Determinants of Evidence Use in Academic Librarian Decision Making

Abstract

The objective of this qualitative study was to identify and explain challenges encountered by academic librarians when trying to incorporate evidence into their practice. The findings resulted in the identification of five main determinants that act as either obstacles or enablers of evidence use. The identification of these determinants provide librarians with a greater understanding of the complex processes and individual as well as organizational factors that impact decision-making processes within academic libraries.

Leading the Academic Library in Strategic Engagement with Stakeholders: A Constructivist Grounded Theory

“…The findings of this study also reflect the literature of Denise Koufogiannakis, 63 as well as that of Peter Hernon, Robert Dugan, and Joseph Matthews, 64 concerning evidence-based library and information practice (EBLIP). Hernon, Dugan, and Matthews state that EBLIP includes the following steps: asking a relevant question and then "gathering evidence; appraising the validity, reliability, and applicability of that evidence; applying the evidence to a decision; and evaluating the impact of the decision."…”

Evidence-based Practice

“…"Evidence-based practice is relevant to all sizes of libraries and may be even more applicable to libraries staffed by one person." Koufogiannakis, 2015;Partridge, Edwards, & Thorpe, 2010) There is no one right way to do or be evidence-based. The way evidence-based practice is applied in a library is up to the individual library professional.…”

Academic library directors’ strategic decision-making process

“…Research has also shown that librarians are sensitive towards micro-managing (meaning that library's top management is being over-controlling) and library leadership plays a vital role in the general organizational culture (Koufogiannakis, 2015). The key element in change management and strategic planning in academic libraries relies heavily on the directors of these libraries and often on their leadership skills and willingness to make tough choices.…”