Research Articles (Library and Information Services)

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Browsing Research Articles (Library and Information Services) by Subject "Academic libraries"

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    ItemOpen Access
    Curbside book pick-up services during a time of crisis in South African University Libraries
    (University Libraries of the University of Nebraska--Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA, 2021) Mashiyane, Dina; Molepo, Mahlaga
    Purpose: This paper sought to determine the implementation of curbside pick-up services within South African University libraries during the Covid-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach: The study employed a quantitative approach where informetrics has been used as the primary data collection method to analyse the implementation of curbside/book pick-up services on the web pages of 26 South African University Libraries. Findings: This study indicates that only a few South African university libraries have implemented curbside pick-up services. The study further reveals that those libraries that have implemented this type of service have utilised various methods to facilitate book requests. Practical implications: This study recommends the development of contingency plans for libraries to stay abreast of changes in their environments. The implementation of enhanced and innovative lending services for printed materials. Social implications The paper sheds light on a strategic method for enhancing lending services in academic libraries. It can also be used as a benchmarking tool for those libraries planning on implementing this type of service. The usage of curbside pick-up services can be essential during times of crisis in enhancing lending endeavors and meeting the needs of the users. Originality/value: This study adds value to the innovative lending services in libraries, especially during times of crisis. As there is no evidence of previously conducted studies on this phenomenon, this paper can be used to initiate further research on curbside book pick-up services in libraries.
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    ItemOpen Access
    Towards a conceptual framework for communicating library training to students in South African university libraries: a literature review
    (Elsevier, 2023) Molepo, Mahlaga J.; Blose, Sihle
    Developing conceptual frameworks to improve library training among librarians in South African university libraries is not common. The purpose of this article was to assess, synthesise and critique available literature to determine the extent to which librarians in South African university libraries could reflect on their library training and synthesise relevant theories and models that can assist develop a conceptual framework for communicating library training. The integrated literature review focuses on five central themes namely: communication models, the evolution of technology, learning theories, social learning and web based learning environments, and the role of authority in teacher-learner relationships. The article argues that academic librarians operate within the universe of teacher-learner relationships in library training initiatives, albeit unconsciously so. This makes library training in South African university libraries a mature topic needing reconceptualization. Future research should employ single and multiple case study research designs to formulate frameworks on a case-by-case basis.