Cataloging and Metadata Commons^™

Decolonizing The Academic Library: Examining The Successful Indigenization Of Ubc And Unm’S Library Services, Emily T. Villars

School of Information Student Research Journal

This article examines decolonization and indigenization initiatives at two academic libraries: the University of British Columbia (UBC) and the University of New Mexico (UNM). It asks how these institutions have implemented indigenization in their libraries and what lessons can inform broader reconciliation work across North America. Through a comparative lens, it analyzes how national and organizational frameworks, such as the Canadian Federation of Library Associations (CFLA-FCAB) Truth and Reconciliation Report and Recommendations and the American Indian Library Association’s (AILA) organizational goals, can shape these efforts. The study highlights three core strategies: decolonizing access and classification, transforming library spaces, and expanding …

Book Review: Academic Librarian Burnout: Causes And Responses Edited By Christina Holm, Ana Guimaraes, And Nashieli Marcano, Brianna Gaffney

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

A Reflection On Research Limitations And Conclusions, Pearl Kim

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

A Digitized History Of Undergraduate Student Government At The University Of Akron, Samuel Stillion

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The digitization process of a representative sample of the physical records of the University of Akron's Undergraduate Student Government held in the University Archives and Special Collections, including notes for future archive projects with the larger records of Undergraduate Student Government

The Hunt For "Dragon Shards Of Knowledge": A Study On The Information Needs Of The Mmorpg Community, Jessamy Hallie

School of Information Student Research Journal

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the information needs and information-seeking behaviors of the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) information community. To evaluate and define these needs and behaviors a literature review of research contributions published by established information professionals studying MMORPG and video game players was performed. The results showed that the MMORPG community is considerably understudied and lacking sufficient library programming and educational opportunities compared to other communities. It also revealed their dependence on collaboration and the promotion of social connection between members. Their shared goals and common interests helped to facilitate members’ information-seeking and …

Why Every Librarian Is A Ux Librarian, Alison Johnson

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Guiding Scholarship, Together: A Collaborative Accomplishment, Pearl Kim

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Investigating The Relationship Between Noun Classes And Plant Folk Taxonomy In Chasu Language Of Kilimanjaro Region In Tanzania, Peter Rabson Mziray

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

The current study investigates the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu (G 22). The study focuses on two objectives: the first objective is to describe the plant folk taxonomy in Chasu and the second objective is to determine the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu. Data were collected from rural villages in Same and Mwanga districts by using free listing, field interviews (jungle-walk-and-identify), and written texts containing Chasu plant names. The findings reveal that Chasu folk taxonomy reflects different ethnobotanical categories; including a unique beginner which is mmea/mimea ‘plant(s)’, and three life …

Arts-Based Sustainability: From New York To Malawi, Martha B. Lerski

Publications and Research

Recognizing that libraries serve multiple constituencies and subject areas, this chapter documents and advocates for development of transdisciplinary arts-based research (ABR) and culture-related projects linked to environmental challenges. Libraries contribute collections and spaces, as well as the research of library and information scientists. Libraries are currently among invisible contributors to sustainability planning and services. The chapter will link this invisibility to the value of what visual arts refer to as negative space elements in subjects ranging from traditional ecological knowledge to environmental science. Library collections, projects, and research contribute to education for sustainable development (ESD) as required to achieve the …

Faculty Spotlight With Prof. Ferretti: Q&A On Critical Librarianship, Pearl Kim

School of Information Student Research Journal

In an interview with the Student Research Journal (SRJ), Prof. Jennifer Ferretti discusses the principles and impact of critical librarianship—an approach grounded in critical theory that interrogates power and inequity within libraries and archives. Drawing on her experience as a practitioner, educator, and student, she reflects on the role of critical theory in shaping library pedagogy, professional ethics, and institutional practices. Prof. Ferretti, an artist and information professional, formerly taught a course called “Building a Critical Culture: Information Ethics, Diverse Communities, and Critical Librarianship” at San Jose State University’s iSchool. She is currently the Documentation and Archives Director at the …

And The Test Of Resilience Continues, Pearl Kim

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Hands On Archiving: Aid In Reorganizing The San Bernardino County Museum Archive Room And Archival Material, Ezequiel Vera

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This paper documents the process and details of the History Archives Inventory Project at the San Bernardino County Museum (SBCM). Most of the work of this project is done in-person and will include photographic evidence of the project, a written portion that will explain the process of the project, and secondary literature that will help explain the process of the project and its corresponding decision making. The History Archives Inventory Project is a multiple year-long project; this paper will be limited to my time working on the project while completing my Master of Arts in History at CSUSB. My time …

Identifying Intangible And Biocultural Heritage Elements Toward Environmental Understanding: Engaging Stakeholders Through Art, Martha B. Lerski

Publications and Research

Grounded in a case study in Barbuda in the Caribbean, this research examines sustainability from the perspective of what arts and heritage can contribute to community engagement and local and broader understandings about the environment. This article documents a growing body of literature recognizing the role of arts and culture, including local knowledge and traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), in climate change endeavors. Art and TEK present expansive world views. Contextual information situates research done on the island of Barbuda pre- and post-Hurricane Irma. Visual arts workshops engaged community members in mixed methods research. Results documented cultural elements, particularly intangible and …

Unveiling Legacies: Exploring And Analyzing Cultural Artifacts In The Higbee Collection, Samantha Staller

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Anthropology and the Cummings Center to find ways to properly analyze an archaeological collection's artifacts to understand the overall significance of everything better. Before starting my research, I came up with the following questions: Can any artifacts be considered culturally affiliated? Is everything in the collection authentic? What is the overall background of the collection? Does this collection have any connection to Ohio history? Can anything in the collection be dated? Throughout the research, I will create an Excel inventory list to include qualitative and quantitative data from the artifacts to give insight into what is included in the Higbee …

Book Review: Decentering Whiteness In Libraries: A Framework For Inclusive Collection Management, Andrea Jamison, Shala K. Howell

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Redefining Reference Services In The 21st Century, Johanna Tunon

School of Information Student Research Journal

The role of reference services in libraries has evolved significantly in the 21st century, driven by technological advancements and changing user needs. This paper explores how reference services have transitioned from traditional, desk-centric interactions to encompass a wide array of platforms and tools, including digital innovations and generative AI. The decline in reference transactions has prompted librarians to adapt, shifting focus towards more complex consultations and instructional roles, while also navigating the blurred boundaries between reference assistance and formal instruction. The paper also examines the updated definitions and limitations of reference services by the Reference and User Services Association (RUSA), …

The Importance Of Graduate-Student-Led Academic Journals Within Library And Information Science, Odin Halvorson

School of Information Student Research Journal

Graduate-student-led academic journals play a crucial role in fostering early career researchers' engagement with scholarly discourse within the field of Library and Information Science (LIS). This paper highlights the significance of these journals by examining their contributions to professional development, peer review practices, and inclusivity. Through a case study of the Student Research Journal (SRJ) at San Jose State University’s iSchool, I demonstrate how student-led journals provide invaluable experiential learning opportunities in leadership, organization, and research skills. The SRJ exemplifies these benefits by achieving international recognition with minimal resources, showcasing its impact-to-cost ratio. This paper also discusses the journal's role …

Ischool Student Research Journal, Vol.14, Iss.2

School of Information Student Research Journal

Article citations within.

Ischool Student Research Journal, Vol.14, Iss.1

School of Information Student Research Journal

Volume 14, Issue 1 of the School of Information Student Research Journal explores the multifaceted impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on academia, particularly within library and information science (LIS) education and scholarly publishing. Highlighting the proactive measures taken by San Jose State University's iSchool, this issue underscores the necessity of integrating AI competencies, such as data privacy and ethical AI use, into curricula. Through detailed case studies and policy reviews, the issue examines the ethical and societal implications of AI, including biases and inequalities, advocating for adaptive and responsible AI integration.

Odin Halvorson's paper emphasizes the transformative potential of Large …

Looking Ahead: Incorporating Ai In Mlis Competencies, Souvick Ghosh, Denise Mccoy

School of Information Student Research Journal

Libraries have long been essential for democratizing knowledge and providing reliable information, extending their services to meet diverse community needs, including educational programs and internet access (Pawley, 2022; Freudenberger, 2022). Librarians, as custodians of information and culture, possess core competencies in information organization, digital literacy, and research skills. The San José State University (SJSU) School of Information (iSchool) aims to educate professionals who significantly impact global communities through high-quality education, research, and technology innovation. This article examines the Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program at SJSU iSchool, focusing on the evolution of its 14 core competencies to incorporate …

Into The Unknown: Developing Ai Policies For The Student Research Journal, Marc Hoffeditz

School of Information Student Research Journal

In light of the artificial intelligence (AI) boom in late 2022, policies governing the use and disclosure of artificial intelligence in scholarly journals have occupied editorial boards of all disciplines. The Student Research Journal (SRJ) at San José State University sought to tackle this issue with an inclusive process to better serve our authors and editorial team in uncertain times. This editorial will discuss the work of the SRJ’s AI Policy Working Group in completing a comprehensive review of literature surrounding the topics of AI and scholarly publishing, detail the journal’s first AI disclosure policy in depth, and identify next …

Ai In Academia: Policy Development, Ethics, And Curriculum Design, Odin Halvorson

School of Information Student Research Journal

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal force in modern society, significantly impacting various sectors, including academia. This paper examines the broad implications of AI, particularly Large Language Models (LLMs), and their transformative potential across educational institutions. The San Jose State University's iSchool is highlighted as a case study, demonstrating its proactive approach to integrating nascent technologies and revising curriculum competencies to address AI's influence. As AI reshapes library and information science (LIS) education, the development of new competencies, such as data privacy and ethical AI use, becomes essential. Furthermore, the ethical and societal implications of AI, including potential …

Ischool Student Research Journal, Vol.13, Iss.2, Student Reseach Journal

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Innovation And Responsibility: Librarians In An Era Of Generative Ai, Inequality, And Information Overload, Odin H. Halvorson

School of Information Student Research Journal

In an era marked by generative AI, widening inequality, and information overload, librarians with LIS training find themselves at the forefront of a changing landscape. The traditional paradigm in academia is challenged by new technologies and social shifts, prompting a reassessment the librarian's role as a public leader. This article discusses three perspectives on these issues, placing them within the larger conversation of the LIS field. Dr. Norman Mooradian lays the groundwork for a paradigm shift by exploring the intersection of knowledge and ethics in a knowledge economy. Boheme Morris delves into the complexities of inequality within the high-tech knowledge …

Knowledge Ethics: Conceptual Preliminaries Scope And Justification, Norman Mooradian

School of Information Student Research Journal

This paper lays out the conceptual groundwork for a long-term project examining ethical issues raised when addressing the value of knowledge to a knowledge economy. The project includes a series of papers on specific topics that interrelate to the subjects of knowledge, ethics and organizations. While some of the planned articles for the project will have a practical focus, others, such as this one, will be conceptual in nature. The following outlines selected key concepts for an ethics of knowledge and their relationship with cognate areas of inquiry and practice.

Information: A Historical Companion Book Review, Lena Hernandez

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Cultural Competence In Research, Michele A. L. Villagran

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

The Past, Present, And Future Of Information, Tierra Holmes

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Ischool Student Research Journal, Vol.11, Iss.2, Student Reseach Journal

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.

Book Review: Knowledge Justice: Disrupting Library And Information Studies Through Critical Race Theory, Sofia Y. Leung And Jorge R. López-Mcknight, Jessica Nombrano Larsen

School of Information Student Research Journal

No abstract provided.