Effect Of Online Information Retrieval Self-Efficacy Of Library Professionals On Innovative Services In University Libraries

Abstract

Purpose –The purpose of this research is to examine the influence of online information retrieval self-efficacy of library professionals on service innovation in university libraries.

Design/methodology/approach-- The study was based on Bandura’s framework of self-efficacy, encompassing social persuasion, mastery experience, physiological states, and vicarious experience. Researchers employed a comprehensive approach to examine the influence of these four sources on innovative practices adopted by university libraries. To achieve this objective, a questionnaire was distributed to gather data from library professionals working in the HEC recognized universities in the capital of Pakistan (Islamabad) and Punjab. After the validation of underlying assumptions, a multiple linear regression test was employed to forecast the outcomes of the dependent variable by using the independent variables. In addition to this, a comparative evaluation was also conducted among all the independent variables to ascertain their individual contributions to the innovation of library s[1]ervices.

Findings – The findings underscored the distinct and significant importance of three variables including, mastery experience, social persuasion, and physiological states in predicting the library services innovation. However, vicarious experience did not explain a significant influence on the library services innovation. In addition to this, the effect of physiological states on the library services innovation was comparatively higher as compared to the other three sources of self-efficacy. In conclusion, the current research study recognized the crucial role of online information retrieval self-efficacy in improving library services innovation.

Practical implications – The findings of the study have the capability to guide initiatives for organizational policies, training programs, and professional growth that are geared towards bolstering the competency of library professionals in self-efficacy, ultimately fostering a culture of innovation within university library services.

Originality/value – The current research study offers valuable insights into vital factors influencing the effectiveness of the information searching process, ultimately resulting in innovation within library services, a fact that was not previously explored in Pakistan or globally. In addition to this, the study’s significance lies in its contribution to academic discourse, its potential to enhance library services, and also empowerment of library professionals to provide efficient and satisfying experiences for library users in the contemporary digital information environment.