Sources of Evidence Used by Academic Librarians: A Grounded Theory Study

Objective

This research study examines the foundation of evidence based library and information practice (EBLIP) by exploring how academic librarians use evidence in their practice. The EBLIP model has been noted in the literature since 1997 but the foundation upon which it rests has very little research evidence that is directly relevant to librarians. This paper is part of a larger study, and will focus on the evidence sources used by academic librarians.

Methods

Grounded theory methodology was used. Methods of data collection were diaries (using online blog software) and interviews. Canadian academic librarians reflected upon the questions and decision making that arose in their practice over a one-month time period, noting their thoughts in an online blog. Interviews prompted further exploration of themes or critical incidents that emerged from the participants’ diary entries. Nineteen Canadian academic librarians participated in the study.

Results

The results of this study are still being analysed at this time. They will address how academic librarians (including health sciences librarians) think about the concept of evidence, the sources of evidence they actually use, whether evidence sources vary depending upon the type of problem, and how academic librarians find evidence.

Conclusion

This study will provide research findings about sources of evidence used in academic librarians' decision making, which has not been previously addressed by the literature. The research will be a starting point for the EBLIP movement to look inward and assess its current model. Insights relating to possible impact and changes to the existing model will be discussed.