International Journal of Information and Knowledge Studies
The International Journal of Information and Knowledge Studies (IJIKS) is an open access and double-blind peer-reviewed journal which is published annually by Bangladesh Institute for Information Literacy and Sustainable Development (BIILSD). The journal publishes original research, case studies, survey reports, conceptual studies, viewpoint that reflect the broad spectrum of the information and knowledge industry internationally. Every article published in this journal is provided with a unique Digital Object Identifier (DOI). This journal is in process to include in indexing and abstracting databases. Now, this journal has been indexed by the following international databases. Crossref Google Scholar Citations Dimensions Semantic Scholar Worldcat Sciencegate
Bangladesh Institute for Information Literacy and Sustainable Development (BIILSD)
Purpose: The purpose of the study is to identify the potential of AI and propose a strategic framework for the adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Libraries and Information Centers (LICs). Methodology: The study adopted a qualitative approach to find the answers to the research objectives. Primarily, the researchers identified the benefits of AI adoption in libraries and information centers based on an extensive review of existing literature by synthesizing insights from multiple empirical studies. To construct the strategic framework, the authors used their perspectives and long experience in the field of library and information sciences. Findings: The study identified that AI tools and technologies can be adopted in diverse services at LICs, i.e., routine operations, administrative tasks, cataloguing, classification, translation services, personalized services, reference services, improving reading habits, and so on. The study provided a six-step framework for the adoption of AI in LICs, which includes setting an AI vision for the organization, determining the readiness of the organization, identifying crucial factors for the successful implementation of AI, implementation planning, assessing the performance of AI-based services, and planning for continuous improvement and sustainability. Implications: This framework can be implemented by the LICs of different regions to adopt AI in their respective organizations. Originality: This framework is one of the first attempts to view the adoption of AI holistic manner.
Copyright (c) 2025 Md. Hasinul Elahi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Purpose: The objectives of this study are to find out how much and how frequently Libraries and Librarianship has changed Globally as well as Bangladesh due to AI. At the same time, how many libraries and librarians are ready to adapt to this change. Design/methodology/approach: Methodology of this study is review based. During the review of the global and Bangladeshi articles, report, different organizations' websites (updated) on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in the libraries and librarianship during 2020-2025 has mainly been considered for this study. Findings: Major findings of the study indicated that some of the leading public and private universities libraries of Bangladesh are concerned and working on AI. Also, the Government of Bangladesh is very much concerned about AI, and by this time, the ICT division of the Bangladesh Government has drafted a policy. Most of the leading private university libraries in Bangladesh e.g. North South University, East West University and Daffodil International University etc. has working and providing few services through AI agent. Research limitations/implications: The research is limited to secondary data and does not involve extensive empirical work in the field. Nevertheless, it provides a basis for future surveys and rural education case studies in Bangladesh Originality/value: The paper is one of the few attempts that explores libraries and librarianship from both national and global perspectives.
Copyright (c) 2025 Syed Robiul Bashar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Significance of digital literacy in rural education in Bangladesh
Purpose: This paper discusses the importance of digital literacy in rural education in Bangladesh, particularly in rural surroundings, and addresses issues that may arise, including the rural-urban digital divide and equity in the provision of quality education in the digital age. Design/methodology/approach: A descriptive and suggestive literature review was incorporated; whereby secondary resources were used. Findings: The key findings indicate that the implementation of digital literacy in Bangladesh is unequal, primarily in rural and semi-urban regions because of the low levels of ICT infrastructure and trained personnel that impact negatively on the skills and confidence of learners, although the adoption of digital literacy in the school curriculum and the investment in teacher development is suggested as the solutions, and the recent evidence indicates that the stronger digital competencies play a significant role in increasing the motivation of online learners among teacher trainees. Research limitations/implications: The research is limited to secondary data and does not involve extensive empirical work in the field. Nevertheless, it provides a basis for future surveys and rural education case studies in Bangladesh Practical implications: Digital literacy should be integrated into the primary school curriculum, teacher training should be more focused, and rural infrastructure should invest in ICT to provide a substantial opportunity to decrease the digital divide and promote educational equity. Originality/value: The paper is a synthesis of the literature on digital literacy in Bangladesh in rural education backgrounds that highlights the issue of the digital divide that has remained constant and presents evidence-based suggestions to policymakers.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anosua Islam Aurthy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Students’ approach towards online learning during Covid-19 period: A public university perspective
Purpose: To identify how students at the public universities used to conduct online learning during covid-19 pandemic and the effectiveness of the platforms where they took their learnings from. Methodology: The study was conducted targeting the students at the University of Dhaka and the sample size was 147. The data were collected through Google form. Data analysis was done with SPSS and Microsoft Excel. Findings: It had been revealed from the study that more than two thirds of the participants were used to pursue online learning and among them the significant portion, which is around 75%, preferred Coursera, Udemy and Udacity as online learning platforms. Less than half of those enrolled in different courses on these platforms had managed to successfully complete the courses and rest could not. 54% of respondents suggested that video quality and teaching systems of the online learning platforms are to be improved to attract more students towards virtual education. Originality and Practical Implications: This one was the first attempt to observe the tendency of public University students regarding online learning during the outbreak of covid-19. The online learning platforms mentioned in the questionnaire, along with the respective educational institutions, will get useful insight from the study to enhance their level of services to the prospective aspirants. Limitations: The study was confined within the University of Dhaka. As the period of the study was in covid-19, it was quite difficult to reach out to the students other than those who are easily reachable by the researchers.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdullah Al Imran, Tonmoy Kumer Chanda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Bibliometric assessment of artificial intelligence applications in libraries
Purpose: Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a transformative technology in libraries, enabling enhanced services, information access, and personalized experiences. To understand the research trends and patterns in AI applications in libraries, a comprehensive bibliometric assessment of authorship patterns was conducted. Methodology: Using data from the Scopus database, key authorship metrics, affiliations, corresponding authors' countries, country-level scientific production, and Lotka's Law analysis were analyzed. Findings: The study identified influential authors, assessed their impact, examined affiliations and international collaborations, and evaluated country-level scientific production. The analysis revealed steady growth in research output, emphasizing the significance of AI in libraries. Collaboration among authors, including international collaboration, showcased the global nature of research efforts. Key authors and their contributions were identified, and patterns of productivity over time were observed. The study also highlighted the countries with the highest scientific production and their research ecosystem. The findings provide insights into authorship patterns, research impact, and global collaboration in AI applications in libraries. Research implications: The study has implications for research policies, international collaboration, economic and social development, education, and benchmarking. By leveraging these insights, policymakers, researchers, and educators can make informed decisions to advance science and technology, foster innovation, and address global challenges in the library domain.
Copyright (c) 2025 Md. Tarik Been Aziz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Library and information science (LIS) curriculum and AI Competencies
Purpose: This study examines the extent to which Library and Information Science (LIS) curricula in Bangladesh address digital and Artificial Intelligence (AI) competencies required for contemporary information environments and identifies gaps in relation to international standards. Methodology: Using a mixed-methods approach, undergraduate, master’s, and postgraduate diploma LIS curricula from four leading Bangladeshi universities were analyzed and categorized into traditional, digital/ICT, and AI-related competencies. The curricula were benchmarked against AI competency frameworks developed by IFLA, UNESCO, ALA, and CILIP. Informal interviews with ten LIS faculty members were conducted to explore curriculum implementation and institutional challenges. Findings: The findings reveal that LIS curricula remain predominantly oriented toward traditional librarianship. While digital and ICT components have expanded, AI-related competencies are limited and unevenly integrated. Alignment with international frameworks is partial, with notable gaps in applied AI skills, data stewardship, and strategic leadership, compounded by infrastructural, pedagogical, and policy constraints. Originality: This is one of the first initiatives in Bangladesh to investigate the appropriateness of the existing LIS curriculum in modern era and AI competencies required for Bangladeshi information professionals. Practical implications: The study underscores the need for an integrated, competency-based LIS curriculum that embeds AI literacy across different degrees to prepare professionals for AI-enabled information services.
Copyright (c) 2025 Md. Saiful Alam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Navigating Change in Information and Knowledge Landscape
Copyright (c) 2025 Dilara Begum https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Global research output on Rhododendron publications based on Web of Science database
Purpose: This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of research publications on Rhododendron from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Methodology: A total of 3082 records from 1989 to 2022 were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection database. The data analyzed using MS Excel and VOS viewer software was used to determine the most frequent keywords used in the publications. Findings: The analysis shows that the number of research publications on Rhododendron has been increasing steadily over the years. The year 2022 recorded the highest number of publications (213), indicating growing interest and continued research activity in this specialized area. The top 10 most prolific authors are dominated by individuals from China, with Li Yong leading with 26 publications. The United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, and Mae Fah Luang University ranked second and third, respectively, among the most productive organizations. China emerged as the most prolific country in terms of the number of research publications on Rhododendron, followed by the United States and India. The keywords most frequently occurring in the publications include "rhododendron," "Ericaceae," and "plants," reflecting the central focus of research in this area. Research limitations: The findings of the study are limited to the data available in the Web of Science Core Collection database from 1989 to 2022. Originality/Value: The findings contribute to a better understanding of the scientific landscape within this field and can help in shaping future research directions and discoveries related to Rhododendrons.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mahender Pratap Singh, Isha Arya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mapping the research trend and international collaboration of IIT Delhi
Purpose: The primary purpose of this study is to find out the trend in research publications and the growth of international collaboration in the domain of science, engineering, technology, management, etc., of IIT Delhi from 2001 to 2022 within India and globally. Methodology: Web of Science is one of the largest and most reputed bibliographic databases covering global publications in science, engineering, technology, etc. The publication records covered in the Web of Science database were extracted using the affiliation search for 22 years from 2001 to 2022, and the publications found are 24893. The scientometric techniques have been used to identify research trends, international collaborations, and research impact. Findings: Almost all publications are in English, except two papers, and most are article types. The number of publications has consistently grown. The number of citations received also increased over time. The collaboration in research publications has consistently grown over the last 22 years. The difference in the average citations between with and without international collaborated publications is 5.14. The data shows that the USA is the leading country in research publications, but Canada has the highest average number of citations per publication. Research limitations: The study is confined to the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, and the period is restricted from 2001 to 2022. Originality: A few studies have been found on institutions’ global collaboration and impact on the scientific community. This study benefits the researchers, educationists, administration, and sponsoring bodies to make informed decisions and investments.
Copyright (c) 2024 Shankar B Chavan, Kalyan Kumar Bhattacharjee, Nabi Hasan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Understanding the pleasure reading habits of university students
Purpose: This study investigates the reading habits of students at Dhaka University. It focuses on the demographic factors that influence their engagement in pleasure reading, their preferred materials and formats, the perceived importance of such reading, the impact of technology, and the challenges they face in their reading practices. Methods: A quantitative research approach was utilized, employing a semi-structured questionnaire to gather data on the demographics, reading habits, and attitudes of 250 students University of Dhaka. This method provided diverse insights into students' perceptions and practices regarding leisure reading. Findings: This study revealed that Dhaka University students often engage in pleasure reading, mainly through digital formats like e-books and online articles. Preferred materials include short stories, job-related guides, and non-fiction. Most students view pleasure reading as beneficial for personal development. Major barriers to pleasure reading include academic workload and limited access to appealing materials. Supportive measures, such as better library resources and dedicated reading spaces, are essential for helping students balance pleasure reading. Research implications: Educational institutions could promote more balanced academic schedules to encourage leisure reading. Additionally, improving access to engaging and diverse reading materials, both digital and physical, could foster a more robust culture of pleasure reading. The influence of technology indicates that universities could collaborate with digital platforms and online reading communities to enhance students' reading experiences, supporting their personal and academic development. These insights can help policymakers, educators, and librarians design initiatives that integrate leisure reading into the academic environment while leveraging the benefits of digital media.
Copyright (c) 2024 Sabrina Aktar , Most. Hasna Hena Akter https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Youth exposure to disinformation in social media platforms
Purpose: This study examines how young people experience disinformation and the role of librarians in helping them combat it by developing media and information literacy skills. Method: The study employed a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative data from 188 young people's opinions and qualitative insights from 17 experienced librarians working with youth in academic libraries. Findings: The study highlights the prevalence of confirmation bias, the tendency to share information, and the impact of source credibility. It underscores the importance of promoting critical thinking skills to combat misinformation on social media platforms. Librarians play a crucial role in this effort by advocating for media literacy and encouraging critical thinking among users. Implication: The study can help design digital literacy programs, media literacy campaigns, and measures by media organizations and policymakers to address mis and disinformation, promote critical thinking, and enhance information quality on social media. Library professionals can lead CoPs to combat social media disinformation through collaboration and media literacy training, especially for library users.
Copyright (c) 2024 Md. Nazim, Md. Nazmul Hasan, Razia Sultana Parul, Mohammad Golam Mostafa, Md. Anik Ahmed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Purpose: This research paper aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of Khulna University's scientific publications to understand publication trends, citation impact, collaboration patterns, and their implications. Methodology: Data from prominent databases, such as Scopus, were collected and analyzed using the R programming language and bibliometric tools. The analysis involved data cleaning, preparation, and visualization using the Biblioshiny package. Findings: The study reveals significant growth in Khulna University's research output, with an annual growth rate of 19.52 percent. The average number of citations per publication is 12.22, indicating the impact of the university's research. Collaboration is prevalent, with an average of 5.36 co-authors per publication, and 53.84 percent of collaborations are international. Research areas such as environmental science, pharmacology, aquaculture, ethnopharmacology, and forest ecology emerged as prominent themes. High-impact sources, including Fitoterapia, PLOS ONE, and IEEE Access, were identified. Implications: The identification of research areas and high-impact sources can guide future research prioritization and strategic decision-making. These findings contribute to enhancing research quality, fostering collaborations, and supporting evidence-based practices at Khulna University.
Copyright (c) 2024 Md. Nurul Islam, Md. Monirul Islam, Md. Aiub Hossain, Md. Tarik Been Aziz, Itfa Farjana https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the factors affecting employees’ adoption of digital libraries in Bangladesh
Purpose: Digital library adoption plays a crucial role in the career success of library employees in today's technologically driven world. As libraries evolve to meet the demands of the digital age, employees who embrace and effectively utilize digital library resources and technologies are better positioned for professional growth and advancement. In line with the sociopolitical agenda of making digital Bangladesh (now smart Bangladesh) employees dealing with digital libraries have enough potential to get priority for career progression by showing an upgraded knowledge base along with compatible skills to the proper authority in Bangladesh. This study attempts to figure out the in-depth factors influencing employees' adoption of digital libraries in Bangladesh. Methodology: Qualitative method was employed where qualitative data were collected through interviews and analyzed with a thematic approach. Findings: The analysis found that organizational culture and managerial intervention as organizational factors, IT innovativeness, self-efficacy, compound knowledge as individual characteristics, digital library usefulness, and subjective norms play as external factors in influencing digital library adoption among its employees. Perceived job success and perceived satisfaction found as mediating factors in the adoption process.
Digital library, digital library adoption, Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT).
Copyright (c) 2024 Md. Mahbubul Islam, Partha Biplob Roy, Md. Amzad Hossain, Md. Roknuzzaman, Dilara Begum, Md. Nazmul Hasan, A.K.M. Eamin Ali Akanda, Md. Armanul Haque https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Digitization of newspaper for space shaping and ensuring user facility in Dhaka University Library, Bangladesh
Purpose: The digitization and automation functions of newspaper will have an enormous influence on library and information institutions. The purpose of the study is to explore the digitization process of printed newspaper preserved in Dhaka University library. Design/methodology/approach: The observational method based on reassessment of the related literature was used in the study. Authors’ experience as well as their managerial and observational involvement in digitization process of printed newspaper is reflected in the study. Findings: Digital scanners were employed to digitize the newspaper collection, making online accessible scanned editions of printed issues from 1900 to 2022. DocuDex software used to convert papers, and a sizable, sophisticated scanner is being used to scan newspapers into digital form in Dhaka University Library. Every month, on average, 100-200 scholars use the digitized newspapers. The scanner with a camera is used to scan the papers. The scanner operates at a speed of 700 pages per hour (Manually). Apart from scanning newspaper, currently, M.Phil theses, PhD theses, books, and articles are being scanned with this machine. Research limitations/implications: The premeditated approach used in this study can serve the library practitioners to develop a successful transition from traditional systems to a technology based one. Originality/value: The study is one of the first attempts to trace the implications of newspaper automation in any university libraries of Bangladesh.
Copyright (c) 2023 Abdur Rahman Sumon; Mohammad Shakaought Hossain Bhuiyan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the responsiveness and practice of using subscribed journals in Bangladesh
Purpose: This study was conducted to examine subscribed journal usage by postgraduate students at Dhaka University Library. Methodology: The study collected primary data from 62 students enrolled in the thesis group at the postgraduate level in the art faculty. The data was analyzed using SPSS and Microsoft software, and the findings were described using frequency tables and data analysis. Findings: The findings reveal that 28.3% respondents were unaware of e-journals, 35% were aware but not using, and 36.7% were aware and using them. The study found that the Department of Information Science & Library Management has a high adoption rate of e-journals. Teachers and thesis supervisors are significant in creating awareness about e-journals among students. Search engines and library websites are the preferred routes for accessing e-journals, while publishers' websites are the least preferred. Searching difficulties and limited assistance are the top reasons, while time constraints and slow downloading have the lowest number of responses. Practical implications: This study sheds light on crucial research implications, such as the need to bridge the gender gap in accessing e-journals, customize support according to academic departments, maximize the roles of educators, streamline access routes, overcome usage obstacles, provide assistance to non-resident students, enhance preferred platforms, resolve technical challenges, and evaluate long-term effects. These insights provide valuable guidance for improving the utilization of e-journals in academic environments.
Copyright (c) 2023 Sabrina Aktar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Challenges to the implementation of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in university libraries in Bangladesh
Purpose: The study discovers the present conditions of using ICT by the university libraries in Bangladesh. This study also finds the challenges for applying ICT in Bangladesh's public and private university libraries. Design/methodology/approach: The study is based on one structured questionnaire from ten selected university librarians. Findings: The study demonstrates how to improve these libraries’ entire condition and services by adopting modern technology. This investigation reveals the state of these libraries, including the problems they encountered in applying information technology, and puts forward necessary recommendations. Originality/value: This study focuses on the challenges of implementing ICT in university libraries in Bangladesh. It will prompt further research on ICT-based library services in academic libraries globally.
Copyright (c) 2023 Abdur Rahman Sumon; Anita Helen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Webometric analysis of alternative access to scholarly publication
Purpose: This study aims to uncover the worldwide usage patterns and growth trends of Library Genesis (LibGen) and Sci-Hub, two popular alternative access platforms to scholarly publications. Design/methodology/approach: This study utilizes a webometric approach to analyze worldwide usage patterns and growth trends of LibGen and Sci-Hub. Data was collected between May and June 2023 on online presence, usage metrics, and pattern from different web-based tools like LibGen and Sci-Hub database, Google Trends, SimilarWeb, and existing Python and GitHub projects. Analyses are conducted by incorporating statistical techniques and previous literature reviews. Findings: The study reveals that LibGen and Sci-Hub have experienced a notable surge in popularity despite facing copyright infringements, legal disputes, and restrictions. Conversion rates and unique visitors have significantly increased, with users from various nations, including developed countries like the USA and China. Statistical data shows a preference for accessing science and technology-related resources, particularly in the field of medicine. Most of the downloads originated from reputable publishers and academic journals. The main motivations behind using these platforms are the high costs and limited access to scholarly publications. This phenomenon has attracted researchers, academics, students, and information seekers globally as they seek to overcome financial constraints and institutional barriers hindering access to valuable knowledge. Research limitations: The study acknowledges limitations related to potential discrepancies and biases from external software and incomplete representation of source databases. The dynamic nature of the platforms also means data is only up until 2022, potentially excluding recent developments. Additionally, the country specific data may not give the exact idea as people use Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access the platforms bypassing restrictions. Practical implications: The findings shed light on the challenges faced by the academic community and offer potential implications for policymakers, publishers, and researchers aiming to address the growing demand for affordable and accessible scholarly publications. Originality/value: The originality of this study lies in its application to examine the alternative shadow libraries for scholarly publications. This research contributes to the existing knowledge domain by offering valuable insights into the extent and trends of utilizing shadow platforms, focusing on the implications of copyright infringements, legal concerns, and restrictions on scholarly knowledge dissemination.
Copyright (c) 2023 Abdur Rahman Sumon; Md. Liton Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Impact of community-based micro-finance in urban poverty reduction in Bangladesh
Purpose: This study aimed to assess the impact of community-based microfinance in reducing urban poverty with a particular focus on Sylhet City, Bangladesh. Methodology: The Community Saving & Credit (CSC) strategy of the Urban Partnership for Poverty Reduction project was chosen as a case in this study. This study used a qualitative research approach by following focus group discussions and in-depth interviews as data collection instruments. The purposive sampling method has been observed to collect data from 20 (twenty) respondents from Sylhet City Corporation's two slum areas, where the Urban Partnerships for Poverty Reduction Project was implemented like other urban areas of Bangladesh. Findings: The study findings show that implementing the Community Saving and Credit (CSC) strategy in Sylhet City has reduced poverty among those who applied for loans. It has enhanced the availability of food, made housing more affordable, diversified income sources, improved health conditions, increased access to education, and amplified the voice of women, especially those in poverty. Research implications: This research will help the government to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will also inform the government about local perceptions regarding the dimensions of escaping poverty. After knowing about the locally specific dimensions of getting out of poverty and the effect of the CBM system in reducing poverty, the government and the policymakers can plan additional steps to operate community-based microcredit systems to reduce poverty.
Copyright (c) 2023 Abdur Rahman Sumon; Sabina Yasmin, MD. Khalid Saifullah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing library professionals’ attitude towards information technology applications in three university libraries of North India
Purpose: The purpose of the present study is to assess the attitude of library professionals towards information technology (IT) implementation in three university libraries in North India. Methodology: The study uses a survey research method in order to ascertain the attitude of library professionals. The primary data was collected from 91 library professionals (professionals, semi-professionals and para-professionals) through structured questionnaires that were then analyzed using Pearson Chi-square analysis. Findings: The study reveals that there is a positive attitude among library professionals towards the implementation of IT in university libraries. Originality: The study adds value to the current literature on academic libraries in India and is one of the cutting-edge studies to look into library professionals’ attitude towards information technology applications in university libraries. Practical implications: The findings suggest that a positive attitude of library professionals was instrumental in implementing the technology in context. However, implementing and maintaining technological infrastructure is an expensive affair that demands investing more funds on the part of university authorities.
Copyright (c) 2023 Tarvinder Singh Handa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Use of E-Shodh Sindhu college component (N-LIST) by faculty of three reputed institutes of Amritsar District
Libraries around the world are using their current global network to promote better, faster, and cheaper ways to make electronic information resources available to information seekers of all kinds. INFLIBNET has revolutionized the development of the appropriate infrastructure for libraries (especially academic libraries) that are part of the network environment. The development of E-ShodhSindhu (N-LIST) program for college plays a significant role to promote higher education. Lot of information at nominal subscription is available to the member college, which they can access with a single click. The study aimed to examine the use of E-Shodh Sindhu (N-LIST College Component)) by faculty of DAV College Ferozepur and came out with certain noted facts and figure and a wide suggestion to promote the usage
E-ShodhSindhu (N-LIST), INFLIBNET, E-journals, E-Books, Faculty
Copyright (c) 2023 aman kaur https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every sector both positively and negatively. Libraries and information institutions have also witnessed a lot of changes in their way of providing services. They had to re-engineer their services and innovate new services for the target audience. They also faced a lot of challenges while providing services to the users. The whole pattern of managing information and sharing resources has changed. The second volume of International Journal of Information and Knowledge Studies (IJIKS) focuses on the topics addressing the overall scenario of information management, use, sharing and dissemination in libraries and information institutions especially during pandemic. It also demonstrates individual practices of using information during the pandemic.
Copyright (c) 2023 M Aslam Alam, Dilara Begum https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Implementation and limitation of online services in rural college libraries during COVID-19 pandemic in Cooch Behar district, West Bengal
Purpose: The purpose of the study is to provide a summary of COVID-19 situation and its effect on academic libraries, the services given by the college libraries during the pandemic situation and how the libraries especially the college libraries have implemented online services during Covid-19 situation. This study tries to understand the functioning and obstacles as well as challenges faced by the college libraries in Cooch Behar during Covid-19 pandemic with regard to their services and performance. Methodology: The survey method has been used to explore the research objective. Sometimes observations methods also used to explore the research objective. The structured questionnaires were mailed to the librarians of the college libraries in Cooch Behar email as well as WhatsApp. A total number of 14 questionnaires were distributed to the college libraries of Cooch Behar district and 100% were received back. Findings: The author highlights some major services provided by the college libraries during Covid-19 pandemic and concludes by showing how the college libraries work collaboratively to support online education systems during pandemic situations. Research limitations: The result of the study is limited to the fourteen college libraries of the Cooch Behar district. Practical implications: The results will be helpful to the other college libraries of Cooch Behar regarding the implementation of online services in their respective institutions. Originality/value: This is original research that identifies the services of college libraries during the pandemic and as well as limitations for implementing those services.
College library, Coronavirus, library services during Covid-19 pandemic, online services
Copyright (c) 2023 Arpita Dutta, Susmita Cakraborty https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Understanding end-users’ perspectives on koha usage in selected university libraries of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Purpose: The research aims to figure out the present state of Koha usage and application in Bangladesh. Methodology: The Survey method was employed with the help of a structured questionnaire. A total of 60 (Sixty) respondents were randomly selected who were getting services through Koha from the libraries. We gathered data from the participants of BRAC University Library; BUET Central Library; Eastern University Library; EWU Library; IUB Library; DIU Library; SAU Library; and Green University of Bangladesh Library. Collected data were analyzed using SPSS (20.0 version) and general statistics. Findings: Findings indicated that most of the respondents (65%) reported Koha was easy to use, while 35% of them had a negative impression. The study explored that users expressed their highest satisfaction level with the statement ‘notifications of new arrival materials (M=3.88), Self-renewal’ (M=3.83), while the lowest M=3.40 with the statement ‘understanding user interface’’ regarding day-to-day usage of Koha. Research limitations: The study covered the perspectives of students as users only for some selected university libraries of Dhaka City. It would be better to include the university libraries of other cities in Bangladesh as well as the perspectives of faculty users. Practical implications: The results will be helpful to the university libraries of Bangladesh which are planning to adopt Koha in near future. Originality/value: This is original research that empirically assesses the use and application of Koha at selected university libraries. Keywords: Koha, university libraries, user's perceptions, Dhaka city, integrated library management system.
Koha, university libraries, user's perception, Dhaka city, integrated library management system
Copyright (c) 2023 Jannatun Nayem; Md. Shiful Islam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Participatory budgeting practices and governance effectiveness
Purpose: This study examines the effectiveness of public participation in budgeting practice at the local rural level in Bangladesh. Methodology: This study uses a mixed-methods research design (social survey method and in-depth interview) as data collection instruments. Simple random sampling method has been used to collect survey data from 180 respondents from two Union Parishads (e.g., Karimgonj & Jafrabad) under Karimgonj Upazila in the Kishoregonj district. In this study, the data has been collected from both primary and secondary sources. The primary data has been collected using a semi-structured questionnaire under the quantitative approach and an in-depth interview under the qualitative approach. Thematic analysis was used to assess qualitative data, while the SPSS was used to study quantitative data. On the other side, the study’s secondary data and information included a variety of published sources. Findings: The major findings revealed that participatory budgeting at the rural-local level is moderately effective, as some of the study respondents were somewhat satisfied. However, most of the respondents wanted more from the budget-making process. The result shows that several factors negatively influence the participatory budgeting practices in Bangladesh. Negative factors include corruption, undue interference of local political leaders, absence of monitoring & supervision, lack of public awareness, lack of access to information, the dominant role of elected representatives, lack of proper leadership training, the influence of elite people, and lack of civic education. Practical implications: The study recommends several policy recommendations to ensure effective and participatory budgeting practices in rural areas of Bangladesh. Keywords: Participation budgeting, governance effectiveness, rural local level, local government institutions.
Participation budgeting, governance effectiveness, rural local level, local government institutions
Copyright (c) 2023 Sabina Yasmin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
University library responses to COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh
Purpose: The goal of this study is to evaluate how university libraries responded to the COVID-19 outbreak and explore the significant initiatives taken by libraries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: This research employed a content analysis approach using a descriptive quantitative study to obtain data from websites of 10 renowned public and private university libraries in Bangladesh based on purposive sampling. A checklist with 30 items in 5 categories was prepared to collect data and were organized in tabular form using Microsoft Excel for further analysis. Findings: Findings reveal that most of the university libraries offer additional online services, such as 75% of library websites provided information about library services during COVID-19, approximately 63% on an initiative for COVID-19, and 68% provided services considering the COVID-19 situation. The study found 84% of university libraries provided links, searches, and retrieval interfaces, and 90% of universities provided library resources during the pandemic. Most of the university libraries have significant digital library services. On the contrary, around 24% of library websites continue to lack certain services to implement basic accessibility standards. Research limitation: The limitation of the present study lies in relying on the contents available on the websites of a limited number of university libraries at a given point of time. Practical implications: This article aims to present a roadmap that libraries can use to make an informed decision while adding new services or enhancing existing ones. Keywords: Content analysis, COVID-19, coronavirus, library website, remote instruction, SARS-COV-2
Content analysis, COVID-19, coronavirus, library website, remote instruction, SARS-COV-2
Copyright (c) 2023 Sabiha Tasmim; Rahat Uddin Azad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Web literacy among the researchers and faculty members of select universities in India during COVID-19
Purpose: The study is taken to assess the awareness, ability, use and web literacy skills of social sciences researchers and faculty of select universities in Punjab and Chandigarh from North India during COVID-19. Methodology: A survey-based study was conducted on social science departments of select universities in Punjab and Chandigarh from North India. The data were collected from a sample of 532 respondents using a structured questionnaire through emails via Google docs. The data were analyzed using SPSS and MS Excel using statistical techniques viz. percentage, Pearson Chi-square test etc. Findings: The study has found that most of the social sciences faculty and researchers of the universities under study used open web during COVID 19 for read/download web content most of them were found having the ability to use the web to some extent. The faculty was found to be more familiar with data security, digital privacy than researchers. The most of them learned how to use the web through self-study and were willing to improve their web literacy skills through some digital literacy programs. Originality: This study is original study that was focused on assessing the web literacy skills of social science faculty and researchers which helped them to use the web especially during the period of COVID-19. Practical implications: The results of this study can be used for university libraries to plan and organize some digital literacy/capacity building programs for the social sciences faculty and researchers according to their specific needs and it will help users to use web in situation like COVID-19 pandemic. Keywords: Awareness, ability, use, web literacy skills, COVID-19, digital literacy program.
Awareness, ability, use, web literacy skills, COVID-19, digital literacy program
Copyright (c) 2023 Baljinder Kaur; Harvinderjit Singh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Editorial articles as source of information on COVID-19: A study of “The Telegraph”
Abstract Purpose: The purpose of the study is to analyze the information on COVID-19, as reflected through the editorial articles, and to find out how these articles will benefit the scientists, policymakers, researchers, and librarians etc. Methodology: The contents of the editorial articles of the newspaper were examined using content analysis method to find out what kind of information they served and appropriate keywords were selected pertaining to the COVID-19 issue. Findings: Total 43 keywords were found from the articles which were analyzed to find out on which facet of COVID-19 the newspaper stressed. Research limitations: The present study is limited to only one national newspaper widely circulated in West Bengal. The time span chosen covered the first wave of the pandemic i.e., from March 2020 to March 2021. Only editorial articles of the newspaper are taken for the study. Originality: To the best of the researcher’s understanding, this type of work has seldom been undertaken in the country. This type of research is very much required to aware the public regarding COVID-19, and the steps taken by the Government in combatting it. Social implications: The role of newspaper in society is noteworthy, especially when newspapers concentrate on some news related to the health education scenario, and especially if it is very much in the public interest. The editors have a great role to play in bringing out the exact scenario of COVID-19 to the public. Therefore, this work has a great social implication.
COVID-19, editorial articles, social media, frontliners
Copyright (c) 2023 Tania Sarkar; Swapna Banerjee https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Case Study of the intercultural communication of the National Library of China during the pandemic
Purpose: As information technologies and digital libraries have become mature, smart libraries will bring more convenient services to the public. Taking the National Library of China as a case study, the article reveals that the international exchange business of the library in the post-epidemic era has been transformed from traditional physical communication to online video communication as the major form supplemented by physical communication, and this transformation has in turn stimulated the development of virtual communication technology services, which has played a role in the construction and development of smart libraries. Methodology: The research method of this paper is a case study which followed a questionnaire survey for collecting primary data. Part of the primary data involved in this paper comes from the author's work experience, and the other part comes from the questionnaire survey. Findings: The demand for international exchanges has not declined due to the spread of the pandemic and the public is gradually adapting to online interaction. 95% of the people in this survey believe that the current overall experience of the NLC's online video international exchanges is far from expectations. Originality/value:The analysis of the international exchange practice in the past two years has brought enlightenment to the development of library.
International exchanges, National Library of China, intercultural communication, online video conference
Copyright (c) 2023 Ni Guo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Purpose: This study aims to describe online user education activities during the COVID-19 pandemic at the UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta Library. Design/Methodology/Approach: The approach taken in this paper is an empirical approach related to activities at the UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library. Findings: This paper provides an overview of the impact of the pandemic on services at the UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library. It also highlights the implementation of online user education during the COVID-19 pandemic at the UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library which was previously carried out physically. It further observes user behavior after online user education is implemented. Originality/Values: The library's effort to organize online user education is one of the innovations made by the library of UIN Sunan Kalijaga in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Online user education must continue to be carried out to help users get to know the library orientation at the UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library. The implementation of online user education at the UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library can be imitated and can be used by other libraries as a model for implementing user education during the pandemic.
Copyright (c) 2021 Abdur Rahman Sumon; Anik Nur Azizah, Muh Khabib https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Purpose: The main objective of this study is to examine the importance of digital libraries during the COVID-19 pandemic in dissemination of information services, to know the users’ perspectives towards its success and also examines the challenges faced by the libraries during this pandemic and also about how the librarians cope up with the challenges and function in the new normal situation. Methodology: An online Pan-India survey was conducted among library professionals and user communities. By using survey instrument, Google Form, a total of 12 questions were asked from general to specific towards use of digital libraries during pandemic period. Total 250 responses were received. The responses received were categorized, analyzed and presented in this paper. The research data were primarily collected from blogs, social media and online survey which were carried out among various library professionals to know their perspective towards digital libraries, new skill requirement and current challenges faced by the libraries in the new normal imposed on us due to COVID-19 pandemic. Findings: This study reveals that the library professionals are eager to learn online technologies for developing and delivering information services. It also identifies that to remain connected and to spread knowledge, large numbers of online webinars are conducted in library fields. The major challenges the librarians faced during COVID-19 are physical distancing from workplace, fear of disease contraction, Lack of high speed internet connection, low response of users in social media platforms etc. Originality/ value: This is an original study conducted in India which gives an overview on the transformation of libraries by using digital library services to meet the need of the users during COVID-19.
Copyright (c) 2021 P K Bhattacharya, Nikhil Kumar, R N Malviya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0