Qualitative Research and the Modern Library


Book Description

Qualitative Research and the Modern Library examines the present-day role and provides suggestions for areas that might be suited to this type of research for the purposes of evaluation. The author discusses how the results from such research might be applied, and the overall impact of using this type of research to inform development of a more user-centred organisation. The book provides a thoughtful look at the implications of using qualitative research to inform decision-making processes within libraries and is written by an author and library researcher with international experience in various types of libraries, implementing/improving programs and services, and supporting user needs. Fills a gap in the current literature that hasn’t been found in journal articles written on this topic Contains practical applications of qualitative research principles, with practical examples of select projects Written by an author and library researcher with international experience in various types of libraries, including work with large-scale qualitative studies, research design and evaluation of library services




E-Discovery Tools and Applications in Modern Libraries


Book Description

Technology has revolutionized the ways in which libraries store, share, and access information. As digital resources and tools continue to advance, so too do the opportunities for libraries to become more efficient and house more information. E-Discovery Tools and Applications in Modern Libraries presents critical research on the digitization of data and how this shift has impacted knowledge discovery, storage, and retrieval. This publication explores several emerging trends and concepts essential to electronic discovery, such as library portals, responsive websites, and federated search technology. The timely research presented within this publication is designed for use by librarians, graduate-level students, technology developers, and researchers in the field of library and information science.




Qualitative Research for the Information Professional


Book Description

This established text is the only introduction to qualitative research methodologies in the field of library and information management. Its extensive coverage encompasses all aspects of qualitative research work from conception to completion, and all types of study in a variety of settings from multi-site projects to data organization. The book features many case studies and examples, and offers a comprehensive manual of practice designed for LIS professionals. This new edition has been thoroughly revised and includes three new chapters. It has been updated to take account of the substantial growth in the amount and quality of web-based information relevant to qualitative research methods and practice, and the many developments in software applications and resources. The authors have identified a clear need for a new chapter on the evaluation of existing research, as a gateway into new research for information professionals. The final chapter, 'Human Resources In Knowledge Management', takes the form of a model case study, and is an 'ideal' qualitative investigation in an information setting. It exemplifies many of the approaches to qualitative research discussed in earlier chapters. Readership: Directed primarily at the beginner researcher, this book also offers a practical refresher in this important area for the more experienced researcher. It is a useful tool for all practitioners and researchers in information organizations, whether libraries, archives, knowledge management centres, record management centres, or any other type of information service provider.




Handbook of Research on Digital Content Management and Development in Modern Libraries


Book Description

Collection assessment can be defined as the systematic quantitative and qualitative measurement of the degree to which a library’s collections meet the library’s goals, objectives, and the needs of its users. E-resources are creating new challenges for collection assessment, which require that the collection be measured, analyzed, and judged according to specific criteria for relevancy, size, quality, and use. The Handbook of Research on Digital Content Management and Development in Modern Libraries is a critical scholarly resource that examines collection management and quality within information services. Featuring a wide range of topics such as e-resources, knowledge management, and consortia, this book is ideal for professionals, academicians, academic librarians, researchers, and students in the fields of library and information science, education, computer science, and information technology. Moreover, the book will provide insights and support executives concerned with the management of expertise, knowledge, information, and organizational development in different types of work communities and environments.




Research Data Access and Management in Modern Libraries


Book Description

Handling and archiving data should be done in a highly professional and quality-controlled manner. For academic and research libraries, it is required to know how to document data and support traceability, as well as to make it reusable and productive. However, these institutions have different requirements relating to the archiving and reusability of data. Therefore, a comprehensive source of information is required to understand data access and management within these organizations. Research Data Access and Management in Modern Libraries is a critical scholarly resource that delves into innovative data management strategies and strategy implementation in library settings and provides best practices to stakeholders using the latest tools and technology. It further explores concepts such as research data management, data access, data preservation, building document and data institutional repositories, applications of Web 2.0 tools, mobile technology applications in data access, and conducting information literacy programs. This book is ideal for librarians, information specialists, research scholars, students, IT managers, computer scientists, policymakers, educators, and academic administrators.




Rural Community Libraries in Africa: Challenges and Impacts


Book Description

"This book investigates the relationship between local libraries and community development, from the historical roots of rural libraries to their influence on the literacy, economy, and culture of the surrounding region"--Provided by publisher.




Practical Research


Book Description

For undergraduate or graduate courses that include planning, conducting, and evaluating research. A do-it-yourself, understand-it-yourself manual designed to help students understand the fundamental structure of research and the methodical process that leads to valid, reliable results. Written in uncommonly engaging and elegant prose, this text guides the reader, step-by-step, from the selection of a problem, through the process of conducting authentic research, to the preparation of a completed report, with practical suggestions based on a solid theoretical framework and sound pedagogy. Suitable as the core text in any introductory research course or even for self-instruction, this text will show students two things: 1) that quality research demands planning and design; and, 2) how their own research projects can be executed effectively and professionally.




Succession Planning in Canadian Academic Libraries


Book Description

Succession Planning in Canadian Academic Libraries explores the current Canadian academic library environment, and the need for succession planning in that environment. The literature review demonstrates the lack of reported succession planning activities in Canadian academic libraries. Site visits and in-depth interviews with professional librarians at six libraries across Canada highlight best practices and barriers to succession planning. These best practices and barriers are addressed in individual chapters, with tips and strategies for library leaders. Focuses on the Canadian academic library Includes a comprehensive literature review on succession planning in academic libraries Provides evidence-based approach to why succession planning is or is not happening in Canadian academic libraries




Digitizing the Modern Library and the Transition From Print to Electronic


Book Description

The development of online digital libraries has enhanced the availability of printed materials. By implementing these systems, this ensures the access of material to universities, students, and bibliophiles. Digitizing the Modern Library and the Transition From Print to Electronic is a pivotal reference source for the latest techniques and initiatives needed to transition libraries into the digital age. Featuring extensive coverage on relevant areas such as electronic resource management, library management software, and semantic web, this publication is an ideal resource for faculty members, research scholars, students, information specialists, and librarians in universities and in academic, public, and special libraries.




Qualitative Research Methods


Book Description

Qualitative Research Methods is a comprehensive, all-inclusive resource for the theory and practice of qualitative/ethnographic research methodology. Serves as a “how-to” guide for qualitative/ethnographic research, detailing how to design a project, conduct interviews and focus groups, interpret and analyze data, and represent it in a compelling manner Demonstrates how qualitative data can be systematically utilized to address pressing personal, organizational, and social problems Written in an engaging style, with in-depth examples from the author’s own practice Comprehensive companion website includes sample syllabi, lesson plans, a list of helpful website links, test bank and exam review materials, and exercises and worksheets, available upon publication at www.wiley.com/go/tracy