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Library Management
Journal Prestige (SJR): 0.412  Citation Impact (citeScore): 1 Number of Followers: 1121  Hybrid journal * Containing 2  Open Access article(s) in this issue *ISSN (Print) 0143-5124 - ISSN (Online) 1758-7921 Published by Emerald  [362 journals]
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- Library involvement in academic program review: an exploratory survey of
the Canadian perspective-
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Authors: Laura Newton Miller
Abstract: This research explores how Canadian university libraries participate in program review, a key component of quality assurance in post-secondary institutions and an important way for libraries to show their value. To become aware of how libraries provide impact, it is necessary to understand what other libraries are doing with processes occurring at a university-wide level. The researcher sent an exploratory survey to university librarians across Canada asking who played a main role in program review tasks, how coordination worked and what was going well and could use improvement in the overall process. Themes emerged on workflow, visibility, schedule, feedback and effects on library work. Although there are different ways of reaching the same goal, academic libraries are involved in helping reach the university’s mission. Very little is written about this in the literature (library or otherwise). Most research is not current or only looks at specific components of library involvement (i.e. collection assessment). Not only is this helpful strategically for libraries but getting a sense of how other libraries engage with university and library colleagues will benefit those operationally tasked with supporting academic program review.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-06-30
DOI: 10.1108/LM-03-2025-0045
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- “I love the smell of book ink in the morning” – on the materiality
of the academic and the niches of small publishers-
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Authors: László Matthias Simon-Nanko
Abstract: This paper examines the enduring importance of printed books in academic publishing, especially for small humanities publishers. It explores why authors, readers, libraries, and reviewers continue to prefer print despite increasing digitalization. The argument is made that the materiality of scholarly publications plays an emotional, trust-building, and sustainable role that digital formats cannot fully replace. The analysis is based on an empirical survey conducted among authors and editors of the publisher Mohr Siebeck, as well as qualitative interviews with librarians and scholars. Additionally, internal sales statistics and case studies are used to assess the importance of print compared to digital publications. The results show that the surveyed authors consider the high quality of print products a decisive factor in their choice of publisher. Printed books serve as a personal business card and a symbol of academic achievement. Libraries prefer print media due to its long-term availability and cost efficiency. Despite open-access alternatives, print book sales remain stable, with only a moderate 10% decline for open-access titles. Reviewers favor print books for deeper engagement with content. There is currently no reason to assume that the printed book is on the verge of extinction. The study focuses on a single publisher and specific humanities disciplines, limiting the generalizability of the findings. Future research could explore additional publishers and disciplines to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the interplay between print and digital formats. This paper provides a nuanced perspective on the continuing relevance of printed books in the digital age. The findings are particularly valuable for smaller academic publishers, demonstrating that print is not merely an outdated tradition but an essential element of scholarly publishing.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-06-17
DOI: 10.1108/LM-02-2025-0029
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- Using LibQUAL to assess user satisfaction with library services at the
Aloe Park South African Police Service (SAPS) National Library, Pretoria,
South Africa
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Nora Hlabisang Kaapu, Acquinatta Nomusa Zimu-Biyela
Abstract: This paper reports on the findings of a study that was conducted by means of LibQUAL to establish user satisfaction with the current and perceived library resources and services at Aloe Park SAPS National Library in Pretoria. The study used the interpretivist research paradigm, the qualitative approach and a case study research design. The three core elements of LibQUAL – (1) affect of service, (2) information control and (3) library as place (physical library space) – were used to measure user satisfaction. Results related to the affect of service revealed a strong positive response: 16 (80%) of the 20 participants expressed satisfaction with the quality of service provided by library staff. In terms of information control, the findings indicated that most users were aware of library resources such as books, library databases and the computer centre. However, they were not using these resources optimally for various reasons, such as a dated collection, irregular or non-subscription to library databases and inadequate computer systems in the computer centre. For example, out of the 20 sampled participants, 12 (60%) were aware of the existence of the computer centre, but eight (40%) of them did not have sufficient knowledge about the computer centre. Concerning Library as Place, 14 (70%) participants responded positively, while six (30%) expressed dissatisfaction with the unfriendly library environment, inadequate study space and intermittent noise in the library. There are various special branch libraries that are linked to the main South African Police Service National Library, but the focus of the study was only on the main library. Therefore, results for the study can be extended to other special libraries with caution. Findings for this study would help in understanding gaps in terms of the three LibQUAL dimensions that were assessed. Additionally, findings of the study would help library management to understand users’ information needs and thus respond accordingly. Future studies of the special libraries, particularly SAPS libraries across the country, should focus on the development of policy frameworks that cater for the information needs of their users. The review of available literature points to limited research on library user satisfaction in special libraries, such as the Aloe Park SAPS National Library. As such, the findings of this study provide valuable insight into potential service gaps across the three LibQUAL dimensions assessed. These research findings can assist library management in understanding users’ information needs and tailoring resources and services accordingly. It is recommended that future studies of the special libraries, particularly SAPS libraries across the country, should focus on the development of policy frameworks that cater for the information needs of their users.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-06-17
DOI: 10.1108/LM-11-2024-0121
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- Determinants of research output: analyzing the synergistic influence of
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Authors: Suhaib Hussain Shah, Sajjad Ahmad, Akira Jbeen, Shehzad Ahmad
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to comprehend the factors and components enhancing the librarian’s research productivity. This study will help to bridge the gap in literature and will discover the facilitating factors of research success. This study employed a quantitative research design. Individual Attributes, Peers and Community, and Institutional Structures and Supports were three categories of criteria that participants were asked to address together with reporting of their research outputs. We received 118 useful responses with a response rate of 83.10%. The responses thus gathered were statistically analyzed to find correlation between research output variables (weighted output score and number of peer-reviewed articles) and three categories, elements and components in those groups. A large portion of research output of participants was composed of presentations, peer and non-peer viewed articles, and posters. For both variables, all three categories were substantially correlated with research output. Factors comprising these categories were also found significant against weighted output scores except intrinsic motivation when tested against peer reviewed articles. Among demographics, the only factor that showed significance was age, while for Education and Experience, three elements were found significant: (1) institutions from where the participants graduated, (2) post-MLIS training, (3) and any advance degree participants had or working on. All discussed categories showed a significant effect on research productivity highlighting that personal growth, peer interaction and institutional support enhance research output. This study also pinpoints the factors that can be analyzed in future research such as exploring the effectiveness and influence of institutional support on research activities.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-06-12
DOI: 10.1108/LM-09-2024-0093
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- Enhancing library engagement: a framework for measuring technology
adoption of online library resources-
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Authors: Nirmit S. Kansara, Neha Verma
Abstract: This study aims to develop and validate a measure for identifying important factors of online library service adoption in India. The objectives of this study are to determine the factors that enhance the technology adoption of Online Library Resources (OLRs) and validate a tool for evaluating attitudes toward OLRs. Around 200 respondents’ data were utilized for the purpose. The data were gathered using surveys and further analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and descriptive statistics. In total, five factors with satisfactory reliability and internal consistencies were obtained. The factor structure was confirmed with application of CFA using SmartPLS. The measure has been named as OLRs Holistic Measure (OLRHM). Due to survey-based approach and voluntary participation, the generalization of findings is to be avoided. The factors determined can be restructured or revisited with better sample size. The practical implications are for various stakeholders. Learners, Users, Service providers, Researchers, Institutions and Publishers can utilize the insights on OLRs dimensions of particularly Quality and Usefulness of Resources (QUR), Training Effectiveness (TE) Engagement, Reliability and Usability (ERU), Learnability (L) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Features Effectiveness (AIE). The research is a unique attempt to validate a holistic measure of online library services technology adoption. It includes newer dimensions in the field.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-06-04
DOI: 10.1108/LM-01-2025-0014
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- Validation and reliability of performance management’s scale on
academic libraries-
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Authors: Quan Hoang Nguyen Tran
Abstract: This research aims to develop a standardized scale to measure performance management within the academic library sector, encompassing five core dimensions: preliminary conditions, strategic planning, performance assessment, progress review and performance implementation. The study utilized a 15-item scale, employing both exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to evaluate the five performance dimensions. The sample consisted of 16 academic libraries and 325 librarians. The constructs demonstrated strong internal consistency and reliability. The measurement model fit well, leading to the creation of a new performance management scale for the academic library sector. This study validated the scale using EFA and CFA. Future studies could expand on this research by including a broader range of contexts, particularly academic libraries in various countries. The primary aim of this study is to establish the reliability and validity of the performance management scale for academic libraries. The results confirm that all five dimensions – preliminary conditions, strategic planning, performance assessment, progress review and performance implementation – are reliable and validated, making the model applicable to academic libraries. This study contributes to the literature by introducing a performance management scale that fits well within the academic library sector. Additionally, each dimension can be independently assessed based on specific research requirements.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-06-04
DOI: 10.1108/LM-02-2025-0024
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- Assessing the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning
technologies in library services in Africa-
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Authors: Ogagaoghene Uzezi Idhalama, Prisca Iheoma Nwachukwu
Abstract: The paper aimed to investigate the status quo of the application and adoption of AI and ML technologies in providing library services in the African continent. It sought to establish the different use cases that these technologies are put to; it also sought to establish what benefits and challenges come along with the implementation of AI and ML technologies in the context of African libraries. The study adopts the structured literature review approach that identifies the current literature on the application of AI and ML technologies in library services in Africa. It involves searching various academic databases like Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as “artificial intelligence,” “machine learning,” “library services” and “Africa.” It will be analyzed and synthesized in order to achieve a comprehensive overview of the topic. The review finds that AI/ML technologies in African library services are still in their introductory stage, and there are hardly a few research studies and case studies conducted so far. Its potential benefits include improved information retrieval, enhanced user experience and operational efficiencies. However, a number of challenges are also emphasized in the review, which include the limited availability of technological infrastructure, lack of digital literacy among the library staff and issues concerning data privacy and security, among others. These research findings will carry considerable weight among library professionals, policy and technology providers in Africa. The study gave strategic advice on the use of AI and ML technologies within the services provided by libraries. The critical issues have been mentioned along with best practices in this regard. The insights gained from this research can facilitate relevant training programs as well as building capacity that is so much more essential for the diffusion of these technologies in African libraries. The present review represents, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the first comprehensive review that specially outlines the applications of AI and ML technologies in library services on the African continent. The findings further add to the scant literature at hand and create a base for future research and implementation in the African library sector.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-05-29
DOI: 10.1108/LM-07-2024-0078
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- Preserving and disseminating cultural heritage information in Vietnam’s
provincial public libraries-
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Authors: Thuy Thanh Bui, Ly Dieu Dinh, Lan Thi Nguyen
Abstract: Public libraries are essential in acquiring, preserving, and sharing cultural heritage information in the digital age through a variety of formats and activities. This study aimed to assess librarians’ awarenesses regarding the significance of cultural heritage information and to explore measures for its preservation and dissemination in provincial public libraries in Vietnam. Using quantitative research methods, data were collected via a questionnaire from library staff at 13 provincial public libraries across Vietnam. As a result, we collected 275 valid questionnaires from library staff for further data analysis. The research findings revealed that public library staff in Vietnam recognize the importance of CHI preservation and dissemination, but they encounter considerable challenges related to resources, technology and staffing. While library staff place high importance on the role of libraries in CHI preservation, their ability to implement preservation efforts is constrained by a lack of expertise and practical skills. The findings also reveal that staff in the Northern and Southern regions have greater awareness of their individual and institutional roles in CHI preservation than those in the Central region. By advancing cultural heritage preservation efforts, this study significantly influences policy development and reinforces the essential role of libraries in safeguarding and distributing cultural heritage within local communities. The findings provide librarians with valuable guidance on their responsibilities, presenting them with effective practices and innovative approaches to enhance preservation and public access to heritage information.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-05-20
DOI: 10.1108/LM-02-2025-0027
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- A framework for the implementation of performance management system
at university technical library-
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Authors: Nanang Rosidin, Sudarso Kaderi Wiryono, Oktofa Yudha Sudrajad, Dermawan Wibisono
Abstract: This study offers a comprehensive framework for the implementation of a performance management system (PMS). The framework is based on the principles of system thinking and system dynamics methodology. The advantage of this framework is that it allows for simulation and scenario analysis before the actual implementation of the PMS, which can help identify potential issues to optimize the system’s performance. The proposed framework has shown promising results in simulating and testing PMS implementation scenarios in a Technical Library and effectively addressing potential issues that may arise during implementation. Future research may explore the effectiveness of the proposed implementation framework by utilizing other PMS than the one selected on this study. The proposed framework has substantial practical implications for organizations utilizing PMS. It can aid in defining organizational objectives, evaluating the current state of the system, identifying shortcomings, devising effective strategies through scenario analysis and ultimately, achieving success. While a PMS is crucial for the optimal functioning of organizations, many organizations struggle to implement strategic changes successfully. Most studies on PMS tend to concentrate on defining goals using a particular framework. This study stands out because it employs a simulation that functions like a flight simulator for scenario analysis. This novel approach has the potential to significantly increase the success rate of PMS implementations.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-05-06
DOI: 10.1108/LM-02-2024-0028
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- Towards a Blue Ocean shift: exploring value innovation for Philippine
academic libraries-
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Authors: Christine Abrigo, Efren Jr. Torres
Abstract: This study explores how the Blue Ocean Strategy (BOS) fits into the non-business context of libraries in the Philippines. It aims to review the existing BOS implementation in the different sectors, including its occurrence in libraries, diagnose the typical tendencies of Red or Blue thinking among libraries, and draw up a plan for a Blue Ocean shift. This study employed mixed descriptive, quantitative and strategic methods to address the research objectives, using the BOS as its theoretical framework. While BOS has been widely discussed in the context of business, education and other sectors, findings revealed that the strategy has been explored and applied in the field of librarianship, albeit in its infancy. While very open to collaboration, respondents of the study are more inclined towards the Red Ocean strategy as they focus on their existing market base/customers and recognize moderate competition involved among their counterpart libraries and alternative venues. Specific strategies and solutions leading towards the Blue Ocean shift on what the libraries can eliminate, reduce, raise and create in their current state were drawn. Given that this is an exploratory study, shortcomings are expected regarding data scope and lack of generalizability, as sampling does not represent the entire population of library managers in the country. However, the initial results are deemed useful for maximizing Blue Ocean opportunities. BOS is doable, potentially beneficial to libraries and applicable to local settings. This research offers another perspective and potential solutions for libraries using a business strategy not usual for the library community.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-05-06
DOI: 10.1108/LM-10-2024-0104
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- Research data management in academic libraries: institutional repositories
as a reservoir for research data
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Tinyiko Vivian Dube
Abstract: This study aims to conceptualize the application and management of research data in academic libraries through institutional repositories. The objectives of the study are to determine the role of academic libraries in managing research data, to explore the ethical issues related to research data management (RDM) services and to determine stakeholders involved in the success of RDM. The study employs a qualitative research design within the interpretive paradigm, using content analysis to explore RDM in academic libraries and institutional repositories. The research aims to determine the role of academic libraries in managing research data, explore ethical issues related to RDM services and identify key stakeholders. Literature was sourced from databases like Emerald Insight, Scopus and Google Scholar, focusing on publications from 2020 to 2024. Case studies from institutions such as the University of Pretoria and Stellenbosch University illustrated practical RDM implementations. Ethical considerations were strictly adhered to, ensuring proper citation and adherence to RDM guidelines. The reviewed literature established the significance of managing research data through institutional repositories while highlighting the research data lifecycle, stakeholders involved in the success of RDM and ethical issues related to RDM services. RDM involves stakeholders such as institutional researchers, government and funding agencies, university leadership and research support units. This study demonstrated the importance of effective RDM practices in enhancing transparency, reproducibility and efficiency in academic research. Institutional repositories play a crucial role in preserving and making research data accessible, thereby promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and increasing citation rates. The study provided actionable recommendations for academic libraries to support researchers in complying with RDM policies through training, clear guidelines and user-friendly repository interfaces. These strategies enhance the effectiveness of RDM practices and ensure regulatory compliance. The study underscores the need for regulatory frameworks that promote open science and data sharing while ensuring ethical guidelines for data privacy and informed consent. It also highlights well-managed research data’s economic and commercial benefits, such as facilitating industry–-academia collaboration. This study is significant as it contributed to the body of knowledge and theoretically motivated how institutional repositories can be of value in reserving research data by highlighting the benefits and significance of sharing research data. A proper RDM increases the opportunities for funders, institutions, publishers and libraries to redesign policies that govern research data sharing.
Citation: Library Management
PubDate: 2025-05-02
DOI: 10.1108/LM-06-2024-0070
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2025)
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- Publisher’s Note
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Library Management, Vol. 46, No. 5, pp.317-318Library Management2025-06-06
DOI: 10.1108/LM-04-2025-184
Issue No: Vol. 46, No. 5 (2025)
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