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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

Glen Walker

572

Abstract

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

David Wilson

The purpose of this paper is to outline some of the challenges for New Zealand's censorship system created by developments in entertainment and communications technology. It…

2745

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline some of the challenges for New Zealand's censorship system created by developments in entertainment and communications technology. It discusses the impact of these issues for libraries as they provide information that increasingly encompasses new technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the development of New Zealand's censorship system and how it has responded to the challenges of new technology.

Findings

New Zealand's censorship system has adapted well to changing technology. Ongoing monitoring of technological developments is required and non‐legislative solutions to future challenges will become more important.

Practical implications

New Zealand library and information professionals will need to be aware of their legal obligations. The Office of Film and Literature Classification has taken steps to inform libraries of those obligations.

Originality/value

The paper outlines changes in censorship law that will affect library and information professionals.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

Mehdi Alipour Hafezi

The main purpose of this paper is to propose a solution for data interoperability between library programs in Iran.

901

Abstract

Purpose

The main purpose of this paper is to propose a solution for data interoperability between library programs in Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

The research proceeded through expressing the essence of interoperability in library programs in order to exchange metadata, In this regard, the current situation is analyzed using a researcher‐made checklist, and then the problems and shortcomings are highlighted in the field of the interoperability which in turn enables us to find some ways to overcome them.

Findings

The majority of the library software in Iran do not respect data exchange. They mostly use ISO 2709 as an export format and rarely use other formats. Moreover, most of the library software use Z39.50 client to get information from Library of congress and also Iranian National Library. Therefore, none of them could exchange data between each other because of not using server side service. The proposed model tries to introduce harvesting metadata by OAI service provider and also searching the metadata records by SRU client‐server model.

Originality/value

The findings indicate that Iranian libraries should be aware of the essence of interoperability. Using the proposed model would help them to exchange metadata in a cost‐efficient and cost‐effective manner.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

Meg Bryant and Robyn Pengelly

The purpose of this paper is to examine the issues involved with the introduction of theatre and event ticket booking (TicketDirect) into the Hamilton City Libraries.

490

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the issues involved with the introduction of theatre and event ticket booking (TicketDirect) into the Hamilton City Libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

The introduction of the ticket booking service into the libraries was a two stage process where two libraries trialled the new system before it was rolled out to the four remaining community libraries. The rationale behind the decision to move ticket booking services to the libraries will be discussed along with the impact on the community and library staff. Sound project management is vital during the addition of a new service and some of the successes and problems encountered during the transformation are discussed.

Findings

The inclusion of a service that can at times generate a very high amount of cash in a traditionally low cash‐generating environment resulted in a review of financial and security processes to ensure the safety of staff remained paramount. Documentation and training in the trial implementation could have been significantly better, but lessons were learned and the second roll‐out went much more smoothly.

Practical implications

Communication between all parties (Hamilton City theatres, TicketDirect, call centres, venues, library staff and customers) and problem resolution is an ongoing improvement opportunity still being worked upon.

Originality/value

More and more libraries are looking at adding additional services as they continually strive to meet the needs of their communities. The aim of this paper is to share experiences with other libraries.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

Alison McIntyre and Janette Nicolle

The purpose of this paper is to describe two case studies conducted at the University of Canterbury (UC) which demonstrate the potential of blogging as an internal and external…

2391

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe two case studies conducted at the University of Canterbury (UC) which demonstrate the potential of blogging as an internal and external communication tool. The internal blog was used to communicate and manage information for service staff across the library system, while the external blog communicated content and service updates to the academic community.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper relates the experience of setting up an internal and external library blog. Selecting blog software and staff training issues are mentioned. The advantages of blogging and the challenges of developing and maintaining readership are discussed, as are criteria for success. A survey of academic staff on their use of information and information technology was also conducted.

Findings

Blogs are a successful strategy for disseminating internal information to library staff working in public services. They provide a convenient medium for the transfer of day‐to‐day communication, facilitate best practice and create an archive of institutional knowledge. Blogs are also a valuable tool to communicate targeted subject specific library information to academic staff.

Originality/value

The experience at UC Library suggests that, although faculty are heavy users of the internet, this does not necessarily generalise to their use of blogs, and librarians need to take a leadership role in promoting blog technology as a way of transforming internal communication and external relationships with library users.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

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…

3521

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.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

Ksenija Obradovic

The purpose of this paper is to describe several projects which made use of new technologies in the cataloguing environment at the University of Auckland Library, and emphasise…

828

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe several projects which made use of new technologies in the cataloguing environment at the University of Auckland Library, and emphasise the need for quality bibliographic data, as the basis of successful information retrieval.

Design/methodology/approach

The University of Auckland Library is continually looking for ways to improve access to its resources. Particular attention has been given to exploring opportunities offered by modern technology. The paper describes how tools like MARC Report and MARC Global can be used to improve the quality of existing bibliographic data in library catalogues. It looks at strategies for automated bibliographic data creation. It also describes processes involved in creating gateways to specific parts of existing collections. Emphasis is also given to initiatives aimed at providing access to material that was not traditionally described in the catalogue.

Findings

The need to improve library catalogues is obvious but metadata quality remains essential to effective information retrieval. Advances in computers and information technology have created huge potentials for cataloguing staff to increase efficiency and accuracy, and hold down costs.

Practical implications

The University of Auckland Library believes that empowering cataloguing staff with new technology is critical to efficiently providing access to a wide range of information sources. The Cataloguing Department utilizes technology to automate and manage many of its functions and to streamline its procedures.

Originality/value

The paper argues that it is important to recognise the continued value of the library catalogue. The catalogue is still the main representation of the library's resources, both print and electronic, and an essential aid in finding relevant material on a particular subject. Efficient utilisation of the catalogue means improved access to library collections and better service to patrons.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

Esharenana E. Adomi and Stella E. Igun

The purpose of this paper is to describe cyber crime and techniques adopted for combating it in Nigeria.

4951

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe cyber crime and techniques adopted for combating it in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviews the state of cyber crime in Nigeria, and how it is being stemmed in the country.

Findings

The types of cyber crime in Nigeria are revealed together with the efforts geared towards combating/preventing cyber crime in the country. The paper also draws attention to the possibility of libraries that offer public internet access service being victims of cyber crime as well as unknown perpetrators. The paper recommends how cyber crime can be brought under control.

Originality/value

It reveals factors that contribute to perpetration of cyber crime in Nigeria and efforts being made to combat it. This will enable various countries, in developing and developed world, to be sensitized to the menace of cyber crime and take relevant steps to fight against it.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

Eva Semertzaki

The purpose of this paper is to point out the utilization, integration and exploitation of the internet among libraries in Greece.

1658

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to point out the utilization, integration and exploitation of the internet among libraries in Greece.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey consisting of 44 questions was distributed to librarians in Greece to collect the data for the study.

Findings

The study reveals that the internet is an essential and rigorous tool for librarians in Greece. It plays an important role for providing quality and quick reference services to users.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations in this study are related to the small sample size, as well as to the number of variables studied.

Practical implications

The findings of the study would provide some interesting insights into measuring user satisfaction after the introduction of the internet and into conducting future studies with comparable results.

Originality/value

This is believed to be a unique paper featuring Greek libraries and internet. The information and communication technologies could have wider implications in all kinds of libraries.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 3 October 2008

Wendy Nasmith and Mary Parkinson

New Zealand's population is aging; government agencies realise the impact of this and are factoring it into their planning for the future. There is a perception that “Seniors” are…

4192

Abstract

Purpose

New Zealand's population is aging; government agencies realise the impact of this and are factoring it into their planning for the future. There is a perception that “Seniors” are reluctant to change, but a recent Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind (RNZFB) pilot project to test an internet‐connected Digital Talking Book Player with 40 borrowers, most of whom were in their 70s and 80s, has shown the opposite. The purpose of the trial was not only to test an online talking book delivery system but also to ascertain if the RNZFB seniors, some of whom have little or no experience with computers, could cope with an internet capable Digital Talking Book Player. The purpose of this paper is to describe the RNZFB trial.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 39 RNZFB library members between the ages of 60 and 93, most in their 70s and 80s and one 40 year old were selected to participate in a Digital Talking Book Trial. Each of the trialists were loaned a Digital Talking Book Player for approximately four weeks and were asked to read two books and two magazines per week.

Findings

The outcome of the trial was remarkable. The trial showed seniors do have a positive attitude to change and are not afraid of technology.

Originality/value

The trial showed that if the reward is greater independence and a better service, and seniors are given appropriate support they will embrace new technology and make it work for them. By moving ahead and using new innovative technology the library service will be able to provide a greater variety of titles and better access to information and recreational reading.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 26 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

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