A project with a passion for promoting reading and learning

By Jillian Viljoen

In collaboration with the UKZN PMB subject librarians.

Thanks to Rose Kuhn and Renee Damonse for taking the photos.

When the request was made by the principal, Mr Ndlovu, for the librarians at the UKZN PMB library to assist with creating a library at the Grange Primary School, the librarians eagerly agreed. This was an opportunity to engage meaningfully in community outreach. It also promoted the sustainable development goal, SDG 4, which is “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”.

It took months of preparation and planning. A book donation campaign was marketed on the University Notices, bookshelves and chairs were donated by the PMB Main Library, and the invitation to the official opening and the program were created. Many dook donations were received from the University community (nearly 500 books were donated and 50 bookends), Shuter & Shooter, Dr Phindile Dlamini at the UKZN Press who is also an author of children’s books, and Mr Jay Rangiah from Hargraves Library Service. Mr Ndlovu and his team, worked tirelessly to set up the library. All this hard work culminated in a successful event on Mandela Day, 18 July 2024, which was live-streamed, https://fb.watch/totgUxR07b/?mibextid=RUbZ1f.

L-R: Mr Ndlovu, the principal; Mrs Dlamini, the Education Department circuit manager; Ms Aphelele Xulu, Acting Senior Library Manager (UKZN Library Services); Dr Praversh Sukram, Senior Library Manager (UKZN Library Services); Mr Reddy, the school Media teacher.

Mrs Dlamini, the education circuit manager, gave a motivational presentation and encouraged the learners to pursue education and learning. The keynote speaker was Dr Praversh Sukram, the senior library manager at the PMB library. He highlighted the importance of libraries and reading. A few learners read poems, read a short story, and expressed their appreciation of the library. In his vote of thanks, Mr Ndlovu thanked everyone who contributed to the successful creation of the library. Light refreshments were served after the event.

Mr Ndlovu and his team created a wonderful library that will motivate and mould creative minds. Don’t these photos convey a space where reading and learning will be nurtured?

The learners wrote a message with the foam pieces on the floor: : ‘Nelson Mandela Day at the Grange Primary School: it will be given to him who tries’.

Shelves and books donated by the UKZN PMB Library and University community

L-R: Ms Aphelele Xulu, Acting Senior Library Manager (UKZN Library Services) and Ms Goitsemang Ncongwane the principal librarian of the PMB subject librarian unit. The display shelves donated by the UKZN PMB Library are on the left

The UKZN librarians from L-R: Dr Praversh Sukram; Ms Celeste Johns, Ms Jabulile Sibisi-Mshengu; Ms Aphelele Xulu; Ms Jillian Viljoen; Ms Goitsemang Ncongwane; Ms Rosemary Kuhn; Mr Eric Mchunu; Ms Renee Damonse; Mr Simon Shezi; Ms Shorba Harkhu

The UKZN library staff, school staff, and other guests

Ribbon across the entrance of the library

The librarians returned to the campus to prepare for the visit of fifty-four Grade 7’s and 6 staff. The learners were welcomed and given an interactive talk on libraries in general, and at school and tertiary level. They were also encouraged to pursue their studies to tertiary level. There was a fun quiz, based on the talk, where 8 learners won yo-yo’s. The excitement was palpable. After the talk, the learners were taken in groups on a tour of the library. They expressed their surprise at how many books and journals were in the library. The library space was much larger than their school library and that contrast was not lost on them. The learners were given goodie bags including snacks and stationery when they left.

Receiving the goodie bags

The smiles on the learners’ faces when they left made all the hard work worthwhile. After all, promoting reading and learning was our passion in this project. The learners’ reactions confirmed that we had met that goal.

It was apt that the official opening took place on Mandela Day as Nelson Mandela was passionate about reading. He was quoted as saying, “When we read we are able to travel to many places, meet many people and understand the world.” These words are so true as the pages of every book have the ability to transport us anywhere and expand our knowledge and horizons. This project made this quote a reality for this school and we are proud to have been a part of this very important journey.

 

References:

United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Sustainable development goals. https://sdgs.un.org/goals  [Accessed on 18-07-2024].

Book review: The Man who Knew Infinity: A Life of the Genius, Ramanujan by Robert Kanigel

By Shorba Harkhu

In the prologue to his book, Kanigel (1991) refers to Ramanujan as a mathematician so great it transcends jealousies. He further refers to Ramanujan as one superlatively great mathematician whom India has produced in the last thousand years. But who is Ramanujan?

Srinivasa Ramanujan was born on the 22^nd December 1887 in Erode, in present-day Tamil Nadu (India). Born into poverty and brought up according to the customs and traditions afforded to a Brahmin Hindu, he was somewhat of a child prodigy. By the age of ten, he was challenging his teachers in the matters of mathematics.  He also exhausted the mathematical knowledge of two college students who were lodgers at his home. Although he had no formal training in pure mathematics, he soon developed sophisticated theorems of his own. He quickly filled reams of notebooks containing his theorems and formulae.

Ramanujan soon began writing to leading mathematicians at Cambridge University, with samples of his work.

A Cambridge mathematician named Godfrey Harold Hardy responded to Ramanujan’s letter and invited him over to Trinity College in Cambridge. Ramanujan spent nearly five years in Cambridge collaborating with Hardy and another mathematician, John Edensor Littlewood.  He published twenty-one papers during this period. No doubt, Ramanujan would have found it difficult to adapt to the cold climate, the western clothes as well as the diet. Hardy’s and Ramanujan’s collaboration was a clash of cultures, beliefs, and working styles. While Hardy was an atheist, Ramanujan, a devout Hindu, attributed his mathematical ability to the gods.

In March 1916, Ramanujan was awarded a Bachelor of Arts by Research degree (the predecessor of the PhD degree). After many trials and tribulations, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society, the first Indian to hold this honour. He returned to India where he sadly died of tuberculosis at the young age of 32.

Kanigel (1991) asserts that even decades after his death, Ramanujan’s theorems are still being applied in areas such as polymer chemistry, computers, even (it has recently been suggested) cancer, scarcely imaginable during his lifetime. And always the nagging question: What might have been, had he been discovered a few years earlier, or lived a few years longer? (Kanigel, 1991)

This book, while steeped in historical fact is an excellent read. If you want to know more about this relatively unknown mathematician, then this book is for you.

 

Reference

Kanigel, R. 1991. The Man Who Knew Infinity: a life of the genius, Ramanujan, New York: C. Scribner's. 

The pursuit of truth

 

                                                                      By Jillian Viljoen

What is truth? Who decides what truth is? Where do we find truth? These questions are a constant in our daily lives. We encounter situations where we search for truth to guide our opinions or decisions.

 

In ancient Egypt, a goddess named Maat was believed to represent truth, justice, balance, and order.
The Egyptians were expected to follow the ethical and moral principles which Maat represented. It was believed that in death, your heart would be weighed against the ostrich feather that was on Maat’s head. If your heart was lighter than or equal in weight to the feather, then you were a good person and would go on to a better place in the afterlife. The heart was considered to be the equivalent of the soul. Each new Egyptian king was expected to rule according to the principles of Maat to maintain harmony and balance in their kingdom.

 

In academia, research is based on truth. Any assignment, essay, article, thesis, or dissertation that is submitted is based on facts that are sourced from various resources. Research is published daily, throughout the world, by researchers who have collected data that is tested and analysed to conclude whether or not the final results verify or refute the topic of the research. The results of this research are used in various sectors of our lives. For example, research on particular soil types will assist in deciding whether or not the underlying soil will be stable enough to build houses or shopping centres. Research on a particular plant will indicate whether or not it would be harmful to certain types of insects or animals, or would affect the water quality in a particular area.

 

Unlike subscribing to the principles of Maat, academic truth is based on referring to other researchers’ research to substantiate our research. The library provides various online resources to assist you with your research:

·       Where do you access the resources? You can search on the iCatalogue, which is the library’s catalogue where you can view the holdings of all the UKZN libraries. You can also access information on the online databases that the library subscribes to where articles by various researchers can be viewed and downloaded. You can also refer to older theses that have been submitted by UKZN students on ResearchSpace, which is the online repository of theses and dissertations.

·       Who will assist you in learning the skills to use these resources? The subject librarians provide library training sessions and can be contacted via email, telephone, or in their offices. There are also scheduled library training sessions throughout the year which are posted on the library’s home page and the University Notices.

 

The pursuit of truth in academia is not based on a belief or idea that cannot or has not been proven because other researchers will also refer to your research for their studies and your results will guide their studies. If your research is based on proven facts, other researchers can add to or expand on your research and apply it to other scenarios.

 

Can you see how important your research is, not only at UKZN but to the whole world? You could be the next Albert Einstein (physicist), Isaac Newton (mathematician), or Sigmund Freud (psychologist).

 

The pursuit of truth is possible using library resources. Make use of these valuable resources to add quality to your research. They are always available for your use.

 

References:

Britannica. (2023, February 2028). Maat: Egyptian goddess. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Maat-Egyptian-goddess [Accessed on 16-07-2024].

 

Mark, J. J. (2016, September 2016). Ma’at. World History Encyclopedia https://www.worldhistory.org/Ma'at/ [Accessed on 16-07-2024].

IRESS (McGregor) at UKZN LIBRARY

by Mbangiseni Eric Mchunu

What is an IRESS?

IRESS is a technology company that provides financial market data, trading platforms, and wealth management software to clients in the financial services industry (Matemane & Graca, 2023). Its flagship product, IRESS Viewpoint, is a comprehensive platform that offers real-time market data, news, research, and analysis tools to help investors make informed decisions IRESS also provides trading and execution tools, including order management systems, market data feeds, and connectivity to multiple exchanges (Mabandla & Makoni, 2019). In addition, IRESS offers wealth management software that helps financial advisors manage client portfolios and provide financial planning services. Overall, IRESS is a leading provider of financial technology solutions that help clients stay ahead in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

Does the UKZN Library have IRESS as one of its databases?

Yes, the UKZN Library does have access to IRESS. The library provides access to the IRESS viewpoint platform, which offers real-time market data, news, and analysis for multiple asset classes, including equities, derivatives, and fixed income. To access IRESS Viewpoint, users must log in to the library's website using their UKZN login credentials and navigate to the databases section. From there, they can select IRESS Viewpoint and start using the platform. The library also provides training and support for users needing assistance using IRESS Viewpoint. Overall, the availability of IRESS Viewpoint at the UKZN Library is a valuable resource for students, faculty, and researchers in the finance and economics fields.

To access IRESS at UKZN library

https://library.ukzn.ac.za/databases-a-z/    

Then select alphabet I for IRESS

How is the IRESS important in retrieving financial information?

IRESS is an essential tool for retrieving financial information. It provides real-time market data and statistics, which can be used to make informed investment decisions. IRESS also offers a range of analytical tools and charting capabilities, enabling users to conduct technical analysis and identify trading opportunities. Additionally, IRESS allows users to access news and research from various sources, providing valuable insights into market trends and developments. According to Mabandla & Makoni (2019) IRESS is a robust platform that can help investors stay informed and make better decisions.

 

References

Mabandla, N. Z., & Makoni, P. L. (2019). Working capital management and financial performance: evidence from listed food and beverage companies in South Africa. Academy of Accounting and Financial Studies Journal, 23(2), 1-10.

Matemane, R., & Graca, N. (2023). The Relationship Between Climate Risk Disclosure and Performance on Mining Companies: Evidence From A Developing Economy. International Journal of Environmental, Sustainability, and Social Science, 4(5), 1576-1594. 

Augmented Reality in Libraries!

 

Suren Moodley and Claudette Kercival

What is Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented reality (AR) is the integration of digital information with the user's environment in real time. Unlike virtual reality (VR), which creates a totally artificial environment, AR users experience a real-world environment with generated perceptual information overlaid on top of it. (TechTarget: 2024)

Augmented Reality in libraries.

Over the centuries, the venerable institution of the library has evolved. From stacks of books to digital repositories of knowledge, the humble public library has adapted dramatically in response to changing technology. Libraries are poised to embrace yet another transformative influence more fully: augmented reality technology.

Augmented Reality (AR) in libraries refers to the use of AR technology to enhance the library experience for users. AR integrates digital information with the user's environment in real-time, typically through the use of smartphones, tablets, and/or other AR devices. Here are some ways AR can be used in libraries. An innovative approach to this emerging tech promises to revolutionize the library learning experience, enhancing education in ways that were hitherto unimaginable.

Most modern libraries underwent a revolution as the internet came into being, becoming a bridge between the physical and digital realms. Augmented reality (AR), as the name suggests, augments this connection by overlaying digital information onto the physical world, creating a seamless fusion of the two.

Here are some ways AR can be beneficial to the library experience:

The Benefits of Augmented Reality in Libraries.

• Use can be made of technology to have interactive tours: Using technologies to create digital tours that can be accessed on smartphones, computers and other devices.
• Learning can be more interactive, and library resources can be accessed more easily: Users will be provided with instant access to detailed information about books and resources, turning static exhibits into interactive experiences. Users can explore additional digital content, such as videos, audio clips, and 3D models, enhancing their understanding, interaction and enjoyment.  Users can visualize complex concepts through 3D models, animations, and interactive simulations.
• Efficient space utilization: AR can provide digital layers of information without the need for physical space, allowing libraries to offer more content and services without expanding their physical footprint.
• Enhanced marketing and promotion: AR can be used to promote library events, programs, and new acquisitions. Virtual posters and interactive displays can catch users’ attention and encourage participation.
• Enhanced learning experience: AR can make learning more interactive and engaging by bringing educational content to life. Users can visualize complex concepts through 3D models, animations, and interactive simulations.
• Improved navigation: AR can help users find books and resources more easily. By using AR navigation, users can receive real-time directions to the exact location of items within the library.
• Interactive tours: New users can benefit from virtual tours of the library, which can guide them through different sections, services, and facilities, making the library more accessible and user-friendly.
• Access to additional information: AR can provide users with instant access to detailed information about books and resources. For example, users can scan a book's cover to view summaries, author biographies, and related materials.
• Language support: AR can offer translations and explanations for foreign language texts, making the library's resources more accessible to non-native speakers. Further, it could assist with differently abled uses in facilitating adapted access to information.

• Personalized experience: AR can offer personalized recommendations and information based on the user’s interests and previous interactions, enhancing their overall experience.
• Improved user assistance: With AR, library staff can provide better assistance to users. For example, AR can be used to answer frequently asked questions or guide users to resources, reducing the demand on staff. In the case of UKZN Libraries, LibGuides and LibAnswers have stepped up in advancing this initiative.  AR can attract more visitors to the library by offering unique and engaging experiences. This can lead to higher foot traffic and increased use of library resources.
• Enhanced marketing and promotion: AR can be used to promote library events, programs, and new acquisitions. Virtual posters and interactive displays can catch users’ attention and encourage participation. Case in point, at UKZN Libraries  digital monitors have been installed in all libraries and are currently used for digital displays and marketing of events and general information about the library.
• Data collection and analysis: AR applications can collect data on user interactions, helping libraries understand user behavior and preferences. This information can be used to improve services and resource allocation.

In summary, there is overwhelming evidence that AR appears to positively influence library user experiences whilst enhancing library operational functions efficiently.

Watch a short snippet of what AR in libraries mean!

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/3JVE1qBKlIg?feature=share

 

REFERENCES

TechTarget (2024). What is augmented reality? https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/augmented-reality-AR

Working over 40 years at UKZN Library Services: some reflections (Dr. Praversh Sukram)

By Praversh Sukram

My first day of work at the University was on Monday 5 January 1981 on the Pietermaritzburg Campus.

I commenced working in the Collection Maintenance section of the Library. Some of my tasks included:

• Re-shelving of Library materials
• Shelf-reading
• Preparing and recording of Inter-Library Loan items that needed to be posted to Libraries in South Africa and abroad
• Repairing and binding of books
• Attaching of spine labels and University branding on books and journals
• Shelf construction
• Assisting in certain sections of the Library when staff were away on leave.

The first major change took place in 1982 with the introduction of a computer system for the library called URICA integrated Library system. This led to the automation of all library functions. Not many Librarians would have envisaged the Library without the Card Catalogue.

The Card Catalogue

In July 1990 the Pietermaritzburg Main Library was renovated to include an additional floor and passenger lifts. The stair case on the ground floor was demolished to accommodate additional slabbing for the first floor. This resulted in scaffolding been erected on the ground floor to support the slabbing on the first floor.

The journals, which were housed on the ground floor had to be stored in boxes. There were occasions when journals had to be retrieved from the boxes for users. The journals were relocated to the first floor.

The Library remained open during the renovations. The renovations were completed in 1991.

 

Pietermaritzburg Library before the renovations

 

The merging of University of Durban-Westville and University of Natal in 2004 brought about a number of opportunities for the Library.

One of these opportunities was for colleagues from the Libraries of University of Natal, Durban and Pietermaritzburg campuses having a closer working relationship. Prior to the merger many staff from these Libraries did not know each other. Interaction between staff was limited as these Libraries worked independently of each other.

The Libraries of University of Durban-Westville and the University of Natal navigated through the merger to form a Library that has become integral in supporting teaching and learning at University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). A number of efficiencies were created.

The Circulation desk at the Main Library on the Pietermaritzburg campus was centralised to include Course Reserves which was located on the lower ground floor. This allowed for a more streamlined service with productive use of staff and space. The centralisation of the Circulation desk at the Main Library was modelled on the Circulation desks at branch libraries.

This model was adopted at other campus libraries.

In 2016 the Main Libraries and some Branch Libraries began opening 24/7. The Libraries are staffed by Student Assistants after hours. The centralised Circulation desks made 24/7 opening more cost effective.

Research Commons, to cater for the research needs of Masters and PhD students, were built in all Main Libraries.

More recently Accessibility LANs were built at Edgewood, Pietermaritzburg and Westville Campus Libraries. Planning for Accessibility LANs at EG Malherbe Library and the Medical School Library are at an advanced stage.

Discussions have commenced about creating Social Learning Spaces in the Libraries. 

The UKZN Library Services Strategy Plan (2023-2032) positions the Library to continue providing support for teaching and learning for the University to achieve its goals in an ever-changing environment.

 

Acknowledgements:

1.    University Archives and Library colleagues for confirming dates when events had taken place.

  

 

 

Bloomberg Terminal at UKZN PMB

by Mbangiseni Eric Mchunu

What is Bloomberg?

The Bloomberg product is a computer software system provided by the financial data vendor Bloomberg L.P. that enables professionals in the financial service sector and other industries to access Bloomberg Professional Services through which users can monitor and analyse real-time financial market data, news feeds and messaging (Sharma & Elliott, 2015). The system also provides trading platforms and enables electronic trading of financial assets.

 

Where can you find the Bloomberg terminal on the Pietermaritzburg Campus?

One is at the Main Library, Cecil Renauld Library, and another two at the New Arts Building, 3rd floor.

How does Bloomberg help Finance students?

Bloomberg can be a valuable resource for finance students in several ways. Look below: -

1. Access to real-time market data: Bloomberg provides students with real-time market data, allowing them to stay up to date on the latest financial news and trends.
2. Tools for financial analysis: Bloomberg offers a range of tools for financial analysis, including charting, screening, and back testing. These tools can help students analyse financial data and develop investment strategies.
3. Exposure to industry professionals: Bloomberg provides students access to industry professionals through its messaging and networking features. This can be an excellent way for students to connect with potential employers and learn more about career opportunities in finance.
4. Preparation for professional certifications: Many professional certifications in finance, such as the CFA and FRM, require candidates to have experience using Bloomberg. Using Bloomberg in their coursework can help students gain valuable experience that will help them prepare for these exams.
5. Bloomberg can be a valuable resource for finance students seeking real-world experience and developing their financial analysis and trading skills.

 

References

Bloomberg. (2020). Bloomberg business week debrief. Retrieved February 27, 2024. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2020-07-14/bloomberg-businessweek-debrief-betterment-s-jon-stein-video

Bloomberg, M., Winkler, M., & Winkler, M. (2019). Bloomberg by Bloomberg. Wiley.

Sharma, A., & Elliott, C. (2015). Use of Bloomberg professional in support of finance and economics teaching. Cogent Economics & Finance, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/23322039.2015.1115618

Academic Libraries Participating in Promoting Open Science

 

Open Science, the movement to enhance accessibility to scientific information at all levels of society through collaborative networks, has impacted the crucial role academic libraries play in the area of information sharing, hence there is an ever-growing emphasis on new innovations which aim to encourage access to and networking of information and skills. In the period of 30 years of democracy there have been new developments to promote Open Science in libraries, such as digitisation and dissemination of information largely through institutional repositories, use of artificial intelligence (AI), collaboration between academic libraries and the growth of a personalised librarian service.

The creation of the African Open Science Platform (AOSP) in 2017, hosted by the National Research Foundation aims to develop policy, governance, enabling practices and institutional frameworks to support the development and deployment of Open Science in South African higher education institutions. The focus is to prioritise capacity building through networking, infrastructure capacitation and a federated system for researchers to create, deposit, manage and share data, since it has been identified that research data management and information sharing capacity are lacking in universities. In some higher institutions there is a lack of capacity and ability to coordinate information sharing of research on a local as well as a national basis. Most academic libraries are now set to kick start the implementation of Open Science in South Africa at the national level and across universities in the country.

Academic libraries are deliberately focusing on institutionalising Open Science and   Open Access Repository in South Africa. In academic libraries, there is a need to adopt formal policies and invest in appropriate infrastructure to convince researchers to support this initiative and record progress in their research.

According to Ngulube (2024) the Open Science movement is on the same trajectory regarding the need to share knowledge, irrespective of the origin as envisaged in the pronouncements made by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO),  International Communication Association (ICA) and International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA).

 

However, many issues and difficulties arise when managing institutional knowledge in a digitised environment. The Open Science movement recognises access to information as a basic human right, and asserts that access should be equitable and fair.  The underlying principle of the Open Science movement is that data should be findable, accessible, interoperable and usable.

Open access publishing offers wide benefits to the scholarly community and may also afford relief to financially embattled academic libraries. The progress of the open access model rests upon the acceptance and validation of open access journals and open archives or institutional repositories by the academic mainstream, particularly by publishing researchers.

In addition, open access publishing offers wide-ranging benefits to the scholarly community and may also afford relief to financially embattled academic libraries. The progress of the open access model rests upon the acceptance and validation of open access journals and open archives or institutional repositories by mainstream academia and particularly by publishing researchers (Fullard, 2007). Faculty librarians can act as change agents by informing and advocating for open access within the departments they serve.

 

In South Africa, libraries are progressively establishing the foundation for enhanced services, achieving varying degrees of success. This evolution includes formulating policies, building infrastructure, training library staff, and conducting awareness and advocacy campaigns aimed at academic staff and researchers. However, these efforts are met with challenges, such as limited resources and infrastructure, as well as a notable scarcity of data management skills among library personnel.

 

The University of KwaZulu-Natal has an achievement on the digitisation of information for easy access to the users. The university academics are publishing their journals in the open access to promote easy access of the information. The university is enhancing library services by integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to automate repetitive tasks and streamline operations.

 

In conclusion, South African academic libraries have made significant progress in facilitating user access to information in a convenient and free manner. This advancement has notably enhanced the quality of education, ensuring users no longer face obstacles in their information search. A prime example of this is the University of KwaZulu-Natal's investment in an extensive collection of e-books, ensuring everyone can easily access the information they need.

 

Bibliography

Chiware, E., & Mathe, Z. (2015). Academic libraries' role in research data management services: A South African perspective. South African Journal of Libraries and Information

Fullard, A. (2007). South African responses to open access publishing: a survey of the research community. South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science, 73(1), 40-50.

Ngulube, P. (2024). From Orality to Digital Assets: Managing Indigenous Knowledge in Africa in theWake of the Open Science Movement. The Serials Librarian, 1-15. 

Simon Shezi completes Two Oceans

Shorba Harkhu

Simon Shezi, a subject librarian based at the Life Sciences Library in Pietermaritzburg has just completed the Two Oceans Marathon in a time of 5:38:53. Well done Simon!  The race is run against a backdrop of spectacular scenery through places such as Chapman’s Peak, Muizenburg and Hout Bay. No wonder the Two Oceans Marathon is known as “the world's most beautiful marathon.” Simon said that the hills were a bit of a challenge, other than that he enjoyed the race and the view. Simon was part of the UKZN team. What next for Simon? He is gearing up for his second Comrades Marathon.

Simon is on the left in the photo

The impact of Artificial Intelligence on Subject Librarians in Academic Libraries

 

Ashika Pramlal

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly transformed various industries, and academic libraries are no exception. With the advent of AI technologies, subject librarians, who traditionally played pivotal roles in curating and disseminating information, are facing both challenges and opportunities. In this blog, we’ll explore the evolving landscape of academic libraries in the age of AI and delve into the impact it has on subject librarians.

AI technologies, including machine learning algorithms, natural language processing and data analytics have revolutionized how libraries manage and deliver information. AI powered systems can analyze vast amounts of data, extract insights and enhance user experiences. In academic libraries, AI applications range from intelligent search engines and recommendations to virtual assistants and automated cataloguing tools.

Impact of AI on Subject Librarians

As AI continues to reshape the landscape of academic libraries, Subject Librarians must embrace technological innovation while upholding their core values of user-centered service, intellectual freedom and information literacy. By harnessing the power of AI to enhance resource discovery, personalized assistance and data driven decision making, subject librarians can adapt to evolving user needs and remain indispensable partners in supporting teaching, learning and research in academic institutions.

Enhanced Resource Discovery – AI driven search engines and recommendation systems empower users to discover relevant resources efficiently. This reduces the need for manual assistance in basic information retrieval. Subject Librarians can focus on more complex queries and provide specialized support tailored to individual research needs.

Data Analysis and Visualization – AI tools enable Subject Librarians to analyze usage patterns, citations and research rends within disciplines. By harnessing AI data analytics, librarians can gain valuable insights into evolving information needs of their academic communities, facilitating evidence evidence-based collection development strategies.

Personalized Assistance – Virtual assistants powered by AI, such as chatbots, offer round the clock support to library patrons. Subject Librarians can collaborate with AI systems to develop personalized LibGuides, recommend resources and address frequently asked questions to a FAQ knowledge base, thereby extending their reach and accessibility beyond traditional service hours.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the benefits, the integration of AI poses several challenges and considerations for Subject Librarians:

Ethical Implications – AI algorithms may exhibit biases in data processing and decision-making, perpetuating existing inequalities in information access. AII tools can ensure equitable and transparent information services for all users.

Skills Development – Subject Librarians need to acquire new skills in AI technologies, data analysis and information visualization to effectively leverage AI tools in their professional practice. Continuous learning and professional development programs are essential to empower librarians in adapting to technological advancements.

User Privacy and Data Security – AI applications in academic libraries raise concerns regarding user privacy and data security. Subject Librarians must prioritize the ethical handling of sensitive information and implement robust data protection measures to safeguard user confidentiality and trust.

In conclusion, while AI presents both challenges and opportunities for subject librarians, proactive engagement with AI technologies can empower librarians to redefine their roles and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of academic libraries in the digital age.