Article

Impact of Web 2.0 technologies on academic libraries: A survey of ARL libraries

Authors:
To read the full-text of this research, you can request a copy directly from the authors.

Abstract

Purpose – The paper aims to present the results of a survey of academic libraries about the adoption and perceived impact of Web 2.0 technologies. Design/methodology/approach – A total of 67 US academic libraries participated among the members of the Association of Research Libraries. Findings – It was found that each library was using some form of technology, such as RSS, blogs, social networking sites, wikis and instant messaging. On a Likert‐type scale the participant librarians significantly preferred the advantages of Web 2.0 over its disadvantages. There was a significant positive correlation between the extent of Web 2.0 adoption in libraries and librarians' opinion about their advantages. Originality/value – The paper is useful for future planning of the use of Web 2.0 technologies in academic libraries.

No full-text available

Request Full-text Paper PDF

To read the full-text of this research,
you can request a copy directly from the authors.

... Web 2.0 tools can be used to enhance teaching and collaboration among teachers and students as well as increase professional collaboration between educators. Khalid and Richardson (2013) described Web 2.0 as a term commonly associated with Web applications that facilitate interactive information sharing, interoperability, user-centred design and collaboration on the World Wide Web. The distributed nature of Web 2.0 tools means that undergraduates may have easier access to the expertise and research results of others, to authentic teaching and learning environments and Print ISSN: 2059-9056 (Print) Online ISSN: 2059-9064(Online) 3 @ECRTD-UK: https://www.eajournals.org/ ...
... Publication of the European Centre for Research Training and Development -UK to distributed and varied audiences. The creation of an audience for learners can be motivational in a number of respects: as a means of providing an outlet for demonstrating their learning and as a mechanism for getting feedback (Franklin & Van Harmelen, 2007;Khalid & Richardson, 2013). The term Web 2.0 tool, which was introduced by Tim O'Reilly (O'Reilly, 2005), has emerged and gained popularity in universities. ...
Article
Full-text available
Many undergraduates in Nigerian universities are faced with problems of nervousness, apprehension and lack of confidence or ability in the use of Web 2.0 tools. Even when some of them have the skill, the ICT infrastructure may not be available, accessible, sustainable, affordable, modern or of top-notch quality. These factors may not allow them to use the tools frequently and/or enjoy using them. It is to this end that this study sets out to investigate how frequent and enjoyable undergraduates in the two first generation Nigerian universities under review are finding the use of Web 2.0 tools for academic activities.Descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select the sample size of 290 out of a population of 35,902. Data collected from 281 respondents who duly filled and returned copies of the structured questionnaire given out at the University of Ibadan and Obafemi Awolowo University were analysed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that the types of Web 2.0 tools that were regularly used by the students include Facebook, GoogleAD, Websites/Blogs, Email Tutorials, Twitter and YouTube. It could be inferred that the students perceived that enjoyment in the use of Web 2.0 tools lies in the fact that the actual process of using Web 2.0 tools is pleasurable, improves social networking, make Online/Internet chatting and learning exciting, satisfying and hence, enjoyable. There was a significant positive relationship (r = .291; df = 280; p < 0.05) between perceived enjoyment and use of Web 2.0 tools by the undergraduates. This implies that the higher the perceived enjoyment, the more they use Web 2.0 tools for academic activities. It is therefore recommended that students be exposed to a wider range of Web 2.0 tools for gainful learning experiences which may lead to good academic achievements. Provision of a very stable Internet connectivity is also advised for a faster, sustainable, more frequent and enjoyable use of the tools. Moreso, since perceived enjoyment is confirmed a factor in the use of the tools, it is suggested that state of the art ICT infrastructure be provided and the environment of the ICT Laboratories be made more conducive for a tireless, gainful, enjoyable and game-changing academic activities using the Web 2.0 tools.
... Web 2.0 tools can be used to enhance teaching and collaboration among teachers and students as well as increase professional collaboration between educators. Khalid and Richardson (2013) described Web 2.0 as a term commonly associated with Web applications that facilitate interactive information sharing, interoperability, user-centred design and collaboration on the World Wide Web. The distributed nature of Web 2.0 tools means that undergraduates may have easier access to the expertise and research results of others, to authentic teaching and learning environments and Print ISSN: 2059-9056 (Print) Online ISSN: 2059-9064(Online) 3 @ECRTD-UK: https://www.eajournals.org/ ...
... Publication of the European Centre for Research Training and Development -UK to distributed and varied audiences. The creation of an audience for learners can be motivational in a number of respects: as a means of providing an outlet for demonstrating their learning and as a mechanism for getting feedback (Franklin & Van Harmelen, 2007;Khalid & Richardson, 2013). The term Web 2.0 tool, which was introduced by Tim O'Reilly (O'Reilly, 2005), has emerged and gained popularity in universities. ...
Article
Full-text available
Many undergraduates in Nigerian universities are faced with problems of nervousness, apprehension and lack of confidence or ability in the use of Web 2.0 tools. Even when some of them have the skill, the ICT infrastructure may not be available, accessible, sustainable, affordable, modern or of top-notch quality. These factors may not allow them to use the tools frequently and/or enjoy using them. It is to this end that this study sets out to investigate how frequent and enjoyable undergraduates in the two first generation Nigerian universities under review are finding the use of Web 2.0 tools for academic activities.Descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select the sample size of 290 out of a population of 35,902. Data collected from 281 respondents who duly filled and returned copies of the structured questionnaire given out at the University of Ibadan and Obafemi Awolowo University were analysed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that the types of Web 2.0 tools that were regularly used by the students include Facebook, GoogleAD, Websites/Blogs, Email Tutorials, Twitter and YouTube. It could be inferred that the students perceived that enjoyment in the use of Web 2.0 tools lies in the fact that the actual process of using Web 2.0 tools is pleasurable, improves social networking, make Online/Internet chatting and learning exciting, satisfying and hence, enjoyable. There was a significant positive relationship (r = .291; df = 280; p < 0.05) between perceived enjoyment and use of Web 2.0 tools by the undergraduates. This implies that the higher the perceived enjoyment, the more they use Web 2.0 tools for academic activities. It is therefore recommended that students be exposed to a wider range of Web 2.0 tools for gainful learning experiences which may lead to good academic achievements. Provision of a very stable Internet connectivity is also advised for a faster, sustainable, more frequent and enjoyable use of the tools. Moreso, since perceived enjoyment is confirmed a factor in the use of the tools, it is suggested that state of the art ICT infrastructure be provided and the environment of the ICT Laboratories be made more conducive for a tireless, gainful, enjoyable and game-changing academic activities using the Web 2.0 tools.
... Yuen and Shaheen (2007), and Majid and Wey (2006) developed a scale for measuring knowledge-sharing patterns of undergraduate students in Singapore. Mahmood and Richardson (2013) made a list of 17 Web 2.0 technologies that are mostly used, and the LISTA (Library and Information Science and Technology abstract) website has 199 built-in sharing tools. Mohammed and Norman (2017) explored the millennial generation's organizational information-sharing practices through semistructured interviews. ...
Article
Full-text available
This study aims to investigate the effect of demographics such as number of siblings, province, gender, and age on youth’s everyday information using, managing, and sharing practices. It also exposes the demographic differences regarding information-seeking practices. A good number of studies have been carried out on youth and their information behavior but to observe their everyday information behavior and the impact of demographics very little literature is available. This study is an effort to understand the demographic effects and differences that may lead to designing systems to fulfill their everyday information needs. A quantitative approach was applied with a sample size of 1000 Pakistani urban teen students of private and public sector schools all over Pakistan. Survey methodology was applied; cluster sampling was done with a 5-point Likert scale. The data was collected through Google Forms and all the provinces were part of this survey including ICT and Gilgit Baltistan. Data Analysis was done through SPSS-21. The results revealed demographic variables were found to have a great effect on EIP, these variables were also found to polish up the proficiency of urban teen's everyday information practices. The findings would assist in developing helpful guidelines for urban teens to improve their EIP. This study will also respond to a gap in research by explaining the everyday information practices of urban teens.
... Respondents were ask the perception of marketing and information products and services of special libraries of Karachi on a 5-point likert scale as shown in table7. The table covers the following:• The statement 'Marketing is a process that satisfies the requirements and desires of library users' shows that (2.32%) librarians strongly disagree; (3.68%) librarians disagree; (7%) librarians neutral; (40%) librarians agree; while (47%) librarians strongly agree. ...
Article
Full-text available
Marketing and advertising are essential for expanding awareness of library product and services. Special libraries have an assortment of difficulties in marketing library and information product and services due to quickly changing media advancements, expanded user demands, competitions from other data sources like the web, and diminished library financial plan. The focal point of this study was on the promoting view of LIS Professionals working in Karachi's special libraries, likewise centered on marketing procedures for library and data items and services. The Research was restricted to Special libraries of Karachi. The study was directed utilizing a quantitative methodology and an illustrative overview research philosophy. There are 53 professionals in the objective population. On the basis of past studies, the literature is examined. A far reaching and self-constructed research questionnaire was the data tool for the collection of data and distributed to all participants working in Special libraries of Karachi. Cronbach Alpha was utilized to decide the instrument's steadfast quality, and the outcome was 0.821, which is acceptable. Information was arranged and examined. SPSS form 23 and MS Excel 2013 were used to analyze the data using descriptive statistics. Results shows that majority of the Librarians have positive attitude about the promoting the product and services of special libraries. The Marketing tactics utilized in Special libraries show how viable they are at advancing library services. Though the marketing mix was not taken on as a predefined approach, it was resolved that an assortment of existing services suitable the criteria. Reference Services, CAS, SDI services are the main services and advertising channel for the improvement of library product and services. The library staff were totally ready for this work. Karachi special libraries face troubles in advancing their library and information product and services. The study was concluded by authorizing proficient professional librarians to develop and promote the library more effectively through marketing, displays, advertising and exhibitions etc. This study proposed Marketing Strategies, procedures, and techniques for publicizing libraries and information product and services, and furthermore fill the Marketing gap.
... However, neither its originator nor adapters differentiated the type of information. Lu [25] prepared a list of 40 social media tools, Mahmood and Richardson [53] prepared a list of 17 mostly used Web 2.0 technologies while the Library and Information Science and Technology Abstracts (LISTA) website has 199 built-in sharing tools. The instrument, mentioned at the beginning of the paragraph, is adopted with the permission of its original author. ...
Article
Good quantitative survey research is based on valid and reliable instruments. However, when it comes to information encountering and its keeping and sharing behaviours, there was currently no instrument available to accurately measure it. Therefore, the present study was designed to prepare a valid and reliable instrument to investigate information encountering and its subsequent behaviours. This comprised of its preferred keeping tools, communication channels, purposes of sharing, motivators to share and constraints in sharing. Three already available instruments in the information behaviours lacked the distinguished type of information. These instruments were merged after seeking permission from their original authors. The merged instrument was validated for content and reliability. The data for reliability checking were collected twice. First, at the time of the pilot study. Second, at the time of the final study. A multistage purposive total population sampling technique was used to collect the data from the sample. The subsequent instrument proved to be reliable for the investigation of information encountering, keeping and sharing behaviours. The process of making an instrument valid and reliable is complex. Therefore, the steps taken to establish content validity and reliability of the instrument are presented in detail in this paper. The instrument is attached in the end for future studies and research.
... Boateng and Quan (2014) show that 86 US academic libraries used LibGuides to create subject guides, course guides, information portals, research help pages, etc. Tandi (2014) found that Library 2.0 services improved the quality of Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences Library, Tanzania, despite various challenges related to infrastructure, awareness, literacy, inadequate staff, security, and ownership of Web 2.0 services. Mahmood and Richardson (2013) reveal that all participant academic libraries were using some form of Web 2.0 technologies. Baro, Idiodi and Godfrey (2013) revealed that librarians in university libraries in Nigeria use Web 2.0 tools mostly for reference services online, library news/events, training resources, and image and video sharing. ...
Article
Full-text available
The main aim of this study was to analyze the contents and interactivity of academic library portals in India. The study was confined to a hundred selected academic library websites. A checklist along with a data sheet was used as the tool for data collection and Microsoft Excel was used as the tool for data analysis. The analysis revealed that the websites have an almost identical pattern of contents and interactivity. The majority of the websites used interactive applications. Facebook is the most preferred application followed by Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn. The websites preferred the extreme top right corner of their homepages to provide links to the applications and web objects. This study is useful for developing design standards for library websites and portals.
... Another study by Mahmood and Richardson (2013) In Asian countries, the deployment of web 2.0 tools and how it impact information access and retrieval varies. In ...
Conference Paper
Full-text available
Library and Information services across the globe have witnessed a paradigm shift brought by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) which has not only changed the format of information resources and library services, but have impacted tremendously on mode of access and retrieval of information. One of the concerns of academic libraries in this industrial age is to ensure a sustainable information service delivery to the techno-savvy information users. The purpose of this paper is to carry out a comparative analysis of emerging technologies implementation for sustainable academic library services on a global scale. A systematic review of empirical studies exploring current emerging technologies in academic libraries was carried out. Comparative analyses of the existing studies were conducted on the level of implementation of these technologies between developed and developing nations of the world. Literature search was conducted using two reputable academic databases namely GOOGLESCHOLAR and SCIENCEDIRECT. Relevant criteria were used to screen a total of 64 papers out of about 247 retrieved literatures. The study revealed the level of implementation of some emerging technologies in academic libraries of developed and developing countries. Based on widespread acceptance, five (5) out of these technologies were critically reviewed and how they have impacted on information access and retrieval examined. Namely: "Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC)", "mobile-based technology", "Web 2.0", "Institutional repositories", and "cloud computing". The study informs the understanding of libraries and librarians' about emerging technologies being deployed in academic libraries for information service delivery in developed and developing nations of the world. It was concluded that sustainability and continued relevance of academic libraries requires full deployment of emerging technologies in their services. Hence, they must strive to meet the information needs of the techno-savvy library users through a synergy between librarians and university management.
... On the contrary, the usefulness of different tools and apps have been investigated widely to portray their efficacy to act as a bridge between the prospective user with their purposive activity and the desired outcome. Net-based apps and tools for differential activities are gradually being adopted by libraries to provide users better immersive environment to search for desired content, carry out research work, communicate with like-minded people, portray their research output, and so on (Kroski, 2008;Linh, 2008;Garoufallou and Charitopoulou, 2012;Hricko, 2010;Mahmood and Richardson, 2013;De Sarkar, 2015). ...
Article
The purpose of the present study is to explore the possibility of integrating various online tools and apps with the library website and to identify the issues and benefits of implementing these tools. Quantitative online survey method was used using Google form in the present study to investigate the perception of the academic community involving students, teachers, and research scholars across higher education institutes in West Bengal, India about the online tools and apps and how they respond while interacting with these tools. Based on the responses to a series of questions, the study analyzed user observation and found purposive involvement of the academic community with various online tools and apps. The study identified the areas requiring improvements to maximize the usability of the tools and illustrated the usefulness of these tools in academic and research progression. The study also presented a schematic diagram of possible benefits and major constraints while implementing these tools. The research provides an overview of various online tools and apps facilitating academic and research progression and makes an attempt to convince librarians towards the informed selection of tools and highlights the utility of these tools among the academic community.
... [37] However, in the development of health information dissemination services, the use of ICT capabilities is inevitable. [38][39][40] Social media as well as web-based features help to influence health information dissemination services. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background: The best mechanisms for medical librarians to be more involved in health, especially during crisis condition, and to expand their roles are using experiences of other individuals and performing new activities. This study aimed to identify the roles of medical librarians in the COVID-19 crisis in Iran. Materials and methods: This research was done by a qualitative content analysis method. Research participants in the first phase included whole scientific papers (19 documents) which had been published by medical librarians related to the COVID-19 issue and in the second phase 10 medical librarians involved in the COVID-19 who were interviewed and continued until data saturation. Data were collected through each interview, and data analysis was performed using content analysis method. Then, obtained information of the first and second phases was merged together, and codes, subcategories as well as main categories were formed. Results: According to the results, 7 main categories and 24 subcategories regarding the roles of librarians in COVID-19 crisis were identified. The main categories include hygiene services promotion, development of health information-seeking skills, health research services, interaction-level development, evidence-based policy development, information dissemination services promotion, and management services development. Furthermore, regarding barriers to the role of medical librarians in the COVID-19 crisis in Iran, four subcategories were identified that are medical librarian-related barriers, organization-related barriers, profession-related barriers, and context of society (country conditions)-related barriers. Conclusion: Medical librarians relatively have been able to provide effective health information services to managers, health-care specialists, and the general public in a variety of health fields.
... This may also impact the student's knowledge of more conventional materials and facilities accessible through the college library such as online journal databases or maybe even print collections in the library (Corrado, 2008). Mahmood & Richardson (2013) conducted a survey of 67 US academic libraries to observe the adoption and impact of web 2.0 technologies. It was found that each library was using some form of web 2.0 technology and significant participants preferred its advantages over disadvantages. ...
Article
Full-text available
Social Media (SM) provides a range of possibilities for libraries to provide services out from traditional ways and means as modern life has been influenced greatly and massively by the internet. Owing to the amazing advancement of services given through the internet, libraries and information centers have to change and perform efficiently to convene the information needs of modern users. Libraries must use the modern SM tools to enhance and thrive in this age of the internet. Currently, libraries are adopting these tools in their services to satisfy the information and research needs of the users. SM applications in libraries drive to convene the growing and varying prospects of library clients. This paper aims to investigate the use of SM to enhance library effectiveness in Pakistani libraries. The study is based on a survey that was administered through survey monkey. The data of 71 filled questionnaires were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Results show that 73.2% of respondents started using social media after 2008, and the top users are university libraries (53.52%). 76.1 % using Facebook, but 56.3 % believe in the usefulness of blogs/blogging. Professional networking (74.6%) is the main purpose of using SM, followed by the promotion of library services (69%). Three main challenges in using SM at libraries are 1) technical problems, 2) restrictions on using social media at the office; and 3) low internet connection.
... Information technology has positive effects on the functioning of libraries, including academic libraries. In various studies such as Kumar and Biradar (2010), Mahmood and Richardson (2013), and Husain and Nazim (2015), the need to use information technology in libraries has been emphasized. Academic libraries use the benefits of information technology to do a variety of library work. ...
Article
Cloud computing is a new technology that drives libraries to create and share knowledge, leading to the cost reduction, easy management, and unlimited data storage capacity. Given the importance of cloud computing technology and the lack of tools to investigate the factors affecting cloud computing acceptance in academic libraries; therefore, the aim of present study was to perform the development and psychometric evaluation of the cloud computing technology acceptance questionnaire for academic libraries. This study is a methodological research. After defining the concept of cloud computing acceptance, the initial version of the questionnaire consisting of 43 items and 11 components was designed. Then, face and content validity were used to assess validity, and Cronbach's alpha coefficient and intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) were used to determine reliability. The results showed that the questionnaire has acceptable face validity (more than 1.5) and content validity (0.79). The Cronbach's alpha coefficient and the intra-class correlation coefficient were 0.77 and 0.92, respectively. In this study, for the first time, a tool was designed to evaluate the acceptance of cloud computing technology in academic libraries. Due to the fact that this tool has acceptable validity and reliability, it can be used in various studies and surveys.
... He added that the younger librarians do support the idea of the advantageous use of SNS for the library marketing and outreach services. In a survey of ARL libraries, Mahmood& Richardson (2013) stated that 76 libraries were using different types of web 2.0 technologies and found that 80% of academic libraries were using blogs, RSS, networking sites, wikis and instant messaging. Holley and Dickson (2010) and Makori (2011) reported that majorly used social networking sites by academic libraries are Facebook, YouTube, MySpace, Meebo, Flickr, Twitter, podcast, wiki, blogs, bookmarking or favourites, federated searching, 24/7 chat as online help desk and instant messaging (IM). ...
Article
Full-text available
The purpose of this paper is to identify the social networking sites (SNS)' usage, purposes and trends by Pakistani Higher Education Institution (HEI) libraries. It is to evaluate the usefulness of SNS for outreaching to users, marketing of library resources and services and challenges faced by the library professional. This study conducted as a mixed method of research, a literature-based questionnaire was developed to conduct an online survey of the 54, Higher Education Commission (HEC) recognized HEI's libraries based in two cities of Pakistan: Lahore & Islamabad and interviews were conducted of 15 libraries having presence on social networking sites (SNS). It was found that the Pakistani HEI's libraries are constructively using social networking sites. The most famously used site is Facebook, while RSS and YouTube were the least used one. None of the responding library present on LinkedIn, MySpace and Wikis. The majority of the libraries daily update their social media profiles for marketing of library product & services, sharing library news, events and useful links. However, lack of LIS professionals training and awareness to the possible usability of the SNS is challenging. This paper provides a picture of the current status of social networking usage in by HEI libraries.
... Social technologies for collaboration and information sharing in libraries are most widely used applications. Really Simple Syndication (RSS), blogs, social networking sites (such as Facebook or LinkedIn), wikis, instant messaging, vodcasts (video podcasts) and media sharing (such as YouTube) have become the most popular technologies adopted in libraries (Mahmood and Richardson, 2013). An investigation of 57 university library websites from the top 200 universities in the world by Harinarayana and Raju (2010), reported that Facebook was the most popular networking site in those libraries. ...
Article
Full-text available
Introduction.The literature lacks studies of the interconnection between information sharing and collaboration in work settings. This paper explores this nexus in the context of academics and library staff within one Australian university and one Vietnamese university, along with the effect of structural support and human agency, inter alia. Method. The research was interpretivist qualitative, underpinned by structuration theory and communities of practice theory. Data collection included 58 participants involved in 41 interviews, a focus group, a workshop and numerous informal conversations in the two university settings. Analysis. A holistic approach of three data analytics included middle-level coding to grasp basic themes or issues in the data, focused/selective coding to develop theoretical codes, and mind-mapping techniques and matrices for cross-case comparisons. Results.. While the Vietnamese university lacked the structural support for collaboration offered by the Australian university, the former compensated through the initiatives of library staff (human agency). Trust and technology played important supportive roles. Conclusion. Effective collaboration cannot develop without information sharing; conversely, information sharing promotes collaboration. While collaboration and information sharing were assisted by supportive infrastructure, human agency modified structural barriers. Trust and technology had roles to play. These findings may be applicable in different university contexts.
... While scholars find the continued and increasing prevalence of Web 2.0 technology in public libraries (Mannheimer, Young, and Rossmann 2016;Deodato 2014), Library 2.0 has now been introduced into academic libraries (Hess, LaPorte-Fiori, and Engwall 2015;Boateng and Liu 2014;Mahmood and Richardson 2013). There is also growing international treatment of Web 2.0 and Library 2.0 in the literature of countries such as Malaysia (Abidin, Kiran, and Abrizah 2013); Pakistan (Arif and Mahmood 2012); Africa (Lwyoga 2013); international cities (Mainka et al. 2013); and Poland (Wójcik 2015), to name a few. ...
Article
Full-text available
Public libraries are increasingly turning to cloud-based and Library 2.0 solutions to provide patrons more user-focused, interactive, and social platforms from which to explore and use library resources. These platforms – such as BiblioCommons – often rely on the collection and aggregation of patron data, and have the potential to disrupt longstanding ethical norms within librarianship dedicated to protecting patron privacy. This article reports on the results of a pilot research study investigating how libraries are implementing third-party cloud computing services, how these implementations might impact patron privacy, and how libraries are responding to these concerns. The results of this research provide insights to guide the development of a set of best practices for future implementations of cloud-based Library 2.0 platforms in public library settings.
... Khalid Mahmood and John V. Richardson reported that 90 percent of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) surveyed said they were using social networking sites in 2010, and 88 percent of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that Web 2.0 tools were useful for effectively sharing library news, events, and announcements. 21 In Leila June Rod-Welch's 2011 study of ARL member websites, 49 percent of libraries provided live chat or used Facebook and 46 percent used Twitter. 22 About 70 percent of respondents to a survey of Asian, North American, and European librarians said their organizations were using SNS and saw the greatest benefit to be promoting library services. ...
Article
Full-text available
Academic librarians have embraced tools such as e-mail or chat that allow them to deliver reference services virtually, but not many studies have advocated for using social networking sites (SNS) as a medium for answering user questions. Even as reference departments field fewer questions requiring in-depth resources or responses, librarians have not consistently examined how SNS might be employed for simple informational inquiries from university students who already view those sites as information-seeking tools. One such SNS is Yik Yak, a mobile app launched in 2013 that allows users to pose anonymous questions in a limited geographic range, such as a college or university campus. This study is an exploratory analysis of the postings on Yik Yak in the geographic area of a four-year, regional public institution during the 2015–2016 academic year. It argues that libraries should be more intentional about monitoring emerging information ecosystems such as Yik Yak to share their knowledge with users and to identify potential issues with library services.
... Makori (2012) argues that many academic libraries in Kenya have already adopted a wide variety of Web 2.0 tools in their websites. Although the adoption of Web 2.0 tools by libraries has attracted many researchers globally, few researchers so far have sought to understand the real impact of the technology on library services, especially in academic libraries (Khalid, 2013). The situation is more serious in Africa where only a few researchers have written on Web 2.0, leave alone its application in libraries (Kebede, 2014). ...
Article
Full-text available
Web 2.0, the read/write social web, has become ubiquitous in most academic libraries, even in developing countries. The use of Web 2.0 tools is increasingly changing the way academic library users seek, access, use, or share information. Thus, the use of Web 2.0 has the potential of impacting the efficiency and effectiveness of service design and delivery in academic libraries the world over. This study explored the impact of Web 2.0 on the effectiveness of service delivery in academic libraries in Kenya. Data for the study were collected through an analytical survey of the web platforms of nine academic libraries in Kenya. The libraries were selected through information-oriented purposive sampling. Additional data were obtained from key informant interviews with librarians and users in two academic libraries also purposively selected from the nine. Secondary data were also collected through documentary analysis of relevant literature. The findings of the study reveal that the use of Web 2.0 tools in academic libraries in Kenya has increased the users' interests in the library resources and services; promoted learning; as well as enriched library promotion and marketing programmes. The findings also revealed that the effective use of Web 2.0 tools in academic libraries in Kenya is hampered by infrastructural, technical, technological and cultural challenges, among other factors, which require urgent attention to enhance their impact. The findings of this study can be used to justify investments in Web 2.0 platforms by academic libraries. They can also be used by library schools to develop curricula which empower librarians to make optimal use of Web 2.0 and similar tools.
... The most widely used social technologies for collaboration in libraries are the Web 2.0 applications. Really Simple Syndication (RSS), blogs, social networking sites (such as Facebook or LinkedIn), wikis, instant messaging, vodcasts (video files) and media sharing (such as YouTube) have become the top adopted technologies in libraries (Mahmood & Richardson Jr 2013). An investigation of 57 university library websites of the top 200 universities in the world, by Harinarayana and Raju (2010), reported that Facebook was the most popular networking site in those libraries. ...
Conference Paper
Full-text available
This paper presents the preliminary findings of an in-depth case study of the influences of technology in collaboration between academics and library staff in an Australian university. It has investigated the use of the current technologies, enabling and constraining factors of technology as well as the influences of institutional structure on the use of technology in collaboration. Institutional contexts, capability of the collaborator, and the academic and professional divide were analysed to gain further insights. It concludes with recommendations for universities interested in addressing the issues of technology and structure in collaboration between library staff and academics in various academic contexts.
Chapter
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become integral to modern library services, offering solutions for tasks ranging from information retrieval to accessibility improvements. This chapter explores the evolution and applications of AI in libraries, highlighting its role in enhancing user experiences and optimizing resource management. Case studies from libraries worldwide demonstrate successful implementations of AI for document reconstruction, metadata enrichment, and user support. Furthermore, the chapter discusses the ethical considerations associated with intellectual freedom and censorship in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of preserving open access to information while addressing challenges posed by content filtering and algorithmic recommendation systems. Overall, the chapter provides insights into the transformative potential of AI in libraries and underscores the need for ethical AI practices to ensure inclusivity and intellectual freedom for all patrons.
Article
Full-text available
This study attempts to elaborate the sharing practices of Pakistani Urban youth. This study also attempts to observe the individual, social, cultural and economic factors affecting the youths’ everyday information sharing practices. A mixed method research was designed and sequential explanatory method was used. A sample of 1000 urban teen participants for quantitative phase and 25 urban teens for qualitative phase were selected. Cluster sampling was done in the first phase and the Likert scale was used to assess the written questionnaires, and data were analyzed through SPSS-21. For qualitative phase thematic analysis was done using the software NVivo. The urban teenagers were found to share their information keeping in mind that sharing is caring however they preferred selective sharing, this sharing practice also gives them satisfaction. On the other hand, individual, social, cultural and economic factors were found to have great impact on these practices. This study will be helpful for curricula designers, schools, policy makers and for librarians to introduce diverse information services.
Conference Paper
Full-text available
The purpose of this paper is to track the various applications of Artificial Intelligence in libraries. Expert systems, natural language processing, pattern identity, robotics, and their applications in libraries are mentioned. The benefits and shortcomings of Artificial Intelligence have also been considered. Purpose This study will look at how artificial intelligence is starting to enter libraries and how librarians should be prepared to welcome and accommodate this technology (AI). Methodology A conceptual and document review analysis were used to investigate how artificial intelligence will affect libraries and librarians.
Article
In the information age, having a variety of strong social ties is becoming increasingly crucial for individuals, in addition to technical expertise and access to information technologies. Libraries are modifying their offerings to support online messaging platforms and advance this new partnership. The purpose of social media is to deliver pertinent and helpful information about products, services, and activities that benefit the local community. The purpose of the academic library's use of social media is to build a more robust and knowledgeable learning community. This essay looks at how libraries might use social media and networking to offer engaging library services in the face of India's deteriorating economic conditions. Without a question, the tremendous technological development of the twenty-first century has had an impact on library services throughout the world, but especially in India. With social networks like Facebook, MySpace, Flickr, YouTube, and Library of Congress, the Social Media boom has slowly permeated the field of librarianship. However, it has become clear that in order to fulfill the expanding expectations of our end consumers, our services will need to adapt. India's libraries are being pushed harder than ever to provide more proactive and value-added services in order to fulfill the constantly changing needs of its users. Therefore, this essay aims to investigate the current situation in library service delivery using this cutting-edge technology.Investigation of the difficulties Indian libraries has using these Social Media and suggestions for solutions are made. In addition, the article attempted to analyze the idea of social networking and its use to advertise library services in the digital age. For social media to be a great experience for everyone, academic institutions will need a best practice social media policy to inform and direct acceptable online behavior and activity.
Article
There is substantial research on librarians’ engagement with various social media platforms as part of their professional obligations. We were interested in examining librarians’ use of Twitter outside of the context of a job-related, but still professional, context. To find out more, we invited health sciences librarians via Twitter to discuss the impact that the platform has had on their professional lives, offering this column as an opportunity to share their experiences. The case reports support the premise that Twitter can be an impactful communications tool and can benefit librarians in meaningful ways, both professionally and personally.
Chapter
Social media use has become the norm in information services delivery. It holds the unique advantage of delivering service to users through social interaction. This chapter discussed social media use in academic libraries in a developing country: Nigeria. It examined the concept and definition of social media; it also discussed trends in social media usage in libraries. The chapter further outlined the types of social media tools used in libraries. It discussed the peculiar challenges of social media use in Nigeria and proffered solutions.
Article
Purpose The present investigation aims to measure the extent of the adoption of research tools among libraries of higher education (HE) institutes across the world based on the types of research tools and their diverse purposes of use. This study also intends to identify the current practices followed by the HE libraries to implement research tools. Design/methodology/approach First, a stratified sampling method was used to select 130 HE libraries from four continents – Asia, Oceania, Europe and North America. Second, a two-step Web content analysis was followed to collect data from the selected libraries along the parameters chosen for the survey. Findings This study gives an overview of the recent advances in the use of research tools by the libraries with numerous examples. Highlighting the differential rate of adoption of research tools across the regions, this study illustrates the degree of acceptance of research tools among the libraries. Research limitations/implications This study limits itself to a handful of libraries with English websites in four regions only to avoid the language limitation of the researcher. Inaccessible websites of libraries of HE institutes were also excluded from the survey. Originality/value Future researchers may use the evaluation instruments as basic tools to develop advanced research instruments to carry out Web content analysis in diverse spheres. This study guides librarians to develop an improved understanding of the requirements of an immersive online environment with enhanced accessibility to a multiplicity of research tools and facilities to provide improved research support throughout the entire research life cycle.
Article
Full-text available
Libraries acquire and facilitate access to electronic information resources that support core functions of universities they serve. Despite substantial investments by universities in infrastructures and resources to facilitate access to electronic resources, studies have revealed that these resources are at times not optimally utilized as expected. Network literacy is defined as the knowledge of web-based information resources, ability to effectively use ICT tools to access resources available online, ability to judge the relevance of information retrieved, and capability to use computer-mediated communication tools to manage or utilize the accessed information. The purpose of this study was to assess network literacy and utilization of electronic resources among Kabarak University students in Kenya and consequently provide some insight into usage of networked resources at the university. Objectives of the study entailed assessing users’ awareness of internet applications and utilization of electronic resources; assessing users’ awareness of Social Networking Sites (SNS) and utilization of electronic resources, establishing the levels of user awareness of electronic resources available at Kabarak University, evaluating users’ competencies in using electronic resources and establishing challenges encountered in utilizing electronic resources at Kabarak University. The study was anchored on the Digital Library model that depicts users’ interaction with networked environments, taking into consideration the various systems involved. The study was undertaken at Kabarak University main campus library. Stratified sampling was used to segregate students and librarians whose opinions were also sought on matters covered by the study. Simple random sampling was used to select students for the study while purposive sampling was employed to select resourceful librarians for the research. The study adopted a descriptive research design and used an approach where qualitative and quantitative data were gathered using a set of structured questionnaires that contained open and close ended questions based on objectives that guided the study. The questionnaires were first pilot – tested at Moi University Eldoret Town campus to determine their validity and also subjected to Cronbach’s Alpha reliability test to determine that acceptable internal reliability levels were attained. These questionnaires were then directly issued to the selected respondents. Analysis of the collected data was done using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software version 23 and thereafter, responses arranged in themes as appropriate. Frequencies and percentage distributions were used to highlight patterns in the data and facilitate interpretation. Among the findings was that students were aware of existence of electronic resources though some of them were not aware of what these electronic resources entailed specifically, and that among the greatest challenges they faced in using the electronic resources were slow internet connectivity speeds and inadequate points of accessing the internet. The study also established that the library relied majorly on orientation to sensitize students on electronic resources. Reinforcement and regularly conducting orientation programmes were recommended as a means of promoting network literacy at the University.
Article
Full-text available
The Social networking sites play a major role in promoting library services and products to its user community. In this Covid-19 Pandemic and lockdown period, physical communication was locked and online web communication technology proved a powerful tool to bridge the gap between the library and users. The users were unable to reach the libraries during this pandemic period. The librarians used social networking tools to provide information during this pandemic period. The libraries provided a variety of services to its user community. The purpose of this paper is to show how effectively the libraries used Social Networking Sites for marketing & promoting the library and information products & services to their users during this pandemic and lockdown period. A structured online questionnaire was used for data collection. The targeted population was academic librarians working in colleges in Goa, India. From the study, it was found that Social networking sites play a major role in marketing and promoting library and information products and services during this pandemic period. Maximum librarians are using the Library website, Facebook and WhatsApp tool for marketing and promoting the library services and products to reach their users.
Article
This article aims to enrich understandings of factors having effects on the faculty-librarian collaboration at Vietnamese universities. A quantitative methodology was used. Four universities in Vietnam were chosen to survey. The questionnaires were sent to three key participants, including (1) administrators (dean/vice dean of faculty, director/deputy director of library), (2) the faculty who is teaching and research in a university, (3) librarian is a library staff working at an academic library. The descriptive statistics and factor loading value were used to analyze the surveyed data. Based on the results of the descriptive statistical data, it was noted that individual dimensions were the highest factor having impacts on the collaboration, followed by Time and space, Roles of faculty and librarian, and resources, Organizational structure, Power, Work culture/environment, Information and communication technology, Collaborative networks, Mission/vision, educational philosophy, and strategic plan, Learning about the collaboration, Incentives policy, Organization's values, and External pressures. On the other hand, there are 11 sub-factors will be removed in the research model because the factor loading value is less than 0.4. This study helps the university's leaders, administrators, faculty members, and librarians find ways to boost factors in supporting the collaboration.
Chapter
Social media use has become the norm in information services delivery. It holds the unique advantage of delivering service to users through social interaction. This chapter discussed social media use in academic libraries in a developing country: Nigeria. It examined the concept and definition of social media; it also discussed trends in social media usage in libraries. The chapter further outlined the types of social media tools used in libraries. It discussed the peculiar challenges of social media use in Nigeria and proffered solutions.
Article
Full-text available
Purpose The main purpose of this study is to determine the awareness and extent use of Web 2.0 technology in the academic libraries of Islamabad, Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach The survey research methods was employed in this exploratory study through google forms on Awareness of Web 2.0 tools, the questionnaire were distributed among 100 library professionals of 43 Public and private sector universities based on Islamabad were selected for this study,72 questionnaires were received, showing a response rate of 72% per cent , the data were scrutinized and tabulated using MS Excel 2010 and SPSS. Findings –The study imply that the young library professionals are more interested in the activities of web 2. technology. In Web 2.0 applications the social networking sites are more usable for the marketing library services, so these tools can be used in order to provide latest and up-to-date information to the end users. The time consumption and and fear of misusing peroneal information are some major obstacles by using Web 2.0 technologies in the library services. Research limitations/implications As this research covering only Islamabad region of Pakistan, so, the research in future may be conducted in order to know more about these kind of applications in future in library services of Pakistan. Practical implications As this paper has justified the web 2.0 technologies in academic libraries of Islamabad , so, in future it may be considered as a guidance tools for the researchers in Pakistan and may be demonstrated while conducting research on Web 2.0 in its proper perspective. Originality/value This paper provides factual and reliable data on the same topic which will be valuable as justifiable by highlighting the same issue in future. Keywords: Library 2.0Web 2.0, University Libraries- Islamabad, World Wide Web, academic libraries Paper type: Research paper
Article
Full-text available
This study investigated the influence of social media use on library service delivery by librarians in the Federal Universities in South-West, Nigeria. The survey research design was adopted for the study. Total enumeration sampling technique was used to cover the librarians from the Universities. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire. A response rate of 95.4% was obtained. Frequency counts, percentage, mean and standard deviation were used for the data analysis. The study revealed that the extent of use of social media tools for library services was generally low. Findings also revealed that the most popular social media tool used was Facebook, followed by WhatsApp, You-tube and Instant Message (IM). Erratic power supply, poor internet access, and inadequate ICT facilities were some of the constraints in the use of social media. The study recommended that awareness in the use of social media should be created for effective library services. Also, the library management in conjunction with the management of these Universities should create an enabling environment for the training of librarians on web technology, provide adequate internet access points and tackle erratic power supply. These could motivate the librarians in using social media tools which, in turn, would lead to the enhancement of library services.
Article
Full-text available
The present study aims to explore the use of Web 2.0 tools and technologies among the library professionals in academic libraries in India. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire mailed to respondents from 46 central university libraries in India. The findings suggest that there exists a fair level of awareness and familiarity with the Web 2.0 tools and technologies among the library professionals. The study provides useful insights to promote the use of Web 2.0 tools among the library professionals in Indian libraries. © 2017, National Institute of Science Communication and Information Resources (NISCAIR). All rights reserved.
Article
Purpose The study demonstrates how libraries are incorporating photo-sharing applications into the collection development and service provision to encourage improved user participation around digital inclusion. Investigating the steps to increase accessibility to photo-sharing sites and current photo-sharing practices, the paper seeks to highlight the extent of implementation across the world. Design/methodology/approach Stratified sampling method was used to select libraries from four continents. Content analysis was used to collect data from 160 libraries along the lines of evaluation models prepared for the purpose. Findings With the comparative account of implementation of photo-sharing apps, the study showcases the relevance of different approaches adopted by libraries and also presents an overview of the implementation with supportive examples. Research limitations/implications The present investigation is limited to selected libraries of four continents and restricted to English websites only. The study may further be extended to include other types of libraries in different areas, including libraries using non-English websites, to get a fuller picture of implementation. Originality/value The paper makes an attempt to improve the understanding of the budding library professionals toward the usage pattern of photo-sharing sites. The guidelines, based on a brief synthesis of the functions/purposes of photo-sharing sites, will make a stronger case for the implications of this research to future photo-sharing practices.
Article
Full-text available
The adoption of Web 2.0 tools in academic libraries in India, the barriers and motivating factor to its use is investigated. The study involved an exploratory survey of the contents of the academic library websites in India. The websites of 28 Central Universities, 16 Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and 13 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) were identified for the study. A structured questionnaire was mailed to library professionals from selected Universities and Institutes in India. The findings suggest that the library professionals are favourably inclined towards the use of Web 2.0 applications in libraries. The major barriers perceived include accessibility of the internet by users, lack of incentives, institutional support, technical support, training, and resources. Personal interest in using technology, proper training and technical support were found to be the major motivating factors.
Article
Purpose The purpose of this paper was to assess the Web 2.0 competencies’ levels of academic librarians in selected libraries from two library consortia KLISC in Kenya and GAELIC in South Africa and how these competencies can be sources of empowerment for the effective provision of e-services. As service organizations, academic libraries face challenges similar to those in other service sectors. One of the major challenges includes that of providing not only quality print resources but also quality e-services. Globally, academic librarians use various Web 2.0 technologies to engage with their library users and colleagues and for their information work. Academic librarians are now, more than ever, expected to be empowered and build diverse voices, perspectives and arguments into library collections and services. Most of the youths (academic library users) in developing countries like Kenya and South Africa are heavy users of Web 2.0 technologies. This presents a challenge for their academic librarians who must augment their traditional library skills with Web 2.0 technologies for provision of effective e-services. This study explores the interconnections between librarian empowerment, traditional librarian skills and Web 2.0 competencies for effective e-services. Design/methodology/approach Survey method of research was used to conduct the study. Purposive sampling was used to select a homogeneous sample of academic librarians and libraries that use the Web 2.0 technologies. An online questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions was used to collect data. The Web 2.0 competency levels were analyzed and presented using descriptive statistics. To achieve more robust findings and to illustrate the implications of Web 2.0 for librarian empowerment, the ATLAS. ti software was used to illustrate interconnections between librarian empowerment, traditional librarian skills and Web 2.0 technologies. The emerging codes and themes are presented in three network views. Findings The findings from the quantitative data indicate that the majority of the librarians have intermediate competency levels in Web 2.0 technologies. The findings from the qualitative data show that Web 2.0 tools and librarian empowerment can be used to illustrate interconnections in content collaboration tools, bookmarking tools and SNSs. Web 2.0 competencies can transform knowledge-sharing activities, augment existing authoritative information service, foster interaction and market information products and services. This study redefines librarian empowerment through competency in Web 2.0 tools and new roles for effective e-services. Originality/value This paper proposes that librarian empowerment through Web 2.0 competencies is essential in augmenting traditional library skills and in providing effective e-services. This manuscript describes original work and is a re-submission EL-08-2015-0143.R1 due to expired deadline in this journal. Both authors approved the manuscript and this submission.
Article
This study explores academic libraries’ potential uses of the mobile application Yik Yak, with particular focus on patrons’ anonymous feedback about library services and spaces. Over a 232-day period, the authors observed the Yik Yak feed for their university and recorded all yaks related to the library. A content analysis of the 249 library-related yaks found six distinct purposes that these library-related yaks served, from the perspective of the patron, which are of interest to the library: asking questions about library services; reporting problems with library spaces; reprimanding violations of and encouraging adherence to library policies; sharing compliments about library services; demons-trating need for improved library services; and discussing and offering feedback about library programs. This study reveals several opportunities for academic libraries to engage with Yik Yak in order to serve their patrons better, including providing virtual reference services, monitoring problems within the building, developing proactive approaches to policy enforce-ment, gathering honest and continuous feedback about the library's strengths, and identifying opportunities to improve and expand services. Implications for practice are discussed.
Conference Paper
Until now, timeliness of information in libraries is commonly used to underpin collection development and is directly related to quality in terms of realizing whether information is sufficiently up-to-date and available for use. In this paper, it is argued that timely information could be exploited from libraries in another context. More specifically, it would be meaningful for the users of a library to explore resources based on their relevancy to popular events that occasionally occur to the society. Along these lines, a prototype digital library service is implemented and accordingly deployed, based on popular crowdsourcing services (i.e. Twitter) that are integrated with semantic web technologies. The proposed service is evaluated in terms of its ability to provide accurate and timely information.
Article
This case study will take readers through the planning and publication process of a collaborative departmental library blog at Syracuse University, which is a large private, non-profit research intensive university located in central New York State. It will provide an overview of the history of the project and the mission of the blog. It will describe the technical aspects, developing a publication schedule, and the editorial responsibilities of maintaining the blog. The impact of the blog is documented. The blog has raised awareness of the librarians’ expertise and this is explored alongside how posts have contributed to a number of wider conversations in librarianship.
Article
This article presents the findings of a study of French librarians’ non- institutional blogs, which are now acknowledged as a channel of dissemination of professional information. The study has two main objectives: to determine the importance that bloggers give to the concept of ‘‘Library 2.0’’ in their posts and to identify the different types of posts and the different discursive genres that they develop to approach this issue. The analysis shows that this question is addressed from various angles: libraries’ online presence, interaction with users, development of new services, and training for library staff. The analysis also shows that posts belong to different discursive genres such as opinion papers, accounts of initiatives or experimentations, book reviews, or even descriptions of tools. © 2015 The Canadian Journal of Information and Library Science.
Article
Full-text available
The focus of this study is to discover the use, purpose, importance and problems faced by the library and information professionals in Bangladesh in marketing through social media. For this study public universities (17), private universities (24) and special (5) libraries in Bangladesh were selected as a research sample. The findings of this paper showed that most of the libraries use Facebook and LinkedIn for marketing of library and information services. Most of the libraries use social media for marketing library product and services, for sharing library news and events, video conferencing, advertisement, and research purpose. An online version of the questionnaire was distributed in the respective libraries in Bangladesh. Library professionals also provided necessary suggestions and opinions about ways of enhancing library services through using social media.
Article
Web 2.0 tools offer academic libraries new avenues for delivering services and resources to students. In this research we report on a content analysis of 100 US community college libraries’ Websites for the availability of Web 2.0 applications. We found Web 2.0 tools utilized by 97% of our sample population and many of these sites contained more than one Web 2.0 tool. We identified LibGuides, social networking tools, chat technology, photo video sharing sites and RSS updates as especially popular among these libraries. Our findings support research on the availability of Web 2.0 applications in academic libraries supporting four year institutions.
Research
Full-text available
Tesis Doctoral: Las bibliotecas académicas están incorporando las herramientas web 2.0 en sus portales web para ampliar y mejorar sus servicios. El propósito de esta investigación es explorar la presencia e integración de las herramientas sociales o web 2.0 en las sedes web de las principales bibliotecas académicas de Puerto Rico. Utilizando una metodología mixta se aplicó un análisis de contenido a una muestra de 29 sedes web de las principales bibliotecas académicas del país y a 20 de las principales bibliotecas académicas internacionales presentes en el listado de la Academic Ranking of World Universities 2011 (ARWU) para propósitos comparativos. Las herramientas sociales fueron categorizadas por sus características y funcionalidades. Los datos fueron obtenidos mediante la aplicación de una lista de cotejo en dos ocasiones separadas entre los meses de marzo y abril 2012. Los resultados del estudio indican que el 86% de los portales web de las bibliotecas académicas de Puerto Rico aplican 1 o más herramientas sociales. Entre las diferentes herramientas analizadas el blog, el RSS, las redes sociales el chat y los audiovisuales 2.0 son los de mayor presencia y los mundos virtuales, la personalización y los wiki son los de menor presencia. En comparación con las bibliotecas académicas internacionales, las bibliotecas de Puerto demostraron contar con una alta presencia de herramientas sociales, pero aun así están por debajo de la tendencia mundial. Basado en el estudio, se presenta un modelo de servicios de bibliotecas académicas 2.0.
Article
Purpose – The paper aims to present an outline how libraries are harnessing browser extensions to provide an easy and convenient access to library resources and services. Investigating the features, purposes of use and types of browser extensions prevalent among libraries in different regions, the paper seeks to measure the degree of implementation of browser extensions. Design/methodology/approach – Stratified sampling method was followed to select academic libraries, and convenient sampling method was applied to select public libraries from four continents – Asia, Oceania, Europe and North America. Two-step web content analysis was applied to gather data along the select dimensions. Findings – The study contributes to the recent advances in application of browser extension with numerous examples focussing on the relevance of different approaches adopted by the libraries. Providing a framework of proportionate implementation along checkpoints, the study also highlights degree of acceptance of browser extension among libraries in different regions. Research limitations/implications – The investigation was restricted to libraries having English websites and confined to four continents only. This study aims at improving understanding among the librarians about the intended use and application of browser extension and helping them benchmark their effort in support of education, research and training. The current investigation expands the scope of future research on remaining regions and website whose contents are in non-English language to attain a broader perspective of its implementation. Originality/value – The article may guide library professionals to use, develop and promote the implementation of browser extension in libraries. The checkpoints used here may serve as bedrock for framing questionnaire and interview schedule for conducting future research examining users’ perception of browser extension in the context of library resources and usage pattern, to fully comprehend its practicability and usefulness.
Conference Paper
Full-text available
The author shares his thoughts on the future of libraries and librarianship in the context of the emerging importance and impact of Web 2.0 and social computing.
Article
Full-text available
Article
Full-text available
At a time that the term "Library 2.0" has attracted attention in the professional and academic press of library and info rmation science, there appears to be a lack of consensus as to what this nomenclature actually means. At one extreme Library 2.0 is purported to be primarily concerned with the implementation of web-based tools, and thus supports the view that its drivers are intimately related to technology. However, it has also been suggested that Library 2.0 is not solely about technology. Rather, the concept also incorporates changing the physical activities and services delivered by libraries, i.e. Library 2.0 is services-driven. Another perspective is that libraries have always had a history of adopting technology and user-centred improvements to services, and thus Library 2.0 may not even be anything new. This article reports on a research project which assessed the perceptions of Library 2.0, and the extent of its adoption, in the UK academic library sector. The main finding of the study is that Library 2.0 is predominantly viewed as the selective application of Web 2.0 tools and techniques with user services at the heart of any implementation. Although Library 2.0 does not present a new paradigm, its effects are felt in services delivery. Of particular interest are changes in the relationships between those who provide information services and the different generations of the end users that they serve.
Article
Full-text available
Currently there is much interest in the use of Web 2.0 technologies to support knowledge sharing in organisations. Many successful projects have been reported. These reports emphasise how the use of such technology has unlocked new pathways for knowledge transfer. However, the limitations of Web 2.0 technologies are not yet well understood and potential difficulties may have been overlooked. This paper reports a case study of a Wiki which was implemented to support a group of researchers. Although belonging to the same institution, the group members were relatively dispersed and their research areas were disparate. Nevertheless a short study showed that there were benefits to be gained from sharing knowledge and that many of the researchers felt that a Wiki would be a good mechanism to support this. A Wiki was implemented and was initially very successful. A significant number of researchers contributed to the Wiki and almost all made use of it. However the usage declined over time and attempts to stimulate interest by providing incentives for contributions were unsuccessful. One year after launch use was minimal. A qualitative study was carried out to understand the reasons for this decline in use, and is reported in this paper. Responses suggest that two factors may have been particularly significant in explaining the failure of the system. One problem appears to have been a lack of critical mass. Only a small proportion of users are likely to contribute and there may be a threshold size for a community to be able to support a vibrant Wiki. Time also seems to have been an issue. Some respondents said that they simply were too busy to contribute to or use the system. Organisations which are considering the use of Web 2.0 technologies to support a knowledge management initiative should consider the likely impact of these factors in their own situation. Although technologies such as Wiki have great potential there are also pitfalls in undertaking such projects which are not yet well understood.
Article
Full-text available
Survey and semi-structured interviews were conducted in this study to examine the adoption of the Web 2.0 technology in information literacy instruction. Findings suggest that librarians use Web 2.0 tools in three different levels, and overall it has a positive impact on teaching and learning.
Article
Full-text available
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide a number of examples of how Web 2.0 technologies and approaches (Library 2.0) are being used within the library sector. The paper acknowledges that there are a variety of risks associated with such approaches. The paper describes the different types of risks and outlines a risk assessment and risk management approach which is being developed to minimise the dangers while allowing the benefits of Library 2.0 to be realised. Design/methodology/approach The paper outlines various risks and barriers which have been identified at a series of workshops run by UKOLN (a national centre of expertise in digital information management based in the UK) for the cultural heritage sector. A risk assessment and risk management approach, which was initially developed to support use of Web 2.0 technologies at events organised by UKOLN, is described and its potential for use within the wider library community, in conjunction with related approaches for addressing areas such as accessibility and protection of young people, is described. Findings Use of Library 2.0 approaches is becoming embedded across many libraries which seek to exploit the benefits which such technologies can provide. The need to ensure that the associated risks are identified and appropriate mechanisms implemented to minimise such risks is beginning to be appreciated. Practical implications The areas described here should be of relevance to many library organisations which are making use of Library 2.0 services. Originality/value The paper should prove valuable to policy makers and web practitioners within libraries who may be aware of the potential benefits of Library 2.0 but have not considered the associated risks.
Article
Full-text available
The new Web generations are influencing the minds and changing the habits of software developers and end users. Users, librarians, and information services professionals can interact more efficiently, creating additional information and content and generating knowledge. This new scenario is also changing the behavior of information providers and users in health sciences libraries. This article reviews the new Web environments and tools that give librarians opportunities to tailor their services better, and gives some examples of the advantages and disadvantages for them and their users. Librarians need to adapt to the new mindset of users, linking new technologies, information, and people.
Article
Web 2.0 challenges libraries to change from their predominantly centralised service models with integrated library management systems at the hub. Implementation of Web 2.0 technologies and the accompanying attitudinal shifts will demand reconceptualisation of the nature of library and information service around a dynamic, ever changing, networked, information access paradigm. To fulfil that promise, our workforce must become more flexible, applying sophisticated and continually refreshed information technology skills to a service model in which libraries become less static and more responsive to evolving client expectations and needs.
Article
Library 2.0 is defined as "the application of interactive, collaborative and multimedia web-based technologies to web-based library services and collections" (Maness 2006, p. 2). Several academic libraries have implemented Library 2.0 using blogs, RSS feeds, wikis, social networking and podcasts. However Library 2.0 is still at an early stage of development and its potential has not yet been fully explored. This paper reviews the types of Library 2.0 technologies available and how these are being implemented within the higher education sector, examines their potential barriers, and describes a small scale research project undertaken to investigate student use and perceptions of Library 2.0 services at Loughborough University.
Article
This article considers tools for communicating and collaborating among scientists and examines the roles emerging software in terms of how librarians can use it to support the faculty. The current use of Web 2.0 technology by researchers, as well as by librarians, is discussed. An annotated sampling of tools now available is included.
Article
Purpose This paper is the final one in a series which has tried to give an overview of so‐called transformational areas of digital library technology. The aim has been to assess how much real transformation these applications can bring about, in terms of creating genuine user benefit and also changing everyday library practice. Design/methodology/approach The paper provides a summary of some of the legal and ethical issues associated with web 2.0 applications in libraries, associated with a brief retrospective view of some relevant literature. Findings Although web 2.0 innovations have had a massive impact on the larger World Wide Web, the practical impact on library service delivery has been limited to date. What probably can be termed transformational in the effect of web 2.0 developments on library and information work is their effect on some underlying principles of professional practice. Research limitations/implications The legal and ethical challenges of incorporating web 2.0 platforms into mainstream institutional service delivery need to be subject to further research, so that the risks associated with these innovations are better understood at the strategic and policy‐making level. Practical implications This paper makes some recommendations about new principles of library and information practice which will help practitioners make better sense of these innovations in their overall information environment. Social implications The paper puts in context some of the more problematic social impacts of web 2.0 innovations, without denying the undeniable positive contribution of social networking to the sphere of human interactivity. Originality/value This paper raises some cautionary points about web 2.0 applications without adopting a precautionary approach of total prohibition. However, none of the suggestions or analysis in this piece should be considered to constitute legal advice. If such advice is required, the reader should consult appropriate legal professionals.
Article
Libraries are changing. Funding limits and customer demands are transforming staffing levels, service models, access to resources, and services to the public. Administrators and taxpayers are seeking more efficient ways of delivering services to achieve greater returns on financial investments. In this article, the author discusses the benefits of implementing Library 2.0 into the library system. The heart of Library 2.0 is user-centered change. It is a model for library service that encourages constant and purposeful change, inviting user participation in the creation of both the physical and the virtual services they want, supported by consistently evaluating services. Technological advances in the past several years have enabled libraries to create new services that before were not possible, such as virtual reference, personalized Online Public Access Catalog interfaces, or downloadable media that library customers can use in the comfort of their own homes. (Contains 23 online resources and 1 resource.)
Article
Microblogs are ubiquitous participant Web technologies that enable users to share information, interact with content, and generate resources. Librarians can use these applications for library services, instructional activities, and event promotion. For librarians and patrons, these technologies can be combined with other social media to develop personal learning networks (PLNs) for teaching, learning, and research. As PLN tools, microblogs can provide librarians with many opportunities to build cohorts of professional support and gain access to materials not readily accessible in traditional formats. This article provides an overview of issues to consider when using microblogs as library tools.
Article
Microblogging is the latest and greatest technology to hit libraries and their staffs across the country. Medical libraries, physicians, students, and national health organizations are all starting to utilize microblogging services such as Twitter. This new type of communication is designed to provide its audience with short, to-the-point information, which is in stark contrast to traditional medical documentation processes that are long and often times overly formal and confusing. This article will cover how medical libraries are currently using microblogging tools and also provide ideas for how medical libraries could use microblogging in the future.
Article
In recent years the professional literature has seen an increase in articles written about Library 2.0 implementation in academic reference departments. These articles have focused on the integration and introduction of services such as blogs, wikis, social networking Websites, RSS, and podcasting. This article reviews the content of this literature to see which articles demonstrate a qualitative or quantitative benefit to the libraries where they are used.
Article
This article by James Mullan is based on his paper delivered to the BIALL Conference 2009. It examines the role that social media and Web 2.0 technologies can play in the life of the legal information specialist.
Article
This paper presents an exploration of the potential utilization of social bookmarking web sites by academic libraries. These web sites, which allow users and organizations to create accounts for bookmarking online content, provide academic libraries tools to collaborate and network, organize and share electronic resources and teach information literacy.
Article
This study explores Web 2.0 technologies in an academic library through focus groups with undergraduates at Kent State University. Results reveal that students, despite being heavy users, are less sophisticated and expressive in their use of Web 2.0 than presumed. Students set clear boundaries between educational and social spaces on the Web, and the library may be best served by building Web 2.0 into its site and extending its services into course management systems.
Article
This study investigates the adoption of Library 2.0 functionalities by academic libraries and users through a knowledge management perspective. Based on randomly selected 230 academic library Web sites and 184 users, the authors found RSS and blogs are widely adopted by academic libraries while users widely utilized the bookmark function.
Article
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify and investigate the security issues an organisation operating in the “new” online environment is exposed to through Web 2.0 applications, with specific focus on unauthorised access (encompassing hackers). The study aims to recommend possible safeguards to mitigate these incremental risks to an acceptable level. Design/methodology/approach – An extensive literature review was performed to obtain an understanding of the technologies driving Web 2.0 applications. Thereafter, the technologies were mapped against Control Objectives for Information and Related Technology (CobiT) and Trust Service Principles and Criteria and associated control objectives relating to security risks, specifically to hacker risks. These objectives were used to identify relevant risks and formulate appropriate internal control measures. Findings – The findings show that every organisation, technology and application is unique and the safeguards depend on the nature of the organisation, information at stake, degree of vulnerability and risks. A comprehensive security program, including a multi‐layer technological, as well as an administrative component, should be implemented. User training on acceptable practices should also be conducted. Originality/value – Obtaining an understanding of Web 2.0 and Web 2.0 security is important, as Web 2.0 is a new, poorly understood technology and with the growing mobility of users, the potential surface area of attack increases and should be managed. The paper will help organisations, information repository managers, information technology (IT) professionals, librarians and internal and external auditors to understand the “new” risks relating to unauthorised access, which previously did not exist in an on‐line environment, and will assist the development of a framework to limit the most significant risks.
Article
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to find out which Web 2.0 applications and new communications technologies were being adopted by members of the New Zealand library and information management professions, and what factors influenced this adoption, such as age, educational level, and employment status. Design/methodology/approach An online survey asking about respondents' use of a range of Web 2.0 technologies plus basic demographic information was available between 23 February and 8 March 2007. Invitations to complete the survey were sent to three e‐mail discussion lists: nz‐libs, nzrecords, and lim‐students, which resulted in 224 responses. Findings Librarians and information managers of all ages are experimenting with these technologies to some extent, particularly reading blogs and using RSS feeds. Active content creation is less common. Personal, technical, and organisational barriers prevent some people from being able to access Web 2.0 applications. Research limitations/implications The voluntary nature of participation in the survey means that the results are likely to be biased towards people with an interest in Web 2.0 developments. The data were gathered in early 2007, and represent a snapshot of how the technologies were being used at that time. Invitations were sent only to New Zealand e‐mail discussion lists, and some of the findings might not apply in other countries or regions. Originality/value This is the first survey to investigate how members of the library and information management professions in New Zealand are using Web 2.0 technologies. The results reveal patterns of use and significant issues associated with using these technologies within organizations.
Article
This project investigates if a Web 2.0 approach to designing an institutional repository can positively impact community participation. To study this, two institutional repositories (one Web 2.0, the other not) are used within the same institution. Results indicate that the use of a Web 2.0 approach significantly enhances community participation.
Article
Purpose – The paper seeks to describe how tools like wikis can be used to improve collaboration and communication in project‐based teams and general work groups. Design/methodology/approach – Over the last few years a number of wikis have been used by New Zealand libraries for cataloging related purposes – two as project management tools, one as a repository for project documentation, one as a national knowledge repository, and one as a local institution‐based knowledge repository. The paper examines both positive and negative aspects of using wiki technology in this environment. Findings – Wikis prove to be very efficient project management and knowledge management systems. Information can be shared very quickly, efficiency of communication increases, and team productivity is higher. In all described cases a free and open source platform was chosen. Externally hosted solutions were preferred because they enable wikis to be immediately available for use. They are also easier to edit, and there is no need for local IT support. There remain concerns about disaster recovery and the long term preservation of documentation. Originality/value – Experiences such as the ones presented in this paper can encourage other librarians to explore how new technologies can be used in their work environment.
Article
The purpose of this paper is to show why single-item questions pertaining to a construct are not reliable and should not be used in drawing conclusions. By comparing the reliability of a summated, multi-item scale versus a single-item question, the authors show how unreliable a single item is; and therefore it is not appropriate to make inferences based upon the analysis of single-item questions which are used in measuring a construct.
Archives in Web 2.0: new opportunities Ariadne: A Web & Print Magazine of Internet Issues for Librarians & Information Specialists Opportunities and obligations for libraries in a social networking age: a survey of Web 2.0 and networking sites
  • M Nogueira
Nogueira, M. (2010), " Archives in Web 2.0: new opportunities ", Ariadne: A Web & Print Magazine of Internet Issues for Librarians & Information Specialists, Vol. 30 No. 63, available at: www.ariadne.ac.uk/issue63/nogueira O'Dell, S. (2010), " Opportunities and obligations for libraries in a social networking age: a survey of Web 2.0 and networking sites ", Journal of Library Administration, Vol. 50 No. 3, pp. 237-251.
Online social networking Library 2.0 and Beyond: Innovative Technologies and Tomorrow's User, Libraries Unlimited
  • B S Mathews
Mathews, B.S. (2007), " Online social networking ", in Courtney, N. (Ed.), Library 2.0 and Beyond: Innovative Technologies and Tomorrow's User, Libraries Unlimited, Westport, CT, pp. 75-89.
Under the influence of Web 2.0 " , available at: www.creativeheather.com Social bookmarking in academic libraries: trends and applications
  • H Phillips
Phillips, H. (2009), " Under the influence of Web 2.0 ", available at: www.creativeheather.com/ docs/InfluenceofWeb2.0.pdf Redden, C.S. (2010), " Social bookmarking in academic libraries: trends and applications ", Journal of Academic Librarianship, Vol. 36 No. 3, pp. 219-227.
A SWOT analysis for social media in libraries
  • J Fernandez
Fernandez, J. (2009), " A SWOT analysis for social media in libraries ", Online, Vol. 33 No. 5, pp. 35-37.
Library 2.0 technologies in academic libraries: a case study of student use and perceptions " , paper presented at Online Information Should we be more social? Law librarians and social media
  • A Morris
  • K And Allen
Morris, A. and Allen, K. (2008), " Library 2.0 technologies in academic libraries: a case study of student use and perceptions ", paper presented at Online Information, London, December 1-3, available at: www.online-information.co.uk/online08/files/conferencing/13/Daytwo_ trackone_Anne%20Morris.pdf Mullan, J. (2009), " Should we be more social? Law librarians and social media ", Legal Information Management, Vol. 9 No. 3, pp. 175-181.
Chinese Library 2.0: status and development available at: www.iclc.us/cliej/cl27cao Library 2.0: service for the next-generation library
  • D Cao
  • M Casey
  • L Savastinuk
Cao, D. (2009), " Chinese Library 2.0: status and development ", Chinese Librarianship: An International Electronic Journal, Vol. 27, available at: www.iclc.us/cliej/cl27cao.htm Casey, M. and Savastinuk, L. (2006), " Library 2.0: service for the next-generation library ", Library Journal, Vol. 131 No. 14, pp. 40-42.
Social libraries – the librarian
  • S Abram
Abram, S. (2008), " Social libraries – the librarian
Social media in libraries: European survey findings " , available at: www. slideshare.net/jhoussiere/social-media-usage-in-libraries-in-europe-survey-teaser Hricko Using microblogging tools for library services
  • J Harnesk
Harnesk, J. (2010), " Social media in libraries: European survey findings ", available at: www. slideshare.net/jhoussiere/social-media-usage-in-libraries-in-europe-survey-teaser Hricko, M. (2010), " Using microblogging tools for library services ", Journal of Library Administration, Vol. 50 No. 5, pp. 684-692.
Library 2.0 and the problem of hate speech
  • M Brown-Sica
  • J Beall
Archives in Web 2.0: new opportunities”, Ariadne: A Web & Print Magazine of Internet Issues for Librarians & Information Specialists
  • M Nogueira
Social media in libraries: European survey findings”, available at: www.slideshare.net/jhoussiere/social-media-usage-in-libraries-in-europe-survey-teaser
  • J Harnesk
Library 2.0 and Beyond: Innovative Technologies and Tomorrow's User, Libraries Unlimited
  • B S Mathews
Under the influence of Web 2.0”, available at: www
  • H Phillips