Library Services Kisii Branch staff on basics of library materials management before literacy materials were sent to the schools; teachers and pupils reported that development of vocabulary and better essay writing are some of the benefits of the donated materials; and culturally distanced materials and school dynamics impact negatively on the effective utilization of the donated library resources. Practical implications The authors recommend that donors work hand in hand with the Ministry of Education and other local stakeholders that it may be possible to address obstacles to proper and highly effective implementation of literacy empowerment projects. Originality/value The findings of this study are from original research and the implications must be treated as such.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2019-05-31T01:58:54Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-05-2018-0046
Career success – the perception of Open Distance Learning library
middle managers
- Abstract: Library Management, Ahead of Print.
  Purpose The purpose of this paper is to gain original evidence of the perception of Open Distance Learning (ODL) library middle managers towards the meaning of career success from the perspective of the individual. Design/methodology/approach This quantitative research study was conducted with the help of a survey questionnaire designed by the first researcher. Findings Results revealed that career success no longer only relates to criteria such as the hierarchical position or progression through high ratings obtained during performance appraisal. A high premium is placed by ODL library middle managers on other success criteria identified in the literature, such as the positive effect of their work on the institution, success achieved through a focus on work life and home life balance and personal recognition due to competence. Research limitations/implications The research findings presented in this paper form an important part of a comprehensive study on ODL library middle management development but is limited to the only ODL library in South Africa. Practical implications The paper provides current perceptions of ODL library middle managers to be considered during career path planning. Originality/value The paper provides the first findings of an overview of the perception of South African ODL library middle managers towards the meaning of career success. The study is timely as the number of ODL institutions is growing. The target population to benefit from this study is ODL library practitioners.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2019-05-31T01:55:17Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-03-2018-0021
The experience of occupational psychosocial stress among librarians in
three African countries
- Abstract: Library Management, Ahead of Print.
  Purpose The purpose of this paper is to focus on describing the experience of occupational psychosocial stress among librarians in Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa. It further seeks to identify the various psychosocial stress components and how they interact to determine the stress level of librarians. Design/methodology/approach Using the Effort-Reward Imbalance scale, this descriptive study employed a web-based data collection tool (Google Form) to design and solicit data from respondents. Convenient sampling technique was used to employ 153 librarians from Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa with at least a diploma in any library-related programme, who work in either academic, public or special libraries. Findings This study established the prevalence of occupational psychosocial stress among librarians from Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa. It was realised that gender, country of residence of respondents, age, work experience, workers with children under 13 years of age and work roles were the main factors that influenced the occupational stress among the respondents. Research limitations/implications The response rate for this study was low. As a result, undertaking any inferential statistics to explain relationships was not possible. Originality/value The value of this study lies in the depth of narrative data collected and the insight it affords with regards to contemporary work within libraries in Africa and beyond. The results presented may provide both a starting point for further discussion and may also promote an increased openness about issues of employee safety in the library environment.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2019-05-31T01:50:57Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-11-2017-0122
Libraries as bureaucracies: a SWOT analysis
- Pages: 294 - 304
  Abstract: Library Management, Volume 40, Issue 5, Page 294-304, June 2019.
  Purpose Bureaucracy in libraries is typically presented in terms of six banal characteristics originally identified by the historian Max Weber at the turn of the twentieth century. In some cases, bureaucracy in libraries is seen as a system that might be undone. These characterizations underestimate the power of bureaucracy as a force external and intrinsic to libraries. The purpose of this paper is to reintroduce the topic of libraries as bureaucracies such that library practitioners can identify, question and reform aspects of bureaucracy in libraries. Design/methodology/approach A review of literature from the library field and from the social sciences is presented in the framework of a SWOT analysis, such that readers can see bureaucracy in libraries for its strengths and weaknesses, as well as in regards to its external opportunities and threats. Findings Bureaucracy is a largely misunderstood and overlooked topic, in all disciplines, including library science. Generally, bureaucracy is presented as a negative and ineffective system operating in the public sector only, though bureaucracies serve many positive purposes and functions in all aspects of society. Bureaucracy cannot be dismantled, though opportunities exist to eliminate its less desirable aspects and effects. In some ways, libraries exemplify bureaucratic thinking, yet in webs, libraries are poised to offset or challenge the harmful effects of bureaucracy in all other aspects of society. Originality/value Bureaucracy is seldom considered in library research or in other fields. As such, it is a grossly misunderstood subject. This extensively research paper synthesizes the literature that does exist on the topic, and expands upon it using theory from the social sciences. As such, this paper stands to begin a discussion about how libraries can restructure and respond to change.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2018-10-10T12:54:22Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-03-2018-0019
  Issue No: Vol. 40, No. 5 (2018)
A bibliometric services workshop for subject librarians
- Pages: 305 - 312
  Abstract: Library Management, Volume 40, Issue 5, Page 305-312, June 2019.
  Purpose The purpose of this paper is to report on the development and analysis of an internal bibliometric services workshop for subject librarians. Primary goals of the workshop were to create an opportunity for collegial knowledge and skill sharing, and to identify discipline specific gaps and future support requirements. Design/methodology/approach Two campus librarians who typically offer bibliometric support services used pre- and post-surveys to plan and assess the workshop for subject liaison librarians. Findings Subject librarians from across the university expressed interest in developing bibliometric support services. The 12 workshop participants (30 percent of subject librarians) support diverse areas including the humanities, social sciences, life sciences, education and outreach, and the school of business. Post-workshop survey respondents highlighted the contextualization of available measures and the appropriate application of metrics in different disciplines to be the most helpful topics covered. Finally, while the institution subscribes to several citation analysis databases, more familiarity with Google Scholar citations was requested to address user needs and preferences across the various disciplines. Most participants expressed interest in attending additional workshops. Originality/value This study showcases the experience of campus librarians working together across academic schools and disciplines to respond to the increasing demand for bibliometric and scholarly impact support services. While services such as citation analysis have typically been siloed in specific job descriptions or subject areas within the library, these are service areas that can benefit from internal library-collaboration opportunities and knowledge sharing.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2018-10-10T12:53:21Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-03-2018-0014
  Issue No: Vol. 40, No. 5 (2018)
Extending McKinsey’s 7S model to understand strategic alignment in
academic libraries
- Pages: 313 - 326
  Abstract: Library Management, Volume 40, Issue 5, Page 313-326, June 2019.
  Purpose The purpose of this paper is to conceptualise the issues of alignment for changing academic libraries by using and extending McKinsey’s 7S model. Design/methodology/approach Theoretical work was conducted to consider and extend the 7S model for the situation of academic libraries. Empirical data were then used to confirm the value of these extensions and suggest further changes. The data to support the analysis were drawn from 33 interviews with librarians, library and non-library academics and experts, and a survey of UK library staff. Findings In the academic library context, the 7S model can be usefully extended to include three library functions (stuff, space and services) and users. It can also include institutional influences and stakeholders, and aspects of the external environment or situation, including suppliers and allies. The revised model then provides a useful framework within which data about library change can be analysed. Perceived barriers to successful performance fit the model and enable the identification of seven challenges of alignment. Research limitations/implications The resulting model has potential applications such as in the structuring analysis of academic library performance, mapping future directions of development and for exploring variations across the sector and internationally. Practical implications The revised model can be used by practitioners to think through their own strategic position and to act to shape their future, in the light of seven major areas of alignment. Originality/value The paper extends a well-known model used in strategy, to produce a more comprehensive, sector-specific analytic tool.
  Citation: Library Management
  PubDate: 2018-10-17T08:57:41Z
  DOI: 10.1108/LM-06-2018-0052
  Issue No: Vol. 40, No. 5 (2018)