Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Libraries
QQML- e-journal is an international scientific on-line open accessed, double anonymous peer-reviewed journal, which publishes scientific papers on diverse topics on Library and Information Science research. The scope of the journal is to publish contemporary and quality research, including theoretical research papers and applications. The journal is open and encourages the use of various research methods (quantitative and qualitative methods). QQML e-journal as a rule publishes the papers presented at the International conference QQML- Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Libraries (www.isast.org). Furthermore, QQML e-journal welcomes papers of the following types: • Articles, • Reports, • Case Studies, • Dissertations’ and Theses’ Abridgement, • Reviews of recent publications relevant to the scope and the topics of the journal, • Announcements of the International Associations, • News about the LIS activities internationally. The title of the journal QQML –e-journal (Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Libraries -electronic journal) indicates the two major methodological trends and also two different ways of measuring quality and results. Qualitative and Quantitative Methods (QQM) are proved more and more popular tools for Librarians, because of their usefulness to the everyday professional life. QQM aim to the assessment and improvement of the services, to the measurement of the functional effectiveness and efficiency. For ages library science was considered as a practical job, without scientific basis and prospect. Analysis and Synthesis, methodologies and metrics are terms of the last two decades. We invite the cooperation of Professionals and Researchers, Theorists and Practitioners to address existential problems, to emphasize the role of methodologies and argument aiming to the maximum scholarship, reliability and view. QQM are the mean to make decisions on fund allocation and financial alternatives. Librarians use also QQM in order to determine why and when their users appreciate their services. This is the start point of the innovation involvement and the ongoing procedure of the excellent performance. Systematic development of quality management in libraries requires a detailed framework, including the quality management standards, the measurement indicators, the self-appraisal schedules and the operational rules. These standards are practice-oriented tools and a benchmarking result. Their basic function is to express responsibly the customer (library user) -supplier (library services) relationship and provide a systematic approach to the continuous change onto excellence. The indoor and outdoor relationships of libraries are dependent of their communication and marketing capabilities, challenges, opportunities and implementation programmes. The Journal is supported by members of the Committees of the annual international conference on Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Libraries. The Journal is Published by ISAST (http://www.isast.org)
Evolution of Academic Production in Information Science: Theses and Dissertations in Portugal (2014-2024)
Academic training in information science is guided by international guidelines that establish essential structuring axes for preparing future information professionals. These axes include: Information in Society; Foundations of the LIS Profession; Information and Communication Technologies; Research and Innovation; Information Resources Management; Management for Information Professionals; Information Needs and User Services; Literacies and Learning. However, technological advances and changes in information practices have led to the emergence of new research topics, such as Communicating Value, Data Curation, Digital Preservation, Ubiquity of Information Technologies and Associated Ethical Problems, Mobile Devices and Environments, Acquisition and Use of E-books, Communication and Publication of Information, User Behaviours and Expectations, and Information Professionals. Against this backdrop, this study aims to investigate whether the theses and dissertations developed by higher education students in Information Science in Portugal align with the traditional axes of training in the area or reflect a growing tendency to explore emerging themes. To this end, an exploratory analysis was conducted of the academic works available in the RENATES (National Registry of Dissertations and Theses), considering master's dissertations and doctoral theses in Library and Information Science. The study followed a quantitative and qualitative methodology, starting with the creation of a corpus of analysis based on criteria such as keywords, abstracts, and thematic classification. The academic papers were categorized according to their adherence to traditional or emerging themes, allowing a comparison between the two approaches. By analysing the results, this study contributes to a reflection on the adequacy of academic curricula to the emerging demands of the market and society. The research highlights the need for a balance between traditional training and the incorporation of new themes, ensuring that information professionals are well-prepared for contemporary challenges. The discussion also highlights the importance of internationalizing research and exchanging experiences between institutions in different contexts, promoting a broad and up-to-date vision of Information Science.
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NLIST in Provincialized Government Colleges of Assam: An Assessment
The present study aims to evaluate the utilization of NLIST services within provincialised colleges in Assam. A total of 17 colleges were randomly chosen for data collection. The questionnaire has been designed in a descriptive format, covering ICT infrastructure, authorities' support, reasons for opting for NLIST e-resources, challenges in seamless user services, and the frequency of significant efforts by college libraries. Personal interactions performed by the researcher following the distribution of the questionnaire among librarians of selected colleges. Findings revealed deficiencies in ICT infrastructure, slow internet speeds, and insufficient authority support regarding budget allocation and availability of skilled staff. The study identified lower costs of e-resources, NAAC evaluations, and the NEP 2020 as primary factors which are strong reason identified behind opting NLIST resources. Emphasizing the critical necessity for improved high-speed internet access to fully leverage e-resources, despite 70.57% of college librarians conducting awareness and training programs, 52.94% expressed the need for further orientation, workshops, and training sessions. It underscores the importance of awareness initiatives in Higher Education Institutes across Assam. To optimize the impact of the NLIST project, the study suggests conducting publicity and marketing campaigns aimed at college awareness to attract more institutions to benefit from the initiative. The research unveils a substantial gap in NLIST resource utilization in Assam's colleges, indicating the urgent need for corrective measures to match with those in other Indian states.
A Bibliometric Analysis on Digital Library Research Output in Asian Countries from 2014-2023
This study aims to present a bibliometric analysis of research output on Digital Libraries from Asian countries during 2014 to 2023. It explores the research activities on digital Library as well as subject wise classification of papers, journal wise publication trend, institution and country wise distribution of contribution. Also the prolific authors during 2014-2023 and keywords having more potential to cover this study area have been analyzed.
Reshaping Roles: Libraries in the Era of Mental Health Advocacy
This literature review examines the evolving role of libraries in supporting mental health and well-being. Traditionally, centers of learning, libraries are increasingly offering resources, programs, and safe spaces for mental health advocacy. As mental health concerns rise, libraries have expanded services, including providing literature, support groups, and connections to professionals. However, gaps remain in assessing the effectiveness of these initiatives and integrating digital health tools. This review emphasizes the positive impact libraries have on community well-being and individual mental health, highlighting the need for further development of inclusive, evidence-based practices in library-based mental health support.
Unveiling Digital Realms: A Systematic Review of Netnography Research in Library and Information Science
Netnography is an innovative qualitative approach that holds promise for investigating online phenomena. It has been gaining increasing popularity across disciplines in recent years. This study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how netngoraphy has been applied in library and information science (LIS). A systematic review was conducted on 38 netnography studies published in LIS journals indexed in three academic databases. The findings reveal a growing trend of netnography research and a wide range of research topics of interest in the included studies. Of particular significance is the comprehensive analysis and discussion of various methodological aspects, including research design, data collection, data analysis, research ethics, and research rigor, within the context of netnography in LIS. The examination of methodological issues in current netnography research provides valuable insights and serves as a foundation for identifying potential opportunities for improvement in future studies.
Netnography; Systematic review; Research design; Data collection; Data analysis: Research rigor; Research ethics
Use of Online Databases and Social Networking Sites by Geology Faculty Members in Kerala
This study aims to examine the use of online databases and social networking sites (SNS) by geology faculty members in Kerala, India. It also seeks to identify the relationship between their research experience, the number of published papers, and their overall usage of these digital resources. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The study population comprises geology faculty members from academic geoscience departments in government and government-aided colleges, as well as state and central universities in Kerala. SPSS software was employed for both descriptive and analytical data analysis. The respondents in this study utilized an average of four databases: Science Direct, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. They also had an average level of use of social networking sites such as WhatsApp, ResearchGate, YouTube, Slideshare, and Academia.edu. A very strong statistically significant relationship was found between research experience (in years) and the number of published papers (rho = 0.659, p < 0.01). Additionally, a moderate statistically significant relationship was observed between the overall use of online databases and the overall use of social networking sites (rho = 0.517, p < 0.01). Conversely, a moderate statistically significant negative relationship was observed between the overall use of social networking sites and the number of published papers (rho = -0.323, p < 0.05). The usage of various digital resources by faculty members is continually increasing. This study examines their use of online databases and social networking sites.
Electronic Resources, E-resources Usage, Geology Faculty, Online Databases, Social Networking Sites
Benchmarking Rajagiri Business School’s Scholarly Output through Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)Lens: A Bibliometric Approach
This study provides a bibliometric analysis of Rajagiri Business School's (RBS) research contributions through the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) lens, utilizing SciVal's research intelligence and benchmarking capabilities to assess impact, alignment, and strategic growth areas in responsible management education (RME). Analyzing key performance metrics—including Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI), citation counts, and scholarly output across all 17 SDGs—this work reveals RBS's substantial contributions to SDGs such as Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Climate Action (SDG 13), with FWCI scores significantly above global averages. Meanwhile, research gaps in SDGs like Gender Equality (SDG 5) and Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6) highlight further areas for development. This analysis underscores how benchmarking and insights tools empower business schools to position their research within national and international academic landscapes, enhancing institutional visibility and impact. By illustrating the strategic role of SDG-focused research in business schools, particularly within India and globally, this study affirms the integral role of academia in advancing sustainable development. The findings demonstrate how business schools can utilize data-driven insights to support targeted research growth, foster impactful collaborations, and align their missions with global sustainability objectives, thereby reinforcing the critical influence of academia on pressing societal challenges and global sustainability objectives.
Italian music libraries and open access digital music archives. Issues and challenges
Music libraries are faced with two different but related issues: on the one hand, the creation of repositories of digitised music collections (a means desired and supported by everyone, even by those who do not have or do not want to get used to electronic devices, such as musicians who prefer and use exclusively or almost exclusively paper) and, on the other hand, the use of exclusively electronic devices as a means of studying and performing music. As far as Italian Conservatory libraries are concerned, the use of commercial digital library services is spreading. In addition, there is currently a lack of digitisation projects for early, rare, or notable music collections: with the exception of the digital collections of a few Conservatories, such as those of Naples and Milan, Brescia, Florence and some others, there are no particular innovations in the digitisation of historical music Conservatory libraries. In addition to digital libraries, some problems remain when searching for music using criteria designed for the verbal text: despite some interesting recent proposals, the search for notated music with specific criteria, different from those of the verbal text, remains a challenge.
Italian music libraries, Italian Conservatories, Music digital libraries, OPAC SBN, Internet Culturale
Looking to the Future: Public Libraries in Romania and their Role in the Community
Public libraries have long served their communities by addressing the information and cultural needs of different categories of users, adapting to societal, technological, and communicational changes. The past few years have brought us many challenges such as the continuous advance of information and communication technologies or the recent COVID-19 pandemic. In this context many public libraries have understood the need to prepare for the future and reshape their role and services by implementing a series of measures to overcome future challenges. This research focuses on public libraries in Romania, analysing their role within communities at a time when interest in education, culture, and reading is declining, and these institutions face persistent underfunding. This study, conducted among Romanian librarians, identifies the technological, economic, and social changes impacting their recent activity, their collaborations and partnerships and their future objectives.
public libraries, role, objectives, challenges, collaborations, partnerships, Romania
Mapping the literature on the application of Augmented and Virtual reality in libraries: a bibliometric analysis
The libraries are gradually adopting Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) to improve the services and user experience. Such technologies can go beyond the limitations of physical space and encourage digital understanding and interaction in more active and flexible environments. This paper includes application of AR/VR in the library with case studies which includes back to the Future at the University of Southern California, the Bristol Library Virtual Reality Space at the University of Bristol, and the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi's Central Library's virtual reality tour. Also provides a list of tools and technologies include AR/VR headsets, AR apps, 3D scanners and printers, content creation tools, mobile AR platforms, AR educational kits, and collaborative VR spaces. The bibliometric analysis was done with the dataset spanning 2004 to 2023 includes 482 sources and 924 documents, with an annual growth rate of 18.53%. The most common type of publication is regular articles. China leads the list of publications in the field of interdisciplinary research, with 204 publications and 3,512 citations. The US follows closely with 193 publications and 4,885 citations. The top ten include the UK, Spain, Australia, Canada, Italy, Brazil, Korea, and Germany. Key platforms like IEEE Access, Library Hi Tech, and PLOS One are also mentioned. Virtual reality is the most dominant term, with rehabilitation second. This paper comprises of application of AR/VR in the library providing various the tools and technology, and case studies and a bibliometric study. This research suggested that Augmented and virtual reality technologies can enhance patron experience, foster digital literacy in the library.
Fundamental Statistical Terminology for Library and Information Science Researchers: Key Concepts to Know
This paper explores the crucial role of fundamental statistical terminology in guiding research within Library and Information Science (LIS). From the initial planning stages to the final analysis, statistical tools provide researchers with a systematic and quantitative framework for data analysis, enabling them to draw reliable conclusions and make informed decisions. The paper delves into essential statistical concepts, including hypotheses, variables, population, samples, sampling techniques, levels of measurement, statistical significance, validity, reliability, and data analysis. Through a detailed examination of each concept, the essay aims to equip LIS researchers with a foundational understanding of statistical terminology necessary for proficient data interpretation and manipulation. The discussion emphasizes the importance of statistical literacy in enhancing the rigour, objectivity, and credibility of research endeavours within the dynamic landscape of library and information science. Mastering these vital statistical concepts empowers researchers to contribute meaningfully to advancing knowledge in the field, fostering evidence-based decision-making and robust scientific inquiry.
A Comparative Analysis of Prison Library Services in Central Jails of Uttar Pradesh: An Inmate’s Perspective
India's vast penitentiary system, housing over half a million inmates across numerous facilities, underscores the critical need for effective prison rehabilitation programs. This study examines the library services offered specifically by Varanasi and Agra central jail in Uttar Pradesh. Study focused to find role of library in education and access to diverse reading material by the inmates. A comprehensive survey and comparative analysis have been performed to evaluate inmate’s perceptions, library objectives, service satisfaction levels, and the availability of reading materials. Key findings highlight significant variations between Varanasi and Agra Central Jails in terms of inmate perceptions and utilization patterns of library services. While Varanasi inmates emphasize the educational aspect, Agra inmates exhibit higher satisfaction with library services. Disparities also exist in perceptions regarding the availability of updated materials and inmate preferences for reading materials. These findings underscore the importance of tailored strategies to enhance library services and inmate experiences in correctional facilities. By addressing inmates' unique needs and preferences, prison authorities can optimize the role of library to promote education, recreation, and skill development among inmates for their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
AI, Acronyms, and the Future of Facets: Mnemonics as Heuristic Instructional Tools for Structuring GenAI Prompts
This paper explores the evolving landscape of library discovery through the lens of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), focusing on potential impacts on traditional faceted search interfaces. As AI-driven conversational search begins to reshape information retrieval, concerns arise regarding the potential to obscure facets, which are critical to search result refinement. This study introduces mnemonic acronyms as a heuristic device to guide users in structuring effective prompts for AI-based search. Observational studies in academic settings demonstrate how acronyms can enhance precision and user understanding of AI-driven search. Findings indicate that providing heuristic tools can be an effective strategy to guide initial AI searches, but challenges such as accuracy and bias highlight the ongoing need for critical evaluation.
The Role of the Academic Library in the Socialization of Education Research Results: Qualitative Findings in Four Mexican Universities
The findings of education research are shared with peers and the general public. Academic libraries require a detailed identification of their current and potential role in supporting their researcher users as creators of new knowledge in order to provide a better service. In this text, we share the qualitative advancements of a study which had the objective of retrieving the elements that define the current and potential role of the library in the context of the meanings and actions linked to result socialization processes for education researchers, who address priority processes for Mexican society. The data comes from semi-structured interviews with four academics belonging to two public and two private universities, diverse in their size and geographic location. The analysis used the Grounded Theory method, and analysis categories were generated for each institution through various technological supports. Although the results are specific to each researcher and university, we can identify some common aspects about the role of the library in the socialization of research results; one example would be reviewing literature through electronic databases. Previous results establish that libraries are a benchmark in the researchers’ trajectory and may have a key role in formation, for creating informational materials and establishing alliances to situate research results on specialized and general platforms.
Library Research; Diffusion and Dissemination of Education Research; Qualitative Methods; Grounded Theory; Library Support for Research Socialization
Growth of Psychology and Clinical Psychology Literature: A Comparative Analysis of India, World and European Countries
The present study compares the literature in the disciplines of psychology and clinical psychology from India, the World, and European countries between 1989 and 2023, looking at the expansion of these fields as per the data of the Web of Science. To examine the growth and trend of the literature, various growth models were applied to the dataset from the defined countries and the data was analyzed using MS Excel. Overall an increasing trend of production is seen from all three of them, the maximum papers have been produced during the block 2019-2023 and the minimum during 1989-1993. An increasing trend in Relative Growth Rate is seen among which the world’s mean RGR is the highest in both fields i.e., 0.990 and 0.964 in psychology and clinical psychology respectively. The psychology & clinical psychology literature from all defined countries shows a decreasing trend of Dt values over the period. The curve fitting statistics show that except for the literature from European nations which best suit the linear growth model, the others i.e., the world and India show that the exponential growth model fits best to the Psychology literature. On the other hand, clinical psychology literature from the World, European nations, and India shows that it best fits the exponential growth statistics. The chi-square test statistics show that the European countries clinical psychology literature follows the logarithmic model and the Indian Psychology literature follows the Linear growth Model as the calculated chi-square values are -95782.4 and -913.53 respectively, which are less than the theoretical chi-square values. Except for these two, none of the datasets follows any growth models when tested through chi-square analysis.
Deciphering the Editorial Boards of Scopus Indexed LIS Journals: Examining Gender Disparity and Participation
Women have historically been constrained and given fewer chances, despite the fact that men and women share equal interest in academic pursuits due to a variety of societal factors. But as time went on, more and more women began to hold significant roles and places in academics. This study analyses 170 Library and information science journals and its 5585 editorial board members indexed in the Scopus database, focusing on the chief editorial positions to understand and estimate the possible existence of gender disparities. According to the findings, women continue to be underrepresented on editorial boards and in chief editorial board positions of LIS journals when compared to male editorial board members. It was discovered that there are more male editorial board members overall (59.57%) than female editorial board members overall (40.429%), as well as more male chief editors overall (61.032%) than female chief editors overall (38.96%).
Bibliographic Analysis of Postgraduate Dissertations on the Effects of Factors Causing Organizational Stress on Information Managers
The aim of this research is to examine in detail and from an academic perspective various material/spiritual elements that may affect information managers in different institutions who are constantly and/or for a certain period of time under pressure from the upper management in business life, who may be exposed to mobbing, who are exposed to various negative situations by internal and external users in organizational processes, who may be affected by negative behaviors by senior managers or colleagues who have the same status as them. For this purpose, the analysis of academic studies conducted on this subject is aimed. The study is based on a descriptive model and bibliometric method and graphical analysis are adopted in data analysis. Various features such as citations, geographical distribution, keywords, authors and publications are evaluated together in the analyses. Bibliometric analysis and graphical visualizations are carried out using the bibliographic analysis analytical tool. In this direction, as a result of the literature review, no bibliometric analysis study directly related to the subject of organizational stress of information managers at the postgraduate thesis level has been encountered. Therefore, mobbing, leadership, motivation, culture, silence etc. that cause organizational stress are examined. Current bibliometric analysis studies on other related topics within organizational theory such as, are also included in this section. A study was conducted on the bibliometric analysis method, which is a very effective application/research method in the academic community, in order to make predictions about the future and to draw concrete results for the present. As a result of the analysis, it was seen that although the subject of organizational stress has been a highly preferred subject in master's and doctoral theses for the last 15 years, it has been examined at the level of postgraduate theses in only 30% of the universities in Turkey. In this context, it is predicted that the number of postgraduate studies on organizational stress may and should increase in the future. The findings obtained from this study will provide an opportunity for institutions and organizations serving in the field of organizational management and personnel management, institutions conducting professional studies in the field of information management and information-document management in general, librarians, archivists, information managers, policy makers and practitioners to recognize important problems in this field, encourage interdisciplinary cooperation, prevent professional attrition and eliminate concerns in various fields.
Bibliometrics, Dissertations, Organizational stress, Organizational performance, Information managers
Research Output and Visualization of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), India: A Special Reference to Open Access
The paper presents an analysis of bibliographic data from 12,157 research papers published by six prestigious All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) namely AIIMS Raipur, AIIMS Bhopal, AIIMS Jodhpur, AIIMS Rishikesh, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, and AIIMS Patna and indexed in the Scopus database between 2013 and 2023. The results indicate that these AIIMS institutions have generated 12,157 documents with an average of 8.266 citations per document. The yearly growth rate of publications stands at 35.73%. The study identifies that the most preferred format among researchers is the article (7,495). Out of the total documents, 7,133 were published in open access between 2013 and 2023. Of these, 5,302 were in green open access, 4,034 in gold open access, 1,561 in bronze open access, and 387 in hybrid gold open access. AIIMS Jodhpur has the highest total number of publications (3,056), while AIIMS Rishikesh leads with the most open access articles (1,758) across green, gold, and bronze categories. The highest average total citations per article (19.22) and average total citations per year (3.84) were recorded in 2020. BMJ Case Reports, with 335 articles, is the journal with the most publications. Notably, P.K. Panda and I.K. Sharawat have contributed 45 publications with 57 citations. The most frequently used keywords are "human," "article," and "male."
Data visualization, Citation analysis, Data analysis, Annual growth rate, Open access, Research Productivity, AIIMS.
Digital Transformation in Public Libraries: Framing the Topic through Bibliometric Research
The central research question of the paper focuses on whether and to what extent the library, and in particular the public library, as an institution and infrastructure is considered as an object of study in scholarly publications on digital transformation. In order to identify the most productive authors and affiliations as well as the core journals according to Bradford's law of scattering and to identify and clarify the semantic relationships of the term "digital transformation" with reference to controlled vocabularies and thesauri, the authors conducted a bibliometric study in SCOPUS and Web of Science. The key findings highlight the trend that research on digital transformation in business and the public sector has gained prominence in the scholarly literature over the past decade, but by comparison, the study of digital transformation in public libraries is still an underdeveloped field.
digital transformation, public libraries, publication productivity
Competition or Complementarity Between ChatGPT and University Libraries: Perceptions of Higher Education Students about the support in academic tasks
In this study, we analyze the use of ChatGPT in activities that take place in the academic community. This research investigates how this Chabot has been used by university students in Portugal and Brazil, and what impact this tool has had on their university libraries. The instrument used was a survey of students from different universities. The objectives of this survey were to obtain: data on the perception of the use of ChatGPT, its usefulness in fulfilling academic tasks, and how it affects the frequency or use of university libraries.
Mapping Artificial Intelligence in Medical Diagnosis in India: A Bibliometric Analysis
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into medical diagnosis holds immense potential for revolutionizing healthcare practices. This bibliometric study explores the landscape of AI research within the field of medical science, focusing specifically on India's trajectory. This study employs bibliometric analysis to examine the landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medical science research, spanning from 2004 to 2023. A total of 2077 research papers authored by 9,982 individuals from 627 sources were analyzed, revealing a collaborative environment with an average of 7.25 co-authors per document, over half of which involved international collaboration. Fluctuations in researchers' productivity and citation impact were illustrated through publication and citation trends. Highly productive authors, top journals, and contributing organizations were identified, providing insights into their publication records and scholarly prominence. Document categorization highlighted the varying impacts of publication types. Co-citation analysis elucidated research themes such as stroke risk stratification, diabetic retinopathy, and spectral data analysis. Key author keywords and their co-occurrence patterns revealed prevalent themes such as machine learning and COVID-19. Moreover, analysis of citation bursts unveiled topics experiencing heightened scholarly attention over time. The landscape of international collaboration demonstrated India's significant engagement, particularly with countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy, indicating widespread global participation in AI-driven medical research. This comprehensive examination offers valuable insights into the evolution, trends, and collaborative dynamics of AI research in medical science, facilitating further understanding and advancement in this critical domain.
Bibliometric, Artificial Intelligence, Medical diagnosis, Co-Citation, Trend analysis.
Assistive Technologies for Inclusion of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) Students and Academic Staff: A Call to Action for Library and Information Science Professionals in Uganda
Assistive technology (AT) is “any product whose primary purpose is to maintain or improve an individual’s functioning and independence and thereby promote their well-being. For people with disabilities, AT has the potential to improve functioning, reduce activity limitations, promote social inclusion, and increase participation in education. University libraries are mandated to provide assistive technologies, adequate space, resources, and services suitable to support and meet teaching, learning, and research needs for all users, including persons with disabilities. However, it was hitherto unknown how university libraries in Uganda facilitate accessibility to library facilities services to meet the unique needs of deaf or hard-of-hearing students and academic staff. The current paper aimed to generate rich insights into the digital inclusion needs of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) students and academic staff, and to explore how university libraries in Ugandan higher education institutions facilitate the accessibility, adoption, and application of assistive technologies for teaching, learning, and research. Employing a mixed-methods design, the study utilized two semi-structured questionnaires and two interview guides to gather data from DHH students, academic staff, and librarians at four public universities in Uganda. The recruitment of DHH participants was conducted using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Ethical clearance was granted by the Aids Support Organisation (TASO) Research Ethics Committee on July 27, 2023 (Ethics reference number: TASO-2023-237). Quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS ver. 21), while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis, with selected verbatim quotations used to corroborate the quantitative findings. This paper has unearthed digital inclusion needs of DHH Students and Academic Staff, including access to high-speed internet, sufficient bandwidth, university websites with captions, software that translates a signer’s words into text, captioning software, video editing software, multimedia mobile phone applications, LCD Projectors, personal computers, mobile phones, assistive technology technical support, digital and assistive technology training, and sign language interpretation which must be met for them to taking advantage of library resources as services that are available to all other users. In addition, the paper has revealed that Libraries are inaccessible because DHH Students and Academic Staff cannot afford the hardware, software, and peripheral equipment and data required to access technology-supported resources, systems, content, and services; the majority of Libraries did not conduct staff capacity building on basic knowledge of assistive technologies, digital and assistive technology training. Furthermore, the libraries did not train DHH students and academic staff in accessing databases, using Google Suite, and Mendeley, Endnote, and Zotero to manage citations and references. Libraries also did not identify and evaluate the Digital literacy training needs and lacked a clear strategy for meeting the digital literacy needs of DHH academic staff and students. Together these hindered the DHH Students and Academic Staff from effectively adopting and applying these technologies for teaching, learning, and research. Overall, the finding revealed a great mismatch between the existing library-related assistive technology services and resources and the digital inclusion needs of students and staff with hearing impairments. Given the important role of academic libraries in promoting digital inclusion, especially for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) academic staff and students, the paper recommends that University Libraries prioritize the development of a digital inclusion policy to guide the design and implementation of initiatives that improve access to library resources and services for DHH individuals.
The crucial role of communication in managing the long-term health impact of cancer
Patients with cancer often do not have an understanding of how cancer and its treatments can impact their long-term health. This varies depending on the type and stage of cancer as well as the specific treatments received. Effective communication between doctors and patients plays a significant role in dealing with these long-term health effects. Physicians should offer information to patients about the potential long-term consequences of cancer and its treatments as well as discuss ways to manage these effects. The main goal of this research was to examine how communication between cancer patients and their doctors influences the management of long-term effects on overall health. A quantitative study was carried out involving members of four support groups for individuals affected by cancer and their families on Facebook. Participants were chosen from these groups for a sectional survey where they were asked to fill out a detailed questionnaire regarding their knowledge and experiences related to the lasting effects of cancer treatment. The results of the study indicated that most patients were aware about how cancer treatment could affect their health in the long run. Many participants mentioned they were not properly informed about the lasting impact and are now dealing with issues, like heart problems, kidney issues, fertility challenges, changes in thinking and emotional struggles. In light of this situation, we believe it is essential to educate and empower patients to handle the long-term consequences of cancer. Patients should feel encouraged to ask questions, seek out information and stand up for their health concerns. Most patients who participated in this study reported that they would have found it helpful to have support from cancer organizations or online resources providing guidance on managing long-term health issues. We think that through collaboration patients and healthcare professionals can work together to create strategies that meet health needs and enhance the quality of life for cancer patients.
doctor-patient communication, long-term adverse effects, cancer, cancer patients, health information, Romania
Informatics of Library Websites of UGC Reorganized State Private University: An Evaluative Study in West Bengal
The focal point of any educational institution is its library. In the present era, libraries have become a challenge for all educational institutions to increase the quality of education. The present study a web based survey and observation method was conducted to position and assess the content of library websites of UGC reorganized state private university located in West Bengal, India during March to May, 2024. The eleven state private university library websites in West Bengal are analyzed for the study purpose. The library websites of studied state private university were identified from Google. The researcher has working assessment tactic for studying the content analysis on library websites of state private university in West Bengal, India. Out of eleven state private university libraries, one of the university library website obtained ‘Excellent’ ranked of content analysis on library websites. All the university library websites were ranked with ‘Good’, ‘Very good’ and ‘Need Improvement’. St. Xavier's University library got highest total score of 34 out of 40 points ranked with ‘Excellent’, followed by Adamas University, Amity University, Brainware University library with 31 points ranked with ‘Very Good’; University of Engineering and Management Libraries with 27 points ranked with ‘Very Good’ and JIS University Library with 24 points ranked as ‘Good’. Three university libraries of The Neotia University, Sister Nivedita University and Techno India University are ranked with ‘Below Average’. Two university libraries of Swami Vivekananda University, Seacom Skills University are ranked with ‘Poor’. The main purpose of this research paper is to guide state private university librarians and library and information science professionals to improve their library websites.
Evaluating Interdisciplinary Contributions to Synchrotron Radiation Studies: Scientometric Insights into Novelty and Disruption
Research infrastructures consisting of multiple experimental stations and functioning as large-scale scientific facilities are critical to advancing scientific understanding and addressing complex, interdisciplinary challenges. This study explores the relationship between the interdisciplinarity of these stations and the novelty and disruption of their academic outputs, using the US. Department of Energy's Advanced Photon Source (APS) as a case study. We analyzed 29,692 papers produced by 53 experimental stations of the APS from 1992 to 2020, each of which received more than five citations by 2023. The novelty of academic outputs was assessed using SciBERT to measure semantic similarities between titles within the citation network, while disruption was measured with a relative dependency index. Interdisciplinarity was quantified by variety, balance, disparity and interdisciplinary integration index. The results of the ordinary least squares (OLS) regression show a negative correlation between novelty and disciplinary disparity and a significant negative correlation between disruption and interdisciplinarity. These results suggest that interdisciplinary approaches promote the exchange of ideas and holistic understanding between disciplines, but that specialized expertise remains critical for groundbreaking research. This balance encourages further investigation to optimize the interplay between interdisciplinary collaboration and disciplinary specialization to drive scientific progress.
Experimental Stations; Interdisciplinarity; Novelty; SciBERT; Disruption
Evaluation of Web Elements of Selected Philippine Academic Library Websites
Due to the irreversible effects of COVID-19 pandemic, libraries worldwide have undergone a significant shift towards online accessibility of their resources, services, activities/events, and programs. Technological advancements have transformed how information is accessed and disseminated, underscoring the importance of library websites in supporting the learning, teaching and research endeavours of students, faculty members, and researchers. This study aims to serve as a roadmap for library practitioners, web developers, and similar stakeholders, who are planning to create and/or enhance websites for their respective libraries. This paper utilized an evaluative instrument for an academic library website developed by Wijayaratne and Singh (2015), to scrutinize the selected major Philippine universities’ academic libraries. The findings of this study are expected to be valuable to academic librarians and future researchers in recognizing the significance of designing tailored websites for their institutions.
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A Thematic Analysis of Selected Archives in Metro Manila Academic Libraries for the Establishment of Miriam College Archives
This study aimed to determine the significance of establishing an archive in Miriam College that will facilitate the documentation and safekeeping of different materials that are rare, unique, and valuable to the institution. A descriptive qualitative research approach through Case Study and purposive sampling methods were implemented to gather data. A total of ten (10) participants were interviewed composed of three (3) archivists and seven (7) librarians from different colleges and universities in Metro Manila. The purpose of the interview was to develop in-depth knowledge and appreciation of the importance of establishing an archive. The interview sessions were conducted virtually via Google Meet and Viber messenger chat application. Thematic coding was used to analyze the transcript of responses and extract themes that emerged in the study. The research findings revealed that 100% of the participants affirmed that the organization and management of archives is very important and of good advantage for an academic institution. The funding depends on the type of institution: it can be included in the library budget, directly under the school’s administration and the provision of a government agency. The study also described multiple challenges cited by the respondents nevertheless there lie various strategies that can be implemented. The outcome of this research was utilized as a basis for the creation of a proposal to the administration of Miriam College toward the organization of archives. A further study on the implications and utilization of technologies that will facilitate the accessibility of information and materials in archives was recommended.
Polytechnic University of the Philippines
Use of social media in Library services: A case study of Universities in West Bengal
The goal of the present study is to provide standard and upto date services and conditions to researchers in order to improve their research productivity. This study will encourage University libraries to improve their services and to provide education to staffs in order to effectively support research activities. This is a case study approach based on the survey research method. Systematic evaluations have been carried out to understand the two parameters: (i) to know the social media based library services available in the University libraries and (ii) to know the need of the researchers of Physical Science department. Major findings revealed a lot of useful information and these were interpreted meaningfully. This study has thus proposed several social media based library services that can be introduced to the research scholars through the University library.
Predicting the Impact of Teachers’ Health Information Literacy Skills on Their Psychological Distress during COVID-19
Health information literacy profoundly impacts people's psychological well-being and physical health. Therefore, the study aims to predict the impact of health information literacy skills on psychological distress among college teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design and data was collected from 315 college teachers through an e-questionnaire. The research data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and simple linear regression. Each level of health information literacy performs in three domains; healthcare literacy, disease prevention literacy, and health promotion literacy. The respondents exhibited sufficient health information literacy skills. The findings highlighted that healthcare literacy and disease prevention literacy skills are significant predictors of traumatic stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conversely, the respondents with sufficient health promotion literacy skills faced more psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of HIL skills level on subscales of psychological distress has not been studied in the current scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study is valuable as it investigated the HIL skills and COVID-19 psychological distress among public college teachers. The study's findings have practical guidelines for practice and decision-making for different stakeholders including information professionals, medical librarians, policymakers, teachers, educationists, psychologists, and general health practitioners. Arrangements to enhance health promotion literacy and measures are needed to develop stress-coping strategies for college teachers to respond to uncertain situations.
Future Libraries not Without Talents – How Talent Management Can Help to Develop Libraries and Make Them Fit for the Future
The purpose of this paper is to show the relevance of talent management for libraries and how talent management can help to develop public as well as academic libraries and make them fit for the future. To maintain the high standard of public as well as academic libraries’ services and to be able to develop them further and lead them into the future, new challenges must be overcome. These are for example the War for Talents / skilled labour shortage, diversity, skills of older and younger employees, the advancing digitization with an increase in digital and hybrid event formats, integration issues, sustainability, and fake news etc. One possibility to face these challenges is to establish talent management to use its methods on the one hand to retain employees and on the other hand to find well-trained new employees and to be able to deploy them in the right place at the right time. Results from a quantitative study “The Library needs Talents! An Empirical Study on the Use of Talent Management Methods for Staff Recruitment and Staff Development in Libraries” with findings about the status of this topic in German libraries and the possibility of implementing talent management as well as results from a group discussion with librarians of academic and public libraries in which we discussed the questions “How can talents be found for and in a library?” and "How do you keep these talents in the library?" with interesting findings will be presented. The interest in talent management exists in German libraries, but a lack of expertise on the subject has hindered its implementation in libraries thus far. Also, career opportunities and development prospects still have room for improvement. Particularly in smaller institutions with only a few employees, career advancement can be challenging. All in all, the size of the institution plays a minor role. While complete talent management may not be feasible in smaller institutions, individual aspects can still be addressed and implemented. This is already happening to some extent. For example, relevant competencies that talents should possess could be identified in advance and reflected in job advertisements.