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Practical library research: a tool for effective library management
E Schneider1, C J Mankin, J D Bastille
1Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston 02114.
Bulletin of the Medical Library Association
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Librarians can overcome research barriers by conducting applied research to solve practical problems. This approach yields objective data for informed management decisions, benefiting libraries and institutions.
Area of Science:
- Library and Information Science
- Applied Research Methodologies
Background:
- Many librarians perceive research as beyond their capabilities or resources.
- There is a professional imperative for librarians to engage in research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significance of applied research in librarianship.
- To demonstrate how practical research can inform library management decisions.
Main Methods:
- The paper details an eighteen-year case study of applied research projects within a library.
- Methods included use studies and surveys to gather objective data.
Main Results:
- Objective data were collected over eighteen years.
- These data directly informed library management decisions, leading to institutional benefits.
Conclusions:
- Applied research is feasible and beneficial for librarians.
- Librarians should conduct practical research and disseminate findings through professional literature.