Michaelyn Haslam, Myoung‐ja Lee Kwon, Michael Pearson Marilyn and Maria White
The process of bringing Lied Library’s automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) online consisted of setting up the system and storing materials. Setting up the system…
Abstract
The process of bringing Lied Library’s automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) online consisted of setting up the system and storing materials. Setting up the system required defining specifications, designing a user‐interface between the integrated online library system and the ASRS, training in operation, and preparing for maintenance. Storing materials required selecting and processing the items to be stored, loading them into bins, and retrieving them with the system. Library staff spent countless hours in planning, customizing, preparing data, supplementing existing data, testing, and learning the system. The time was well spent as the load process went smoothly with relatively few problems.
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Xiaoyin Zhang and Michaelyn Haslam
To address the UNLV Libraries movement toward a predominantly electronic journal collection including evaluation of library collection and reevaluation of organizational…
Abstract
Purpose
To address the UNLV Libraries movement toward a predominantly electronic journal collection including evaluation of library collection and reevaluation of organizational structure, staff resources and workflow to find the best ways to provide library users with timely and reliable access to electronic resources.
Design/methodology/approach
A range of UNLV Libraries initiatives in building and managing electronic resources is described to demonstrate how the library moved from a predominantly print environment to a predominantly electronic environment. The paper consists of sections: development of the electronic resources collection, reengineering acquisitions/periodicals, new responsibilities and new skills, next steps, and conclusion.
Findings
Since 1999, the composition of the Libraries journal collection has been dramatically changed. The percentage of print‐only subscriptions decreased from 59 percent in 1990 to 20 percent in 2004, while electronic journals jumped from 35 percent to 75 percent. The percentage of Libraries materials acquisitions budget spent on electronic resources rose by at least 10 percent each year. The proliferation of electronic resources had a major impact on the acquisitions/serials activities from handling physical objects to initiating and ensuring ongoing access to electronic resources. It has resulted in a workflow that requires ongoing review and change to accommodate the constant technological developments that have impacted the management of information delivered electronically.
Originality/value
The focus of this paper on changing workflows in the implementation of electronic resources is unique. As Libraries incorporate electronic resources into their collections, the necessity to develop new workflows presents challenges at all levels from daily activities to long‐term planning. The experiences at Lied library offer other Libraries practical examples of ways the challenges have been met.
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The purpose of the paper is to determine whether an automated storage facility met the need to manage space, given a growing collection and the study area needs of users.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the paper is to determine whether an automated storage facility met the need to manage space, given a growing collection and the study area needs of users.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper describes the automated storage and retrieval installation, storage projects since the first load, and daily use.
Findings
Using an automated storage and retrieval system has allowed efficient space handling in Lied Library, while offering quick access to stored materials.
Originality/value
In recent years automated storage and retrieval systems have become viable options for the onsite storage of library materials. Those planning new library facilities or remodelling existing facilities will be informed of the practical experience in using such a system for five years.
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To provide an introduction to a two‐volume special issue on Lied Library at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas that focuses on major changes, new services, and technology issues…
Abstract
Purpose
To provide an introduction to a two‐volume special issue on Lied Library at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas that focuses on major changes, new services, and technology issues four years after the opening of the new main library.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 18 articles are featured, including a graphical time line of events, post‐construction thoughts, web site redesign, organizational change, the automated storage and retrieval system (LASR), and a virtual branch library, among other topics. Nine articles each will be published in Vol. 23, No. 1 and Vol. 23, No. 3 (2005). Readers should also access articles written three years previously in Vol. 20, No. 1 (2002) of Library Hi Tech titled “The New Lied Library at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas: focus on the planning and implementation of technology and change”.
Findings
Technology and change in the construction of a new main library can assist and guide others contemplating similar library construction, reorganization projects, and technology and digital implementations.
Originality/value
An introduction to the two‐part special issue.
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Brittany Paloma Fiedler, Rosan Mitola and James Cheng
The purpose of this paper is to describe how an academic library at one of the most diverse universities in the country responded to the 2016 election through the newly formed…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to describe how an academic library at one of the most diverse universities in the country responded to the 2016 election through the newly formed Inclusion and Equity Committee and through student outreach.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper details the context of the 2016 election and the role of social justice in librarianship. It offers ideas for how library diversity committees can address professional development, recruitment and retention efforts and cultural humility. It highlights student outreach efforts to support marginalized students, educate communities and promote student activism. Finally, it offers considerations and suggestions for librarians who want to engage in this work.
Findings
This paper shows that incorporating social justice, diversity, equity and inclusion requires individuals taking action. If institutions want to focus on any of these issues, they need to formally include them in their mission, vision and values as well as in department goals and individual job descriptions. The University of Nevada, Las Vegas University Libraries fully supports this work, but most of the labor is done by a small number of people. Unsustainable practices can cause employee burnout and turnover resulting in less internal and external efforts to support diversity.
Originality/value
Most of the previous literature focuses either on internal activities, such as professional development and committees, or on student-focused activities, such as outreach events, displays and instruction. This paper is one comprehensive review of both kinds of activities.