Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to report on bibliometric research on the activities and services offered by distance libraries that serve distance learning institutions. Design/methodology/approach: The analysis of scholarly communication has always been a valuable tool for researchers and policymakers in order to understand trends, gaps…

Currently "Big Data" is an emerging field that presents several Information Technology challenges regarding the capture, storage search, structure, and visualization of this data. The real challenge for organizations is to find ways to extract value from it and provide better services to their clients. The data generated in academic and…

As Vietnamese universities have gradually shifted their investment into research development, the roles and duties of librarians have also changed. Academic librarians not only provide research support but also can contribute to the research performance of their university. This study explores the research participation of librarians at Vietnamese…

As the volume of academic library value research has continued to increase, the resulting literature has grown complex and sprawling. This article takes stock of this body of work, using a review of the published research literature and an analysis of its organization and structure. This investigation reveals that the research on library value…

The ways in which university quality assessments are developed reveal a great deal about value constructs surrounding higher education. Measures developed and consumed by external stakeholders, in particular, indicate which elements of academia are broadly perceived to be most reflective of quality. This paper examines the historical context of…

This article explores the literature that focuses on the various roles librarians and libraries play in distance education settings. Learners visit libraries either in person or via networked computing technology to ask for help with their online courses. Questions range from how to upload a document with a learning management system, to how to…

Discusses strategies for research libraries to meet current demands and limitations through networks and resource sharing. Explored in terms of their importance to research library development are OCLC, the Research Libraries Group and their networks, the concept of a central resources pool, and the impact of the information industry. (SW)

Historical review covers: (1) the rise of research and research libraries, 1850-1900; (2) the genesis of reference service, 1875-95; (3) the growth of reference service in the research libraries, 1896-1916; (4) reference practices in the research libraries, 1896-1916; (5) legislative and municipal reference work, 1900-16; and (6) current trends…

Discusses the traditional role and functions of research library technical services departments and examines the impact of electronic information and information technology on technical services. It is argued that technical services units will stagnate if they do not accept the responsibility of becoming technologically adept. (19 references) (CLB)

Traces the development of national computer networks and discusses the need for the National Research and Education Network (NREN). Topics discussed include ARAPNET, Internet, BITNET, NSFNET, the role of the government, legislative status, the Coalition for Networked Information, policy issues, technological requirements, and libraries and NREN.…

Compares, contrasts, and critiques predictions that have been made about the future of research libraries, focusing on the impact of technology on the library's role and users' needs. The discussion includes models for the adaptation of new technologies that may assist in library planning and change. (38 references) (CLB)

Strategies for designing effective professional development programs for research librarians are discussed, focusing on competencies of librarians and benefits to the organization. An internship model that outlines necessary components in the context of quality management and effectiveness is offered. (26 references) (EA)

A study was undertaken to determine what type of curriculum leadership roles school librarians were exerting in the nation's nineteenth largest school district, the Clark County Public Schools of Nevada. A 15-item questionnaire was mailed to 75 Clark County School District librarians; responses were received from 59 libraries (79%). Following a…

Five Grand Challenges are proposed for library research: (1) Library service: Could library services be made more meaningful? (2) Library theory: Who knew what when? (3) Library design: Have digital libraries been designed backwards? (4) Library values: How neutral can libraries be? (5) Library communities: How do communities differ? (AEF)

This review, undertaken on behalf of the Australian School Library Association (ASLA), was conducted over a 4-week period in November-December 2002 with the purpose of: reporting on the nature and extent of the evidence that has linked school libraries to student achievement since 1990, identifying the strengths and gaps in existing data as it…