Education Commons^™

Ageism In Academic Librarianship, Melanie Chu

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Background

Nearly one out of every ten librarians is under the age of thirty. The average age of a graduate student in library and information science is 30-35 years old. Between 2010-2020, 45% of librarians will reach the retirement age of 65 years old. The relative age of the profession will continue to decrease as retirements increase. Statistically, the population of young librarians is a growing minority.

Young, new librarians face age discrimination, including disrespectful treatment in the workplace and unrealistic expectations of performance. Ageism in academic libraries results in job dissatisfaction and loss of retention for these new librarians. …

Open House In The Ivory Tower: Public Programming At An Academic Library, Rochelle Smith, Ben Hunter

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Public programming, a frequently used outreach tool for public libraries, is far less common in academic libraries. This article examines the University of Idaho Library’s efforts to attract both university and community members with public programming, delving into detail for three specific grant-funded discussion series: one on Jewish literature, one on graphic novels, and one on jazz. Strategies for location selection, advertising, scheduling and funding are all discussed with commentary on what worked well, what didn’t, and how public programming fits into the mission of an academic library.

Use And Impact Of E-Resources At Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (India): A Case Study, Chetan Sharma

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Today availability of e-resources in a university library is very common. But their proper and maximum use is a matter for discussion. The present paper examines the existence of various e-resource databases in Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University Library. The study also highlights the preferences and importance of online resources among the teachers and research scholars.

Learning 2.0: A Tool For Staff Training At The University Of Alaska Fairbanks Rasmuson Library, Ilana Kingsley, Karen Jensen

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This paper describes a Learning 2.0 library staff training project completed in September 2007 at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Rasmuson Library. The project planning process, curriculum creation, implementation, incentives, and outcomes are included, along with a summary of survey results from program participants. Recommendations for implementing this free and useful staff training tool by other academic libraries are included, as well as a link to the Library’s Learning 2.0 blog.

Speaking Of Books… Connecting With Faculty Through A Campus Author Series, Timothy Hackman

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

A faculty author speaker series is an effective way to build bridges between academic librarians and the teaching faculty, as well as raise the profile of the university library. To explore the challenges and rewards of hosting such a series, this article presents a history of the series “Speaking of Books… Conversations with Campus Authors” at the University of Maryland. It discusses the details of planning and executing author events, in the hope that others can use this information to host their own lecture series. Finally, it presents a few ideas for future directions of the faculty author series.

An Empirical Study On Follow-Up Library Instruction Sessions In The Classroom, Xiaomei Gong, Mary Kay Loomis

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This study with undergraduate students in the Ancell School of Business, Western Connecticut State University, evaluated the knowledge of students using library resources before and after one session of library instruction in the library, and after follow-up instruction in the classroom. Survey method was used before and after the initial session of library instruction in the library, and after follow-up instruction session in the classroom. Significant differences were found in the students’ knowledge of library resources between the pre- and post- surveys in the library session and in the library usage experience after the follow-up instruction session in the …

Increasing Retention Rates In Minority Librarians Through Mentoring, Antonia Olivas, Richard Ma

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Thesis

Maintaining healthy mentoring relationships throughout librarians’ careers helps to increase retention rates among minority librarians and promotes diversity in upper-management.

Abstract

Recruitment of minority librarians has been at the forefront of library literature for decades. However, what happens to those librarians after they graduate from library school and get their first library jobs? Do they stay in the profession for long? Is there a support system to help them maintain the excitement and novelty of their career choice after they’ve been wooed by scholarships and residency programs? This article will discuss the results of a study conducted by librarians …

Tallying The Chad Marks In The Ballot Box: A Survey Of Distance Learning Library Services In Florida’S State Universities, Sarah J. Hammill

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

As distance education continues to grow in Florida, libraries are developing the resources and services to meet the needs of faculty and students. This article identifies what distance learning library services the Florida’s State University System (SUS) Libraries are providing. It concludes with recommendations for additional and improved services and identifies areas for future research in the state of Florida.

Trend Setters: Computers In The Commons Environment, Kim Granath, Sue Samson

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

A multi-year, trend study of public computer usage was conducted to determine use patterns of The University of Montana Mansfield Library public computers before, during, and after the implementation of an Information Center commons environment. Sampling methodology was developed and implemented in 3-year increments beginning in 1999. Analysis provided information for data-driven decisions on staffing patterns, expansion of public computer access, decisions on software and imaging management, and the modification of study design. Results were compared to other library data and underscore the need to embed assessment in academic library services to maintain continuity with the changing needs of …

Distance Education Library Services Assessment, Judy Block

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The primary purpose of assessment in academia is to support high-quality learning. To accomplish this tracking, monitoring and documenting student activity is important to providing excellent library service. By gathering information on student learning, assessments can pinpoint areas for improvement. Ideally, assessment should be quantitative, qualitative, and ongoing and have the ability to address different skills. Assessment is most effective when based on faculty teaching and student learning. Outcomes assessments are the only credible assessment for the distant learner. They are necessary to improve student learning results and are a means of gathering information about student learning that is …

Teaching And Supporting Endnote At The University Of Tennessee: Designing Online Alternatives To High Demand Classes, Teresa B. Walker, Jane S. Row, Travis Dolence

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The University of Tennessee Libraries, like many libraries, has taken the lead on campus in teaching the use of bibliographic management software. One of the challenges of bibliographic instruction is conveying to the user that the instruction is relevant. The challenge we faced with bibliographic instruction for EndNote was somewhat different. Our users, mainly faculty and graduate students, did see the importance of our instruction to their research. The popularity of the classes created a demand that was difficult to meet by classroom instruction alone. We addressed this problem with the creation of an online tutorial that provides on-demand, …

Self-Efficacy And Use Of Electronic Information As Predictors Of Academic Performance, Adeyinka Tella, Adedeji Tella, C. O. Ayeni, R. O. Omoba

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Students’ ability to find and retrieve information effectively is a transferable skill useful for their future life as well as enabling the positive and successful use of the electronic resources while at school. It is a known fact in this digital era that any student at the higher level who intends to better achieve and go further in academics should have the ability to explore the digital environment. Students are increasingly expected to use electronic information resources while at the university. Research was undertaken to determine the level of influence of self-efficacy and the use of electronic information resources …

Reaching Out To Off-Campus Students Via BlackboardTm: A Consortial Library’S Experience, Niyati P. Pandya

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Recent changes in information technology have opened new learning opportunities to educational institutions as they strive to serve the information and education needs of the millennial generation. More academic programs are now offered in non-traditional environments, which require a stronger focus on this generation’s information-seeking behavior. This forces librarians to undertake fresh approaches toward library instruction. According to guidelines from the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL), library resources and services “must meet the needs of all their faculty, students, and academic support staff wherever these individuals are located, whether on a main campus, off campus, in distance …

Reaching Students With Facebook: Data And Best Practices, Daniel Mack, Anne Behler, Beth Roberts, Emily Rimland

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This paper presents data on Facebook inquiries one librarian received over the course of a semester at Pennsylvania State University and discusses best practices for Facebook use as an outreach tool. We discuss ways to reach out to our users through this Social Networking Community and encourage reference questions and requests for research consultations. We recommend that library professionals whose positions require them to interact with undergraduates seriously consider making use of Facebook.

Librarianship And The Fulbright Fellowship: Challenges And Opportunities For American Librarians And Polish Libraries, Maria Anna Jankowska

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This article reports on personal observations and experiences gathered while teaching, working and consulting with librarians, students, and faculty during the author’s Fulbright Senior Fellowship in Poland. It discusses multiple opportunities and rewards for American librarians willing to serve as Fulbright Fellows including professional growth, knowledge sharing, meeting new people, experiencing new library cultures, traveling, and increasing the appreciation and visibility of librarians to the academic world. Additionally, it presents a short history of Polish academic libraries and the challenges they are currently facing.

Garbage In, Garbage Out: The Effect Of Library Instruction On The Quality Of Students’ Term Papers, Susan Hirst, Joseph Leonard

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The authors report the results of a study which used citation analysis of students’ term papers to determine the effectiveness of a library instruction session. The research was conducted during the 2004-2005 school year. In each semester, two sections of the same class received a library instruction session, while the third section of the class did not. Bibliographies of the students’ term papers were then examined to determine if the numbers and types of sources cited differed between the two groups. Library instruction was determined to be effective, in that students receiving library instruction were significantly more likely to …

Multiple Roles Of Academic Librarians, Justine Alsop, Karen Bordonaro

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This exploratory research study seeks to investigate the phenomenon of academic librarians working in other paid roles on university campuses in addition to working as librarians. Its purpose is to explore how prevalent this phenomenon might be, to discover what other types of paid positions librarians are engaged in, and to ascertain what the perceived advantages and disadvantages could be of working in dual roles on campus. An online survey was administered and results point out that some academic librarians are engaged in working in multiple roles on campus. Furthermore, a majority of those surveyed saw a number of …

Developing A Web-Based Evaluation Tool For Purchasing Electronic Resources: A Librarian-Faculty-Student Partnership, Peter Linberger, Lori Jean Fielding, Frank J. Bove

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Introduction

“While the principles of collection development, which were developed in the world of print publications, do not change radically with new publishing technologies, methods of decision making and specific selection guidelines must be adjusted significantly to incorporate new publishing formats” (Demas).

The goals of acquiring and maintaining a good collection of resources that directly benefit teaching and research at a university are important ones. It is nearly impossible for most library budgets to acquire every available electronic research database and the task of deciding which of these resources to purchase has been mostly left to librarians. In order to …

Marketing Of Information Services And Products In University Libraries Of Punjab And Chandigarh (India): An Exploratory Study, Amritpal Kaur, Sarita Rani

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The present study has been undertaken to assess the attitude of users towards the marketing of information services and products of university libraries. A well-structured questionnaire was distributed among the library users of four universities of Punjab and Chandigarh viz Panjab University, Punjabi University, Punjab Agricultural University and Guru Nanak Dev University. The responses were gathered from 1237 users (241 teachers, 271 research scholars and 725 postgraduate students). The findings of the survey reveal useful facts about marketing of information products and services. 61% of the respondents are willing to pay for developed information services and 57% for developed …

A Faculty Led Response To The Crisis In Scholarly Communications, Michael Boock

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Oregon State University’s recent response to the crisis in scholarly communications recognizes that teaching faculty must be involved in communicating an appropriate response to their faculty colleagues. As authors, editors, and peer reviewers, direct faculty action can encourage publishers to lower costs and can enhance the availability of research. The author discusses the work of a faculty-led task force that communicates information about unsustainable journal costs to faculty peers and the actions that can be taken to counteract this trend. In particular, the author discusses the use of academic unit publication reviews to effectively communicate journal cost variations to …

Collegiality And The Academic Library, Michael Lorenzen

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This paper examines the concept of collegiality and how it can be applied to academic libraries. This includes a definition of what collegiality is, a review of the library literature which describes how other writers have seen this issue, and a discussion of how collegiality can be applied in libraries. This includes an examination of how faculty in a library and faculty on other parts of campus work differently which makes collegiality more important in the library. It also looks at why collegiality is important in academic libraries where librarians work hand-in-hand with support staff and student employees.

Collaborative Role Of The Academic Librarian In Distance Learning - Analysis On An Information Literacy Tutorial In Webct, Xiaoli Shirley Fang

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This article profiles a project to expand our general Information Literacy Tutorial into WebCT for students taking online courses. The Tutorial has provided online learners with a grasp of information competencies. The process of the project has confirmed the importance of academic librarians’ collaborative role in distance learning community. It presents both opportunities and challenges for academic librarians to collaborate with faculty and educational technology specialists in integrating information literacy education into the course management system. More active multi-aspect collaborations are required to ensure effective teaching information literacy via the courseware.

Designing An Academic Outreach Program Through Partnerships With Public Schools, Alan R. Bailey, Linda M. Teel, Hazel J. Walker

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The article discusses an outreach program at the Teaching Resources Center of J.Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University. The collaborative project consists of three significant components created to partner with public schools within a designated service area. A library card for educators, interlibrary loan services and a production center provide commitment and support to area educators.

Aligning Campus Portals With Learners’ Needs: A Preliminary Study On The Implementation Of Campus Portals In Iranian Higher Education Communities, Alireza Hejazi, Mitra Dilmaghani

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

Effectively developing and deploying campus portals can dramatically increase productivity and profitability of research and education. The cutting edge of this initiative lies in aligning portals with students’ current needs. Our study aims at identifying these needs and provides a preliminary theoretical framework for portal developers to benchmark their objectives according to educational requirements. The study is mostly done based on local observations and experience of its conductors within higher education communities in Iran. The result of this primary study paves the way of implementing campus portals in the Iranian higher education communities which will be paced by the …

Cross-Disciplinary Prospecting: Educational Technology Offers Up Gold For Library And Information Science Curricula, Michael J. Miller

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the current trends in information and communication technology affecting library services and recommends how, because of these trends, library and information science (LIS) curricula should turn an inquisitive, interdisciplinary eye toward the field of educational technology. Gaps in current LIS professional training and practice are cited, curriculum standards in LIS and educational technology programs are described and compared, and examples are presented to demonstrate how educational technology pedagogy and practice help to successfully augment library skills, service, and practice.

You Are What You Link: A Guideline For The Enrichment Of Information On Campus Portals—A Perspective From Iran, Alireza Hejazi, Mitra Dilmaghani

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Abstract

The main concern over campus portals is quality of data and information they provide for their users who are mainly students. Usually content is so important at universities and colleges that it is regarded as the king, but which factor is the most crucial one for the effectiveness of portfolios? The increasing role of campus portals in directing students to their desired destinations has proved them to be effective tools of worldwide education and research. This makes a challenge for academic portal developers to utilize their portfolios with qualified data and information. It seems that the enrichment of information …

Instituting Blended Learning At A Small College: A Library Director’S Perspective, Odin L. Jurkowski

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Saint Anthony College of Nursing (SACN) is a small private Catholic institution that offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Founded in 1915 as a school of nursing offering only diplomas it is now fully accredited regionally by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (NCA) and program specific by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLN-AC). As a single purpose institution with 13 faculty, 11 staff, and fewer than 100 students, SACN has continued to strive to modernize the program over the past decade with limited resources. Recent technological improvements led by the …

Gnosis Ii: A Library Tutorial For Undergraduate Students, Elvira Saurina Solanes, Alicia Gaete

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Library use instruction in the Library System of the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile is an important issue that involves librarians, faculty and students. The Library System aims to have autonomous library users by teaching and engaging them in effectively using the resources offered by the library. Web tutorials offer a relaxing environment to students who can learn at their own pace and when they require it.

Gnosis II is a web-based tutorial, in Spanish, built by three librarians of the Library System, a faculty from the School of Nursing and staff from the Computer Department of the University. It …

Integrated Academic Student Support Services At Loyola University: The Library As A Resource Clearinghouse, Elizabeth Orgeron

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Higher education has seen the emergence of new models of student support services. These models vary greatly, ranging from those that, for example, simply streamline the registration process, to others that base new building construction on studies done about the information and service access needs of students.

In the recent past, colleges and universities have felt the impact of significantly higher drop out rates among freshman, and they have made attempts to assuage these rising attrition rates. Through extensive study of college campus culture and student needs, many institutions are changing long-standing protocols and adding a technology rich, user friendly …

The Americans With Disabilities Act And Academic Libraries In The Southeastern United States, Linda Lou Wiler, Eleanor Lomax

E-JASL 1999-2009 (Volumes 1-10)

Individuals with disabilities are one of the fastest-growing segments of United States society. In 1970, 11.7% of the United States population was limited in activity, a major factor in measuring and identifying people with disabilities. In 1990, because of the aging of America, 13.7 % of the population could be so identified. By 1994, 15% of the population fell into this group. During this latter period, the older population stayed fairly stable but children and younger adults with disabilities increased greatly. Many different figures, depending upon the method of counting, e.g., age groups included, or whether residence was in a …