Research in librarianship: issues to consider

Abstract

Purpose -Attempting to incorporate research into decision making raises several questions about the research that currently exists in librarianship, areas that are most in need of research, obstacles to conducting research, and possible solutions for nurturing a professional environment in which conducting and using research becomes an accepted and expected part of our practice. This article attempts to answer some of those questions. Design/methodology/approach -A general overview of the research base in librarianship is given. Compilation of content analyses and systematic reviews present an argument relating to the need of further research in librarianship. Further examination of potential research questions is conducted, and potential obstacles and solutions to research barriers are presented. Findings -There is still a need to establish a solid evidence base within our profession. With support from all sectors of librarianship, progress can be made. Originality/value -This paper points out gaps in our research knowledge, and areas that need to be explored via research in library and information studies. It is hoped that this paper will encourage librarians to think about how they can incorporate research into their daily practice.

Library and information science research areas: Analysis of journal articles in lisa

“…Hence, in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, the emphasis was placed on aspects such as the technical and automation process (Buttlar, 1991;Feehan, Gragg, Haverner, & Kester, 1987;Jarvelin & Vakkari, 1990;Jarvelin & Vakkari, 1993;Nour & Peritz, 1985) and greater importance later on being given to research connected with information storage and recovery through catalogues and library databases (Koufogiannakis & Crumley, 2006;Tsay, 2004). Other spheres such as library cooperation, the use of surveys, and user training stand out in the present study.…”

Using library search service metrics to demonstrate library value and manage workload

“…Evidence-based practice encourages librarians to conduct their own research (Koufogiannakis and Crumley 2006), often according to an action research model. Action research is "used for the analysis and reflection of everyday problems in the practitioner's specific situation…[in action research, a librarian] reflects on an existing practice or problem, collects data, analyzes the data, and subsequently implements a plan of action" (Burger and McFarland 2009, 38).…”

Academic Librarians and Research: A Study of Canadian Library Administrator Perspectives

“…Contemplating an overview of the research base in librarianship, Denise Koufogiannakis and Ellen Crumley conclude that establishing a more solid foundation in librarian research is a necessary component of healthy library culture and end with the assertion that "an environment in which research is considered part of what we do needs to be fostered and incorporated into our everyday practice as librarians." 5 In recent years, many writers advocate specifically for the implementation of Evidence Based Library and Information Practice (EBLIP) at academic libraries: Allison Sivak argues that a strong culture of evidence-based practice will challenge librarians to define what we do based on how well our work meets the objectives of the profession. 6 Despite a definite trend toward increased scholarly expectations and activity for academic librarians, the issue is still contentious: the debate rages as to whether librarians should in fact be pursuing publication when there are so many other professional responsibilities.…”