Academic Writing and Publication Support Services: The Role of Librarians in Higher Learning Institutions

ABSTRACT Despite the presence of well-equipped libraries and committed librarians in higher learning institutions, the rate at which academicians produce and publish their work has slowed significantly in recent years. This is concerning since publication is important in decisions about promotion and contracts in academic and specialized settings. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of librarians in the publishing process within academic institutions, the level of awareness among academicians regarding the research support services provided by librarians, the factors impeding academicians from actively engaging in writing and publishing, academicians' perceptions of the services offered in academic libraries, and, finally, academicians' recommended services that could improve their publication rate.