When is a volunteer not a volunteer?

The standard answer to that question used to have something to do with the press-gang – not that I actually remember the days when able-bodied men hid rather than be taken away to man His Majesty’s ships.

The answer nowadays seems to have a lot to do with Mandatory Work Activity or young people or even, dare I say it, libraries.

Define: volunteer
Noun, a person who freely offers to take part in an enterprise or undertake a task.

Verb, freely offer to do something.

There’s nothing in there about whether or not you get paid although in present-day usage it is generally the case that those who volunteer do so with the expectation that the freely means without expectation of monetary reward.

Anyway, the point of all this rambling is to point you at Phil Bradley's weblog which starts off by highlighting an article about Lewisham library volunteers on workfare scheme!!

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An exploratory study on social library system users’ information seeking modes

an article by Tingting Jiang, (Wuhan University, People's Republic of China) published in Journal of Documentation Volume 69 Issue 1 (2013)

Abstract

Purpose
Social library systems are Web 2.0 sites where users discover interesting books, movies, and music, etc., collect these resources to their personal libraries, and share their collections with others. The purpose of this study is to identify the information seeking modes adopted by users in this context as well as to reveal the characteristics of the users who are dominated by each mode.
Design/methodology/approach
An online survey was conducted to capture the background and behaviour data of regular users from Douban, the most influential Chinese-language social library system. The “friend-of-a-friend” recruitment technique resulted in a total of 129 responses, 112 of which were valid and analysed to generate both descriptive and inferential statistics.
Findings
Searching, browsing, encountering, and monitoring are the four major information seeking modes adopted by social library system users. The majority of the users tend to combine two or more modes, but each user has a dominating one that helps define him/her as a searcher, browser, encounterer, or monitor. While searching is the most widely adopted mode, browsers are the most prevalent type of information seekers. Different information seekers do not demonstrate significantly different characteristics by and large, however with some exceptions.
Originality/value
This study is one of the first to investigate how users look for resources in social library systems, a problem neglected by previous studies mostly focusing on how users organize and tag resources. The research findings enrich our understanding of social library systems as diverse and dynamic information seeking environments. This in turn will provide useful implications for their interface design to more effectively address the needs and expectations of special types of information seekers.

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The new information environments in schools – a British perspective

an article by Andrew K. Shenton (Independent consultant) published in IFLA Journal Volume 38 Number 3 (October 2012)

Abstract

The nature of the learning resource areas found in Britain’s schools has changed dramatically in the last decade and a half.

Traditional libraries, based around a centralised collection of books, are becoming increasingly uncommon and have been replaced in many institutions by more computer-oriented ‘study centres’.

These quite different environments have provoked controversy in several quarters and pose a range of challenges to those who manage them. Although some of the emergent issues are far from new and, indeed, have been debated in library circles for decades, others are more particular to study centres.

This paper explores in some detail a dozen matters, highlighting dilemmas and, on occasion, possible solutions.

The questions posed are fundamental and diverse, relating to such varied aspects as the physical environment itself, the virtual world to which the study centre offers access, the role of traditional materials, the functions of staff responsible for the facility and the purposes for which the area should be used.

Full text (PDF of whole journal - this article starts at page 228)

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How digital information services can reduce greenhouse gas emissions

an article by Gobinda Chowdhury, (University of Technology Sydney, Australia) published in Online Information Review Volume 36 Issue 4 (2012)

Abstract

Purpose
The study aims to determine the environmental impact of printed content in libraries and thus to find out how a digital information service can help libraries and institutions play a key role in helping the environment.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected and analysed through a combination of environment scan and document analysis, and some mathematical calculations. Comparative data for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from printed books and journals in certain countries, and some specific university libraries in Australia and New Zealand are presented. A lifecycle analysis approach is used to identify various factors that are responsible for GHG emissions for printed as well as digital information resources.
Findings
The study found that dematerialisation, i.e. the replacement of printed content with digital information services, can help libraries and institutions to reduce their impact on the environment. However, it is also noted that further research is needed to develop benchmarks and comparative data for GHG emissions from print-based and digital information services.
Practical implications
The paper provides data relating to the potential savings in GHG emissions that can be achieved through dematerialisation of printed content in libraries. A series of research issues in the area are identified.
Originality/value
The paper opens up a new area of research on the environmental impacts of information services. For the first time raw data on GHG emissions from printed content held in university libraries are calculated.

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Emotional labor in librarianship: A research agenda

an article by Miriam L. Matteson and Shelly S. Miller (School of Library and Information Science, Kent State University, Columbus, USA) published in Library & Information Science Research Volume 34 Issue 3 (July 2012)

Abstract

Many occupations, including librarianship, require emotional labour, which can be defined as the awareness of the emotional expressions required of a job, and the strategies used to express those emotions. To date, little research has examined emotional labour in library work, even though strong evidence exists to suggest emotional labour is a key component of many library jobs.

Research on emotional labour shows that there can be positive and negative effects on individuals such as job satisfaction and job burnout. Research also shows that the negative outcomes from emotional labour may be buffered to some extent by factors such as support from the organization, or job autonomy. Individual differences such as personality traits and attitudes toward customers also impact the effects of emotional labour on employees.

Because emotional labour is a critical issue in library work, and because evidence suggests positive outcomes can be fostered, there is a need to study how emotional labour is carried out in libraries, and to identify management techniques for emotional labour that will yield positive outcomes for both employees and organizations.

Empirical research on emotional labour is reviewed, and a research agenda for exploration of this important construct in the field of librarianship is presented.

Highlights
► Emotional labour (EL) involves managing emotions required by a job.
► EL strategies are categorized as either deep acting or surface acting.
► EL strategies affect both individuals’ well-being and organizational outcomes.
► EL outcomes can also be influenced by individual and organizational factors.
► EL is a construct important in librarianship and should be further researched.

Hazel’s comment:
Let us not forget the many volunteers now providing a service in libraries. Are they being trained in managing the emotions involved in their work?
I doubt it!

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Tools for Reducing and Managing Link Rot in LibGuides

an article by Wilhelmina Randtke and Matthew D. Burrell (Florida State University Libraries) published in code{4}lib journal Issue 17 (June 2012)

Abstract

While creating content in LibGuides in quite easy, link maintenance is troublesome, and the built-in link checker offers only a partial solution. The authors describe a method of using PURLs and a third-party link checker to effectively manage links within LibGuides.

Full text (HTML)

Evaluating the well-being of public library workers

an article by Bridget Juniper (Work and Well-Being, UK) and Pat Bellamy and Nicola White (Cranfield University, UK) published in  Journal of Librarianship and Information Science Volume 44 Number 2 (June 2012)

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and pilot a questionnaire to determine the ways in which working in a UK public library system can impact the well-being of those deployed in the sector.

The methodological framework was based on an approach used to evaluate the well-being of patients in a clinical setting. Based on the responses of 466 employees, the results identified eight dimensions of library worker well-being; organizational, advancement, job design aspects, physical health, psychological health, interpersonal relationships, workload and facilities.

Analyses indicated that organizational aspects most impaired well-being and longer-serving employees were worst affected. The findings offer a new, evidence-based perspective on the well-being issues that public library workers perceive to be most important and challenge earlier claims regarding stress and burnout.

Also considered is the relevance of employer-sponsored wellness programmes where improvement in organizational performance is the prime reason behind provision.

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Age banding and its impact on children and their reading

an article by Claire Warren (Djanogly City Academy, UK) and Sally Maynard (Loughborough University, UK) published in Journal of Librarianship and Information Science Volume 44 Number 2 (June 2012)

Abstract

The study described here investigates the thoughts and opinions of young readers related to age banding on children’s books. Emphasizing the views of children themselves, rather than adults such as parents, librarians, teachers and authors, the research involved a series of three focus groups involving children aged 11–13 years.

The discussions held by the focus groups revealed that participants thought that age banding is intended primarily for adults, and for readers younger than the participants. Age bands were thought to neglect individualism and to restrict autonomy; they were less obvious than other features on books so their position and appearance were significant.

Hazel’s comment:
I like the “suitable for age ...” indications that are provided in the reviews in “The School Librarian”. The “this is what the publisher says” is often followed by an indication as to whether the reviewer thinks that older or younger children would enjoy the story and/or whether the book being reviewed would be better for slower or more mature readers regardless of age.
I accept, of course, that reading the reviews of fiction books is not part of the job of a careers information broker but it sure does help with the birthday and Christmas present buying for grandchildren and nieces and nephews!

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A library is not the books: an ethical obstacle to the digital library

an article by James M. Donovan, (College of Law Library, University of Kentucky, USA) published in Journal of Information, Communication and Ethics in Society Volume 10 Issue 2 (2012)

Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that libraries do not inevitably arise from the aggregation of information, and to apply this result to critique the meaningfulness of the idea of a “digital library.”
Design/methodology/approach
Three independent arguments demonstrate that libraries are more than the sum of the books that they contain: first, the logical argument, which analyses the internal consistency of claims for the superiority of electronic formats; second, the semantic argument, which examines ordinary language to isolate the core requirements of what it means to be a “library”; and third, the ethical argument, which identifies the source of the unique phenomenological experience of encounter with the library.
Findings
It is found that the three arguments each refute the view that “library” is the collective noun for “book”, and argue instead that it is an emergent concept that offers to its community a reflection of the local cultural knowledge through the ordinary selection and organization practices that distinguish libraries from other book accumulations. Against that understanding the idea of a comprehensive and universal digital library fails on the essential criteria of selectivity and organization. While such products can be powerfully useful, they offer something distinct from libraries. When we lose sight of this difference we risk losing the inherent and irreducible values embodied by libraries.
Originality/value
The paper’s arguments provide a reasoned infrastructure to several beliefs that are both common and unexamined.

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The Use of Volunteers in Local Study Library Projects: …

A Case Study of the Walter Gardiner Photography Project

an article by Beth Hewitt and Juliet Eve (University of Brighton) published in Evidence Based Library and Information Practice Volume 7 Number 1 (2012)

Abstract

Objectives
Interviews with library staff and volunteers were conducted to evaluate the use of volunteers in UK public libraries via a case study of the Walter Gardiner Photographic Project, a digitisation project based in Worthing Library, to inform future guidelines on volunteer usage and to make recommendations to existing practice.
Methods
Fourteen semi-structured interviews were carried out to explore the perceptions and experiences of both staff and volunteers of the project. All interviews were fully transcribed and then coded to identify emergent themes.
Results
Key positives for volunteers were professional training, good time management and organization by staff, the friendliness and approachability of staff, and the informal nature of the volunteering. Enjoyment of the work and forming close relationships with others were key motivating factors. For staff, the completion of work which would have otherwise been impossible was the most positive outcome. Problem areas identified by volunteers were lack of contact time with project staff and feeling isolated from other library staff. For project staff, a lack of professionalism on behalf of some volunteers was the primary negative. Key issues to emerge were the need to strike a balance between formal and informal management, the need for good integration between the volunteers and host organization, and the importance of acknowledging the nature of the voluntary commitment.
Conclusions
The project proved overall to be a successful example of using volunteers in public library projects with good examples of volunteer recruitment, training, and management being demonstrated. Areas of conflict that did arise stemmed from differing expectations of levels of service between staff and volunteers. Clarification on these expectations through a written volunteer agreement is advocated for further projects.

Full Text (PDF 12pp)
Full text (HTML)

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Second Life in the library: an empirical study of new users’ experiences

an article by Christopher Peter Clarke (Nankai University, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China) published in Program: electronic library and information systems Volume 46 Issue 2 (2012)

Abstract

Purpose
This paper aims to examine the experiences of new users of Second Life in order to identify potential barriers and attractors to the expansion of the userbase and therefore the market for in-world information services.
Design/methodology/approach
A multi-faceted methodological approach was taken utilising two questionnaires (pre- and post-immersion), non-participant overt observation, structured interviews, and online diary keeping. Data was then analysed to identify barriers and attractors.
Findings
More negative experiences were recorded than positive, with the costs, time commitment, stigma of using, the lack of structure, social interaction, and the complexity of the control interface all provoking negative responses. Avatar creation, and the creativity and quality of graphical presentation produced positive responses.
Research limitations/implications
Due to the investment in time required to participate in the research, the sample size is smaller than ideal thus limiting the conclusions that can be generalised. The research also did not directly include interaction with online library or information services.
Practical implications
For librarians using SL the research demonstrates that the response from new users is less than enthusiastic and that when designing virtual library services care should be taken to avoid the barriers identified here and to focus on the features found attractive by participants.
Originality/value
Previous studies have examined the implementation of in-world information services without examining the experience of new users. Those studies that have looked directly at the user's interaction with virtual worlds are more focused on MMORPGs and on current users.

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Move into the Cloud, shall we?

an article by Sharon Q. Yang (based at Moore Library, Rider University, Lawrenceville, New Jersey) published in Library Hi Tech News Volume 29 Issue 1 (2012)

Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the latest information on cloud computing in a library context.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper adopts an investigative approach including literature review and vendor-provided information.
Findings
Cloud computing is both a trend and technology to deliver software and hardware as a service, not as a product. It involves a centralized data center, virtual server space, and secure transfer of data over the internet. The alleged advantages of cloud computing include low cost to own (CTO), agile updates, openness, zero initial investment, just to name a few. Lately library system vendors have begun to deliver cloud computing options. For instance, Ex Libris will release Alma in early 2012. It is an Integrated Library System with a discovery layer based on cloud computing. Amazon (Elastic Compute Cloud called Amazon EC2) and other vendors also offer virtual servers for cloud computing and charge customers by hours, usage, and capacity. If this trend continues for the next several years, it is just a matter of time before librarians will face the decision as to whether they should move into compute cloud.
Originality/value
The paper discusses this new trend, focusing on the pros and cons of moving into cloud computing for libraries.

Hazel’s comment:
The problem is, of course, that technology is moving so fast that the research is out of date before it is published.

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Lost in the Cloud: Research Library Collections and Community in the Digital Age

an article by Dan Hazen (Associate Librarian for Collection Development, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts) published in Library Resources & Technical Services Volume 55(Number 4 (October 2011)

Abstract

Digital technologies, renewed attention to the purposes of higher education, and changing models for scholarship and learning challenge our historic understandings of research libraries and their collections. Common assumptions and goals are giving way to diverse local agendas, many of which also reflect increasingly limited budgets. Cooperative ventures are taking new forms as well, with straitened resources again the rule. Our adaptation to this uncertain environment requires research libraries to reconsider the elements that are now necessary for success.

Hazel’s comment:
I read this article in the hard copy at the British Library, and then, rather than copy-type the abstract, tried finding it online together with the author affiliation(s).
I hit the jackpot! 
A couple of very favourable article reviews and then, joy of joys, a PDF of the whole thing.
Before doing anything other than reading the piece please note the copyright conditions:

Copyright of Library Resources & Technical Services is the property of American Library Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder’s express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use.

Read it here

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Analyzing the Next-Generation Catalog

by Andrew Nagy published in Library Technology Reports Volume 47 Number 7 (October 2011)

Libraries have begun a transformation from physical materials to electronic media, and the so-called next-generation catalog is emerging before our eyes. This issue of Library Technology Reports analyzes five different academic libraries to better understand their investments, detailing the outcome thus far and drawing conclusions about the next-generation catalog.

Topics Include:

• Defining the Next-Generation Catalog: Open Source versus Commercial Solutions
• Deploying the Next-Generation Service
• Understanding the Impact
• Case Studies (Wake Forest University , Oklahoma State University, North Carolina State University, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and Villanova University)

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“As for the future, your task is not to foresee it, but to enable it” (Antoine de Saint Exupéry)

an article by Derek Law (University of Strathclyde) published in IFLA Journal Volume 37 Number 4 (December 2011)

Abstract

Libraries run the risk of obsolescence unless they can develop a digitally relevant new philosophy of what they are for. We need to identify the niche which differentiates what we offer, the unique selling point that means we are not competing with Google or Microsoft. Such a philosophy will then determine the approach to users, services, content and our own skill set.

The world is increasingly populated by those with different literacies, for whom reading and writing in the way past generations have understood these are becoming optional lifestyle choices and not the normal requirement of the intelligent individual. We must provide services and collections relevant to their needs rather than expect them to change to fit our preconceptions.

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How do public libraries create social capital? An analysis of interactions between library staff and patrons

an article by Catherine A. Johnson (Faculty of Information and Media Studies, University of Western Ontario, Canada) published in Library & Information Science Research Volume 34 Issue 1 (January 2012)

Abstract

In this qualitative study exploring the content of social interactions between library staff and patrons, interviews were held with 15 library staff members in three neighbourhood branch libraries in a large American mid-western city. An analysis of the interviews suggests that public libraries may contribute to social capital through the relationships and interactions that occur between staff and patrons.

Some of the ways in which these relationships and interactions may contribute to social capital include: building patrons’ trust in the library and its staff, connecting people to both community and library resources, providing social support for patrons, reducing social isolation, helping patrons gain skills to function in an increasingly online world, and providing a positive place for neighbourhood residents to gather. The kinds of social interactions occurring in libraries that may help to build social capital are highlighted.

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Roaming Reference: Reinvigorating Reference through Point of Need Service

an article by Kealin M. McCabe and James R.W. MacDonald (University of Northern British Columbia) published in Partnership: the Canadian Journal of Library and Information Practice and Research Volume 6 Number 2 (2011)

Abstract

Roaming reference service was pursued as a way to address declining reference statistics. The service was staffed by librarians armed with iPads over a period of six months during the 2010-2011 academic year. Transactional statistics were collected in relation to query type (Research, Facilitative or Technology), location and approach (librarian to patron, patron to librarian or via chat widget).

Overall, roaming reference resulted in an additional 228 reference questions, 67% (n=153) of which were research related. Two iterations of the service were implemented, roaming reference as a standalone service (Fall 2010) and roaming reference integrated with traditional reference desk duties (Winter 2011). The results demonstrate that although the Weller Library’s reference transactions are declining annually, they are not disappearing. For a roaming reference service to succeed, it must be a standalone service provided in addition to traditional reference services.

The integration of the two reference models (roaming reference and reference desk) resulted in a 56% decline in the total number of roaming reference questions from the previous term. The simple act of roaming has the potential to reinvigorate reference services as a whole, forcing librarians outside their comfort zones, allowing them to reach patrons at their point of need.

Full Text (PDF 15pp) HTML

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65+: Engaging underserved patrons – a success story!

an article by Jasmina Ninkov and Vesna Vuksan (Belgrade City Library) published in IFLA Journal Volume 37 Number 4 (December 2011)

Abstract

Belgrade City Library (BCL) is the largest public library system in south eastern Europe with 275 employees, covering over 70 locations throughout the City of Belgrade.

The idea to conduct research was initially born as a result of BCL’s desire to identify groups that are not using the library and determine the reasons. On the other hand, the inspiration came from the City of Belgrade public sector’s best practices.

At the end of 2009, BCL conducted market research with the following objectives: identify non-user groups; engage the largest under-served group; develop services to meet their needs.

Conducting applied research in library environment is a lot of work. Starting with clear goals and a good plan vastly increases the probability that the assessment will go smoothly and yield genuinely useful information. As we have had a chance to see, the accurate information obtained through research leads to enormous benefits.

We believe that active communication with our patrons and potential members through different channels including applied research and effective data collection will help build a library network that can, in turn, build a better community.

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Virtual references services: defining the criteria and indicators to evaluate them

an article by María Pinto (University of Granada, Spain) and Ramón A. Manso (Central University “Marta Abreu” of Las Villas, Cuba and University of Granada, Spain) published in The Electronic Library Volume 30 Issue 1 (2012)

Abstract

Purpose
This paper aims to analyse the common features of the virtual reference services provided by European and American libraries in order to evaluate the service from the user’s perspective, taking into account the potential of Web 2.0 applications.
Design/methodology/approach
This research adopts a quantitative approach, to contribute to better understanding of the problems currently facing virtual reference services and offers solutions to them. The study also combines qualitative methodologies.
Findings
The study reports that virtual reference services in university communities have not changed significantly since they first appeared, and highlights the need to incorporate new technologies.
Originality/value
The paper draws attention to certain features of virtual reference services that are undervalued or have not attracted research interest, and calls for a technological shift in the services provided to users from the academic communities involved in this study.

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Homelessness and access to the informational mainstream

an article by Thomas H. Muggleton and Ian Ruthven (University of Strathclyde) published in Journal of Documentation Volume 68 Issue 2 (2012)

Abstract

Purpose
This paper aims to explore how homelessness affects access to information serving higher-level needs such as identity formation and social interaction.
Design/methodology/approach
A multi-disciplinary literature review informed the design of 18 semi-structured interviews as well as their subsequent analysis. The interview data were intended to be qualitative and exploratory since they addressed a perceived gap in the information and library science literature.
Findings
Findings present the ways in which interviewees managed to access information and the way such information helps socialisation and well-being.
Research limitations/implications
The study focused on individuals who were potentially more confident and resourceful. The study is also limited to Glasgow which has relatively good provision for the homeless. Further research in a different locale and among less confident individuals would be necessary to corroborate findings in this regard.
Practical implications
The findings confirmed a fundamental research assumption that homeless individuals would pursue higher-level needs alongside more basic physiological needs. This has practical implications for public libraries’ service provision to homeless populations, and also suggests there is greater room for collaboration between libraries and homeless service agencies.
Originality/value
The paper addresses a gap in the literature concerning homelessness and higher-level needs. This has implications for the provision of information and services within both public libraries and organisations serving the homeless. Findings also challenge widespread assumptions regarding the “otherness” or distinctiveness of people who are homeless.

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