Bolaji David Oladokun and Oluwole O. Durodolu
Libraries play a pivotal role in advancing environmental justice by facilitating access to information and resources essential for informed decision-making and advocacy. This…
Abstract
Purpose
Libraries play a pivotal role in advancing environmental justice by facilitating access to information and resources essential for informed decision-making and advocacy. This paper aims to explore the multifaceted relationship between libraries and environmental justice, focusing on strategies for information access and community engagement. The study also examines the challenges and opportunities in promoting environmental justice through library initiatives.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a descriptive design and qualitative methods to delve into the roles of academic librarians in Nigeria. Qualitative methods were chosen to deeply explore participants’ perspectives, experiences and attitudes toward information access and environmental justice. The study involved six academic librarians from the Federal University of Technology Ikot Abasi. Data were gathered through focus group discussions (FGDs) with the participating librarians, conducted in a conducive and private setting to encourage open dialogue and diverse perspectives. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the FGD transcripts.
Findings
Key findings highlight the importance of diverse program formats, collaboration with experts and activists, leveraging technology for information dissemination and partnerships with other institutions. The study indicates the significance of continuous learning for librarians to effectively address environmental justice concerns and proposes recommendations for enhancing library support in this context.
Originality/value
Ultimately, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of the roles of libraries in promoting environmental justice and offers practical insights for future initiatives and policy decisions.
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Oluwole O. Durodolu and Philomena A. Mamudu
This study examined the interceding influence of work–life balance (WLB) among library staff at the Kenneth Dike Library and its implication for the provision of information. The…
Abstract
Purpose
This study examined the interceding influence of work–life balance (WLB) among library staff at the Kenneth Dike Library and its implication for the provision of information. The research sought to respond to the following questions: the effect of demographic variables on the WLB of librarians and their perceptions of WLB within the intimate environment.
Design/methodology/approach
This study adopted a positivist research paradigm because the nature of the research revealed a single social reality which can be measured quantitatively, using a reliable instrument such as a questionnaire. The total sampling technique was used to zero in on the staff of the library, in which the entire library population was included in the study.
Findings
The findings suggest that male librarians enjoy a better WLB than their female counterparts. Also, the results indicate that librarians, irrespective of their marital status, focused on job-related activities minding their marital status and therefore, marital status could influence the WLB of librarians. Similarly, priority is not being given to their work, to the detriment of caring for the family.
Research limitations/implications
The study suggests that age causes the WLB to change, the implication being that an ageing workforce has an impact on adaptation, output and innovation.
Originality/value
This paper sheds light on the WLB among librarians at the Kenneth Dike Library (KDL); therefore, information acquired from this study is imaginative and valuable to understand better how information professionals react to official and personal engagement.
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Oluwole Olumide Durodolu and Bolaji David Oladokun
This study aims to examine the role of libraries in stimulating access to information concerning environmental justice issues. This study also provides valuable insights into…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the role of libraries in stimulating access to information concerning environmental justice issues. This study also provides valuable insights into libraries’ contributions to addressing environmental justice concerns and informs strategies for maximizing their impact in this critical area.
Design/methodology/approach
In conducting this study the role of academic librarians at the Federal University of Technology Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, using a descriptive design and qualitative research method. The population for this study consists of academic librarians who were chosen due to their expertise in information access and their potential impact on environmental justice initiatives within the academic community. Data were collected through focus group discussions with the participating academic librarians.
Findings
The findings of this study underscore the critical role of addressing information disparities within the context of environmental justice, emphasizing the transformative potential of information access in empowering communities. The analysis reveals a consensus among respondents regarding the multifaceted role of librarians in addressing environmental justice. Librarians are perceived not only as information custodians but also as active contributors to community engagement, awareness and social change. This study identifies both challenges and opportunities for libraries to enhance awareness of environmental justice issues among their patrons. While existing resources related to environmental justice in the library’s collection are generally viewed positively, there is consensus among participants that there is room for improvement. Finally, this study acknowledges gaps in the current collection regarding information on environmental justice. It underscores the need for up-to-date multimedia resources focusing on local issues and representing diverse perspectives.
Research limitations/implications
Collaboration with scholars from diverse fields such as environmental science, sociology and public policy could enrich the understanding of the complex intersections between information access, environmental justice and librarianship.
Practical implications
Librarians have a responsibility to promote information access and environmental justice by curating relevant resources, promoting information literacy, engaging with communities, advocating for change, addressing digital access and equity issues, fostering cultural competence and collaborating with other stakeholders.
Originality/value
This study presents a compelling and forward-thinking perspective that underscores the critical role of librarians in addressing environmental challenges and fostering social equity.
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Mapheto J. Mamabolo and Oluwole Olumide Durodolu
This study aims to determine the requirements and find out the challenges for the use of digital library services for rural areas of Capricorn District Municipality, Limpopo…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to determine the requirements and find out the challenges for the use of digital library services for rural areas of Capricorn District Municipality, Limpopo province. The research questions of the study are: What are the requirements for the use of digital library services in rural areas of Capricorn District Municipality? What are the challenges of accessing digital library services in rural areas?
Design/methodology/approach
Data was analysed thematically and deductively in this study, as researcher required to accomplish the purpose of the study through consistent structure (Zalaghi and Khazaei, 2016). In deductive analysis, the researcher starts with a set of categories, which are then used to categorize and organize data (Bertram and Christiansen, 2020). The researcher got familiar with data from the interviewing process and when transcribing data from audio tape. The transcription process was done for the coding purposes. Coding allows the researcher to simplify and focus on specific characteristics of data.
Findings
The study findings advocate for the establishment of digital libraries in rural areas. The library authorities are challenged to adapt digital ways of information provision. Since librarians have been providing digital content in libraries for use on users’ laptops and other gadgets, this implies that the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has been lagging behind in finding innovative ways to provide information, especially in rural areas. To successfully keep libraries as sources of information, transformative measures have to be taken, and where possible, revisit the policies and keep drifting with the societal changes. The library authorities have to delve into new ways of providing LIS to the communities. Unquestionably, information and communication technologies have penetrated our societies and became a way of life. In addition, there are unlimited benefits which can be derived from digital technologies, especially given the lack of physical libraries in rural areas.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the academic research is original and has not been published anywhere before.
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Bolaji David Oladokun, Oluwole Olumide Durodolu, Adeyinka Tella, Yusuf Ayodeji Ajani and Abayomi Kehinde Owolabi
This paper aims to explore the decline of the metaverse and the concurrent growth of online videos, examining their implications for libraries. It analyzes factors contributing to…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore the decline of the metaverse and the concurrent growth of online videos, examining their implications for libraries. It analyzes factors contributing to the metaverse decline, such as technical issues and privacy concerns, and explores the emergence and popularity of online video platforms.
Design/methodology/approach
This study applied the interpretive content/document analysis of literature harvested from different databases of Scopus, Web of Science and Directory of Open Access Journals. Given the shift in digital consumption patterns and their impact on libraries, the paper systematically reviews the literature to elucidate the changing landscape of digital engagement and its implications for library services and outreach efforts.
Findings
The paper identifies technical issues, privacy concerns and a lack of interoperability as key factors contributing to the decline of the metaverse. Conversely, the growth of online videos is driven by the emergence of platforms, increasing accessibility to high-speed internet and a diversification of content offerings. These trends reshape user preferences and behaviors, presenting both challenges and opportunities for libraries.
Originality/value
The decline of the metaverse and the rise of online videos underscore the importance of adaptation and innovation for libraries. To remain relevant in the digital age, libraries must transform their services to meet the demand for on-demand content and multimedia resources. The findings highlight the need for libraries to invest in digital literacy and media literacy programs, embrace emerging technologies and forge strategic partnerships with online video platforms. By adapting to changing trends and user preferences, libraries will continue to fulfill their mission of providing access to information and knowledge in the digital age.