Library Management

Prioritizing academic library service quality indicators using fuzzy approach: Case study: libraries of Ferdowsi University : Table of Contents

Reza Jamali, Hossein Sayyadi Tooranloo — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – Fuzzy logic provides a useful tool for dealing with decisions in which the phenomena are imprecise and vague. The purpose of this paper is to prioritize the library service quality indicators from the student's point of view at Ferdowsi University, Iran, using this method. It also aims to identify the main indicators that help users satisfaction and consequently, the best budget allocation by library managers. Design/methodology/approach – This research was performed among students of the university and questionnaires were distributed to students that used the library service at least once each month. The basis of the questionnaire was a SERVQUAL model developed for academic libraries. The characteristics/quality components with fuzzy-TOPSIS technique were prioritized to meet the requirements of students as customers of the academic libraries. Using fuzzy set theory, customers' perceptions of service quality are generally expressed subjectively in vague linguistic terms, and this paper tries to apply a fuzzy approach to service quality in Ferdowsi university libraries. Findings – The results show that there is no equal importance between library service quality indicators. After prioritizing indicators it was found that having the ability to find information 24 hours a day has the most importance and a secure and safe place is the least important indicator for making a high quality library. Practical implications – The results of this study will be helpful for planners to pay attention to some indicators that have most importance but low performance. With this result higher users can obtain satisfaction with lower efforts. Originality/value – The concept in the paper can be useful for two reasons. The first is low budget of academic libraries. It is true that libraries are the heart of a university but there is not enough allocated budget to maintain this situation. The budget can then be allocated for the best indicators. Second is the freshness of fuzzy approach to service quality. In developing the use of this approach to academic libraries, it is hoped that the libraries can satisfy user demands and make the best strategies for improvement.

Benchmarking quality systems in two European academic libraries : Table of Contents

Núria Balagué, Jarmo Saarti — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to benchmark two ISO 9001:2000 based quality management systems, one in the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain, and the other in Kuopio University, Finland. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is a case study in which both libraries' approach to the building of their quality management system are compared. Findings – The ISO 9001:2000 guides institutions so that they will develop their quality management systems along similar lines. Both libraries have devised the same kinds of solutions to the key points of the standard and it has helped them to develop their services and analyze how they have succeeded in this task. Research limitations/implications – The paper is based on the experiences of two libraries. Practical implications – The paper gives examples for the implementation of the ISO 9001:2000 quality standard inside an academic library. Originality/value – The paper provides ideas on how a quality system is best developed.

Auditing the library's quality system : Table of Contents

Núria Balagué — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to describe the main features of a university library quality management system, focusing specially on internal auditing. Design/methodology/approach – Adopting a case study approach, the paper attempts to show how auditing is a useful information management tool to improve library services. Findings – Internal auditing helps to consolidate the culture of quality and promote appropriate ethics and values. Research limitations/implications – The paper is based on a study case and the professional experience of the author. Practical implications – A view on a consolidated library's quality management system is presented in the paper. Originality/value – The paper provides ideas on how a library approaches an internal audit.

Strategic planning and management for the public libraries: The case of Greek central public libraries : Table of Contents

Petros A. Kostagiolas, Christina Banou, Evangelia-Maria Laskari — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of the paper is twofold: to provide an overview of the present situation at the Greek central public libraries and to identify strategic development areas in regard to education and training, social and economic development, e-government, reading policy, cultural cohesion and identity. Design/methodology/approach – A survey was conducted in January and February 2008 through extensive semi-structured interviews with all the 29 Greek central public libraries. Findings – The paper finds that a formal strategic plan is becoming necessary for the Greek central public libraries in order to understand themselves, redefine their policies and priorities, and further consider the needs and expectations of their users and of the society as a whole. Practical implications – This paper contributes to the discussion on the development of strategic planning aimed at the central public libraries in Greece and may assist in providing evidence for strategic planning in a national and/or in an institutional level. Originality/value – It is one of the very few studies in Greece providing empirical evidence for the strategic planning and management of the central public libraries.

Librarian interrupted! Ur-librarian to un-librarian, or ur-librarian to uber-librarian? : Table of Contents

Colin Storey — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to address the dangers and opportunities for a highly trained group of professionals – librarians – in responding to the present and future challenges, for example from the web's so-called digital natives and from the web's bare-fisted market forces. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is a general view of the current state-of-play in library management vis-a-vis the e-revolution, in terms of the history and future of the profession. Findings – Librarians are in danger of casting off the primordial and deeply original tenets of the profession (the term “ur-librarianship” is suggested here to refer to this canon of library beliefs). Librarians may well become irrelevant shadows of their former selves by embracing a mish-mash of misdirected and misappropriated ideologies and peripheral priorities from other, newer, professions and undo centuries of hard work (here referred to as “un-librarianship”). In consequence, readers, in a cloud of unknowing, would not understand who librarians are, what they do, and especially, what they stand for. Librarians have opportunities to re-enliven the developmental arc of venerable tradition and to recast agile services to sustain, as in the long past, an absolutely unquestioned place in society (“uber-librarianship”). Is it going to be “Librarian Interrupted!”, or “Librarian Triumphant!”? Practical implications – Librarians need to brand themselves and their libraries distinctly for a successful and relevant future. Originality/value – Using practical examples from many years of experience in librarianship, the author states some strong opinions on librarians' professional futures.

Theory, research, and practice in library management 6: Managing uncertainty through scenario planning : Table of Contents

Graham Walton — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore how uncertainty as a concept is being faced in many areas of work (including libraries). The use of scenario planning in managing this uncertainty is to be examined. Design/methodology/approach – Reasons for the prominence of uncertainty are identified from the broad management literature. The impact uncertainty has on the organisation, and the individual and strategic direction is also discussed using the literature. This provides the context to establish how uncertainty, has historically been faced, by libraries. The same approach is applied when the application of scenario planning in managing uncertainty is established. Scenario planning is investigated at the wider level and then the focus moves to its relevance for libraries. Findings – Uncertainty is a strategic concern for many organisations (both proffer and not for profit), which poses specific challenges for managers. It is caused by technological developments and changes in markets with other contributions from environmental, fiscal and political factors. Scenario planning is a proactive way to manage the impact of uncertainty. By using scenarios it is possible to identify key factors that will have serious implications in the future. Taking actions and informed decisions based upon the scenarios, future risks can be avoided and possible opportunities anticipated. Effective scenarios can be produced by going through an agreed group process. Originality/value – The paper provides an examination of different aspects of uncertainty, its management through scenario planning and the relevance for libraries.

Managing university libraries: A cross Australian/UK study of second tier managers in university libraries : Table of Contents

Graham Walton, Liz Burke, Margaret Oldroyd — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the management function of second tier posts in both Australia and the UK university libraries, including the identification of trends about their demography and responsibility range. The study aims to examine the major managerial challenges they face as individuals as well as the challenges for the wider university library. Various aspects of the skills needed by second tier university library manager are to be explored. Design/methodology/approach – Data were gathered using an online questionnaire completed by second tier university library managers in both Australia and the UK Findings – Various trends are shown about the age, length of time in post and intended retirement age of second tier mangers as well as the range of their responsibilities. Key challenges are determined for them as individuals as well as those for the wider university library. Research limitation/implications – The study demonstrates how effective research can be done across countries relying solely on information and communication technologies (ICT) for data collection and project communication/management. Practical implications – Clear direction and guidance is provided by the outcomes of the study into the development of future second tier university library managers Originality/value – No other study has been published in this area for over ten years and very little has taken place before then. It is also the first cross-national investigation on second tier roles.

The innovative university library: strategic choice, construction practices and development ideas : Table of Contents

Guo Jing, Chen Jin — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose the strategic choice of innovative university library, including its definitions, structure framework. As a case study, the construction practice and idea development of the innovative library in Shanghai Jiao Tong University are also to be introduced and explained. Design/methodology/approach – The paper combines the methods of scenario analysis and theoretical explanation, modeling presentation and case study. Findings – A model of innovative university library and IC2@SJTUL, a kind of new mode adapting to it are put forward in the paper. These modes apply to university libraries, which need innovation and support training of innovative users. Research limitations/implications – At present the necessary have been built but environments for IC2@SJTUL its effects need practice testing. Originality/value – The basic definition and structure framework of an innovative university library are designed in this paper. The pioneer concept, i.e. IC2, is demonstrated and the new mode of IC2@SJTUL is also presented.

Needed competencies for collection managers and their development: Perceptions of university librarians : Table of Contents

Kanwal Ameen — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper aims to discover perceptions of university librarians regarding the needed competencies for collection managers in Pakistan in the emerging digital paradigm. Design/methodology/approach – The mixed-method approach was followed using a questionnaire and interview to collect data. The self-completion questionnaire was sent to central libraries of 40 major, accredited universities of Pakistan and 30 responses were obtained. Then, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 librarians using interview-guide. Interviews were transcribed to analyze and categorize according to the thematic approach. The interpretation and comments of the interviewees have also been reported to strengthen the arguments. Findings – It was found that the university libraries of Pakistan are gradually adopting a digital paradigm and providing access to hybrid collections. But, collection managers would not perceive fully the competencies needed to manage hybrid collections. It also appeared that there were meagre opportunities for university librarians to develop their competencies through regular and continuing education. Originality/value – This is the first study on the needed competencies for collection managers in Pakistan. The paper may invoke, among academia and working professionals, the need to learn the practices of collection management in digital environment.

The information commons at Sichuan University Jiang'an Library: A case study from China : Table of Contents

Leye Yao, Liu Liu, Na Cai — Sun May 17 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper aims to give a snapshot of planning, building and developing the information commons at a comprehensive research university library in China. It seeks to frame and confirm a new and effective strategy for the future development of university libraries illustrated by its actually positive outcomes. Design/methodology/approach – The paper begins with an overview of information commons as a major international concern that represents a strategic direction of library development, followed by the changing academic landscape in China. It then explains the background and process of building the information commons at Sichuan University Jiang'an Library with its emphasis on its positive outcomes, illustrated by the latest factual data compared with other university libraries in Sichuan. It also discusses the future prospects of developing the information commons. Findings – The paper reveals that information commons is undergoing its international journey from theory to practice and has proved its positive impact on improving the usage of physical and virtual space, resources and services of university libraries in the changing information environment. Practical implications – Detailed recommendations regarding the construction and development of information commons in Chinese university libraries are provided. Originality/value – This case study offers insight into practical and effective approaches to enhancing the usage of university libraries in China and emphasizes the importance of integrating the actual situation and background of the university, the region and the nation.