As libraries move their focus from print collections to digital resources residing in the “cloud”, the library‐user relationship has also changed dramatically. Power has clearly…
Abstract
Purpose
As libraries move their focus from print collections to digital resources residing in the “cloud”, the library‐user relationship has also changed dramatically. Power has clearly shifted from the library to the user and the dependence relationship has been inverted. The library‐user relationship is fundamental and defines what libraries are, and therefore their future. It is therefore important to think about how to ensure that users continue to use and value libraries. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the changing relationship between libraries and their users and to suggest critical factors to consider when designing and planning library services in order to sustain a viable library‐user relationship.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper sets the context for discussing the importance of maintaining high levels of library use by considering key changes in the information environment and the behavior of users. It is argued that the abundant choices available to information users today cause them to make usage decisions that are not based only on the usefulness and quality of information resources and services, but more on expediency and other factors.
Findings
It is not sufficient to provide useful, high quality and innovative library resources and services. The acid test for their success is whether they will be used frequently. Four factors are suggested – convenience, attention, awareness, and perception of value, that are likely to influence future use of libraries.
Originality/value
The paper serves as a reminder for librarians to pay attention to the common sense factors when designing, planning, implementing and reviewing library facilities, resources and services.
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As Singapore librarians celebrate the culmination of the landmark Library 2000 Plan, it is also an appropriate time to look at what lies ahead for the profession. The purpose of…
Abstract
Purpose
As Singapore librarians celebrate the culmination of the landmark Library 2000 Plan, it is also an appropriate time to look at what lies ahead for the profession. The purpose of this paper is to provide an edited version of an article originally delivered at the conference “Celebrating Knowledge: The Power and Potential – 13‐15 December 2005” organized by the Singapore National Library Board in conjunction with the opening of the new National Library Building.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a basic model of a library, one that comprises three components – the collection, value added work on the collection, and services that help users exploit and use the collection – the paper discusses each component in light of current technological developments and learning trends to draw conclusions on the relevance of libraries in the near future.
Findings
It is argued that libraries and librarians will continue to play critical roles as the need for the effective preservation and transmission of knowledge in society still remains. As many of these critical roles rely on libraries as permanent institutions, librarians must continue to make significant contributions through their work in institutions such as libraries.
Originality/value
The article provides a useful springboard to discuss, identify and elaborate on the roles of libraries and librarians in the near future.
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Kasthuri Anandasivam and Choy Fatt Cheong
Libraries are inevitably becoming both physical and virtual spaces due to the convergence of the traditional and the online environments today. Though the virtual library has been…
Abstract
Purpose
Libraries are inevitably becoming both physical and virtual spaces due to the convergence of the traditional and the online environments today. Though the virtual library has been gaining much attention, the “library as a place” is still an important aspect of practical library management. The purpose of this paper is to describe the design, planning and implementation of the new Art, Media and Design Library at Nanyang Technological University to meet the needs and aspirations of a new generation of media savvy users.
Design/methodology/approach
A simple questionnaire was used to solicit feedback from staff and students on their impression of the new library during the initial opening period. This was followed up with face‐to‐face interviews with teaching staff.
Findings
This study has enabled some conclusions to be drawn on the interplay between library users and the physical environment, particularly on aesthetics, seating and availability of facilities. An important affirmation from the exercise is that aesthetics and good interior design play important roles in the positive perception of library users.
Originality/value
Librarians who are involved in the building and construction of small art libraries will find the paper useful in providing information and ideas on various aspects of library design and planning.
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Fatt Cheong Choy and Su Nee Goh
The focus on designing spaces for users in the last decade or so signifies the gradual change in the mission of libraries from provision of resources to that of a pro-active…
Abstract
Purpose
The focus on designing spaces for users in the last decade or so signifies the gradual change in the mission of libraries from provision of resources to that of a pro-active partner in learning. Planning for user space in support of learning is far more complex as it needs to take into account the variety of users’ needs and behaviour. Before specifying the actual layout and design of users’ spaces it is important to consider all the major factors that affect the use of the intended library space. The purpose of this paper is to provide a guide to library planning base on the experience of the authors at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Libraries.
Design/methodology/approach
The framework for planning library spaces developed at NTU Libraries consists of four components – collaborative space, sanctuary space, interaction space and community space. Discussion on the rationale of these spaces and suggestions for their implementation will assist others in asking appropriate questions on their own library space planning exercise.
Findings
The paper reinforced the view that a good library building has to provide a wide variety of spaces, some of which are contradictory as the needs of a student is different from another. A student also has different needs at different times. Providing and balancing these needs is essential.
Originality/value
This paper provides a tried and tested conceptual framework for use by library space designers.
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The purpose of this paper is to explore distinctive yet simple strategies for sustainability in academic libraries focussing on structured communication templates for…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore distinctive yet simple strategies for sustainability in academic libraries focussing on structured communication templates for stakeholders, pre-planned daily programming, and regularized, self-sustaining staff development.
Design/methodology/approach
Case study of unique strategies implemented at Nanyang Technological University Libraries.
Findings
Each of the three strategies has been successfully launched though they are at various stages of maturity. The first two strategies (structured communication templates and daily programming) have been implemented quite recently, whereas the staff development programme has been running for some time. Findings indicate that sustainability in all of these cases is directly linked to good planning which either minimizes daily, weekly or monthly work, and/or helps to clarify goals and focus action.
Practical implications
These strategies are feasible, transferable, malleable, and impactful such that other academic libraries with varying staffing structures can adopt and adjust them to their local needs.
Originality/value
Implementing simple sustainable services and strategies can have real impact and can provide alternatives to large-scale projects that may be too resource intensive for many to undertake on a regular basis.