The state of embedded librarianship in the university research processes in selected African academic libraries
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Date
2023-07-28
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Emerald Publishing Limited
Abstract
Purpose – This study aims to examine the state of embedded librarianship in African academic libraries by
exploring the extent of librarian embedment in research processes in selected academic libraries in Africa.
Design/methodology/approach – A survey was conducted to collect data using an online questionnaire. The
study population was comprised of librarians who directly support researchers throughout the research process in
the scholarly communication and information services sections. Purposive sampling was used to select librarians,
and 63 responses were received from the target of 100. The collected data were analysed using the statistical
package for the social sciences (SPSS) software, and content analysis was used to analyse open-ended questions.
Findings – The study results showed that the extent and nature of librarians’ embeddedness in the research
process vary across different university contexts in Africa. Challenges and areas of research skill gaps among
librarians were identified, and propositions to address the research skill gaps were provided.
Practical implications – The study findings can be used as a framework for libraries to embed librarians in
the research process. The study made recommendations with practical implications for library practitioners in
academia, and institutions offering library and information science education, and the library management
responsible for the research process.
Originality/value – A study brings a novel perspective by examining the state of embedded librarianship in
the African context. Its contribution generates knowledge and insights that inform the development of effective
embedded librarianship practices in African academic libraries to enhance research support services and
advancement of scholarly research in the region.
Description
Research paper
Keywords
Embedded librarian, Research embedded librarianship, Library user research, Faculty–librarian collaboration, Research partner, Research support, Academic libraries, Research libraries