Pub Date : 2023-07-25DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2239220
Md Sohail, Srikant Gupta
Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on library operations and services, with many libraries having to adapt quickly to provide more digital resources and services to patrons. This study examines the impact of the pandemic on library services and presents a strategic approach to overcome the challenges faced by libraries during COVID-19. In this study, nine strategic approaches have been identified for managing libraries in the post-COVID period to facilitate efficient library management and offer better services to library users. The Best-Worst Method, a multi-criteria decision-making technique is used to evaluate these strategies and determine their importance in library management. The present study has revealed that the most significant strategies on which libraries will focus in the post-pandemic era are “Academic Library Strategy and Budgeting” and “Promotion of Online Content (e-books, exhibitions, tutorials, events, and concerts).” This research concludes that the pandemic has led to a shift toward digital resources and services, and as a result, libraries need a strategy to continue providing access to information and resources while safeguarding users and employees.
{"title":"Identification and Prioritization of Strategies for Managing Library Resources and Services in Indian Higher Education in the Post-Pandemic","authors":"Md Sohail, Srikant Gupta","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2239220","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2239220","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on library operations and services, with many libraries having to adapt quickly to provide more digital resources and services to patrons. This study examines the impact of the pandemic on library services and presents a strategic approach to overcome the challenges faced by libraries during COVID-19. In this study, nine strategic approaches have been identified for managing libraries in the post-COVID period to facilitate efficient library management and offer better services to library users. The Best-Worst Method, a multi-criteria decision-making technique is used to evaluate these strategies and determine their importance in library management. The present study has revealed that the most significant strategies on which libraries will focus in the post-pandemic era are “Academic Library Strategy and Budgeting” and “Promotion of Online Content (e-books, exhibitions, tutorials, events, and concerts).” This research concludes that the pandemic has led to a shift toward digital resources and services, and as a result, libraries need a strategy to continue providing access to information and resources while safeguarding users and employees.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"45667321","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-07-10DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2233005
Fikiswa Masizana, O. Salubi
Abstract One of the core objectives of public libraries is the unrestricted provision of information resources and services to meet the information and educational needs of individuals and societies. Social media has grown very popular to become a basic component for everyday living. The aim of this study was to assess the use of social media platforms for information services provision in public libraries in Cape Town, South Africa in order to establish the opportunities and challenges. Using the technology acceptance model (TAM), the study sought to evaluate social media platform usage; ascertain the information resources/services and type of content shared on social media platforms by public libraries in Cape Town; as well as appraise the challenges and opportunities in the use of social media in public library services at the municipal public libraries. The descriptive survey research was quantitatively used to survey 102 public libraries in Cape Town. The research findings revealed that services including promotion and marketing of library services, updates on new arrivals, and live streaming of library activities were provided through social media. Policy at the libraries places a limit on social media use to a single social media platform by public librarians for official library services provision. This research adds to the scarce literature on the use of social media in public libraries in developing countries especially those in Africa where Internet penetration is still low by identifying challenges and opportunities. Library users have not been included in this study and their views of library services through social media are not captured in this report. The results by implication interpreted the TAM model by incorporating a new construct: preference of choice, informed by the study findings.
{"title":"(Un)Social Media Services at the People’s University: A Survey of City of Cape Town Public Libraries, South Africa","authors":"Fikiswa Masizana, O. Salubi","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2233005","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2233005","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract One of the core objectives of public libraries is the unrestricted provision of information resources and services to meet the information and educational needs of individuals and societies. Social media has grown very popular to become a basic component for everyday living. The aim of this study was to assess the use of social media platforms for information services provision in public libraries in Cape Town, South Africa in order to establish the opportunities and challenges. Using the technology acceptance model (TAM), the study sought to evaluate social media platform usage; ascertain the information resources/services and type of content shared on social media platforms by public libraries in Cape Town; as well as appraise the challenges and opportunities in the use of social media in public library services at the municipal public libraries. The descriptive survey research was quantitatively used to survey 102 public libraries in Cape Town. The research findings revealed that services including promotion and marketing of library services, updates on new arrivals, and live streaming of library activities were provided through social media. Policy at the libraries places a limit on social media use to a single social media platform by public librarians for official library services provision. This research adds to the scarce literature on the use of social media in public libraries in developing countries especially those in Africa where Internet penetration is still low by identifying challenges and opportunities. Library users have not been included in this study and their views of library services through social media are not captured in this report. The results by implication interpreted the TAM model by incorporating a new construct: preference of choice, informed by the study findings.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"47539163","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-06-23DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2227621
Leo S. Lo
Abstract The novel discipline of prompt-engineering is a combination of artificial intelligence, linguistics, and user experience design. Crafting effective prompts for AI models like OpenAI’s GPT can optimize the quality of generated output, especially in reference services. The article explains the CLEAR Framework—a guiding tool that incorporates principles of conciseness, logic, explicitness, adaptability, and reflectiveness in prompt crafting. Despite challenges including biases, ethical concerns, and keeping up with rapidly evolving AI capabilities, the field also presents opportunities for growth. The article concludes with a call to action for library professionals to embrace and master prompt-engineering as an essential skill.
{"title":"The Art and Science of Prompt Engineering: A New Literacy in the Information Age","authors":"Leo S. Lo","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2227621","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2227621","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract The novel discipline of prompt-engineering is a combination of artificial intelligence, linguistics, and user experience design. Crafting effective prompts for AI models like OpenAI’s GPT can optimize the quality of generated output, especially in reference services. The article explains the CLEAR Framework—a guiding tool that incorporates principles of conciseness, logic, explicitness, adaptability, and reflectiveness in prompt crafting. Despite challenges including biases, ethical concerns, and keeping up with rapidly evolving AI capabilities, the field also presents opportunities for growth. The article concludes with a call to action for library professionals to embrace and master prompt-engineering as an essential skill.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-06-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"45447440","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-05-10DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2212263
David Leffler
Abstract As electronic resources routinely account for a sizable portion of library budgets, electronic resources librarians are under increasing pressure to ensure constant access to these resources. Therefore, developing troubleshooting skills and resources is critical for maintaining electronic access for patrons. This article emphasizes the significance of troubleshooting in electronic resources librarianship by highlighting articles on troubleshooting, the NASIG Core Competencies, and the subsequent need for troubleshooting systems that integrate with email. Therefore, this article details how to create an Outlook-Based Troubleshooting System to assist electronic resources librarians in efficiently resolving access issues.
{"title":"Technical Issues: Creating a Troubleshooting System with Microsoft Outlook","authors":"David Leffler","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2212263","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2212263","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract As electronic resources routinely account for a sizable portion of library budgets, electronic resources librarians are under increasing pressure to ensure constant access to these resources. Therefore, developing troubleshooting skills and resources is critical for maintaining electronic access for patrons. This article emphasizes the significance of troubleshooting in electronic resources librarianship by highlighting articles on troubleshooting, the NASIG Core Competencies, and the subsequent need for troubleshooting systems that integrate with email. Therefore, this article details how to create an Outlook-Based Troubleshooting System to assist electronic resources librarians in efficiently resolving access issues.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":"27 1","pages":"179 - 196"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-05-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"42753413","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-05-08DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2207565
Raj Kishor Kampa, Jayaram Gouda
Abstract This study aims to evaluate the virtual reference service (VRS) queries made by library users and to determine whether there are any differences in the types of queries made by them. 1,472 email threads of VRS received from users of Global Library, O. P. Jindal Global University, India, during 2022 were collected and analyzed. The study’s findings reveal that the most frequently requested VRS queries are related to research articles, followed by database access and off-campus access issues. The authors suggest that libraries should prioritize providing training on accessing the online database and use chat, chatbot, and WhatsApp to provide virtual reference services to users.
摘要本研究旨在评估图书馆用户的虚拟参考咨询服务(VRS)查询，并确定他们的查询类型是否存在差异。收集和分析了2022年印度O. P. Jindal Global University全球图书馆用户的1472封VRS电子邮件。研究结果显示，最常见的VRS查询与研究文章有关，其次是数据库访问和校外访问问题。作者建议图书馆应优先提供访问在线数据库的培训，并使用聊天、聊天机器人和WhatsApp为用户提供虚拟参考服务。
{"title":"Evaluating the Virtual Reference Services in a University Library","authors":"Raj Kishor Kampa, Jayaram Gouda","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2207565","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2207565","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract This study aims to evaluate the virtual reference service (VRS) queries made by library users and to determine whether there are any differences in the types of queries made by them. 1,472 email threads of VRS received from users of Global Library, O. P. Jindal Global University, India, during 2022 were collected and analyzed. The study’s findings reveal that the most frequently requested VRS queries are related to research articles, followed by database access and off-campus access issues. The authors suggest that libraries should prioritize providing training on accessing the online database and use chat, chatbot, and WhatsApp to provide virtual reference services to users.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":"27 1","pages":"149 - 157"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-05-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"44321448","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-05-05DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2203681
Adebowale Jeremy Adetayo
Abstract The research aimed to explore the perspectives of students toward the utilization of ChatGPT, its potential benefits and disadvantages over traditional reference librarians. The study employed a descriptive survey research methodology and analyzed the data collected through descriptive and inferential statistics. Out of the 54 students at Adeleke University surveyed, they acknowledged the advantages of ChatGPT such as its convenience, user-friendliness, extensive knowledge base, and accessibility. However, they also pointed out its limitations including the inability to comprehend emotions, limitations in answering complex questions, potential for providing incorrect answers, and risk of outdated information. Despite these drawbacks, the students still expressed their intention to seek reference assistance from ChatGPT, as well as from librarians. The research suggests that library administration should embrace technology to ensure that students have convenient access to reference services.
{"title":"ChatGPT and Librarians for Reference Consultations","authors":"Adebowale Jeremy Adetayo","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2203681","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2203681","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract The research aimed to explore the perspectives of students toward the utilization of ChatGPT, its potential benefits and disadvantages over traditional reference librarians. The study employed a descriptive survey research methodology and analyzed the data collected through descriptive and inferential statistics. Out of the 54 students at Adeleke University surveyed, they acknowledged the advantages of ChatGPT such as its convenience, user-friendliness, extensive knowledge base, and accessibility. However, they also pointed out its limitations including the inability to comprehend emotions, limitations in answering complex questions, potential for providing incorrect answers, and risk of outdated information. Despite these drawbacks, the students still expressed their intention to seek reference assistance from ChatGPT, as well as from librarians. The research suggests that library administration should embrace technology to ensure that students have convenient access to reference services.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":"27 1","pages":"131 - 147"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-05-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"43963669","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-05-05DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2209573
Nat Gustafson-Sundell, Kellian Clink, Evan Rusch
Abstract This paper describes how to match journal lists from different data sources efficiently in four steps. The description is offered as an introduction to data matching techniques using Microsoft Excel and Access. An example application is offered to demonstrate why journal data matching is relevant for reference and instruction. The example is a comparison of two indexes, Social Services Abstracts and Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts. The indexes are compared to each other, and both are compared to library holdings and interlibrary loan data.
{"title":"Combine Journal Data to Support Reference and Instruction","authors":"Nat Gustafson-Sundell, Kellian Clink, Evan Rusch","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2209573","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2209573","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract This paper describes how to match journal lists from different data sources efficiently in four steps. The description is offered as an introduction to data matching techniques using Microsoft Excel and Access. An example application is offered to demonstrate why journal data matching is relevant for reference and instruction. The example is a comparison of two indexes, Social Services Abstracts and Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts. The indexes are compared to each other, and both are compared to library holdings and interlibrary loan data.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":"27 1","pages":"159 - 177"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-05-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"48646345","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-20DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2197896
Xiaomei Liu, Chongdong Wang
Abstract This column shares the experience of using QQ, a Chinese social messaging tool, by Sichuan University Library in China, to provide an alternative informal reference service in addition to more traditional and formal methods of reference desk, telephone, online message/comment, and instruction, without additional funding.
{"title":"Providing a Social-Messaging-Based Research Help Service with No Funding at Sichuan University Library","authors":"Xiaomei Liu, Chongdong Wang","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2197896","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2197896","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract This column shares the experience of using QQ, a Chinese social messaging tool, by Sichuan University Library in China, to provide an alternative informal reference service in addition to more traditional and formal methods of reference desk, telephone, online message/comment, and instruction, without additional funding.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":"27 1","pages":"197 - 201"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-04-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"45569446","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-03-22DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2184900
Nurul Islam, Khairul Islam, Monulirul Islam
Abstract This column aims to explore the potential of big data analytics in improving library management in Indonesia and identify the challenges, opportunities, and best practices for libraries when applying big data analytics. Using of literature review of published studies, this column examines the current state of big data analytics in library management in Indonesia and provides recommendations, including a SWOT analysis, for implementing big data analytics in operations. It also highlighted several challenges such as limited resources, limited access to technology and digital literacy among librarians, and limited data security measures which could put sensitive patron data at risk.
{"title":"Exploring the Potential of Big Data Analytics in Improving Library Management in Indonesia: Challenges, Opportunities, and Best Practice","authors":"Nurul Islam, Khairul Islam, Monulirul Islam","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2184900","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2184900","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract This column aims to explore the potential of big data analytics in improving library management in Indonesia and identify the challenges, opportunities, and best practices for libraries when applying big data analytics. Using of literature review of published studies, this column examines the current state of big data analytics in library management in Indonesia and provides recommendations, including a SWOT analysis, for implementing big data analytics in operations. It also highlighted several challenges such as limited resources, limited access to technology and digital literacy among librarians, and limited data security measures which could put sensitive patron data at risk.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":"27 1","pages":"111 - 120"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-03-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"44997297","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-03-06DOI: 10.1080/10875301.2023.2172637
A. Imam, M. E. Ilori
Abstract This column describes the nature of library services and information management’s role in this 21st century and examines the role of academic librarians in Nigeria. The development brought about by technology has drastically improved and facilitated the dissemination of information to users and has mandated librarians to add new roles to their mode of service to move with the trend of time and be relevant to society. The role of academic librarians in this 21st century now involves advocates, pace-setters/image makers, knowledge resources management, information technology development, user services, human resource management, resource sharing, and networking. The column concludes that academic librarians in Nigeria are now compelled to create innovative library services that will make them relevant and fit into the information management roles. Hence the column recommends that librarians need to keep abreast with the trend of the digital era by always acquiring new skills that will enable them to function effectively and efficiently. Library management should make policies and provide opportunities that will enable academic librarians to always acquire new training that will enhance library services to meet with the trends of time. Librarians are to upgrade themselves with the managerial role.
{"title":"Library Services and Information Management: The Role of Academic Librarians in the 21st Century Nigeria","authors":"A. Imam, M. E. Ilori","doi":"10.1080/10875301.2023.2172637","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2023.2172637","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract This column describes the nature of library services and information management’s role in this 21st century and examines the role of academic librarians in Nigeria. The development brought about by technology has drastically improved and facilitated the dissemination of information to users and has mandated librarians to add new roles to their mode of service to move with the trend of time and be relevant to society. The role of academic librarians in this 21st century now involves advocates, pace-setters/image makers, knowledge resources management, information technology development, user services, human resource management, resource sharing, and networking. The column concludes that academic librarians in Nigeria are now compelled to create innovative library services that will make them relevant and fit into the information management roles. Hence the column recommends that librarians need to keep abreast with the trend of the digital era by always acquiring new skills that will enable them to function effectively and efficiently. Library management should make policies and provide opportunities that will enable academic librarians to always acquire new training that will enhance library services to meet with the trends of time. Librarians are to upgrade themselves with the managerial role.","PeriodicalId":35377,"journal":{"name":"Internet Reference Services Quarterly","volume":"27 1","pages":"103 - 109"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-03-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"45702210","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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