Annotated bibliography

							Library: A building that houses books and much more


(An annotated bibliography on the Role of Libraries in Education)




                        By: Deepti Dutta

          INFO522: Information Access & Resources
                  Instructor: Dr Linda Marion
                      19th March 19, 2010
                                   Introduction and Scope

A person engages in learning throughout his/her lifetime and uses the acquired knowledge and

skills for the success of his/her living. The process of learning has evolved with time and

technology. The way we access information has changed. Libraries are places of learning and

provide the human race with never ending resources of knowledge. With the changing face of

information and technology, libraries have also changed and adapted to the needs of its users.

They have expanded their roles from information assimilators to information providers. This

bibliography explores the contribution of libraries to education. On one hand they attempt to

close the knowledge gap by providing resources to the under privileged while on the other hand

they take on the challenge of providing library services to distant learners. The potential of

libraries to further expand its boundaries and provide education is also explored.




                                 Description of User Group


This bibliography covers studies published from 1999 – 2009 and covers all age groups, in

different parts of the world. Attempts to expose children to better reading materials and

technology resources are made to give them a good start. Adults with limited exposure to

technology are taught to improve their skills and seniors who lag behind in this age of electronic

resources are given training in how to use them to their advantage. Also included is the vast

community of students striving for higher education, who are changing the way education is

offered in universities, challenging libraries to keep up with the modern technology to fulfill

their demands.
                                       Literature Review

Literacy not only equips adults with employment skills but also with developmental skills; to

engage with health related issues like nutrition, a healthy life-style and children's education and

also the ability to participate fully in democracy (Nassimbeni 2008). Illiteracy is a significant

problem in South Africa. In a speech in 2001, Professor Kader Asmal, Minister of Education at

the time, noted that


       …6 million South Africans (were) barred from the written word, from the whole universe

of information and imagination that books hold; and also from the more functional everyday

empowerment that written languages gives..(Nassimbeni 2006)


       A study performed to get an idea of the frequency and range of activities towards literacy,

offered by the libraries at Cape Town, South Africa found that the most frequently mentioned

item was the provision of accommodation for the classes (63 libraries). The supply of library

material through block loans to the literacy organization was ranked equally with the

arrangement of library visits (40 libraries). This was followed by the promotion of library

membership, an important method of entrenching the reading habit and ensuring a stable supply

of suitable reading material, a factor closely related to the retention of reading skills (25

libraries). Reading sessions were also organized in eight libraries.


       The libraries with direct participation in adult education programs periodically offered a

range of extramural activities to the learners. The most frequently offered was a visit to cultural

institutions such as a museum, followed by visits to botanical gardens, and then to sites of natural

beauty, such as Cape Point. Life skills expeditions such as visits to the fire fighting department

and health clinics were also offered. Adult learners were also included in celebrations for
marking literacy or reading events. These were all important enrichment activities offering

enjoyment and learning opportunities and motivating the learners (Nassimbeni 2006).


       In another study featuring two Cape Town libraries, life skills course was offered at one

library while computer skills at the other. Life skills course consisted of income generation skills

such as fabric painting, decorating candles, making greeting cards and working with beads and

candles. Computer skills course also offered a business course focusing on business writing

skills, using banks and basic business concepts (Nassimbeni 2008).


       Illiteracy plagues developed countries too but here the libraries are equipped with

comparatively better resources. Various Literacy partnerships in UK have allowed public

libraries to benefit from: shared resources, costs, knowledge, skills and experience; improve the

chances of attracting the ‘hard to reach’; avoid service duplication; enhance image and raise the

profile of library services; and improve the chances of goal achievement. Also training courses

are provided to equip library staff and basic skills providers with the required skills and

knowledge to deliver adult literacy services.


       A report on how the literacy issue was addressed at 8 public libraries in UK revealed that

Libraries had developed special collection for emergent readers. Special efforts were made to

label and place the collection so they could be located easily. Guidelines were circulated to

libraries to identify new titles to keep the collections well stocked and appealing.


       Books centered around reader’s hobbies and interests were identified, collections were

built by suggestions of readers and Audio-Visual loans and Internet usage was encouraged to

make them a habitual library users. Library tours were a key feature to acquaint adults to the

library. Investments were made in talking books to facilitate participation in reading groups for
those who were still learning to read. A series of library events were conducted to encourage

adults to visit the library for the first time (McLoughlin 2004)


       Efforts are made to provide better literacy opportunities for children of low income

communities. During such an effort, 32 neighborhood branch libraries, in the city of Philadelphia

were transformed over a five year period into technological modern urban library systems. An

attempt was made to reduce the knowledge gap between the children of low income and middle

income families by providing special after school programs, collections to match patron’s native

language and cultural interests and installing 9 computers in each of the libraries (Neuman 2006)


       In another program called Book Aloud, five county library systems and the Free Library

of Philadelphia collaborated to exposed economically disadvantaged children in 337 not-for-

profit childcare centers (serving 17, 675 children) to greater quantities of print and meaningful

language. Collaborative activities were planned throughout the year, giving 102 local libraries

over 54, 150 new titles similar to those in the childcare centers, along with special events such as

puppet shows, speakers and storytellers to encourage increased attendance. Books Aloud

program also provided the 10 hours of training to childcare staff at their local library branches on

read-aloud strategies and thematic activities. The program was supervised by two staff librarians

in each county who were also notified of the progress of the project. Comparing the Book Aloud

group with a controlled group, it was found that Books Aloud Children outdistanced their

counterparts (Neuman 1999).


       Besides “leveling the field” for the illiterate, libraries are obligated to keep up with the

times and meet the demands of the community which is striving for better education.
       The popularity of distance learning has provided a challenge for the Academic libraries.

The libraries are responsible for providing distance learners with the same services which are

provided to an on campus student. The very characteristic of distant locations of students

demands fresh ways to deliver services, based on constantly evolving technologies, new program

offerings, increasing enrolments and learner needs. In most cases traditional on-campus library

services themselves cannot be stretched to meet the library needs of distance students and faculty

who face distinct and different challenges in library access and information delivery. (Kavulya

2004). The librarians need to consider how the library's resources, services, and instruction

programs should be altered to meet the needs of the all of their user population, particularly those

students and faculty who are using the library building less but still need assistance to use the

library's resources, services, and instructional capabilities effectively (Kelly 2003)


       There is a need for reliable, rapid and secure access to institutional and other data banks

including print and Internet-based resources. Providing information literacy instruction to

distance education students requires new methods of delivery such as online courses, interactive

web based tools, video conferencing or other innovative methods of technology. This calls for

investments in information technology, reallocation of staff resources and staff trained for new

responsibilities. There is also the need for preparing documentation for electronic tools to make

sure that it is specific to distance education students' needs. (Kavulya 2004)


       An online survey of librarians of 143 institutions offering distance programs aimed to

find how the instructions were provided for their distant population. It was found from 97% of

the responses received that some sort of special support to distance students was offered, 85%

had a general Website or guide focused on the need of the students, 72% offered online guides or

tutorials for particular resources or services and 68% had specific contact person within the
library who dealt with distant users’ needs. 51% send print materials, 21% sent CD-ROMs or

other electronic materials to the distant students (Hines 2008). The survey of graduate (1,961)

and undergraduate (772) students enrolled in University of Maryland University College

(UMUC) revealed that over 71% students reported that Web-based tutorials or guides were the

most popular formats for receiving instruction in library resources and services. (Kelley 2003)


        The Internet has now become a marketing tool to meet customers, to introduce products

and provide individualized services. A study of Web Pages of 13 University Libraries in Sri

Lanka explored how Web marketing could be used in the library context and to increase lifelong

learning. The library’s web page can be used as communication channel to extend and retain

relationship with users (Arachchige 2007). In the survey of UMUC students, the most effective

means to reach them was, through the university library’s home page (62.7%). This finding

strongly suggested that the library needs to ensure that its home page is current, is updated

regularly, and provides information in a format that is helpful to students (Kelley 2003).


       The UMUC survey further explored the student preferences and trends in their use of

libraries and libraries resources. While 66% responded that they never or seldom visited the

library, over 51% indicated that off campus access to full-text materials in library’s databases

was the most useful service, followed by off-campus access to library’s online catalog (51%).

The top reason students thought they would be more motivated to use libraries was if there were

more full-texts available online (71.7%) (Kelley 2003)


       The electronic journal (e-journal) collections are changing the nature of scholarship by

increasing access to research materials which might not have been otherwise found. Their

demand among the academic and research community has increased over the years. University
Grants Commission of India sponsors ‘‘UGC-Infonet Digital Library Consortium” provides high

speed internet access to approximately 5,000 full text scholarly e-journal in the areas of science,

technology, the social sciences and humanities.


       A survey of 100 doctoral students from University of Goa, India (96 completed for

analysis) found out that 73% of the participants felt that they can get faster access to information

using e-journals; 69% could keep abreast of the latest information, 64% could get easier access

to information, 60% could access to a wider range of information, 50% claimed that it expedited

the research process and improved professional competency for 29%. At the end of the survey,

majority (95 percent) of the respondents expressed the need for more e-journals. (Chirra 2009)


       Academic libraries are building strong e-Books collection to support distance learners.

These are equivalent of a print book in digital format and can be read on a computer or other

digital reader. An e-book can be searched quickly and easily for specific information and when

owned or leased by a library can be available 24/7, whether a library is open or not.


       A study performed at Central Michigan University (CMU) compared the usage of e-

books. It concluded that the percentage of e-book use at CMU among off-campus students was

much higher than their usage of the general population (Grudzien 2008).


        In addition to the above resources, subject librarians also provide course or discipline

specific Web pages, course specific guides, wikis/web pages for distance learners, tutorials or

learning modules, print handouts and online FAQs. Reference via chat, instant messaging, e-mail

and telephone is also provided. (Cassner 2008)
       Various researches reveal that students overwhelmingly prefer to have instruction

delivered in a format that is accessible off-campus and offers them flexibility in when they

receive instruction. The decrease in the usage of the physical library indicates that, students are

relying to a greater degree on online resources available outside the library's walls (Kelly 2003)


       As the new ways to share and access information are developed, the information poor are

becoming more impoverished. The libraries can help bridge this digital divide. They have the

potential to be an ideal site for providing both Internet access and training for those who are

socially and economically disadvantaged because the mission of public libraries is to provide

free or low-cost services to meet the information needs of the public and they are typically

located in every community and their locations are often accessible using public transportations

(Xie 2009).


       As government sites and organizations continue in their attempts to move their own

information resources online, public libraries can reduce barriers to access and use of networked

information for those most threatened by the digital divide (Bishop 1999). One such

collaborative program involved teaching seniors to access health and medical information using

government sites - NIHSeniorHealth.gov and MedlinePlus.gov (Xie 2009). Another study

explored the community information needs, communication channels, and computer experiences

of people—predominantly African-American women—living in low-income neighborhoods in

Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. The fact that majority of the participants in this study used the

libraries regularly but not computer resources, highlights the fact that the libraries need to

collaborate with other community-based organizations so that together they can provide a strong

and resilient set of services (Bishop 1999).
                                           References

Arachchige, J. J. G. (2007). Lifelong learning through libraries: Use of web pages as a marketing
    channel in university libraries of sri lanka. Information Studies, 13(3), 163-170.

Abstract: Objective of this paper is to identify the role of libraries in Sri Lanka for the process
of improving lifelong learning and identify strategies applicable from the e-marketing concept.
Use of the web pages as a marketing tool among university libraries were examined by logging
onto the homepages of respective libraries of government universities. Contents, strategic links,
and the accessibility of these homepages were explored. (Excerpt from published abstract)

Annotation: The study evaluated the design and elements of the web page of the University
Libraries. It was a unique way to depict the role of libraries in lifelong learning. The strategy of
using web pages as marketing tool and make them user oriented was highlighted.

Search strategy: I found this article (by chance), by browsing. A whole bunch of articles
resulted when I was looking for the article “Using the Internet to support lifelong learning By:
Newton, Robert; Marcella, Rita; MacLennan, Alan. 1998” in EBSCO (LISTA) through my local
library’s database. I did not restrict my search to title and received false drops with the word
‘lifelong’. This was one of them.

Search Method: Browsing

Search String: Referenced in

Newton, R., Marcella, R., & MacLennan, A., (1998). Using the Internet to support lifelong
learning.

Database: Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts




Bishop, A. P., Tidline, T. J., Shoemaker, S., & Salela, P. (1999). Public libraries and networked
    information services in low-income communities. Library & Information Science Research,
    21(3), 361-390.

Abstract: This article presents findings from an empirical study of community information
exchange and computer access and use among low-income, predominantly African-American
residents in one locale. Data were collected through household interviews, focus groups, and
surveys. A follow-up telephone survey of adult community members who had received training
and computers in summer 1998 was conducted to gauge use and impact of CNI resources.
Results indicate that, while computer use is minimal, many low-income community members are
poised to participate in the local development of networked information services. (modified
abstract).
Annotation: The research reported here was supported by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s
Telecommunications. This article has been cited 18 times and the author has written many
articles in the field of Information and Library Science. The survey conducted was very useful to
understand how the role of libraries could be expanded to meet the needs of the community.

Search Strategy: I was ending up with a lot of review articles or descriptive reports, so I tried
searching the foot notes for actual research performed in the field.

Search Method: Foot note chasing and Author search in Dialog

I found the above article using footnote chasing an article I found in dialog “Caidi, N., & Allard,
D. (2005). Social inclusion of newcomers to canada: An information problem? Library &
Information Science Research (07408188), 27(3), 302-324.”

Search Statement: I used the following search statement

? s au=bishop ap

Search String: Referenced in

 Caidi, N., & Allard, D. (2005). Social inclusion of newcomers to canada: An information
problem? Library & Information Science Research (07408188), 27(3), 302-324.

Database: Social SciSearch [Dialog File 7]




Cassner, M., & Adams, K. E. (2008). The subject specialist librarian's role in providing distance
    learning services. Journal of Library Administration, 48(3), 391-410.

Abstract: The authors’ research is based on two surveys. The primary research question was,
what is the role of subject librarians in providing distance learning services? One study
population, subject librarian practitioners, was asked to respond to the survey based on their level
of activity with distance learners. The other population, distance librarians, was asked to report
on the knowledge of subject librarians’ work with distance learners at their institution. The
survey population was reached via electronic lists or e-mail LISTSERVS. Messages were sent to
librarians subscribing to electronic lists in social science, humanities, and science/technology
disciplines, as well as to a list for distance librarians. (modified abstract)



Annotation: At times both the roles were performed by the same librarian. The data was
collected on a vast variety of technology and support methods used at the libraries. The study
also provides an insight to what services are provided in the universities which support distance
learning.
Search Strategy: I wanted to find articles depicting the role of libraries in distance learning.

Search Method: Descriptor search

I found the above article using Descriptor search in Dialog.

Search Statement:

ds

Set   Items Description

S1     2921 LIBRAR? AND ROLE?

S2       0 DE "DISTANCE EDUCTION"

S3     1229 "DISTANCE EDUCATION"/DE

S4      29 S1 AND S3



Database: I used Library Literature and Information Science database, which indexes more than
229 key library and information science periodicals published in the United States and
elsewhere.

Library Literature and Information Science [Dialog File 438]




Chirra, R., & Madhusudhan, M. (2009). Use of electronic journals by doctoral research scholars
    of goa university, india. Library Hi Tech News, 26(10), 12-15.

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to study the use of electronic (e)-journals by doctoral
research scholars of Goa University, Goa (India). A survey is conducted through a structured
questionnaire circulated among 100 doctoral research scholars (PhD) and the response rate is
found to be 96 percent. The responses received from the doctoral research scholars to 16
questions is presented in the form of tables and figures and analyzed by using a simple method of
calculation (modified abstract).

Annotation: The scope of the study was restricted only to students who were pursuing their
doctor of philosophy. At a graduate or undergraduate level, the usage or demand of e-journals
cannot be assumed using the survey performed in this study.
Search Strategy: I wanted to explore the usage of resources provided by Universities hence
used the keyword e-journal. I used the database ECO and found a lot of good research article so
thought of sticking to it.

Search Method: Keyword searching

I found this article using keyword search in the FirstSearch, which provides searching platform
for a number of periodical databases covering the Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Arts &
Humanities, and Social Sciences. I used the following databases - ArticleFirst, ECO, ERIC , but
narrowed down to ECO.

Search Statement: kw: librar? and kw: e-journal?

Database: I used ECO, which provides an OCLC collection of scholarly journals.




Grudzien, P., & Casey, A. M. (2008). Do off-campus students use E-books? Journal of Library
    Administration, 48(3), 455-466.

Abstract: This study looks at the usage of e-books by off-campus students at Central Michigan
University (CMU) to see if usage patterns can assist librarians with e-book collection
development to support off-campus programs. First, the comparative size of the off-campus to
on-campus population was collected for the last three years. Second, the e-book collection itself
was evaluated by LC call number to get a picture of the relative strengths and weaknesses of the
subject coverage in relation to CMU’s off-campus degree programs. Third, usage statistics by
user category for the last 3 years were reviewed to provide a general picture of who was actually
accessing the e-books. (modified abstract)

Annotation: The study was conducted in 2007 and data for the past three years was collected to
evaluate the usage of e-books. There was a limitation to the study as ‘use’ of e-books could not
be defined. A survey of the students could have provided a better idea of their usage and also
pattern of use among the on campus and off campus students.

Search Strategy: I wanted to find the usage of resources – e-books provided by the University.

Search Method: Browsing the Journal of library Administration

Search Statement: N/A

Database: N/A
Hines, S. S. (2008). How it's done: Examining distance education library instruction and
    assessment. Journal of Library Administration, 48(3), 467-478.

Abstract: While articles on individual studies, surveys, and programs abound, there is a lack of
baseline data regarding what and how libraries provide instruction for their distant populations.
Do libraries generally provide information literacy or library instruction to students at a distance?
How is instruction usually provided? Is instruction generally assessed? If so, how is instruction
assessed? These questions were asked of librarians in an online survey of 143 institutions
offering distance programs, randomly sampled from the College Blue Book (Excerpt from
published abstract)

Annotation: The expected results from the study that institutions with more money and students
would provide more and better service were not received. The study suggests that level of service
provided depends on the individual effort of the librarians. Statistics is used to interpret the
results. Bar graphs are used to compare different services provided.

Search Strategy: I wanted to look for a study which listed what kind of sources were provided
to the distance learners in the universities. I used ECO a lot at the end of my project as it had
scholarly articles.

Search Method: Browsing the Journal of library Administration

Using the ECO database in FirstSearch (which provides searching platform for a number of
periodical databases covering the Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Humanities, and
Social Sciences.), I typed the keywords ‘(kw: librar? and kw: distance w learning) or (kw: librar? and
kw: distance w learner)” and found an article “Creation, Management, and Assessment of Library
Screencasts: The Regis Libraries Animated Tutorials Project”. While looking for this article in
the Journal of library administration, I found a couple of useful articles.

Search Statement: N/A

Database: N/A




Kavulya, J. M. (2004). Challenges in the provision of library services for distance education: A
   case study of selected universities in kenya. African Journal of Library, Archives &
   Information Science, 14(1), 15-28.

Abstract: This paper examines the efforts being made by Kenyan university libraries to fulfill
the information needs of the distance education students in their respective institutions. Data for
this study were collected through interviews with the chief librarian of each of the four
universities. In the case of the African Virtual University, data were collected through a review
of the available documents and an interview with the chief librarian of one of its partner
institutions in Kenya, Kenyatta University (modified abstract)

Annotation: It was interesting to find distance learning services offered by universities outside
of US and the popularity of electronic resources is universal. The study was performed in 2002,
when only 4 universities provided distance learning programs. The author Joseph Muema
Kavulya is Reference Librarian at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. He holds a BA
(Sociology and Literature) and MEd (Library Science) degrees. At the time the study was
published, he was studying at Humboldt University, Berlin for a doctoral degree in Library
Science.

Search Strategy: To find the role of libraries in distance learning. I picked up the “distance
learning” from descriptor field in some other articles.

Search Method: I used dialog to look for keywords library and learning. I further narrowed
    down my search using the word role and distance.

Search Statement: I found the above article using dialog

? b438

? s library and learning

     109960 LIBRARY

        4098 LEARNING

   S9 1621 LIBRARY AND LEARNING




? s s9 and role

        1621 S9

        3338 ROLE

  S10     86 S9 AND ROLE




? s s10 and distance
         86 S10
        1518 DISTANCE

  S11     15 S10 AND DISTANCE




Database: I used Library Literature and Information Science database, which indexes more than
229 key library and information science periodicals published in the United States and
elsewhere.

Library Literature and Information Science [Dialog File 438]




Kelley, K. B., & Orr, G. H. (2003). Trends in distant student use of electronic resources: A
    survey. College & Research Libraries, 64(3), 176.

Abstract: The survey by mail was conducted in 2001, of graduate (1,961) and undergraduate
(772) students enrolled in University of Maryland University College (UMUC) observed the
student preferences and trends in their use of libraries and libraries resources. One important
element of the survey was to obtain in-depth information on student usage patterns for electronic
resources and services (modified abstract)

Annotation: The study provided a very detailed and useful survey of students and how they
utilized the library services. The survey performed in 2001 included both graduate and
undergraduate students, 21,121 in all. Similar surveys performed in 1996 showed the trend
shifting away from physical library to online resources. Bar graphs show the usage of various
library resources by different categories of students.

Search Strategy: I wanted more research material to support my sub topic – of how academic
libraries are providing innovative resources to help distance learners. I had a few articles which
showed surveys of the librarians. Now I wanted something from the students’ end and how they
utilized the various resources.

Search Method: Foot note chasing

This article was cited by another article I found using the ECO database in FirstSearch (which
provides searching platform for a number of periodical databases covering the Sciences,
Technology, Engineering, Arts & Humanities, and Social Sciences.). “Use and impact of
electronic journals in the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, India” which I found using the
following search statement “kw: librar? and kw: e-journal?” I found this article using SFX in the
LISTA Database.

Search Statement: N/A
Search String: Referenced in

Kaur, B., & Verma, R. (2009). Use and impact of electronic journals in the indian institute of
technology, delhi, india. The Electronic Library, 27(4), 611-622.

Database: Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts




McLoughlin, C., & Morris, A. (2004). UK public libraries: Roles in adult literacy provision.
   Journal of Librarianship & Information Science, 36(1), 37-46.

Abstract: Reported here are the results of a research project that examined the role of UK public
libraries in addressing adult literacy including approaches and issues. Eight public libraries were
selected as case studies and adult literacy provision was investigated using staff interviews. The
interviews provided support for the role of public libraries in promoting the pleasure of reading
to adults with poor literacy (Excerpt from published abstract)

Annotation: The study showed that the library staff was very committed and innovative in their
approach towards adult literacy and were equipped with sufficient resources for the program
which is rarely seen in other studies.

Authors Carla McLoughlin is a library assistant at the University of East Anglia. She has an MA
in Information and Library Studies in the Department of Information Science.

Dr Anne Morris is a Reader in Information Science and Director of Teaching in the Department
of Information Science at Loughborough University. She has a background in research
encompassing ergonomics, ICT and information science.

Search Strategy: After I had a couple of articles about Cape Town, South Africa, I wanted to
diversify to other countries and see if they were facing similar issues.

Search Method: Keyword searching

I found this article using FirstSearch (which provides searching platform for a number of periodical
databases covering the Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Humanities, and Social Sciences) ,
searching the following databases -

ArticleFirst, ECO, WilsonSelectPlus



Search Statement:
(kw: librar? and kw: Adult w education) and ((kw: south and kw: africa)) or (kw: librar? and kw:
adult and kw: literacy)

Database: Article First - OCLC index of articles from the contents pages of journals




Nassimbeni, M., & May, B. (2006). Adult education in south african public libraries: A profile of
    activities. South African Journal of Library & Information Science, 72(1), 12-26.

Abstract: This paper reports on the findings of a research investigation into the role of South
African public libraries in adult education. A questionnaire was distributed to 1295 public
libraries for the collection of statistical and qualitative information in an attempt to build national
and provincial profiles of adult education activities (Excerpt from published abstract).

Annotation: The study showed that only 23 % of the libraries participated in the Adult Literacy
program. The libraries that contribute to the fight against illiteracy by participating in adult
education are to be commended for working in a field that has been experiencing setbacks,
disappointments and slow progress in the first decade of democracy. This study cannot be
compared to studies performed in developed countries which have comparatively more
resources, libraries and lower rate of illiteracy.

Search Strategy: When I had a case study for two South African libraries, I wanted to see if
there was more studies related to it, may be by the same author.

Search Method: Keyword Searching

I used keywords in FirstSearch (which provides searching platform for a number of periodical
databases covering the Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Humanities, and Social
Sciences.)

Search Statement: kw: librar? and kw: adult w education

Database: ArticleFirst




Nassimbeni, M., & Tandwa, N. (2008). Adult education in two public libraries in cape town: A
case study. South African Journal of Library & Information Science 74(1), 83-92.

Abstract: The aim of the study was to investigate the role of reading materials in adult education
programs and their availability and use in two public libraries in Cape Town. The research
questions of the study were as follows: (1) How available are locally produced literacy materials
for use in literacy programs in public libraries? (2) What are the types and features of these
literacy materials? (3) How suitable are the literacy materials in the adult learners' acquisition of
literacy? Using the case study approach the researcher made an in-depth study of the program
offerings from the perspective of the adult learners, and tried to establish how and whether they
made use of literacy materials, since their availability is so important in literacy instruction and
the development of a reading habit. Respondents were 54 adult learners, 2 librarians (one from
each of the libraries) and Facilitators at each of the sites.



Annotation: Different funding models in the two cases led to different results. Even though one
of the library received government support from the Department of Education for the library-
based program and from the Department of Health for the hospital-based program, their level of
support was inadequate, and could not sustain the minimum requirement of an adequate supply
of learning and teaching materials. From this research the author was able to establish that
literacy materials have an impact on fighting illiteracy and changing the lives of the illiterates.

Search Strategy: I found this article while exploring the role of libraries in Adult literacy.

Search Method: Keyword Searching in First Search

Search Statement: kw: librar? and kw: adult w education

Database: Article First - OCLC index of articles from the contents pages of journals




Neuman, S. B. (1999). Books make a difference: A study of access to literacy. Reading Research
   Quarterly, 34(3), 286.

Abstract: The study was designed as a formative experiment where attempts were made to make
explicit connections between theory and field-based research. Systematic random sampling
procedures were used to select a sample from larger number of centers receiving the
intervention. Comparing the Book Aloud group with a controlled group, it was found that Books
Aloud Children outdistanced their counterparts (modified abstract).

Annotation: Neuman is a professor in educational studies specializing in early literacy
development at the University of Michigan. She served for two years as the U .S. Assistant
Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education under President George W. Bush. Her
research and teaching interests include early literacy for economically disadvantaged children
and curriculum. The follow up with the children entering kindergarten and their positive
performance makes this study a success.
Search Strategy: I wanted to find some positive results showing the role of libraries in literacy
and education.

Search Method: Footnote chasing

While looking for article in Library Trends (Volume 58, Number 1, Summer 2009), I came
across an article titled “Solid Foundations: A Primer on the Crucial, Critical, and Key Roles of
School and Public Libraries in Children’s Development”; by Joanne de Groot and Jennifer
Branch. “Books make a difference” was cited in that article. I found the complete article using
EBSCO.

Search Statement: N/A

Search String: Referenced in

DE GROOT, ,JOANNE, & BRANCH, J. (2009). Solid foundations: A primer on the crucial,
critical, and key roles of school and public libraries in children's development. Library Trends,
58(1), 51-62.

Database: Education Research Complete




Neuman, S. B., & Celano, D. (2006). The knowledge gap: Implications of leveling the playing
   field for low-income and middle-income children. Reading Research Quarterly, 41(2), 176-
   201.

Abstract: This study examines children's uses of reading resources in neighborhood public
libraries that have been transformed to "level the playing Field." Through Foundation funding
(US$20 million), the public library system of Philadelphia converted neighborhood branch
libraries into a technologized modern urban library system, hoping to improve the lives of
disadvantaged children and their families by closing the achievement gap. Using a mosaic Of
ethnographic methodologies, four studies examined children's uses of library, resources in low-
income and middle-income neighborhood libraries, prior to renovations and technology, right
after, and once the novelty had worn off a year later, for preschoolers, elementary, and teens
(Excerpt from published abstract).

Annotation: Only the availability of resources would not be enough to reduce the knowledge
gap, more active and continuous participation would be required at the end of the libraries and
other organizations to increase the level of reading for the children in the low income families.
This article was cited 6 times. SUSAN B. NEUMAN is a professor in educational studies
specializing in early literacy development at the University of Michigan. She served for two
years as the U .S. Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education under President
George W. Bush. Her research and teaching interests include early literacy for economically
disadvantaged children and curriculum.
Search Strategy: I wanted to explore the role of libraries in spreading literacy and what had
been done by them. Were they merely stacking books for the readers or were they more
proactively involved to create readers.

Search Method: I found this article using Dialog

? b7

s librar? And (child? and teen?)

      42925 LIBRAR?
     288115 CHILD?
      10603 TEEN?
   S9    10 LIBRAR? AND (CHILD? AND TEEN?)

Search Statement: s librar? And (child? and teen?)

Database: Social SciSearch (Dialog File 7)




Xie, B., & Bugg, J. M. (2009). Public library computer training for older adults to access high-
     quality internet health information. Library & Information Science Research (07408188),
       31(3), 155-162.



Abstract: An innovative experiment to develop and evaluate a public library computer training
program to teach older adults to access and use high-quality Internet health information. One
hundred and thirty-one older adults aged 54–89 participated in the study. The present study
examined the following key research questions using pre and post questionairs:

RQ1: What are older adults' perceptions of a public library computer training program
specifically designed for older adults?

RQ2: To what extent do older adults use the two NIH websites (http://nihseniorhealth.gov and
http://medlineplus.gov) that they have learned from the training to find health and medical
information and to guide their decision making regarding a health or medically-related matter?

RQ3: Are there differences in older adults' attitudes toward computers (including computer
anxiety, interest, and self-efficacy) before and after the training?



Annotation: The authors are affiliated to College of Information Studies, University of
Maryland, MD and the Psychology Department, Washington University, MO. It is very
impressive that a lot of research about how the elderly learn, what training strategies should be
used, what time of the day is best for learning and duration of the class, were taken into consider
before starting this innovative experiment. The positive outcome was very encouraging and more
programs like these should be made available.



Search Strategy: Keeping with the theme of closing the digital divide, I wanted to explore is
anything was done for the seniors?



Search Method: Citation searching and browsing and keyword searching

I found the above article by foot note chasing the article-- Walter, V. A. (2003). Public library
service to children and teens: A research agenda. Library Trends, 51(4), 571.

which led me to McKechnie, L. E. E (2000). Ethnographic observation of preschool children.
Library and Information Science Research, 22(1), 61-76

Searching 'All fields' in the journal- 'Library and information Science research' for 'librar? and
child?' I found the following article. I picked up the full text by searching for the article in
EBSCO

Search Statement: 'librar? and child?

Search String: Referenced in

McKechnie, L. E. E (2000). Ethnographic observation of preschool children. Library and
Information Science Research, 22(1), 61-76

Database: Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts




                           Conclusion and Personal Statement

        With all the budget cuts and loss of funding the libraries are facing today, I wanted to

pick a topic which would highlight their importance in the field of education, because education

is as important to us as the air we breathe. The loss of resources would impact this aspect of the

library’s function too and might further deprive the knowledge impoverished of a chance to live

a better life.
       To find articles for this project I had to restrict my search to specific databases which

carried articles on education or library literature. Special databases which had only scholarly

articles were also very helpful. It would not have been possible for me to search the vast

resources of e-journals if the information had not been organized in a way I could search.

Throughout this term we were taught ways information was arranged, by subjects, descriptors,

author, publication and much more. If I knew what I wanted to look for (which really helped

when I was footnote chasing), advanced searching by the Title of the article got me exactly what

I wanted, author’s name brought me more works by the same author and browsing the

publication also helped.


       Writing the literature review was easier than I expected once I had sketched a rough

outline of the objective of my topic. When I was looking for articles, I searched left and right

with a broad idea in my mind. But when I started writing a rough draft, and tried to fit the pieces

of the research articles into place, I realized that there were gaps in my draft. And I had to go

back to my searching to find articles which would complete the picture. For example while

working on the topic of contribution of libraries to distance education, I wanted to cover all the

resources I use at my university’s library and wanted to highlight their importance. Here I had to

use keyword searches to look for each and every resource, like web pages, e-books and e-

journals. I wanted supporting research highlighting their uses and importance. Searching was

much easier once I had narrowed down my topic. Descriptors to most of them resulted in far

more hits than I could browse. Some of them were very vague like ‘Library role’, ‘library

resources’, ‘computer users’, ‘web sites’.
        Writing annotations was a bit tricky, as I am no expert at this topic. I tried to evaluate

various resources depending on how many times it was cited or how many more articles the

author had written in the related fields or author’s affiliation. I could not find most of the article I

quoted in the WOS. So I analyzed them according to the other articles I had used and how useful

the article was in supporting my bibliography.


        This course and this project exposed me to a lot of new resources which I wasn’t aware

of and I am sure I will find them very helpful in my other courses and my career.