Jason Vaughan

Utilization of process improvement to manage change in an academic library

Changing the way that academic libraries operate is necessary to accommodate increasing demands for resources with shrinking materials budgets. This article demonstrates how one library administration is managing change. It also shows that these methods can be adapted to fit the specific needs of other institutions.

The Information Commons at Lied Library

Presents the development of the Information Commons in the new Lied Library at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, from conceptualization to realization. Discusses the goals of the facility, including the need to create a space that simultaneously supports access, collaboration, and production in scholarly endeavors. Also addresses the impact of the Information Commons concept on patterns of service, and illustrates the challenges in designing Information Commons workstations, including such considerations as user authentication and resources for those with disabilities.

Considerations in the Choice of an Internet Search Tool.

In an effort to better speculate whether a certain set of factors plays a role in information professionals’ choice of Internet search tools, this article describes a survey conducted by the author of MSLS/MSIS graduate students and professional librarians at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Background discussion on Internet search tool design, usability, field testing, and future development is provided. Two sets of factors were defined for this study, one describing utility functions of search tools, the other describing the convenience or ease of use of search tools. The survey reveals a trend in choosing a preferred Internet search tool based on utility factors as opposed to convenience factors. It also suggests a preference for search engines as opposed to subject catalogs. Comprehensive, encompassing results are found to be more important than ease of use of a particular search tool.

Insights Into The Commons on Flickr

The Commons on Flickr, comprised of an international community of select libraries, museums, and archives, was a project initially launched in 2008 by the Library of Congress and Flickr. Primary goals of The Commons are to broaden exposure to rich cultural heritage photographs and to observe and participate in the communities of engagement and dialog enabled through The Commons. A survey was administered to all The Commons institutions during summer 2009, focusing on assessment of the overall satisfaction of current members and seeking additional details on participation goals, social interactions, staff time involvement, and general statistics. Members report a very positive experience with The Commons.

Preparing for technology: Systems planning and implementation in Lied Library

There are numerous considerations when constructing a state‐of‐the‐art twenty‐first century library. Major tasks include detailed network planning, system specifications, and equipment procurement. Collaborative teamwork and constant monitoring of the construction process are essential to ensure a successful outcome. Hardware and software that promote efficient management of various library systems will help ease the tremendous task of managing and troubleshooting the “beast” that has been created. Regardless of the amount of planning and vigilance, challenges and problems will occur during various phases of building construction and subsequent occupancy.

Lied Library @ four years: technology never stands still

Purpose – To relate challenges associated with maintaining the technology involved in a modern, major academic research library.Design/methodology/approach – Experiences from the past four years are categorized and discussed as they relate to information technology maintenance, enhancement, and future development. The narrative includes specific detailed examples, while maintaining a wide overall view, given the vast scope of what constitutes “information technology”.Findings – Looking back at knowledge gained from four years of operating a new academic library, one can understand that technology is constantly evolving, creating numerous challenges. Such challenges include maintaining and enhancing existing systems and services, as well as introducing new systems and services. Associated with all such activities are a myriad challenges such as technology, funding, security, and overall resource management.Practical implications – The findings serve to remind practitioners and administrators of the varied,...

UNLV's Lied Library: a graphical time line

Purpose – To chronicle the planning, construction and subsequent operation of UNLVs Lied Library.Design/methodology/approach – Traces the critical milestones associated with the above.Findings – The history chronicled herein has been dynamic, to say the least, and has yet to slow down.Practical implications – Serves as a basis for similar developments still in the pipeline.Originality/value – Could be a model for anyone contemplating establishing a future modern technology‐centred academic library.