bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating data literacy into undergraduate information literacy programs in the social sciences
Authors: Stephenson Elizabeth , Schifter Caravello Patti
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe and analyze the confluence of data literacy with information literacy in an experimental one‐unit course taught in the UCLA Department of Sociology, and present the literature on, rationale for, and future of integrating these interrelated literacies into social science courses.

Design/methodology/approach

The course was co‐taught twice by a librarian and a data archivist using a syllabus and assignments that reflect sociological research problems and tools and information literacy competencies in the social sciences.

Findings

The need for information and data skills in sociology is well‐established, and their integration into a sociology course (rather than in a stand‐alone information literacy course) would produce more opportunities for students to apply what they learn and for the instructors to assess learning in the context of doing sociology coursework.

Research limitations/implications

The class sizes were too small for full‐scale assessment and pre‐tests/post‐tests were not given. Assessment of student learning was based on work produced in and outside class and on course evaluations.

Practical implications

It is suggested that librarians and data archivists work with faculty to innovate curricular approaches based on recommendations and outcomes in key documents on learning sociology from professional library and sociology organizations. Attaching the lab to an existing course and promoting the data literacy modules for faculty to adopt in other courses are also suggested.

Originality/value

This paper invites social science librarians to examine the value to students and faculty of collaboration with professional data services staff to teach and merge information and data literacy within the social sciences curricula.
Collaborations for delivering the library to students through WebCT
Authors: Hightower Barbara , Rawl Carolyn , Schutt Michelle
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the findings of a faculty survey, collaborative efforts between the Library, the Information Technology Services, and the School of Nursing at Auburn University at Montgomery, and methods to persuade faculty to deliver the Library to their students using WebCT.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was distributed to 102 faculty with WebCT shells residing on the campus server. Follow‐up interviews were conducted, and the Library's server log was examined to determine the number of referrals to the Library originating from WebCT. A case study using the recommendations is included.

Research limitations/implications

Research was limited to a single university campus. Similar studies elsewhere would likely support the need for librarian involvement in course management system supported courses.

Findings

While a small percentage of faculty actually linked to the Library, a significant number indicated interest in doing so. Increase in Library access through School of Nursing WebCT courses supports the conclusion that librarians must be proactive in developing collaborations.

Practical implications

Similar collaborative efforts and the methods suggested in this paper can be used by librarians elsewhere to promote library use and development of information literacy skills utilizing campus course management systems.

Originality/value

This paper indicates that faculty are willing to integrate the campus library into their courses if they are educated about the process, and it offers suggestions for reaching faculty.
Designing successful workshops for digital tools
Authors: Burger Margaret
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to document the strategies adopted at The University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign's library to improve open workshops in which digital tools are used to teach two digital databases. Workshops that were not geared toward one particular group of people required different marketing, design and teaching strategies from those developed for one particular patron class.

Design/methodology/approach

To demonstrate the difference in both marketing and teaching strategies for such workshops, both were offered multiple times over the course of both semesters of the academic year 2005‐2006. All workshops were advertised to the campus community via multiple marketing outlets and registration was limited to 20. The instructors gathered information from both observation and post‐workshop evaluation forms.

Findings

The key finding of this work was a formula for successful digital workshops offered to a large and diverse academic community. With thoughtful advertising and course design and creating a learning‐centered environment, such workshops could be successful.

Originality/value

Best practices and other tips for creating successful workshops for digital tools provide a formula for other librarians to use as they begin to teach digital tools on a more regular basis. As the number of digital resources continue to grow, so too will the need to teach users how to use them effectively and properly.
Using NetLibrary eBooks at the reference desk
Authors: Bronshteyn Karen
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to encourage reference librarians to utilize eBooks to their advantage at the reference desk, for point of need and collection development purposes.

Design/methodology/approach

An overview of eBook utility at the reference desk and strategies for dealing with their shortcomings are provided. The collection development and collection management of eBooks are also discussed. A survey of first‐year college students provides a current projection of usage.

Findings

The paper notes that eBooks are well‐utilized by patrons in academic libraries and offer several conveniences.

Practical implications

Reference librarians may find this information helpful in serving their on‐ and off‐campus patrons.

Originality/value

This paper outlines “talking points” for the utilization, promotion, and collection development of eBooks.
Marketing academic library resources and information services to international students from Asia
Authors: Mu Cuiying
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to suggest strategies for marketing academic library resources and information services to Asian international students. Compared with those from a Western culture, those students are not as knowledgeable about the library resources and information services in an academic setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the strategies for marketing academic library resources and information services to Asian international students and the challenges faced by reference librarians dealing with Asian international students. It looks also at what information literacy programs and activities are suitable to accommodate the information needs of Asian international students and what teaching methodology should be used. The paper draws upon the author's personal experiences and observations as an International Students Information Librarian who works closely with international students. Surveys were used to find out whether Asian international students had experiences of using academic libraries; and whether they are aware of the services and resources available for their study in a Western academic setting.

Findings

Academic libraries need to market their services and resources proactively to Asian international students who are not familiar with the services and resources in a Western academic library. Reference librarians need to consider these learners' characteristics, language proficiency, learning styles and their subjects of interests so that the teaching methodology and examples used are effective with these students.

Originality/value

The paper adds value to the body of literature on information literacy programs and information services for international students, who are totally alien to the Western academic environment.
Library instruction and information literacy 2006
Authors: Johnson Anna Marie , Jent Sarah , Reynolds Latisha
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a selected bibliography of recent resources on library instruction and information literacy.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper introduces and annotates periodical articles, monographs, and exhibition catalogues examining library instruction and information literacy.

Findings

The paper provides information about each source, discusses the characteristics of current scholarship, and describes sources that contain unique scholarly contributions and quality reproductions.

Originality/value

The information may be used by librarians and interested parties as a quick reference to literature on library instruction and information literacy.
Regulatory legislation, unions, and labor market earnings
Authors: Robst John
Published: November 2007

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show that the effects of industry regulation on worker earnings are reconsidered using a wider array of industries and differentiating between industry‐opposed and industry‐supported legislation. Design/methodology/approach – Primary data from the Current Population Surveys are used in this paper with data on regulatory legislation from Cahan and Kaempfer. A difference‐in‐difference approach is used to compare wage changes pre‐ and post‐legislation, in industries with opposed or supported legislation, with those unaffected by legislation. The relative contribution of union and non‐union wage changes to the overall wage changes are also examined. Findings – The paper finds that regulatory legislation opposed by the industry did not affect earnings growth relative to industries not subject to regulatory legislation. Legislation supported by the industry led to slower relative earnings growth. Union wage differentials increased in industries with legislation regardless of industry opposition or support. Relative earnings declined among non‐union workers in industries that received legislation. The effects vary across industries with the results suggesting that some legislation led to increased product competition, while some legislation affected labor market competition. Research limitations/implications – The paper shows that data on regulatory legislation are limited by the lack of detailed information. For example, it is only known whether legislation was passed that was opposed or supported by the industry. Future research should replicate this analysis with more complete data. Practical implications – Also the paper sees that regulatory legislation does not need to completely regulate or deregulate an industry to affect workers. As such, policy makers should consider the effects of proposed legislation on workers in the affected industries. Originality/value – This paper directly tests whether the wage effects from regulation differ depending on industry opposition or support for the legislation. As such, this paper is innovative because it differentiates between different types of legislation in examining the effect of legislation on wages and the union differentials.
Differentiation in knowledge‐creating organizations
Authors: Begoña Lloria M.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the analysis of the influence of organizational design variables on the creation of knowledge within the organization. The impact that enablers have on knowledge creation has been widely demonstrated and established in the relevant literature. Using this assumption as a starting‐point, the main aim of this study is to consider and explore the role of differentiation – horizontal and vertical – in knowledge creation using enablers as mediator variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper has created a model of relations of the design variables that correspond to differentiation – horizontal job specialization, vertical job specialization and number of hierarchical levels; the enablers – autonomy, redundancy and variety; and knowledge creation. This model is then contrasted with an empirical investigation of a quantitative nature, using a sample of 167 large Spanish firms.

Findings

The findings in the paper confirm both the impact of enablers on knowledge creation, as defined in the literature, and the fact that vertical specialization is shown to be a suitable design variable for creating knowledge through the autonomy enabler. However, the relation between the horizontal specialization of work and the number of hierarchical levels is not confirmed as being significant in terms of knowledge creation.

Research limitations/implications

This paper considers the main limitation of this research to be that the questionnaire was answered by only one respondent, which forced one to consider the outcomes of this research with a certain degree of caution.

Practical implications

The results in the paper may be relevant for managers in decision making with regard to organizational design. Herein, reference is made to variables relative to job design and the number of hierarchical levels.

Originality/value

The value of this paper lies in two aspects. First, it overlaps two fields of research; organizational design and knowledge creation. Second, although there is a lot of literature on knowledge creation, there are very few empirical studies, especially of a quantitative nature.
Investigating the effects of procedural justice on workplace deviance
Authors: Zoghbi‐Manrique de Lara Pablo , Verano‐Tacoronte Domingo
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test an explanation of how procedural justice (PJ) – a specific type of organizational justice that reflects how fairly organizational procedures are designed – may influence deviant workplace behavior targeting at the organization (DWB‐O). The model proposes that PJ affects DWB‐O through its influence on perceived normative conflict (PNC) with the organization. This influence, in turn, would prompt employees to reciprocate with DWB‐O.

Design/methodology/approach

In the paper, data were collected from 270 (17.46 per cent) of the 1,547 teachers at a Spanish university by intranet.

Findings

The paper finds that the structural equation modeling (SEM) results suggest that PJ is an antecedent to PNC, which fully mediates a confirmed direct – but weak – PJ relationship with DWBO.

Research limitations/implications

The paper shows that the researched teachers' job conditions are inherent to the peculiarities of the public sector that may limit the ability to extrapolate the findings in the private sector. The findings offer a better understanding of the way PJ is able to affect deviant behaviors. The findings also provide a more easily understood mechanism of the influence of procedural justice on DWB‐O.

Practical implications

Results in this paper suggest that actions designed to promote PJ may be useful in communicating how companies are trying to introduce normative harmony in the workplace. Future lines of research are also offered.

Originality/value

The paper sees that the study of the mediating role that perceived normative conflict (PNC) may play in linking perceptions of PJ to DWBO is unprecedented in organizations.
Library and institutional portals: a case study
Authors: Davies Ron
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the experience of developing a library portal to provide integrated access to research information at the same time as an institutional or enterprise information portal was being implemented.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a case study.

Findings

Valid grounds for implementing vertical, specialised library portals alongside horizontal institutional portals include reduced risk, faster implementation and reduced maintenance costs.

Practical implications

Organisations seeking to provide integrated access to distributed information resources must consider library portals.

Originality/value

This case study reveals that in practice there is little risk of overlap between institutional and library portals. Both types of product are complementary. However, some integration issues remain a challenge.
Mapping the Irish biblioblogosphere
Authors: Lee Caitríona M. , Bates Jessica A.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this empirical study is to investigate the use of, and perception of, weblogs in the Irish library and information profession, in order to ascertain the extent weblog technology is used by Irish librarians, and what factors promote or discourage the use of weblogs.

Design/methodology/approach

The research questions answered in the study were: “What types of library/librarian weblogs exist in the Irish library community?”; “Does the Irish librarian community use weblogs and other social communication technologies?”; “What factors affect the uptake of blogging technologies by Irish librarians?”. The methodology employed in the study combined quantitative and qualitative techniques, and involved content analysis of existing Irish library and librarian weblogs; a survey of Irish librarians concerning weblogs and other social communication technologies; and interviews with Irish librarians who maintain weblogs.

Findings

The study found that a high proportion of Irish librarians read weblogs, but weblogs are not extensively used as an information resource or communication method, and e‐mail and websites are preferred. The professional use of weblogs was found to be associated with simplicity of use, and a proactive attitude to technology and to library users. Constraining factors included time concerns, fear of misuse of the weblog, the limitations of the linear nature of weblogs and the newness of the technology. Interest in weblog technology is growing and its uptake will ultimately depend on the interest of the librarian and the perceived and actual needs of the library users.

Originality/value

This study analyzes, for the first time, the Irish biblioblogosphere and contributes to the emergent body of knowledge concerning librarians' use of weblogs.
A framework for assessing web site localisation
Authors: Gibb Forbes , Matthaiakis Ioannis
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and test a framework for assessing the level of localisation on web sites.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper identifies the key forms of localisation that may be evident on a web site. A two‐by‐two matrix is presented which incorporates language in one dimension and non‐language criteria in the other. Web sites are then evaluated against these criteria and mapped onto the matrix to assess the relative level of localisation between web sites. The criteria and matrix have been tested against web sites operating in the Greek exporting sector.

Findings

The framework was found to be easy to use in practice. While a large set of potential localisation criteria were identified, only a subgroup of these criteria are likely to be relevant for any target group of web sites and the framework should therefore be scoped to match the characteristics of the survey group. The issue of localisation was not found to have been addressed to any great extent amongst the sample of Greek exporting companies.

Research limitations/implications

The sample used was small as the prime purpose was to test the usability of the framework, and further evaluations will be needed to confirm these initial findings.

Practical implications

Given the relative poor performance of the Greek exporting sector, localisation is an aspect that should be given higher priority. The framework represents a cost‐effective method for self‐assessment and benchmarking against competitors.

Originality/value

The framework is novel and should be usable by both web designers and users.
Citing informative television documents in scientific works
Authors: Caldera‐Serrano Jorge
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is propose a citation method for referring to the audio‐visual documents required for television programmes in scientific works.

Design/methodology/approach

The existing document typology is checked against television databases available on the internet, and the different units of processing, conservation and diffusion are analysed. The document is structured according to three parameters: whether it has been broadcast; whether it has not been broadcast; and other formats – in order to describe with examples the different citation possibilities of such documents.

Findings

This structure tries to be a formal and conceptual response to the ISO 690:1987 Standards. The achieved outcome put forward an effective method to describe these documents in a scope where there is a big gap both for the referenced description and for the research.

Originality/value

This work serves as a base for the production and citation of AV and television works in the media and communication sciences as well as in information science, sociology, history and similar areas.
Using data mining technology to provide a recommendation service in the digital library
Authors: Chen Chia‐Chen , Chen An‐Pin
Published: November 2007

Purpose

Since library storage has been increasing day by day, it is difficult for readers to find the books which interest them as well as representative booklists. How to utilize meaningful information effectively to improve the service quality of the digital library appears to be very important. The purpose of this paper is to provide a recommendation system architecture to promote digital library services in electronic libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

In the proposed architecture, a two‐phase data mining process used by association rule and clustering methods is designed to generate a recommendation system. The process considers not only the relationship of a cluster of users but also the associations among the information accessed.

Findings

The process considered not only the relationship of a cluster of users but also the associations among the information accessed. With the advanced filter, the recommendation supported by the proposed system architecture would be closely served to meet users' needs.

Originality/value

This paper not only constructs a recommendation service for readers to search books from the web but takes the initiative in finding the most suitable books for readers as well. Furthermore, library managers are expected to purchase core and hot books from a limited budget to maintain and satisfy the requirements of readers along with promoting digital library services.
Study on the collaboration mechanism of the virtual reference service
Authors: Jin Yi , Huang Min , Lin Haoming , Guo Jing
Published: November 2007

Purpose

As the virtual reference service (VRS) is becoming a standard service of the digital library, efficient collaboration among virtual reference services is also becoming more and more important for information exchange and sharing. This paper seeks to examine existing collaborative VRS systems with a view to achieving collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper studies existing collaborative VRS (CVRS) systems and analyzes their structures, methods and functions for achieving collaboration.

Findings

Three collaborative structure models are proposed and basic collaborative methods and collaborative functions are concluded. A CVRS reference model is depicted.

Research limitations/implications

Since the study is not based on an exhaustive list of CVRS systems and technologies are always developing, the collaborative structure models, methods and functions presented in this paper are possibly not complete and may need to be adjusted and amended. There is also urgent work to be done to advance and establish related standards and protocols for CVRS.

Practical implications

The study is intended to help libraries to identify quickly the necessary elements and mechanisms for the design of a proper degree of CVRS or to develop or evaluate VRS systems.

Originality/value

This paper proposes and concludes collaborative structure models, methods, functions and a reference model of CVRS. It should prove helpful for libraries wishing to provide CVRS, as well as for further research on CVRS.
Webotherapy: reading web resources for problem solving
Authors: Noruzi Alireza
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to indicate that when webotherapy is applied, it can be of benefit to clients in giving them insight into their problems, resulting in a change of behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Webotherapy, which can be conducted with individuals or groups, refers to the use of web resources or other online reading material (e.g. e‐books, e‐journals) to assist clients (especially children and young adults) in their healing process. It may be defined as the use of web resources to help others gain additional insight and to help them cope with everyday life. Most people have probably read web resources to determine how others have approached a delicate issue.

Findings

This paper suggests that webotherapy is a potentially powerful method for psychologists, librarians, schoolteachers and counselors to use on many levels. It begins with a brief review of the history of webotherapy, continues with a discussion of some approaches to webotherapy (developmental, clinical, and interactive), then addresses the four basic stages of webotherapy (identification, selection, presentation, and follow‐up), and finally discusses the benefits and limitations of webotherapy.

Originality/value

The paper discusses webotherapy and offers a review of literature on related fields.
Web‐based information retrieval trends of researchers
Authors: Islam Anwarul , Panda K.C.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to find out the trends of web‐based information seekers at Sambalpur University, India since the internet is more helpful than the library in the present electronic era.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on the case study method. A structured questionnaire was distributed among the relevant researchers at Sambalpur University in order to ascertain their web searching habits.

Findings

The application of is ever increasing – to the extent that people believe that electronic material will eventually replace the traditional library and users need not go there to find and collect the information they need. The study revealed, however, that in one Indian university, traditional library and printed materials are still more effective to researchers than web‐based information and resources.

Originality/value

This is an original case study on web‐based information retrieval trends of university researchers. This paper will help web researchers to obtain a clear‐cut picture of the information seeking and retrieval trends of the researchers of an Indian university which will serve as a role model for the universities of the Third World.
Librarians' opinions about library software: a survey of libraries in Lahore
Authors: Shafique Farzana , Mahmood Khalid
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The paper seeks to reveal the current status of software used in the libraries of Lahore, to explore the satisfaction level of the software users, and to find out their problems and suggestions.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports a survey of automated libraries of Lahore comprising academic (university, college, and school libraries), public and special libraries. Opinions were acquired from the whole population. The data collected were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively, and conclusions were drawn along with recommendations.

Findings

Most libraries purchased or developed software without any exchange of experience with each other. A variety of software was being used by the libraries of Lahore. No standard tool or directory was available for the selection and evaluation of software, nor was comprehensive literature written and published in a Pakistani scenario discussing the technical and practical aspects of library software. The Pakistani literature available on the topic is not up to date.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to the automated libraries of Lahore and focuses on the comparison of software and determining librarians' opinions.

Practical implications

The comparative analysis of software used in various libraries of Lahore made in this study and the opinions of the software users studied will be helpful for foreign and local vendors of library software. It will also provide guidelines for libraries in developing countries, which are planning to automate their services, in selecting and maintaining software that is most suitable to their needs.

Originality/value

No comprehensive survey has been conducted at national or local level to reveal the current status of the software and related problems faced by Pakistani libraries. The current study, although focussing only on libraries in the city of Lahore, can be extrapolated to the country as a whole and should prove useful as an indication of how issues with library software can arise and be handled.
Factors affecting auditors' utilization of evidential cues
Authors: El‐Masry El‐Hussein E. , Hansen Kathryn A.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a taxonomy of the major factors that influence auditors' selection and assessment of evidential cues. A discussion of how future research can help extend the taxonomy is also offered.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review of prior research on auditors' utilization of evidential cues is introduced, followed by a summary taxonomy of the variables influencing this decision. Then, an exploration of future research directions is introduced.

Findings

A four‐category taxonomy is designed. Auditors' decision to incorporate a certain piece of evidence is a function of one or more categories of factors: individual, environmental, task related, or related to the nature of the cues. With its emphasis on audit quality, and thus on enhanced evidence gathering, the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act (SOX) has the potential to alter and/or expand the structure of the proposed taxonomy.

Research limitations/implications

The taxonomy is based mainly on prior research in accounting and auditing. Incorporating other research on evidence selection and utilization from human behavior and human psychology may enhance the model.

Originality/value

The paper integrates into a model a large body of research on evidential cue selection and use in auditing. The taxonomy is a convenient starting point for researchers attempting to locate prior research in this area. Additionally, the taxonomy is an important guideline for audit partners and managers when planning an audit for two reasons. First, it sheds the light on many variables audit partners and managers need to consider when assigning audit tasks to audit team members with various levels of expertise. Second, it explores the impact of the SOX on current evidence collection practices in auditing.
Financial reporting by New Zealand charities: finding a way forward
Authors: Hooper Keith , Sinclair Rowena , Hui Doris , Mataira Kelvin
Published: November 2007

Purpose

Charities are becoming recognised as playing an important part in communities by furthering government's social objectives through increasing support to disadvantaged members of society. As charities multiply in number, it becomes increasingly difficult for fund providers and contributors to determine which charity to support. In New Zealand there is a move towards providing public access to the financial accounts of charities to assist stakeholders in their decision making and to enhance transparency in charities. However, this assumes that these financial accounts are understandable by all stakeholders. This paper aims to identify four problems that limit the way forward for financial reporting by New Zealand charities.

Design/methodology/approach

The first section of the paper comprises a review of the literature on charities' financial accounts with a particular focus on the four problems identified above. The paper then reports the results of eight interviews with charitable organisations, auditors and academics that have expertise in charity financial reporting, with a particular emphasis on the four identified problems.

Findings

There was agreement that unresolved, these four problems could limit the way forward in financial reporting by New Zealand charities. Some recommendations are proposed that suggest a way forward with regard to these problems, so that the users of the financial reports of charities may benefit.

Research limitations/implications

Highlights a need for further research into these problems to identify the feasibility of the proposed recommendations.

Originality/value

The enactment of the Charities Act 2005 in New Zealand and its requirement to include financial accounts on a publicly available register has raised the profile of the financial reports of charities. However, there has been limited research into the financial reporting by New Zealand charities, so this paper is a timely evaluation of four specific problems that could limit the way forward of financial reporting by New Zealand charities.
The effect of qualified auditors' opinions on share prices: evidence from Jordan
Authors: Al‐Thuneibat Ali A. , Khamees Basheer Ahmad , Al‐Fayoumi Nedal A.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This study aims at investigating the effect of the qualified audit reports on shares prices and returns in Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

A market‐based study conducted on the qualified audit reports of the shareholding companies in Jordan during the period 2000‐2005.

Findings

The conclusions of the study showed that there is no clear or significant effect of a qualified audit opinion on share prices and returns.

Practical implications

Based on the conclusions of the study, the researchers recommend there is a need for further educating users of the role of the audit report and the need for extending this study to investigate the effect of the qualified audit reports on share prices and returns during other periods and using different test periods other than the announcement date.

Originality/value

This study is original because it provides us with new evidence about the effect of qualified audit reports on shares prices and returns in a developing country.
Library consortia and digital services
Authors: Rogani Joseph Frank
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the new digital services to improve information access and, in particular, on the findings of a user satisfaction survey, at the University of Calabria, with the digital collection service (Emeroteca Virtuale) provided by CIBER[1], a national consortium of university libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

After a literature review, a questionnaire was carefully prepared and submitted to a sample of 1,350 patrons, 20 of whom were also interviewed. Quotes from users are reported, showing feelings and observations. Additionally, a usability test was performed in order to assess the usability and usefulness of Emeroteca Virtuale. Frequency of use, as well as reasons for use and non‐use of the service were investigated and results are reported in this paper, using graphs and citing quotes from interviewed users, adding a qualitative perspective to the research.

Findings

Findings have enabled the defining of the level of users' satisfaction and also evaluating the impact on users of this digital service.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this research are discussed and some recommendations about new activities to plan for service improvement are also defined.

Originality/value

As there was no previous study of this kind at the University of Calabria, this work can be considered useful in order to fill the gap and is a good starting point for further improvements.
Word‐of‐mouth marketing: abandoning the academic library ivory tower
Authors: Alire Camila A.
Published: November 2007

Purpose

This article aims to dispel the perception that academic libraries do not need to market their services and resources; to acquaint academic librarians to the concept of word‐of‐mouth marketing and its potential for academic libraries; and to share a word‐of‐mouth marketing academic library success story.

Design/methodology/approach

Includes an introduction to the concept of word‐of‐mouth marketing and its application to academic libraries. Also includes how one academic library successfully employed this marketing technique.

Findings

Provides an introduction to the word‐of‐mouth marketing strategy and its usefulness for academic libraries. Shares a real‐life success story of academic library word‐of‐mouth marketing.

Practical implications

Useful as an introduction for academic librarians to a specific type of marketing strategy that works well in a college/university setting and provides some successful techniques of word‐of‐mouth marketing for academic libraries.

Originality/value

Helps fill a void relative to using marketing strategies in an academic library setting and offers suggestions on how to do this successfully.
Creation‐driven marketing: integrating metadata into the production process
Authors: Kircz Joost
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to defend the vision that the creator of an electronic product has an essential capability to position the product in the market by clever integration of metadata in the creation process itself.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper starts with a description of the landscape, followed by an analysis of the notion metadata. Subsequently, the production of metadata and the role of the creator are discussed. The paper concludes that by cleverly coding the semantic information during the creation process, the creator will be able to play a much larger role in targeting the ultimate consumer market now and in the future.

Findings

The unique force of electronic products is in the coding. On the one hand, we have the electronic object as such. It can be a plain text document, a photo, a full colour flyer, a video, a software program, a game, or even a PDF version of an old‐fashioned book. The electronic object contains a great deal of coding. At present, this coding mainly describes the layout and structure of the electronic file and added information on rights

Originality/value

When the electronic object has to find its way to a consumer and becomes a product in a commercial chain, normally, and very traditionally, only the metadata added after the creation are used. The coding added in the creation of the electronic product, is hardly used and can become an important ingredient for finding information in the right context.
LILAC Conference 2007
Authors: Glass Bob
Published: November 2007

Purpose

To provide a flavour of the content of the third Librarians Information Literacy Conference (LILAC) held in Manchester, UK in March 2007.

Design/methodology/approach

An outline description of the issues, content, keynote speakers and participants of this conference is described.

Findings

This conference covered the themes of recognising the need, advocacy, marketing and promotion, practical approaches to information literacy, information literacy and citizenship, new areas for practice and research, and ethical use of information.

Originality/value

A conference report of value to library and information professionals regarding various information literacy themes, with links to two web site launches.
Strategies for developing third stream activity in new university business schools
Authors: Prince Christopher
Published: November 2007

Purpose

Developing third stream activity is becoming increasingly important for business schools as they come under increasing financial pressure. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the strategies adopted by new university business schools and highlight the resources, capabilities and constraints under which they are operating.

Design/methodology/approach

The research conducted for this paper is based upon Yin's multiple case design methodology using replication logic. Six new university business schools were identified, where two cases would be literal replications (large schools with a large portfolio of third stream activity) and four cases designed to pursue different patterns of theoretical replication (large schools with small levels of third stream activity, and two small schools). In total 14 senior staff were interviewed in the six schools.

Findings

The overall picture that emerges from the research is of a complex market that is for the most part local and regional in nature, where the ability of individual schools to develop a coherent strategy towards growing third stream activity in a range of sub‐markets is constrained by their resources, capabilities and organisational arrangements, as well as market opportunities in their region. From the analysis it is possible to identify two distinct development paths. One where schools focus on delivering funded activity (funded for example by EU, regional development agencies, learning and skills councils and SSP's) and one where schools focus on more “commercially” based activity (in‐company programmes, accreditation, contract research for public and private sector organisations).

Practical implications

The paper is one of the first to highlight the resources and capabilities necessary to compete in this increasingly important market.

Originality/value

There is little hard evidence available highlighting the development of third stream activity in new university business schools.
Will you miss me when I'm gone?
Authors: McQuade Eamonn , Sjoer Ellen , Fabian Peter , Carlos Nascimento José , Schroeder Sanaz
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on a research project, the aim of which was to identify the potential loss of company knowledge and expertise as experienced and expert employees retire.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used in this research was based on interviewing experienced and expert people who had retired or were approaching retirement: An application of expert interviewing. The interviews were conducted in five countries, across a number of sectors and involving a range of company sizes. The work of the research team was guided by an advisory panel of people with significant, senior level industrial experience.

Findings

In addition to the potential loss of technical product and process knowledge and expertise, there is a loss of expertise in interpersonal communication skill both in the company and in communication with companies and people who are suppliers and customers, in knowing the company culture and the way things are done and in the loss of maturity and stabilising influence.

Research limitations/implications

The number of people interviewed was relatively small. However, the research pointed out the need for companies, both large and small, to put in place succession planning, talent management and knowledge management processes as well as training in transferable skills or soft skills.

Practical implications

Management training programmes and courses need to include aspects of succession planning, talent management and knowledge management processes as well as training in transferable skills or soft skills.

Originality/value

The research team and the advisory panel involved participants from five EU countries large and small, east and west, north and south, developed and developing, EU founder members and newer accession states. It involved working in five languages and cultures. Despite this diversity there was great agreement on the findings and implications.
Introduction: special double issue of Kybernetes on cybernetics and design
Authors: Glanville Ranulph
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this editorial is to reach out to an audience that Kybernetes has not previously tried to reach – designers – in an effort to build a bridge connecting cybernetics and design.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides a brief review of the papers within the issue.

Findings

The collection of papers may provoke wonder, enquiry, and a wish not only to respect each field, but also to open up, to find out more and, perhaps, to enter into a symbiotic bridge building operation that might bring valuable theoretical illumination and realm of practice to both fields.

Originality/value

This editorial introduces an exploration that begins to develop any relationships that might exist between the two fields of design and cybernetics.
Try again. Fail again. Fail better: the cybernetics in design and the design in cybernetics
Authors: Glanville Ranulph
Published: November 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the two subjects, cybernetics and design, in order to establish and demonstrate a relationship between them. It is held that the two subjects can be considered complementary arms of each other.

Design/methodology/approach

The two subjects are each characterised so that the author's interpretation is explicit and those who know one subject but not the other are briefed. Cybernetics is examined in terms of both classical (first‐order) cybernetics, and the more consistent second‐order cybernetics, which is the cybernetics used in this argument. The paper develops by a comparative analysis of the two subjects, and exploring analogies between the two at several levels.

Findings

A design approach is characterised and validated, and contrasted with a scientific approach. The analogies that are proposed are shown to hold. Cybernetics is presented as theory for design, design as cybernetics in practice. Consequent findings, for instance that both cybernetics and design imply the same ethical qualities, are presented.

Research limitations/implications

The research implications of the paper are that, where research involves design, the criteria against which it can be judged are far more Popperian than might be imagined. Such research will satisfy the condition of adequacy, rather than correctness. A secondary outcome concerning research is that, whereas science is concerned with what is (characterised through the development of knowledge of (what is)), design (and by implication other subjects primarily concerned with action) is concerned with knowledge for acting.

Practical implications

The theoretical validity of second‐order cybernetics is used to justify and give proper place to design as an activity. Thus, the approach designers use is validated as complementary to, and placed on an equal par with, other approaches. This brings design, as an approach, into the realm of the acceptable. The criteria for the assessment of design work are shown to be different from those appropriate in other, more traditionally acceptable approaches.

Originality/value

For approximately 40 years, there have been claims that cybernetics and design share much in common. This was originally expressed through communication criteria, and by the use of classical cybernetic approaches as methods for use in designing. This paper argues a much closer relationship between cybernetics and design, through consideration of developments in cybernetics not available 40 years ago (second‐order cybernetics) and through examining the activity at the heart of the design act, whereas many earlier attempts have been concerned with research that is much more about assessment, prescription and proscription.