Emerald | New Library World | Table of Contents

Reading and learning from screens versus print: a study in changing habits Part 1. Reading long information rich texts

Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - The aim of the paper is to research the difference in reading and learning from print versus electronic media in a professional and educational setting. To what extent does the materiality of the medium influence the efficiency and effectively of the reader? What is needed to create ‘digital born’ information rich texts? In Part 1 sustained reading of information and knowledge rich texts is addressed.Design/methodology/approach - In-depth comparative tests with a great number of subjects between print-on-paper, e-ink screens and LCD screens. In Part 1 the results of tests with sustained reading of information and knowledge rich texts are reported. Findings - All tests show that print-on-paper is still a superior medium for learning and digesting complicated and elaborate texts, whilst electronic screens are appreciated for quick information gathering, communication and navigation. Electronic representations of information and knowledge demand that the structure of the writing has to change.Research limitations/implications - Given the rapid development in electronic displays, many issues – in particular ergonomical – become a "moving target". An important limitation – which is one of the quests of this research - the lack of sufficient genuine digital born texts.Practical implications - The need to start and review the writing process; the appearance but also the structure of information and knowledge rich texts. A second issue is the need to develop easy capabilities to make an electronic texts as easy a "tool" as the print text with underlining, comments and notes.Originality/value - Deep qualitative research in comparison with quantitative tests. Comparison between professional information acquisition and learning.

Avoiding Ebook ‘Big Deals:’ Alternatives to Ebook Backlists

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Julia Proctor) — Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - This paper asserts that libraries should actively seek and request alternatives to purchasing older ebook content rather than buying large ebook backlists. Currently publishers are offering the equivalent of the "Big Deal" with monographs through ebook backlists, and this is a not a model that can or should be sustained by libraries.Design/methodology/approach - This paper discusses experience the author gained through evaluating major ebook backlist promotional offers from 2012 and 2013, reviews library literature concerning ebook use, and reviews current purchase methods such as patron-driven acquisition and firm ordering as alternatives to purchasing large ebook backlist packages. Findings - There does not appear to be agreement in library literature about use and preference for ebooks, but there does appear to be a consensus that users expect the availability of ebook content. However, that expectation is not reason enough to purchase older content in large quantities in a format that still has problematic limitations. Patron-driven acquisition and targeted firm ordering allow libraries to buy older content in ebook format with more information about the need for that content. Also, publishers should become more involved in offering alternatives to ebook backlist purchase models. Originality/value - This discussion sheds light on the fact that while the ebook format may be new, the content and the purchase models often are not. Libraries need to advocate for effective purchase models now rather than becoming dependent on publishers to provide content libraries already own.

Managing access to the internet in public libraries

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Hartwig Pautz) — Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - The article discusses the management of internet access in the public library. It stresses how important professional access management is, addresses practical and ethical challenges and dilemmas with regard to managing access, highlights management strategies and emphasises the librarian’s enduring ethical principles in the ‘internet age’. Design/methodology/approach - The article is based on a critical literature review.Findings - First, there is not necessarily a difference between managing internet access and ‘traditional’ stock selection. Second, managing internet access must not be understood as synonymous with limiting the information that is accessible through it. Third, the librarian must be aware of the risks that filters and other ‘technological fixes’ pose to the library and the librarian’s principles. Fourth, a number of strategies exist which protect these principles and allow information literacy and user independence to develop.Research limitations/implications - n/aPractical implications - The article highlights practical challenges to a librarian’s everyday work and provides a discussion that is relevant to public librarians everywhere. It raises awareness of the potentials and pitfalls of a number of internet access management tools and assures the librarian of their important position as an enabler to information access and its use. Originality/value - The article raises awareness of important issues pertaining to internet access and its management in the public library. It asks pertinent and timely questions of relevance to the practical work of the librarian.

Disliking the like: User policy-change and perception of the internet as a democratic medium

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Ñusta D. Nina, Raoul L.A.M. Boers) — Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - The aim of this paper is to raise awareness of the differences in European and American perspectives on privacy and to question whether most users of web services like Facebook are equipped with the proper level of media literacy skills in order to manage the responsibility for their own privacy. Design/methodology/approach - Discussion of theoretical concepts on privacy both from the perspectives of law and social sciences.Findings - Promoting government responsibility for the privacy of individual citizens seems problematic in an online context, as it threatens to open the door to censorship. One should wonder whether citizens need protection from what is perceived as infringement to the rights of privacy, while these citizens are actually consumers, using commercially provided services with policies that they have agreed to. The European Commission has been following closely what is happening to personal data online. Several forms of legislation have been brought into force aiming to enhance the protection of personal data of European citizens. This European protectionism often clashes with the privacy policies of, largely American, commercial organisations such as Facebook and Google.Research limitations/implications - Further research should be carried out on whether the general user is media literate enough to be able to mitigate their privacy online. Legislators are focussed on handing responsibilities to the users themselves, however users could benefit from a more paternalistic approach. Practical implications - N/AOriginality/value - This paper combines perspectives on online privacy from the multi-disciplinary perspectives of law and social sciences. These two viewpoints are not often combined in critical literature. This paper serves as a discussion piece for future research and media literacy programs in higher education.

Parma Co-Lab: organizational challenge for research and learning

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Sara Valla) — Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - This paper describes the initial phases of the formation of the Co-Lab as a community at the University of Parma which aims to foster informal ways of collaboration among students, professors, researchers, with a view to increasing results in learning and knowledge sharing.Design/methodology/approach - An ethnographical approach is applied; a constant observation inside the context through contact with participants in their environment allows the documentation of different approaches in the activity field. The context involves the DILL international Master’s in Digital Library Learning. The Co-Lab agenda relies on constant problem solving and considering technology as the servant of needs for continuous learning.Findings - Collaboration is only possible by sharing a common domain and language, enthusiam and commitment. This is one of the benefits of an informal community of practice; nevertheless Co-Lab needs to be recognized as an informal, albeit valuable, community and supported by the institution.Research limitations/implications - The author combines a technical background with a social observation inside a context with which she interacts constantly.Practical implications - The Co-Lab approach to practices might be the response to the needs of academic education and research in the current technological environment. It may require the acceptance by the institutional organization of the informal paradox and non-hierarchical approach to achieve practical advantages.Originality/value - Research carried out by an observer with technological background inside the context where students and professors interact can foster an increased awareness of diverse problems.

Natural Transitions: From K-12 to U.S. Academic Library Instructors

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Antonia Olivas) — Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this study is to investigate the decision of former traditional K-12 teachers in the U.S. who chose a new career path in academic libraries. It focuses on their successes and challenges in higher education settings.Design/methodology/approach - This study uses a qualitative-methods approach which includes a brief questionnaire.Findings - Findings indicate that former K-12 teachers leave their traditional teaching professions due to bureaucracy but because they enjoy teaching, they seek other opportunities in education. The research also reveals that many of the participants continue to use their K-12 training in their current instruction positions as academic librarians.Research limitations/implications - Future research on this topic should look in to more proactive ways of recruiting K-12 teachers into positions of information literacy instructor in academic libraries.Practical implications - Those responsible for hiring information literacy instruction librarians will learn the benefits of hiring former K-12 teachers. It will also help encourage academic library leaders to help fund more training opportunities for information literacy librarians.Originality/value - This research shows that former K-12 teachers could be a valuable asset to higher education academic libraries.

3D Printing and the Library

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Bruce Massis) — Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this column is to examine the current environment of 3D printing and its suitability for use in the library. Design/methodology/approach - Literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by professionals, researchers and practitioners.Findings - The library is more than its collection. As 3D printing joins the technology selections available in the library, it offers patrons the opportunity to create and further develop their skills in order to explore and potentially innovate in a welcoming environment of intellectual stimulation and experimentation. Originality/value - The value in addressing this issue is to present the basic details around this new technology and suggest that it has value for its inclusion into the current array of library services.

Frankfurt Book Fair 2012: An Educator's Perspective

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Shanna Hollich) — Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - This viewpoint aims to give an overview and a few highlights from the author’s experience at the 2012 Frankfurt Book Fair.Design/methodology/approach - The author visited the Frankfurt Book Fair from October 10 through October 12, visiting a wide variety of vendors across all exhibition halls and attending a number of special presentations. All empirical data is based on personal observations recorded by journal during and directly after each fair visit.Findings - The Fair was an excellent chance to learn more about the publishing industry, particularly with respect to the author’s prior interests in education and children’s and young adult literature. The event is so large, and the vendors so numerous, that all areas of interest to publishers, librarians, educators, booksellers, and others in the book trade are represented.Originality/value - This report should be of particular interest to those thinking of attending the Frankfurt Book Fair for the first time, as well as those who are familiar with the event but were unable to attend in 2012. Educators and library media specialists will find this viewpoint to be written from a perspective that is especially relevant to them and their work.