The Impact of Cloud Computing on Academic Libraries

With the introduction of computers and other forms of communication technology, library services have undergone a significant transformation. Libraries have been automated, networked, and are currently being converted into virtual or paperless libraries. This article is dedicated to many aspects of cloud computing, including different kinds and applications. There is a discussion about the advantages and drawbacks of cloud computing in academic libraries. The article also includes recommendations for professional librarians and academic libraries across the globe on how to take advantage of cloud computing resources. This article may be of use in the development of cloud-based services for university libraries. The article claims that cloud providers\u27 high quality of service, the expansion of Internet bandwidth, and the rapid transfer of information should all contribute to improving academic library services in the future. Cloud computing is essential for today\u27s information innovation, and it is vital for university libraries

Assessment of Library Service Quality at University of The Bahamas Libraries: A Comparison of the 2008 and 2018 LibQual Surveys

The 21st-century learner has changed the way that libraries are being used. Academic libraries must demonstrate their value to university governing boards, therefore, libraries must understand current user perceptions to be prepared for the future. Continuous assessment of library collections, space, and services provides data needed to understand and demonstrate the impact of libraries in academia. University of The Bahamas Libraries administered the web-based LibQUAL+® survey twice, first in 2008 and 10 years later in 2018, to assess users’ perceptions and to measure service quality. The survey designed by the Association of Research Libraries and Texas A&M University has been used globally by libraries to gain insight from their user communities. In the survey findings, library users highlighted a need for more computers, printers, and updated equipment, along with more current books and journals. The survey results also revealed that University Libraries had helpful staff who provided efficient service. Users perceived that the libraries’ information literacy sessions helped them gain skills allowing them to become more efficient in their academic pursuits. With the opening of two new library buildings during this period, the onsite use of resources increased significantly for both the Harry C. Moore Library and UB North Campus Library. Overall, the general satisfaction level of users increased in 2018

You Want Coffee with That? Revisiting the Library as Place

The constantly changing roles of libraries and librarians, as well as the onslaught of electronic resources and mobile technology, have refocused attention on the library’s place and value in today’s society. This paper highlights a 2015 academic library conference presentation and includes supplemental information on the subject. It focuses on the library less as the traditional place to gather information and more as the meeting place – a third place – where like-minded individuals, their information-gathering devices in tow, enter and expect “super-sized” customer service

Computers: Equipment and Services

published or submitted for publicatio

Claim your space: re-placing spaces to better meet the needs of the net generation

The challenge for the Reid Library at The University of Western Australia was the transformation of a 1960s building into a welcoming space with services and facilities appropriate for a more technologically demanding generation. A key issue was how to balance the continuing need for access to physical collections with the rapidly expanding demand for new kinds of learning spaces and facilities oriented towards on-line and collaborative learning and research. This paper outlines the approach taken to identify client needs (both physical and virtual), define and propose new service models, and transform learning spaces while maintaining access to physical collections

The Library in the City: Changing Demands and a Challenging Future

Examines the Free Library of Philadelphia's operations compared with other urban libraries, including circulation, visits, and programming; challenges in staffing and efforts to adjust to changing needs; and barriers such as a complex governing structure

Footnotes, November/December 2005, Vol. 29, no. 11-12

Monthly newsletter of the State Librar

Implications for Library and Information Science Education

published or submitted for publicatio

Opportunity for All: How the American Public Benefits From Internet Access at U.S. Libraries

Examines the use of free computer and Internet access in public libraries, by income level, age, race/ethnicity, and online activity. Explores libraries' role as a community resource for social media, education, employment, e-government, and other areas