The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly impacting higher education, compelling college professors to adapt to new teaching methodologies and address emerging challenges. Institutions like Florida Atlantic University (FAU) are proactively introducing AI resources to integrate this technology into their academic frameworks. This integration aims to enhance educational experiences and equip students with essential skills for an AI-driven world.
However, the incorporation of AI in academia presents challenges, including concerns about academic integrity and the potential for AI-generated content to undermine traditional learning assessments. Educators are tasked with developing strategies to effectively utilise AI tools while preserving the quality and authenticity of education. This involves rethinking assessment methods, fostering critical thinking, and ensuring that AI serves as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, human instruction. The ongoing dialogue among educators, students, and administrators is crucial in navigating this evolving landscape and harnessing AI’s potential to enrich higher education.
A recent survey by Clarivate, involving more than 1,500 librarians worldwide, highlights a growing interest in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance library operations. The findings reveal that 60% of libraries are actively evaluating or planning for AI integration. Many librarians view AI as a promising tool to automate routine tasks, such as cataloging and administrative functions, with 42% identifying these areas as key opportunities. This shift toward AI reflects a broader interest in leveraging technology to improve efficiency, support student learning, and enhance research capabilities.
However, significant challenges accompany this optimism. Budget constraints were cited by 47% of respondents, while over half (52%) reported a lack of AI expertise within their institutions. Additionally, concerns about security, privacy, and research integrity remain critical barriers to implementation. These findings emphasize the need for upskilling library staff, investing in resources, and developing ethical frameworks to address potential risks. Despite these hurdles, libraries remain committed to exploring AI’s potential to transform their services while maintaining their core values of accessibility and trustworthiness.
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly impacting higher education, compelling college professors to adapt to new teaching methodologies and address emerging challenges. Institutions like Florida Atlantic University (FAU) are proactively introducing AI resources to integrate this technology into their academic frameworks. This integration aims to enhance educational experiences and equip students with essential skills for an AI-driven world.
However, the incorporation of AI in academia presents challenges, including concerns about academic integrity and the potential for AI-generated content to undermine traditional learning assessments. Educators are tasked with developing strategies to effectively utilise AI tools while preserving the quality and authenticity of education. This involves rethinking assessment methods, fostering critical thinking, and ensuring that AI serves as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, human instruction. The ongoing dialogue among educators, students, and administrators is crucial in navigating this evolving landscape and harnessing AI’s potential to enrich higher education.
At Technology from Sage we believe that the right technology can remove barriers to knowledge. We recently launched an AI in Libraries feature to round-up the latest AI developments for academic librarians.
Read on for December’s edition, collated by Rajeh Shaikh, Product Manager at Sage.
Virginia Tech’s University Libraries, in partnership with the University of California, Riverside, has secured a $115,398 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to establish a Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Incubator Program. The initiative aims to train librarians in the practical use of GenAI tools to enhance library services. Through workshops and hands-on projects, participants will learn how to apply AI in areas like literacy programs, collection management, preservation, and research support. This program seeks to empower librarians with the skills needed to adapt to technological advancements and better serve their communities.
In addition to skill development, the program focuses on fostering ethical and responsible AI practices within the library profession. Participants will be equipped to address challenges such as privacy concerns, data security, and equitable access to AI technologies. By preparing librarians to lead AI integration efforts, the program highlights Virginia Tech’s dedication to innovation while ensuring that libraries maintain their impact in the evolving digital landscape.
A recent survey by Clarivate, involving more than 1,500 librarians worldwide, highlights a growing interest in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance library operations. The findings reveal that 60% of libraries are actively evaluating or planning for AI integration. Many librarians view AI as a promising tool to automate routine tasks, such as cataloging and administrative functions, with 42% identifying these areas as key opportunities. This shift toward AI reflects a broader interest in leveraging technology to improve efficiency, support student learning, and enhance research capabilities.
However, significant challenges accompany this optimism. Budget constraints were cited by 47% of respondents, while over half (52%) reported a lack of AI expertise within their institutions. Additionally, concerns about security, privacy, and research integrity remain critical barriers to implementation. These findings emphasize the need for upskilling library staff, investing in resources, and developing ethical frameworks to address potential risks. Despite these hurdles, libraries remain committed to exploring AI’s potential to transform their services while maintaining their core values of accessibility and trustworthiness.
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly impacting higher education, compelling college professors to adapt to new teaching methodologies and address emerging challenges. Institutions like Florida Atlantic University (FAU) are proactively introducing AI resources to integrate this technology into their academic frameworks. This integration aims to enhance educational experiences and equip students with essential skills for an AI-driven world.
However, the incorporation of AI in academia presents challenges, including concerns about academic integrity and the potential for AI-generated content to undermine traditional learning assessments. Educators are tasked with developing strategies to effectively utilise AI tools while preserving the quality and authenticity of education. This involves rethinking assessment methods, fostering critical thinking, and ensuring that AI serves as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, human instruction. The ongoing dialogue among educators, students, and administrators is crucial in navigating this evolving landscape and harnessing AI’s potential to enrich higher education.
Affordable, Accessible Resources for Students: Insights on Unlocking Stress-Free Research November 27, 2024
We recently hosted a roundtable discussion with Ben Kaube, Co-founder, Cassyni, Katy Troeschel, Technology and Entrepreneurship Librarian, The Sheridan Libraries, Johns Hopkins University and Matthew Weldon, Library Patron Consultant, Technology from Sage.
Students and researchers are stressed: 52% of students worry about the availability of content, 32% worry about how to access all content of value, and 30% worry about how to know if content exists at all (OpenAthens, 2023).
The panel discussed how student habits for finding digital content have changed since the pandemic and digital solutions that provide students with relevant, affordable resources at the point of need.
Ben shared his journey from a physics PhD at Imperial College London to co-founding Cassyni, a platform designed to make research seminars more accessible. He highlighted the importance of digitizing seminars to provide researchers and students with valuable resources that were previously unavailable.
Matthew discussed his work on Technology from Sage’s series of whitepapers, Librarian Futures, exploring the future of academic libraries and the evolving relationship between librarians and students. He emphasized the need for libraries to adapt to digital natives’ preferences and the importance of making library resources more visible and accessible.
Katy brought a unique perspective from her experience as a public librarian in Baltimore and her current role at Johns Hopkins Library. She stressed the importance of an equitable and informed approach to library services, especially in diverse communities.
Read on for the key insights that came from the roundtable discussion…
Q: What are the benefits of having students and researchers be more present and author research resources like seminars?
Ben demonstrated how Cassyni is making research seminars discoverable and accessible through AI-enhanced tools. By indexing seminars from universities worldwide and providing features like AI-powered outlines and full-text search, Cassyni helps researchers and students navigate and utilize these resources effectively.
“There’s something really nice about getting the content in this sort of multimodal video form rather than in the traditional journal article.”
Ben, Cassyni
“Seminars really inspires students and helps them see how this can be applied in real life … and other career pathways as well.”
Katy, Johns Hopkins University
“Just having a face and a voice associated with something gives it a sense of community and belonging.”
Matthew, Technology from Sage
Q: How have student habits continued to change since the pandemic, and how have new student expectations also changed as a consequence?
Matthew presented data from the Librarian Futures series of reports, revealing a significant gap between librarians’ perceptions and students’ actual use of library resources. He noted that while students often start their research with Google, they may not fully appreciate the library’s role in providing valuable resources. This highlights the need for libraries to better communicate their offerings and integrate them into students’ preferred research methods.
“People do have different learning styles and intake information in different ways.”
Katy, Johns Hopkins University
“Thinking about that digital experience and the way that you come across this content and trying to make it more discoverable and accessible. Using things like AI to help you make it feel a bit less scary … there’s a really bright future for those sorts of tools.”
Ben, Cassyni
Q: What strategies can library teams adopt to make resources more accessible and affordable for students and researchers? How can the library help students discover content that they might not even know exists?
Katie shared practical strategies for libraries to support students, including expanding digital offerings, promoting open access resources, and meeting students where they are—both physically and digitally. She highlighted the importance of flexibility and adapting to students’ needs, whether through in-person consultations or digital content.
“Rather than try to find ways to coax them over to the library and to change their habits, we acknowledge that their habits have changed and we figure out how we can bring the library to them.”
Matthew, Technology from Sage
Q: How can AI be used to enhance the scholarly conversation rather than replace any individuals in the process? What lessons can we learn from this?
The panel discussed the role of AI in making scholarly content more accessible. Ben explained how AI is used to enhance the discoverability of research seminars, making it easier for students to find relevant information. However, he also cautioned about the limitations and biases of AI, emphasizing the need for human oversight.
“Without AI, probably the Cassyni product wouldn’t be possible. You really need AI to be able to do that sort of thing at scale. There’s an important responsibility there, understanding of the limitations, and in some processes, you might need a human in the loop.”
Ben, Cassyni
“As a librarian, it’s a great tool and it uses a lot of the skills that we’ve had to learn, like doing a reference interview.”
Katy, Johns Hopkins University
“Some students are not using AI because they don’t have clear institutional guidance on what is acceptable use and what isn’t.”
Matthew, Technology from Sage
Q: What cost-effective strategies can libraries implement to maintain or even enhance access to quality resources?
Katy discussed that it’s important to understand what the library is trying to accomplish and ensure that resources align with these goals and to continuously learn and talk to other experts to understand their struggles and solutions. She suggested the library can conduct surveys and observations to understand what students need and prefer, ensuring that resources and spaces are tailored to their requirements.
“Flexibility is really important, being customer-centric and providing value.”
Katy, Johns Hopkins University
Ben said libraries can think creatively about resources; considering new types of resources, such as research seminars, that can fill gaps and provide valuable content, making students aware of available resources and integrate them into tools and platforms that students already use.
“It’s probably a good time to be thinking creatively about resources and supporting new modalities to these types of content. It’s not just about making do with a budget that is decreasing, but also about discovering the content and making sure students know what’s out there.”
Ben, Cassyni
The webinar underscored the critical role of libraries in supporting academic research and the need for continuous adaptation to meet the evolving needs of students and researchers. By leveraging digital tools, promoting accessible resources, and maintaining a student-centric approach, libraries can continue to be invaluable allies in the academic journey.
For more insights and resources, be sure to check out the Librarian Futures reports and explore the innovative tools offered by Cassyni.
If you’d like to find out more about how Lean Library can help your institution ensure stress-free researching for students, Request a demo now!
Lean Library Case Study: Bern University of Applied Sciences November 15, 2024
Promoting the library directly into patron workflows: deploying Assist Messages at the point of need.
“With Lean Library, we reach students and researchers wherever they are on the internet and guide them to where we provide access.” – Laura Tobler, Information
Specialist for eResources
Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) has a total enrolment of 7.7k. BFH is an internationally renowned Swiss university of applied sciences that attracts creative, proactive, and responsible individuals. The university has a practical focus and values being diverse, sound, and dynamic.
Lean Library solves access issues and provides patrons with content as and when they need it, all while protecting their privacy and promoting your library’s brand.
• Consists of a browser plug-in for patrons, configured by an easy-to use dashboard for librarians.
• Core features for patrons include:
1. Alternatives feature with over 30M Open Access alternatives
2. scite Integrator for in-workflow citation analysis and context
3. Seamless Access to journals, eBooks and resources
4. ILL and DDS service integrations
5. Assist messages feature for in-workflow library-patron communication.
The BFH Library is integrated into all departments and divisions of the BFH. What makes it strong is the specialization of its sub-libraries. A wide range of academic documents of all kinds is on offer: from books, sheet music and DVDs to e-books, journals and databases, etc. But, in the digital age, the majority of patrons start their research journey outside of the library on sites like Google Scholar or PubMed and aren’t always aware of or easily accessing library resources.
“The great thing about Lean Library Access is that it allows for better discoverability of
both institution-licensed and freely available open access documents.”
Laura Tobler, Information Specialist for eResources
Since 2019, Bern University of Applied Sciences used Lean Library Access to:
Drive usage, increase visibility, and save money. BFH also utilized our Library Assist feature, which enables libraries to communicate different personalized messages to patrons when they land on certainwebsites via a popup. BFH implemented multiple Assist messages in English, French, and German, including their most-viewed message that informs patrons that they can borrow physical editions of books from the library. In the last 12 months, over 21k patrons have viewed BFH’s Library Assist messages.
“Another great option of Lean Library is that the library can deposit important information in an appropriate place on the web to assist searchers. For example, news about current trainings, required login information or developments of services and offers.”
Laura Tobler, Information Specialist for eResources
LIBRARY BRANDING HAS BEEN SURFACED AND VIEWED OVER 100K TIMES TO PATRONS.
Today, BFH has over 1,500 active users of Lean Library, who have conducted a total of over 20k searches on Google Scholar and PubMed, and the Lean Library browser extension has been surfaced and viewed nearly 30k times by users to direct users to relevant library content and streamline their access. For example, eBook alternatives from the library catalogue have been surfaced and clicked by patrons 4.7k times via the Lean Library browser extension.
Laura works very closely with the Lean Library team and is one of our dedicated Library Advisors who helps feedback and shape the product. “I really appreciate working with the Lean Library team. The Lean Library team responds quickly and kindly to our concerns and is always open to suggestions. They, in turn, give us suggestions on how to better reach our users.”
Lean Library requires users to download the browser extension, so libraries need to promote it to their patrons to realize its full benefits. BFH has promoted Lean Library to their patrons in a variety of ways to ensure best usage. Lean Library is listed in various places on the library website as a resource for literature research support, is named in FAQs for patrons, and the library has also created dedicated flyers on how to download and use Lean Library.
“Our information literacy team recommends Lean Library to our users at every research training session. We rely on the word-of-mouth that this generates to inspire other members of the institution to adopt Lean Library. After all, what’s better than feedback from a professional colleague?.”
Laura Tobler, Information Specialist for eResources
Easy to download and install. Access to library resources from anywhere. Promoting the library’s brand. Support for patrons.
Find out more about Lean Library.
If you’d like to hear more or receive a product demo, get in touch.
Lean Library Case Study: Zurich University of the Arts November 15, 2024
• Product Features: Library Service Workflow Integrations
• Themes: Content Integration, User Centricity, Special Collections, Patron Discovery, Increasing Usage
Bringing curated content to patrons at the point of need: Driving usage for library resources.
• Deploy library-subscribed resources into patron workflows at the point of need
• Raise online visibility of unique and distinct special collections
• Support user-centric strategy and increase interaction with desired content.
“With Lean Library Futures we hope to increase awareness among university members of the many great resources they have access to thanks to us, the library. Additionally, with the inclusion of services, such as Lean Library Futures, we are also reassuring members that we are looking at new tools and keeping up with the latest technology.”
A premium service that helps libraries bring their services and content into their patron’s workflow, driving usage and putting the library at the center of the student and researcher experience.
• Consists of a browser plug-in for patrons, configured by an easy-to-use dashboard for librarians.
• 6 main elements:
1. Library service and content workflow integrations
2. The Workflow Librarian patron sidebar
3. Patron Insights qualitative feedback
4. Library Trustmark
5. Patron Workflow Manager
6. Access solution
• Zurich University of the Arts invested in the Very Short Introductions collection by Oxford University Press which offers concise and original introductions to a wide range of subjects.
• Students are often unsure what materials to begin their studies with or source more advanced resources too early in their studies without understanding the basics.
• Students were unaware of the Very Short Introductions collection, so the library needed to promote it to patrons at the point of need.
“Often Wikipedia is the starting point for basic research. By linking to the Very Short Introductions, we can inform our students and other members of the university of additional valuable information the library licenses, and which patrons might not be aware of.”
Zurich University of the Arts used Lean Library Futures to:
• Enhance their user-centred strategy.
• Drive usage and access to their curated and bespoke collection without leaving their workflow.
• Support their user-centric strategy by ensuring that patrons find the correct content at the point of need.
“We are looking to familiarize university members with the useful Very Short Introduction series through the integration on Wikipedia, so they remember them later when they are engaged in research outside of Wikipedia.”
Access content directly.
Figure 3: Once a link is clicked, a new tab with the desired content is opened. This ensures that patrons find easy access to the curated content.
Find out more about Lean Library.
If you’d like to hear more or receive a product demo, get in touch.
Lean Library Case Study: Utah State University November 15, 2024
• Product Pillars/Features: Library Service Workflow Integrations
• Themes: Patron Onboarding, LibGuides, Literature Search
Increasing patron usage of library support: embedding LibGuides in the patron’s workflow.
• Deliver library materials into patron workflows, at the point of need
• Increase usage and awareness of LibGuides
• Promote library support for literature search techniques.
“Having invested so much time to provide our patrons with library training materials, we want to see them used. With Lean Library Futures delivering our LibGuides into our patrons’ workflow, we have seen usage for a LibGuide increase by 450%.”
A premium service that helps libraries bring their services and content into their patron’s workflow, driving usage and putting the library at the centre of the student and researcher experience.
• Consists of a browser plug-in for patrons, configured by an easy-to-use dashboard for librarians.
• 6 main elements:
1. Library service and content workflow integrations
2. The Workflow Librarian patron sidebar
3. Patron Insights qualitative feedback
4. Library Trustmark
5. Patron Workflow Manager
6. Access solution
• Librarians spend hundreds of hours each year creating, maintaining and promoting LibGuides and other library support but can struggle to drive patron awareness and usage
• Patrons often have to step outside their workflows to access library support such as literature search training
• Patron-librarian support queries for topics like Google Scholar tend to get stuck on the basics, as opposed to more valuable, advanced search techniques.
“We have tutorials and help content that live outside the systems where patrons are searching, but we really want to bring those support materials to patrons at their point of need – that’s where they really want them.”
Utah used Lean Library Futures to:
• Deliver targeted library support material to their patrons at the point of need, such as the LibGuide for Google Scholar on Google Scholar itself, whilst avoiding spamming patrons (see Figure 1 and Figure 2)
• Increase usage of a Utah LibGuide by 450%
• Attempt to shift librarian time away from basic patron support, by using LibGuides delivered at the point of need to preempt support tickets on basic guidance and shift these to more advanced training, such as sophisticated literature search techniques.
“For our patrons that use the Lean Library plugin, this integration has allowed us to bring available library support materials directly to our patrons, where and when they need them.”
450% INCREASE IN USAGE.
Launched: March 2021
The partnership streamlines the delivery of Springshare’s suite of library tools into patron workflows, through integrations with the Lean Library browser extension. This helps enhance the Lean Library LibGuide integration.
Find out more about Lean Library.
If you’d like to hear more or receive a product demo, get in touch.
Lean Library Case Study: University of East Anglia November 15, 2024
Bringing patrons to library collections
The library puts in a considerable amount of time and effort to develop its collections and provide support for users. However, do they always start at the library when doing research?
“Helping users navigate through the login options when off-campus is a challenge. We can go some way to alleviating the confusion from within our discovery routes (e.g. adding WAYFless URLs, proxying link resolvers, adding notes to catalogue records) but if users prefer to do their searching and research elsewhere, we have little scope for being able to assist them at the point of need.”
Lean Library, a powerful browser plug-in, solves access issues and provides patrons with content as and when they need it, all while protecting their privacy and promoting your library’s brand.
“With the Lean Library extension, users don’t have to play ‘Hunt the login box’, our institutional login box just pops up when they need to login and be authenticated to access a resource. Users are not being constrained by having to just use our discovery tools for online resources. If they prefer to do a browser search or use Google Scholar, then they can now easily see what access they have as a UEA student or staff member.
Rather than them having to go to the library site, the library site comes to them, wherever they are choosing to start their research.”
“Helping users navigate through the login options when off-campus is a challenge.”
Lean Library strives to deliver a product that continues to bring value to the library. Does it match your expectations?
“Yes, especially with there being plenty of options to customise the service and with the inclusion of eBooks. There is some disappointment with the tool not yet being available for mobile devices, but I appreciate that is due to having to liaise with third parties.”
Lean Library requires users to download the plug-in. So, how do you get patrons to download it?
“We have a pull-up banner, and we created leaflets. At the start of the year, we promoted the resource at various locations on campus and we plan to do the same again at the start of each academic year. Most 2nd and 3rd year students will have already found their way around the discovery routes, so we mostly promote to try and help the 1st year undergraduates.
We have seen the number of users greatly increase and think that will continue to do so year after year with each new cohort of undergraduates. We also have a support video on our webpage about off-campus access.
Whenever our academic librarians give their induction training on the library, they always tell them about the Library Access tool and the helpdesk has a pile of leaflets to assist with the queries about off-campus access. At the start of the academic year, we added the Lean Library promotional video to our library homepage and have a series of tweets to promote the service.”
At the end of the day, it’s important that both faculty and staff find value in the tool.
“It is reassuring to see that development continues to continue to make the tool work better.”
University of East Anglia
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Find out more about Lean Library.
If you’d like to hear more or receive a product demo, get in touch.
Lean Library Case Study: University of Manchester November 14, 2024
Bringing students to the library
The library puts in a considerable amount of time and effort to develop its collections and provide support for users. However, do they always start at the library when doing research?
“Students and researchers often bypass library systems and either go straight to publisher websites or find content in Google and other search engines. When they are off campus, they will not be authenticated based on their IP address or provided with an immediate authentication route. The only way to access library-licensed content they need is to follow publishers’ often cumbersome login procedure:
• Certain e-resource vendors have special browser or software requirements which they may not display on their web pages
• Some e-resources have license restrictions (e.g. a limit to the number of concurrent users) which may not be visible on vendor web pages
• Sometimes e-resource vendors have downtime where licensed content is unavailable for a certain time period; this isn’t always made visible on vendor web pages.”
“Students and researchers often bypass library systems and either go straight to publisher websites or find content in Google and other search engines.”
Lean Library, a powerful browser plug-in, solves access issues and provides patrons with content as and when they need it, all while protecting their privacy and promoting your library’s brand.
“The extension detects when a user opens a website with material licensed by the library (such as a publisher’s website) and automatically notifies them of this, providing a link that will bypass the need to login to the website. It integrates with EZproxy authentication. The extension allows the library to provide a specific message when visiting a website (for example, that a service is temporarily unavailable or that the Library recommends an alternative site).”
Lean Library strives to deliver a product that continues to bring value to the library. Does it match your expectations?
“The take-up of the product has exceeded our expectations – as of January, we have exceeded 2500 engaged users in a month. Usage has been growing month-on-month. I am also impressed by the developments that have been made to the product (e.g. the e-books alternatives function) and I am looking forward to future developments.”
Lean Library requires users to download the plug-in. So, how do you get patrons to download it?
The library promoted Lean Library’s Library Access browser extension through many different channels:
• Face-to-face by our Academic Engagement Librarians at school committee meetings
• Social media: a co-ordinated Twitter campaign led by the Electronic Resources Co-ordinator which involved staff in the library’s Academic Engagement team
• A news item on the library’s website, recommended by the library’s Electronic Resources Helpdesk to students and researchers who have problems accessing library-licensed e-resources
• The University’s IT Service Desk recommend Library Access as one of the go-to methods to use to access library content.
At the end of the day, users need to see the value, and their feedback is important.
The University of Manchester Library received anecdotal feedback from academics and students who say how useful it is:
“Thank you for sharing the link to the browser extension. I just tested it and now I get proper access to APS journals. I will keep this extension active from now on.”
University of Manchester
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Find out more about Lean Library.
If you’d like to hear more or receive a product demo, get in touch.
Lean Library Case Study: University of Melbourne November 14, 2024
Increasing the impact and value of library collections
The library puts in a considerable amount of time and effort to develop its collections and provide support for users. However, do they always start at the library when doing research?
“Most of our staff and students access the library’s online resources and systems from off-campus with less than 30% of use coming from on-campus or within a physical library. This means communication must happen online, but our users are scattered across many systems, websites, databases, LibGuides and apps.”
Our student experience research has shown us that there are hundreds of pathways to our content and our users don’t all use our library’s website or search tools to start their search. Communicating with, and guiding, users who are using Google or going directly to subscription resources is a real challenge.
We are also in the process of implementing OpenAthens to replace our EZproxy system. Our existing, and very popular, EZproxy browser bookmarklet that gives users direct access on subscription pages will no longer work with OpenAthens so we are looking for alternatives.
Lean Library, a powerful browser plug-in, solves access issues and provides patrons with content as and when they need it, all while protecting their privacy and promoting your library’s brand.
“Lean Library has allowed us to effectively replace our EZproxy bookmarklet with a browser extension that will make the access and authentication process seamless and easy for our users. The ability to communicate with our users on specific websites is a marvellous additional functionality, especially for those vendors with multiple websites or complicated access processes.
The Lean Library team have helped us reduce the steps involved in some of our more difficult access pathways too. For example, we have over 80 websites that provide us with a single username and password for access. Lean Library popup messages on these websites now link users directly to the username and access instructions instead of hiding this information in a range of LibGuides, Catalogues and systems.”
Lean Library strives to deliver a product that continues to bring value to the library. Does it match your expectations?
“Yes, Lean Library has matched our expectations, and the support team have exceeded them. We have been very pleased with the help and advice we have received during the setup process and now that we are live.”
“We have found the Lean Library setup process really easy to work through and the support team has been amazing…Lean Library’s biggest benefit is that it makes the discovery and access process easier for our students and staff.”
Lean Library requires users to download the plug-in. So, how do you get patrons to download it?
“We initially just promoted Lean Library to the librarians and student support staff so they could become familiar with and support students and staff using it. To assist them, I ran a number of workshops where I demonstrated the installation process and main features with our subscriptions. I put together a worksheet for those who couldn’t attend, which walked through examples of the features. Once we had a good number of librarians using Lean Library, we started promoting it via our social media and regular faculty communications.
However, the most effective promotions have been the ads we embedded in our Discovery system, Library Catalogue, eJournal Search and on the EZproxy menu page. These ads bring Lean Library to the user’s attention right at the time they are looking for resources and then links them directly to the download page. The ads initially helped us grow the user base from 250 in that August to over 4,500 by October with hundreds of new users downloading and installing it each day once advertising started. We have over 62,000 students and over 10,000 staff so an install base of more than 4,500 people was a very successful start.”
At the end of the day, users need to see the value, and their feedback is important.
“Initially we have had a few library staff contact us concerned that Lean Library would not work as well as the EZproxy bookmarklet, but when we walked them through access to their favourite sites/resources they quickly changed their minds and decided it was great.
In the month after we launched, we had only a few direct queries, and they were all staff or students asking if the ads were legitimate! Direct feedback has been very positive with a few academic staff telling us they love it, or it is amazing. Even our library systems administrators have been impressed by Lean Library suggesting eBook alternatives on one of our shared print Catalogues, BONUS+. But the best feedback was from the statistics: having over 4,500 users with no reported faults from thousands of successful access and assist messages.”
University of Melbourne
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Find out more about Lean Library.
If you’d like to hear more or receive a product demo, get in touch.
Lean Library Case Study: KHSB Berlin November 14, 2024
Case Study: Katholische Hochschule für Sozialwesen Berlin (KHSB) und Lean Library
The Katholische Hochschule für Sozialwesen Berlin (KHSB), established in 1991, is a university that welcomes students from diverse backgrounds. It currently has about 1,400 students and approximately 90 teaching staff, offering a range of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in both full-time and part-time options.
The university’s library, founded at the same time as KHSB, serves as a central resource for faculty and students, providing support for literature research and access to a wide range of resources. In May 2024, KHSB implemented Lean Library to enhance its library services, making resources more accessible and increasing the library’s visibility by integrating library services into the students’ workflow. This has improved the relationship between the library and the student body by making the library more prominent and accessible.
“1. Der große Vorteil an Lean Library ist, dass die Literaturrecherche nicht im OPAC beginnen muss. Auch über eine Suche in Google wird angezeigt, ob die Bibliothek das Buch im Bestand hat.
2. Die Bibliothek bekommt durch Lean Library eine deutlich höhere Sichtbarkeit, da sie bei jeder Literaturrecherche mit einbezogen wird, egal wo die Suche beginnt.
3. Wir haben Lean Library in unsere Schulungen integriert, so dass alle Studierenden es kennenlernen. Außerdem hat unsere junge Kollegin einen Comic zu Funktion und Installation von LL gezeichnet – der kommt bei den Studierenden richtig gut an.
4. Super ist auch die Möglichkeit einen Begriff in einem Text zu markieren. Mit einem Klick der rechten Maustaste gelangt man in den OPAC und sieht, welche Literatur zu diesem Begriff im Bestand der Bibliothek zur Verfügung steht.”
Margarete Roßmann, Leiterin der Bibliothek
Before Lean Library was introduced, KHSB library faced significant challenges with visibility and student awareness of the library’s resources. Many students were not familiar with the library’s offerings or how to access them effectively.
Lean Library addressed these issues by improving the library’s visibility and accessibility. It enhanced the library’s branding and facilitated easier access to both library and open-access resources, allowing students to locate digital content anytime and anywhere with internet access. As a result, Lean Library has greatly enhanced students’ research experiences by providing quick and seamless access to resources.
August 2024 figures (3 months after full deployment):
Lean Library helped students access resources over 3,000 times
Library Assist Messages were viewed over 3,000 times
Lean Library macht unseren Bestand außerhalb des Bibliothekskatalog viel transparenter. Egal wo unsere Studierenden im Internet unterwegs sind, sobald sie auf einen Titel stoßen, den wir lizensiert haben, öffnet sich ein Hinweisfenster. Dadurch sind unsere digitalen Inhalte überall zu finden.”
Nicole Thomas, Bibliothekarin
The Library will offer induction and training sessions at the start of the new academic year, and is planning to use Lean Library to help advertise these. Other possible uses which will be explored include the ability to integrate library guides into certain target webpages, and the integration of a new discovery layer into Lean Library, so that search results from the library appear directly on Google and Google Scholar pages.
Ich finde es unglaublich praktisch, bei meinen Internetrecherchen zu fachlichen Themen immer wieder auf Literatur aus unserer Bibliothek hingewiesen zu werden. Die Installation war schnell gemacht, die Arbeitserleichterung ist aufgrund der direkten Verlinkungen immens.
1. Lean Library ist ein toller Assistent, der für mich die Augen aufhält, während ich im Netz nach Literatur suche.
2. Mein Weg zur Hochschulbibliothek ist mit Lean Library deutlich kürzer geworden.”
Andreas Richter, Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter
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7 Ways Academic Libraries Can Support the Needs of International Students November 13, 2024Both Canada and the United States experienced an increase in the number of international students during the period of 2022 and 2023. In 2023, each country hosted approximately one million international students, with the majority originating from developing nations.
We recently hosted a webinar with information specialist, Janina Van Der Westhuizen, who has over 20 years experience within academic settings, and Eva, currently an international student at University College London (UCL). Janina and Eva were joined by our Director of Development, Jessica Clemons, to discuss how libraries can enhance support for international students by understanding their unique information needs from a global perspective.
In case you missed the webinar, you can catch up below:
Read on to discover our 7 ways that academic libraries can support the needs of international students:
Libraries can offer tailored orientation sessions for international students to introduce them to library resources, services, and staff.
Implementing mentorship programs where senior students guide newcomers can help international students navigate the library system and feel more welcomed.
“Students may find it more helpful to have personal guidance from someone who’s a student mentor and more approachable by saying it in a very conversational way. This can be conducted weekly or in the from group chats, et cetera, to make it just feel more approachable and warm, welcoming.” – Eva
Libraries can provide access to language learning tools, software, and apps which can help international students improve their language skills. Hosting conversation clubs and guided reading groups can enhance students’ confidence in speaking and understanding academic English. This can build international students’ confidence in academic communication.
“In some education systems, students may not have been encouraged to communicate or present in a second language such as English. If students haven’t had strong training in the new language of instruction, it can be hard for them to understand lectures, write papers, and join discussions, especially in subjects that with complex vocabulary expectations around academic accuracy, plagiarism and research methods can differ significantly.” – Janina
International students can feel more integrated into the university environment via organized social events, cultural celebrations, and study groups to help international students feel connected to the community. Events like library tours, book clubs, or cultural exchange sessions can create a supportive environment, and libraries can create a welcoming environment by organizing cultural exchange events to celebrate diversity and foster a sense of belonging.
Many international students may be unfamiliar with library resources in the country where they’re studying. Multilingual guides, library ambassadors, and workshops on using databases and citation tools can make library services more approachable. Offering library workshops on academic skills such as research methods, citation management, and avoiding plagiarism can help international students succeed academically.
“As a librarian myself, it’s easy to try to train students or educate students to be little librarians. A colleague of mine loves to use that phrase, but I think we all know that that’s, that’s not the case. They’re not little librarians. They have their own experiences; they have their own needs and there’s a lot of work that librarians can do to connect along those dots.” – Jessica
Designing library spaces that cater to different study needs, such as quiet areas, group study rooms, and individual study pods, can enhance the study experience.
Ensuring the library is a welcoming space with comfortable seating, good lighting, and a calm atmosphere can help students focus and feel at ease.
“I think on top of that is if the library itself has its dedicated area for like group work or individual study parts. Instead of a quiet conventional setting of the library where you just have rows of tables and chairs, you can also have separate certain areas into different functional uses. Maybe a more cross-functional area of the library would welcome students to come in more often.” – Eva
Libraries can assist students facing financial barriers by providing access to essential academic resources like textbooks and study materials.
Offering part-time job opportunities within the library can help international students manage their finances while gaining valuable work experience.
“For international students issues such as high tuition fees, hardship, currency fluctuations, and limited access to financial aid add to their financial worries. And this risk can make it difficult for them to focus their studies and it also impacts on their mental health.” – Janina
Utilizing online platforms and virtual libraries to provide resources and support to students who may be studying remotely or in hybrid learning environments. Digital tools, such as Lean Library, streamline access to library-subscribed resources and Open Access papers, boosting patrons’ productivity and saving them money.
“I’ve been using Lean Library for like half a year and it’s really helping me to find accessible readings, papers or reports which I can just press download … I think it helps me to save a lot of time.” – Eva
Collaborating with faculty to integrate library resources into online courses and learning management systems can ensure students have easy access to necessary materials.
Our discussion highlighted how essential it is for academic librarians to understand how to support the needs of international students and understand the diverse groups within academic environments. We hope our webinar has been useful in understanding a few of the ways academic libraries can support their international students.
“Turning our focus back to international students. Every path is new. Getting to know your new environment takes time and effort. Many students face significant challenges when they arrive, often related to everyday tasks that we might take for granted. Simple things like figuring out the local transport system.” – Janina
If you’d like to find out more about how Lean Library can help your institution better support international students. Request a demo now!
