Mixed methods research is becoming prevalent in many fields, yet little has been done to elevate mixed methods research in information science. A comprehensive picture of information science and its problems is needed to further understand and address the issues associated with it as well as how mixed methods research can be adapted and used. The Handbook of Research on Mixed Methods Research in Information Science discusses the quality of mixed methods studies and methodological transparency, sampling in mixed methods research, and the application of theory in mixed methods research throughout various contexts. Covering topics such as the issues and potential directions for further research in mixed methods, this comprehensive major reference work is ideal for researchers, policymakers, academicians, librarians, practitioners, instructors, and students.

The field of library and information science is experiencing significant and continued transformation as a result of advancements in digital technology. Adapting to new technologies is crucial for librarians and other information professionals, but there exists a particularly acute gap in technology adoption among developing countries. Library and Information Science in Developing Countries: Contemporary Issues explores the relationship between global technology development and the impact of new technologies on library practice, library education, and information science. Book chapters and case studies in this work provide insight to and support for practitioners and executives concerned with the management of knowledge, information, and organizational development in different types of work environments and learning communities.

Due to changes in the learning and research environment, changes in the behavior of library users, and unique global disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries have had to adapt and evolve to remain up-to-date and responsive to their users. Thus, libraries are adding new, digital resources and services while maintaining most of the old, traditional resources and services. New areas of research and inquiry in the field of library and information science explore the applications of machine learning, artificial intelligence, and other technologies to better serve and expand the library community. The Handbook of Research on Knowledge and Organization Systems in Library and Information Science examines new technologies and systems and their application and adoption within libraries. This handbook provides a global perspective on current and future trends concerning library and information science. Covering topics such as machine learning, library management, ICTs, blockchain technology, social media, and augmented reality, this book is essential for librarians, library directors, library technicians, media specialists, data specialists, catalogers, information resource officers, administrators, IT consultants and specialists, academicians, and students.

Global interest in indigenous studies has been rapidly growing as researchers realize the importance of understanding the impact indigenous communities can have on the economy, development, education, and more. As the use, acceptance, and popularity of indigenous knowledge increases, it is crucial to explore how this community-based knowledge provides deeper insights, understanding, and influence on such things as decision making and problem solving. Indigenous Studies: Breakthroughs in Research and Practice examines the politics, culture, language, history, socio-economic development, methodologies, and contemporary experiences of indigenous peoples from around the world, as well as how contemporary issues impact these indigenous communities on a local, national, and global scale. Highlighting a range of topics such as local narratives, intergenerational cultural transfer, and ethnicity and identity, this publication is an ideal reference source for sociologists, policymakers, anthropologists, instructors, researchers, academicians, and graduate-level students in a variety of fields.

Information and records management has been an important part of society for establishing procedures to effectively manage information. As technology has increased in society, this essential function has been impacted as well. With the onset of technological tools brought upon by the fourth industrial revolution, technologies such as artificial intelligence, the internet of things, big data, and more have changed the face of information and records management. These technologies and tools have paved new ways for security, efficiency in timely processes, new ways to create and process records, and other beneficial traits. Along with these advancements come new contemporary issues, leading to the need for research on how exactly information records management is functioning in modern times, the technologies brought on by the fourth industrial revolution, and both the benefits and challenges to this transition. The Handbook of Research on Information and Records Management in the Fourth Industrial Revolution showcases contemporary issues and demonstrates the value of information and records management in the fourth industrial revolution. The book provides a summary of the key activities undertaken by information and records managers as they seek to make records and information management more visible in the modern knowledge-driven society. The chapters highlight innovation, the use of information and communication technology in information and records management, best practices, challenges encountered, and how they are overcome. The target audience of this book will be composed of professionals, librarians, archivists, lecturers, and researchers working in the field of library and information science, along with practitioners, academicians, and students interested in information and records management in the 21st century.

This book offers an interesting overview of academic libraries and the communities they serve in Africa. The book explores the work of academic libraries from a number of different countries primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa. One of the valuable contributions that the book makes is to highlight the numerous innovative ways in which librarians at African universities have been using their often limited resources to ensure students and academics get continual access to worldclass information. The book explores various examples of best practice in challenging circumstances such as unstable electricity and the COVID pandemic. With its mix of practical solutions to, and critical thinking about, the complex issues facing libraries in the Global South, this book is a must read for librarians who are embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and activity working towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Goals in their countries.

Information in today’s modernized world has become much more attainable with the use of technology. A resource that has fallen victim to this are library services. What was once a staple of knowledge and communication has failed to keep pace with recent advancements in information service providers. Library practitioners need to learn how to manage change, build influence, and adapt their services to remain relevant within local communities. Libraries can continue to play a key role in future aspects of information provision, but proper research is a necessity. Managing and Adapting Library Information Services for Future Users is a collection of innovative research that encapsulates practices, concepts, ideas, and proposals that would chart pathways for libraries of all types to envision and understand how to thrive and remain relevant in the competitive information provision environment. It is expected to motivate librarians and information scientists to probe further into how libraries would better serve user communities of the 21st century who have options of accessing information from sources other than from libraries. While highlighting topics including artificial intelligence, human design thinking, and alternative finance, this book is ideally designed for librarians, information specialists, architects, data scientists, researchers, community development practitioners, policymakers, faculty members, and students seeking current research on emerging advancements in library optimization.

The COVID-19 pandemic dominated our lives since its outbreak in the year 2020. The whole economy was disrupted, and businesses and society had to adapt to the new normal. Since the last two years, the release of different vaccines and the vaccination drive have helped to contain the pandemic to quite an extent. It is believed that irrespective of the different doses of vaccination and its impact on the citizens, the virus is here to stay and will translate into an endemic. An endemic situation is where the COVID-19 virus will be confined to certain people and regions. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically impacted businesses, which had to move from a physical mode to an online mode and hybrid mode. While several steps were taken to contain the pandemic, its lasting effect made organizations and society rethink the future. Organizations have moved from offline to hybrid mode and now work from home. The propositions in sales have changed from price to consumer well-being and convenience. Consumers have become health conscious. Healthcare has become a necessity, and healthcare companies are taking different steps to penetrate the market with immunity boosters. Education is now offered extensively through digital media and has become another alternative. The conference theme, “Pandemic to Endemic: Propositions for the Future,” aims to identify the initiatives businesses and society will adopt for their sustained growth and development. The book provides research insights on how organizations should deal with endemic situations in different business areas. This book includes research in finance, marketing, human resources, healthcare, economics, education, and general management, such as leadership and decision□making.