Exploring the effects of task characteristics on knowledge sharing in libraries

Abstract

Purpose

Knowledge sharing intention and group identity are the keys to improving library service quality. The purpose of this paper is to integrate work design questionnaire and affective events theory to understand the relationship between task characteristics and knowledge sharing quality in the context of the library.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from 204 professional librarians in various libraries provide strong support for the proposed research model. A structural equation modelling analysis was performed using LISREL. The adequacy of the measurement model was evaluated on the criteria of reliability, convergent validity and discriminant validity.

Findings

The paper shows that sharing intention and group identity have important effects on knowledge quality. Task characteristics, such as work methods, task variety and social feedback, have strong effects on group identity.

Research limitations/implications

The findings imply that only work methods and social feedback have strong effects on knowledge sharing intention.

Originality/value

The motivation to share librarians' knowledge is critical to successful library service. The paper provides evidence that knowledge quality is built through work methods, task variety and social feedback. Implications for theory and practice and suggestions for future research are discussed.

Citation

Liu, K., Chang, C. and Hu, I. (2010), "Exploring the effects of task characteristics on knowledge sharing in libraries", Library Review, Vol. 59 No. 6, pp. 455-468. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242531011053968