Role of Library Directors in the Changing Academic Environment

This dissertation proposal explores the role of library directors in the changing academic environment and the challenges they face in transforming library spaces. It discusses the importance of technological innovation and the need for directors to adapt to the changing educational patterns and pedagogy. The study also examines the experiences of library directors and their impact on the transformation process.

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Dissertation Proposal

DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
Academic Library Director’s role in the changing environment
Dissertation Proposal
Submitted to North central University
School of Education
in Partial Fulfillment of the
Requirements for the Degree of
DOCTOR OFEducation
by
Antonia DiGregorio
Location:
Month:
Year:
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Research Question
Theorectical Framework
Nature of the Study
Significance of the Study
Definitions of Key Terms
Summary
Chapter 2: Literature Review
Documentation
Introduction
Theorectical Framework
The role and responsibilities of library directors
Learning Commons
Academic trends: librarians and libraries
Summary
Chapter 3: Research Method
Research Method and Design
Population
Sample
Materials/Instruments
Data Collection, Processing, and Analysis
Assumptions, Limitations, Delimitations
Ethical Assurances
Summary
References
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Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.0 Introduction
By drawing the considerable role of library directors, the academic environment,
partitions and researchers have played an influential role for determining their actions from the
last few decades. The purpose of this dissertation is to shed light on the role of library directors
in the changing academic environment. In this dissertation, different objectives have selected and
by highlighting different steps for conducting the comprehensive study, the researcher has
described the entire topic.
According to Kumar (2015), the traditional as well as the physical environment of
academic libraries are being transformed into the active learning centers, tech commons and
classrooms, which are being incorporated by initiatives of academic students. Due to the physical
transformation in the academic library field, the contribution of technological innovation has
been increased for increasing the learning facilities. By continuing this it can be said that due to
availability of electronic resources in the academic library field, the physical effort has been de
creased. In order to satisfy the educational as well as the social purpose, the new library space
plays a significant role. In case of incorporating an effective academic environment, the physical
space in the college libraries space been converted into different range of activities such as
service and resource collection. In the words of May and Thomas (2015), by increasing the en
engagement in the academic spectrum, it has become necessary for emphasizing collaborative
actions. Learning commons are mostly being used by the students, however there is no evidence
to identify if the student has done the job or not for gaining the higher grade.
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It cannot be denied that traditional library space is being considered as the widespread
practice that plays an important role for influencing the academic libraries as well as changing
technologies, changing students and learning methods of individuals. In order to develop the
learning process, the academic library directors need to focus on bringing the changes in physical
space. In order to collect the information from learning process, the active participation of the
students plays an important role. In the theory of Dewey, it is mentioned that in order to
understand the objectives of students, necessary resources needed to provide the learners so that
they will be able to effectively achieve the goals.
The Library directors need to be clear about the importance of transforming the library
space. In order to understand the needs of students, it is very important for the directors to
understand the importance of the changing educational pattern and pedagogy. Analyzing the
initial influences of the technology for acclimating the changes, it can be said that process of
sharing communication and information are the important influential factors. Due to changes in
the experience of library directors and changing environment in academic libraries, mission,
purpose and operational structure of the libraries have been changed. By underlying the
essentialness of educational aspects and social influences in the educational sector, the Dewey
theory has been developed. As stated by Jones (2018), in order to develop the Learning
Commons and bringing the transformation in academic library environment the Dewey’s theory
is beneficial.
In order to transform the physical space, the academic traditional environment needs to
be converted into the active learning centers. The traditional as well as the physical environment
of academic libraries are being transformed into the active learning centers, tech commons and
classrooms, which are being incorporated by initiatives of academic students. Due to the physical
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transformation in the academic library field, the contribution of technological innovation has
been increased for increasing the learning facilities. By continuing this it can be said that due to
availability of electronic resources in the academic library field, the physical effort has been de
creased. In order to satisfy the educational as well as the social purpose, the new library space
plays a significant role. In case of incorporating an effective academic environment, the physical
space in the college libraries space been converted into different range of activities such as
service and resource collection. Thomas (2015) stated that the new technological initiative in the
academic sector has brought the structural revolution. By transforming the physical footprint,
different opportunities can be created by involving into the communal educational spaces. By
utilizing the converted space, it can be easier for the students to improve the academic and
personal activities.
It cannot be denied that traditional library space is being considered as the widespread
practice that plays an important role for influencing the academic libraries as well as changing
technologies, changing students and learning methods of individuals. In order to develop the
learning process, the academic library directors need to focus on bringing the changes in physical
space. In order to collect the information from learning process, the active participation of the
students plays an important role. It is also true that before the introduction of Commons,
traditional processes were being followed in the library functions. Due to the increasing
availability of the online references like FAQ, email, texting and Ask a librarian, it has become
easier for the students to gather huge academic information. After the 20th century, the
continuous growth in the academic sector has been introduced due to the changes in learning
processes and learning module. Due to changes in information technology, the library space has
been incorporates by introducing the LED projects. During the year 1990, different shelving
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have been included in the learning processes. In most of the cases, the library directors focus on
for discussing the needs of institutions and learners so that the commons can be successfully
developed.
In the late of 1990s, the higher education in the academic libraries were dependent on the
information accessibility process. During this period, the information accessibility process was
based on the internet accessibility. According to Bowers (2018), the traditional library
progression were based on the changing influences of commoners. After the introduction of
modern library processes, the practice of unnecessary printing collection has been stopped. After
the creation of openness, new procedure and policies have been introduced, which has brought
huge revolution in the industry. By sharing the information, the higher education practice for
changing the technological and social dimensions in learning processes. Due to the current
transactions, the learning commons have been developed, which plays an influential role for
delivering the effective staff model. By continuing this, it can be said that by evaluation the
needs of individuals, the possible changes in the learning sector can be introduced.
1.1 Statement of the problem
The academic library directors are playing an influential role for driving the academic
environment, which is affecting the transformational process in the library. In case of adopting
the changes in higher education has become the major concern in this industry. In order to bring
the changes as well as revolution in the library sector, it has become necessary for the directors
for enhancing their abilities so that the changing academic library space can be effectively
managed. By enhancing the experience of the directors, the transformational process of learning
can be enhanced. By adopting digital strategy, the physical transformation of the libraries has
been introduced.
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It is true that the library directors have the minimal experience, so that they can be able to
adopt the technological innovation initiatives, which can directly influence the educational
standard. Depending on the aligned strategies, the library directors bring the technological as
well as instructional innovations, which plays an essential role for supporting the needs for
changes to the academic community. The changing environment in libraries can be considered as
the biggest problem in the current situation, which are creating challenges for library directors to
implement their strategies (Harris-Keith, 2016). It is true that in most of the cases, the
phenomenological research design helps to examine the changes, which are required for the
academic library development practices. In case of both the public and private colleges, the
theoretical concept of Dewey has brought the major influences in both the private, public and
community colleges and universities. By underlining the concepts of the social and technological
dimensions, the structure, mission and operation purpose of the individuals are being analyzed.
The technological innovation is highly responsible for the bringing the personal as well as
professional development.
1.2 Purpose of the study
The purpose of this study is to analyze the experiences of the library directors so that the
library space can be transformed into the Learning Commons. In case of discussing the process
of changing, the effect of traditional library environment is being analyzed. By examining the
emerging challenges faced by the library directors, the study has shed light on the case of
determining the effectiveness of services and resources. Through the semi-structured questions,
the opened interviews with the library directors, transformational photographs and reports can be
introduced. In the Dewey’s experience theory, the reorganizational framework has been
analyzed, which has been developed depending on the evidences collected from the interview
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sessions with the library directors. Analyzing the primary role of education, it can be said that it
contributes in bringing the constructive betterment in the educational sector. By continuing this,
it can be said that through this study the uncovered evidences that can develop the fundamental
restructuring process have been identified. By providing the information regarding the learning
process, the study will focus on contributing in higher educational process. The qualitative
phenomenological methodology can play an effective role so that the inductive logic can be able
to interpret the contextual academic information in proper manner. The result of this study will
describe the concerning library’s transformation process in right manner.
1.3 Theoretical Framework
Depending on the theoretical experiences of the Dewey, the important principles such as
continuity and interaction have been highlighted. The situational experience can determine the
outcome of individuals. By contributing in the society, the situational experiences as well as
positive dimension of the society can be analyzed. By continuing this it can be said that based on
different perspectives for connecting with the library directors, the transformational changes can
be introduced through the library space. As stated by Hutchinson (2015), the valuable experience
of individuals can contribute in the society by bringing the future and present development of
individuals. Through the data collection process, it has been identified that experiences of library
directors, the traditional common space can be transformed.
In the words of Hutchinson (2015), depending on the theoretical study, the social
constructive opportunity can be provided to the library directors so that several elements related
to the library space can be improved. By continuing this it has been identified that depending on
the current situation where the social constructive paradigms can be influenced. Depending on
the academic community and staffs, the phenomenological situation can focus on formulating the
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composite descriptions. As per Dewey, the educators need to focus on understanding the changes
that occur in society and has the direct impact on the learning process of the students. In this
study it can be said that individuals should be provided the opportunity for learning the societal
conditions. Working abilities as well as the involvement in the society can help to bring the
influential impact on learning processes of individuals. In the words of Harland, Stewart and
Bruce (2017), understanding the changes and implementing the constant strategies depending on
the librarians experiences, can be very challenging for the institutions. In this situation, the needs
of the students can get affected as these societal changes can ensure the dependability through
the actionable means. By continuing this Hutchinson (2015) stated that depending on the
efficiency of the library directors, the dependability is being ensured, that increase the work
abilities.
In the Dewey’s theory, the cognition as well as interaction processes are being developed
that influences the meaning and intelligence. The Academic libraries are being considered as the
organization in which the governance among faculty, trustees and administrators shares are being
involved. Through the technological innovations, both the personal and professional
developments are being introduced. Depending on the technological innovations, new demands
of the educators as well as learners can be understood, which brings the potential impact on the
organizations. Through the academic libraries transformational processes, the higher educational
processes in the society can be improved. It cannot be denied that the society development can
also influence the processes of higher education and technological transformation. Academic
commons can be considered as the common example of technological innovation that can drive
the decision making processes of individuals. In order to understand the potential impact of the
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individuals, the technological influence can bring the potential impact on the organization
(Harris-Keith, 2016).
Understanding the functional needs of the organization, the stability can be restored.
Depending on the physical restructuring process, the engagement of the Academic libraries can
be ensured. Depending on the acceptance of technological and environmental changes, the
library environment of the institution can gets influenced. In case of higher education, the
environmental changes can influence the society as well as technological innovations. As per
Dewey, by restoring g the stability the process of interaction can be improved.
1.4 Nature of the Study
In order to understand the experience of Library Directors, a qualitative
phenomenological approach can be used during the transition period. By producing the
transformative framework, qualitative approach for the research can be assumed depending on
the technological variables. It is true that the Phenomenological inquiry can be considered as the
empirical form that is being developed depending on the human perspectives. In case of
understanding the experiences of individuals, the risks in thee learning practices can be analyzed.
Depending on the phenomenological methodology of this study, the personal experiences
of the library directors throughout the transformational process from traditional to modern space,
the learning commons can be influenced. In order to establish the similarities and dissimilarities
of the analytical approach of individuals’, process clarification is needed. The library directors
aim to explore the different types of library directions in which the future successes of the
transformational processes are being analyzed.
After getting the approval from the NCU IRB, the renovation process will be introduced
by the different library directors from different colleges and universities. In order to collect the
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data for this research, virtual interviews, in person and phones can be used. In order to conduct
the interview, the open ended questions will be used. It is true that depending on the personal
experiences, the directors will share the information that can play an influential role for
enhancing different themes in the learning process. Depending on the descriptive cross-sectional
design, the comprehensive report can be developed by using the SPSS version 25 data analysis
technique.
In the Harland’s substantive grounded theory, it has been identified that Library Directors
needs to focus on adopting vision of the University so that technological impact as well as
student perspectives can be effectively understood. In this Harland’s substantive grounded
theory, the role of directors and their influence for bringing the technological innovation have
been highlighted. By restructuring the transformation impacts, the library professionals can be
able to understand the physical space that can bring the improvement in library environment. In
the Harland’s substantive grounded theory, it has been also mentioned that by bringing the
changes in higher education and technological innovation not only the experience of library
directors can be improved, but also it can help to develop the library environment. By
restructuring the library physical space, the opportunities to the library directors can be
introduced. It is true that ACRL principle can help to develop the intellectual commons. That can
help to expand the learning knowledge. By continuing this it can be said that the intellectual
space can also help to interact with the ideas of both the physical and virtual environments. The
ACRL principle is being considered as the process in which the changes are being occurred in
the higher education.
In the phenomenological analysis, it has been identified that the transformational process
can help to develop the current situation in the libraries. The study has focused on the important
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impact of manager and administrator and their traditional roles in case of driving the
transformational process in the libraries. By understanding the contribution of the future
Directors, qualitative methodology hjas been used by the researcher to reaching at the end of the
research.
1.5 Research Questions
In the research question, the researcher has focused on the experiences of academic
Library Directors and has connected them with the library spaces transformational processes. By
highlighting the Dewey's theory, the study has tried to identify the correlation between the
library spaces and experiences of the library directors. Analyzing the key aspects of Dewey's
theory, it has been identified that the theory includes the action, communication cognition and
emotion for underlying the social and cultural aspects of education. as per Dewey, it is
responsibility of the individuals to provide the better opportunities to the students, so that
students can be able to get betterment in educational sector, which will help to improve their
personal and professional career. Through the development of learning commons, the library
directors can focus on restructuring the learners’ environment.
RQ1: How the academic libraries can be transformed and directly impact on fulfilling the
responsibilities of Library Directors?
RQ2: Which are the ways for restructuring the responsibilities of clerks and librarians?
RQ3: What can be the effective way for ensuring the transformation in case of satisfying the
needs of academic community and peers?
Hypotheses
H10: There is no statistical implication in the role of Academic Library Directors in case of
bringing the changes in library environment
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H1a: There is statistical implication in the role of Academic Library Directors in case of bringing
the changes in library environment
H20: There is not significant role of the academic library Directors for changing academic
environment by the library’s transformational process in case of adopting the changes occurred
in higher education.
H1a: There is statistical implication in the role of Academic Library Directors in case of bringing
the changes in library environment
1.6 Significance of the Study
In the words of Harland (2017) by restructuring the libraries, the library directors can be
able to share inadequate information about the effectiveness of the role of Directors through the
transformational process. In the initial stage, the researcher has examined the academic libraries
strategies, which are being adopted by the Library’s Directors for bringing the learning standard.
In this study, real experiences of Library Directors can be address. These library directors are
being involved in the process of transforming the traditional library into the Commons. By
highlighting the theory of library space real experiences and information can be discovered
depending on the experiences and observations of the researcher.
In the words of Harland (2017) it is also important for understanding the process of
different departments for becoming the part of Commons and those impacts in case of driving
the responsibilities of the directors responsibilities (Fought & Jones, 2018). It cannot be denied
that the Academic libraries are the important elements in the higher educational institutions. In
some of the cases, these are being considered as an essential resources which are being used for
the scholarship, accreditation and educational research purpose. It has been identified that by
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managing the libraries as for the important support of instruction, scholarship and research
purpose, the library director fulfills the responsibilities.
In the words of Thomas (2015), depending on the position of the directors in the libraries,
the opportunities are being created. Understanding different perspectives of the library directors,
the transformational changes are being introduced. In the resulting theory, the directors’ concern
as well as technological influences throughout the transformational process are being analyzed.
Due to rapid changes in technology, directors plays an important role for creating the common
physical space in the libraries. Depending on different systematic approaches, the libraries are
being renovated by accommodating the needs of the learners in 21st century. After the
investigation of the current educational and technological theory, it has been identified that the
learning development has played an important role for driving the needs of the learners.
Due to thee disconnection between library staffs, resources and space, the position of thee
director is being restructured. Social constructiveness has become the important concern for the
individuals for improving the learning experiences of the people. By describing the effective
experiences it can be easier for the directors to improve the higher education standard.
Understanding for the different role of the directors, their contribution in the transition process
can be increased. By providing the practical references, current literature can be enhanced. By
supporting different educational theories, the process of library transformation into the Learning
Commons can be done.
1.7 Definition of Key Terms
Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL).
The ACRL is being considered as the part of the American Library Association (ALA),
which works to represent libraries associated with the higher education. In order to represent
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professional librarians, different types of working environments in the libraries throughout
higher learning process are being encouraged by the American Library Association (ACRL,
2012).
Academic Library.
In the words of John (2015), an academic library is being considered as the information
center, which is full of resources and services for supporting to the research and mission and
college university curriculum.
Library Directors.
The term library directors indicates physical resource, like chief of staff or manager. By ensuring
the effective library environment, the library director works to achieve the organizational goals
and objectives in better manner.
Learning Commons.
Learning common is being considered as the information center that is being shared
through the digital mode. In the 21st century, the learning commons has become one of the
popular learning destinations, where the supporting materials for learning are being provided. By
sharing the transparent space of learning, the scholars reimagine the learning procedure.
Academic Librarian.
Analyzing the role of an academic librarian, it has been identified that the person fulfills
the responsibilities in higher education institution. In the words of Andrews (2016), by assisting
the users in order to find information as well as resources, an efficient librarian fulfills the
responsibilities. The service oriented profession of the librarian, brings the technical innovations
by satisfying the professional requires individuals. In some of the cases, academic librarians are
being recruited for improving the instructional sessions.
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1.8 Summary
The current chapter of this study introduced the topic by outlining the main issues of this
dissertation. Specifically, some background of the study was provided followed by the statement
of the problem, purpose of the study and subsequently theoretical framework. The introduction
also enumerated the nature of the study, the research questions and hypotheses. Moreover, the
introduction also produced the significance of the study and concluded with the definition of
terms. The next chapter of the study will primarily focus on the thorough literature review and
the constructs of the theoretical framework.
The study focused on the changing roles of Library Directors and discussed some of the
topics related to the academic libraries like management, technology and librarianship. The
emergence of the digital era and the use of various technical innovations in society influenced
modifications in the setting of higher education. On the other hand, the study will evaluate the
needs of the academic communities especially the demands placed upon learning technologies in
the context of academic libraries.
Chapter two: Literature Review
2.0 Introduction
The objective of this study is to include a critical analysis of the experience of library
Directors in transforming the library’s space into Learning Commons within the last decade
(2009- present). The modifications were undertaken primarily in New York which will be
portrayed during the study. The solution to the problems will be met through the enumeration of
the project management approach. Therefore, the section will mostly review the literature on the
last five years from this study on most important roles of the academic directors’ based on the
changing environment.
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The literature review intends to summarize current literature as it relates to the study’s
topic. The proposed research topic will investigate, analyze and document the Library Director’s
perspective and their experiences about the transformation of the traditional library space into the
Learning Commons with valid and reliable content. As described in the introduction, libraries
have been restructured to accommodate the needs of the changing student needs correlating to
the higher education Standards. On the other hand, the influence of technological innovations has
played a major role in maintaining the efficiency of the library services (May, 2015). Directors
should have the capacity to lead the library in the digital age through implementation of relevant
technologies (Marcum, 2016). The literature review will help establish the background and the
framework of the study’s investigation as it relates to the research topic
Academic libraries in higher education are designed to support the institutional mission,
pedagogical practices and research. It also encouraged the evolution of trends that directly
affected the higher education standards (ACRL, 2018). ACRL’s (2018) Standards for Libraries
in Higher Education recognized the same as “intellectual commons”, which helped in creating an
atmosphere where users can interact with another in the virtual and physical environments to
expand their knowledge base and develop a new knowledge base. The library’s central role is to
contribute to student success, retention, and involvement in educational practices identified by
the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AACU) (Gunter, 2016). Traditionally,
academic libraries were heavily staffed with workers storing the physical collection, assist
patrons for locating print resources and provide information about library services (Spencer,
2016). However, the influence of 21st century technologies changed the manner in which the
academic libraries maintain resources, provide services and assist patrons. It has helped the
Library Directors in decreasing the recruitment of traditional staff or provide physical space to
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store materials (Spencer, 2016). The development of the information age through the emergence
and evolution of information technologies has helped in enhancing the processes followed by the
traditional library settings and pedagogy (Yi, 2015). The implementation of information
technology and the use of devices such as laptops and tablets enabled the users to access the
research resources and services more conveniently (Studwell, 2016).
Studwell (2016) noted that the technological innovations in the since the mid-1990s, has
drastically influenced modifications in the library settings. The rapid changes to the library
environment are a result of technological influence on higher education and society, which
brought about modifications in the responsibilities of the Library Director (Spencer, 2016). The
Library Directors acknowledge the changing role of the staff, considering the direct impact on
the policies and services of the library (Andrews, 2016). The technological advancements helped
the librarians in cultivating peer learning through collaboration (Andrews, 2016). It is essential
for Library Director’s to identify the needs of their students and thereby bring forth
modifications in the operations of the traditional libraries by infusing technological elements.
The identification of the expectations of the students to study in a quiet place and collaborate
with the peers for group projects has helped the directors in maintaining the efficiency of the
change in the study centre (Andrews, 2016). An aspect of the Library Director’s role is to lead
their program and adopt initiatives to support their staff and their academic community.
Harland (2017) emphasized on the importance of director’s responsibilities to realign the
library’s strategies for incorporating modifications to accommodate the student’s expectations.
Library Directors acknowledged the need of infusing the latest technologies in the context of
traditional library space for adhering to the societal influences and the evolving higher
educational standards (Mandeville-Gamble, 2016). An effective library leader will learn about
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different digital technologies and understand the opportunities and drawback different
technologies present (Marcum, 2016). The transition of the library from the traditional space to
the Commons required the library leaders to learn about the new environment, creating
momentum within their staff, and establishing an attainable vision (Jones, 2018).
Technology affected the manner in which academic library services and resources meet
the needs of their community. It also focused on the manner in which resources are shared
through the evolution of concepts like acquireOpen access resources. The concept of open access
is part of the digital world (Harland, 2017). The spectrum of open access resources is part of the
digital world and offers libraries to access the digitized materials, which requires intangible
space (Marcum, 2016). It is the responsibility of the Library Director to realign the library’s
mission to accommodate technological innovations, societal influences while emphasizing on the
needs of crisis faced by the libraries as per the expectations of the academic communities
(Brundy, 2014). Library Leaders have to remain aware of their institution’s new vision resulting
from the changes occurring within higher education and implement a strategic vision for the
library (Mandeville-Gamble, 2016). Directors must take initiatives of understanding the role of
digital leaders, as the traditional libraries are evolving from the digital revolution into an
information ecosystem (Jones, 2018).
In the late 1990s the term Information Commons came about to describe online and
physical library environments (Spencer, 2016). Information commons included three main
characteristics which helped in judging the needs of the academic communities and providing the
same with the required resources. Studies culminating about the Information Commons propelled
the research on the Commons movement, which involved the evolution of the libraries to
reconfigure their physical space in order to accommodate the needs of the 21st century users. It
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also focused on the everchanging standards in higher education (Sullivan, 2010). Rightsizing a
library collection is a procedure that might be utilized by the directors in order to eliminate
unused collections for creating space. It helped the directors in developing optimal use of the
physical space and thereby maintaining a relevant collection of resources (Ward, 2015). Yi
(2015) studied the needs of the Library Directors in emphasizing on the library’s importance
during this period of transformation. It also helped the directors in identifying the manner in
which the library will remain relevant to its academic community. The Director’s need to
recreate their library space by rightsizing and restructuring is dependent on the ever- changing
needs of the students and faculty (Spencer, 2016).
Library Directors are influenced the manner in which the library might contribute to the
needs of the students. The integration of the Learning Commons within the library’s space
affected the approach of the Library Directors while managing the library’s workflow, services,
and resources (Gunter, 2016). Transforming the traditional library space into the Learning
Commons does change the manner in which faculty and students view the library. In general,
Library Directors are committed to ensuring the library is continually aligning strategies and
welcoming innovation in order to remain abreast of changes and expectations within their
academic community (Gstalder, 2018). The chief role played by the Library Director’s is to
support the institution's mission and to have an openness to accept innovation, especially
emerging technologies (Yi, 2015). In conjunction with the demands of the director’s professional
responsibilities, the director should be knowledgeable about the modifications occurring in the
higher education (Spencer, 2016).
Rapid technological changes, evolving methods of pedagogy, the ever- changing
requirements of the students continually challenges the director to identify the concerns that are
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faced by the same in the academic community (Fought, 2018). Yi (2015) stated in a study that
the multiple approaches that are utilized by the leaders helps the same in establishing the goals
for the library. Library Directors are responsible for aligning the library’s mission with the goals
of the college. Setting goals during periods of transformation should include long-term and short-
term objectives for developing or maintaining the necessary services as per the needs of
improving the quality of the available services (Yi, 2015).
Continuously reinventing library services and resources to remain abreast of current societal and
technological changes helped the directors in adhering to the modifications and the needs of the
student communities (Harland, 2017). Aligning the library’s vision with the college relies on the
director’s capability of establishing the library importance in conjunction with the institution’s
mission (Wheeler, 2017). Transforming the traditional library into the Learning Commons is a
response from the administration creating a new strategic plan with new goals and targets
(Harland, 2017). Directors have to be responsive to these changes and cannot remain silent or
passive during the renovation process.
Part of transforming the library space into the Commons is rightsizing the library
collection (Ward, 2015). Rightsizing the library collection is essentially a weeding project most
Directors have to undertake for preparing their library for the required space (McHale, 2016).
Andrews (2016) stated in the research that the phases of the transformation process included the
removal of outdated materials, such as print collections, desktops, CD Roms, shelving units and
unused study spaces. However, the research did not enumerate the director’s role throughout the
modification process. Academic libraries are in a period of reinvention, which usually culminates
from a strategic plan developed by the college’s administration and the Office of Academic
Affairs (King,2016). Academic Affairs identifies projects vital to the college with the overall
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goal of student retention and success (King, 2016). To strengthen the objectives of Academic
Affairs, renovation of library space is required and should be developed to Commons for
adhering to the needs of the students and other academic communities (King, 2016). Library
Directors monitors and controls the transformation process and facilitate meetings with the
stakeholders for achieving the organizational goals and resolving conflicts within their
department. The ever- changing Higher education policies stressed on the utilization of
information technologies along with the social media applications while bringing forth
innovations in the academic library settings (Yi, 2015).
Technological innovations affected the organizational structure of the library, such as the
quantity of print materials, staff size and responsibilities in order to provide sufficient resources
and services for the library’s patrons (King, 2016). The present societal movement for libraries to
be transformed into the Commons has emerged and is continuously expanding due to the
technological innovations while accommodating the needs of the evolving students (Schulte,
2018). Library Directors are responsible for bringing forth modifications in their staffing
attitudes for implementing the changes successfully (Wheeler, 2017).
2.1 The role and responsibilities of library directors
Directors play an important role in obtaining the necessary resources and materials for
students and faculty research (Wheeler, 2017). As the provider of informational resources and
materials, directors must have an extensive knowledge of the different societal movements
directly affecting education and the communication of information. The manner in which the
information is transmitted, stored and retrieved influenced the primary activities of the library
holdings from the traditional physical footprint to the virtual environment (Marcum, 2016).
Access to libraries no longer needs the patrons to enter the library physically, as most library
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resources are made available 24/7 through online access (Gutierrez, 2014). Director’s role can
have a profound impact on the college and contribute to their institution's success by leading
innovations influenced by technology and societal movements. Innovations have allowed
libraries to transform their physical space into the Commons for accommodating the needs of the
academic communities in higher education resulting from information modernization (Thomas,
2015).
Director’s overall viewpoints on the reorganization and decision making capabilities of
the same helped in interpreting the experience of the changed process (Harland, 2017).
Academic Library Directors are required to establish new goals for bringing forth transitions in
the traditional library setting (Yi, 2015). The concept of the directors in creating new goals for
their library included the services and resources as per the expectations of their staff (Yi, 2015).
Library Director’s set goals and redevelop the library’s mission statement in order to align with
the changes that are associated with the technologies. The change process deliberately affected
the collections (print and electronic), space management and workflows (Yi, 2015).
Harland’s (2017) studied the manner in which Library Director might ensure the library’s
viability as per the academic community during rapid changes in the spectrums of infusing
technology in the higher education through the utilization of grounded theory research approach.
The study included a small group of library directors undertaking semi-structured interviews and
thereby analyzing their responses to rapid changes. The responses helped in identifying the
manner in which the library is structured (Harland, 2017). The research emphasized on the
importance of academic libraries to accommodate technological innovations. However, the
study lacked in undertaking an empirical research that discusses the role of the Library Directors’
in the current environment of change (Harland, 2017). Harland’s (2017) study indicated that the
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director might respond positively to changes by enacting certain strategies in order to
demonstrate the library’s importance to its community and stakeholders. Equally, Harland (2017)
also indicated that the directors must respond to the university’s strategic plan for preventing the
library being an outcast with the certainty of becoming irrelevant.
Harland (2017) generated a theory, which noted that the library leaders must engage with
stakeholders, become part of the strategic process for ensuring the continuous improvements in
the library and connect to its academic community. The study mentioned the role, strategies and
priorities of directors while bringing forth modifications in the traditional libraries. Harland
(2017) negated to provide any theory or establish the director’s perspective about transforming
the general library space to the Commons. Directors must go through rapid changes in order to
adhere to the technological innovations and support the smooth functioning of the libraries.
Directors should be leaders of change and hold the foresight to develop a new vision and secure
value to their library. In order to reinvent the library the directors will have to bypass the
traditional library disposition and acknowledge their library’s limitations before implementing
any subtle change. Library’s limitations include budget shortfalls, inefficient workforce, service
offerings and lack of competent staff, which might affect the change process (Harland, 2017).
Brundy’s (2014) phenomenological study will be examining the new Library Director’s
role during the first year after their joining. The study will also evaluate the experiences of the
directors from the transition. Brundy (2014) stated that the director’s success depends on the
development phase where the directors make use of the phenomenological methodology within a
constructivist framework. The constructivist framework provides the directors with the
opportunity of maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per the transitions. The gradual
development of the directors helps an organization in maintaining the efficiency of the
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
operations as per the needs of the business. The directors are chosen from the external job
markets rather than selecting the same from the internal employees. Therefore, the interviews
that will be considered for the study will focus on interacting with the external samples who were
elected as the directors. The different changes in the library are enforced through the smooth
functioning of the systems and the election of external candidates as directors. Brundy (2014)
stated that the change readiness among the directors and the acceptability of the same to the
different phenomenological transitions helps the same in bringing forth developments as per the
needs of the community. The higher involvement of the directors in the change processes will be
helping the same in upholding the efficiency of the operations as per the needs of the academic
community.
Stuart (2015) stated that the qualitative, phenomenological, multiple case study research
was undertaken which investigated the subtle changes of four academic libraries in Florida as per
the perspective of library leaders. One of the major aspects that supported the change in the
libraries was the utilization of favorable technologies. The evolving technologies helped the
organizations and the library directors in maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per the
needs of the academic community. The changes in the libraries are not solely dependent on the
directors as the involvement of the library staff and student workers assists in the smooth
functioning of the system. The change readiness among the staff members and the students helps
the director in maintaining the efficacy of the transition. The utilization of specific technologies
also helps an organization in maintaining the efficiency of the staff choosing process. On the
other hand, the advancement of technology helps the library directors in identifying the changing
needs of the academic community. Librarians who have earned their Master degree in library
science are superseded by the needs of the institution for hiring additional staff with specific
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
technical skills that are not part of traditional librarian degrees. Technological revolutions on
library collections and services affect the overall daily workflows of the library staff. Stuart’s
(2015) sated in the study that every library undertook a renovation for reframing the structure or
freeing up space through removal of printed media due to the online accessibility. Moreover,
Harland (2017) emphasized on identifying the need for physical space for the library collection
and the manner in which the technological innovations helped the directors in freeing up
significant amount of space. Stuart (2015) stated in the study that the importance of aligning the
library’s mission to support the needs of the academic community is dependent on the
technological innovations that re undertaken by the same.
Yi (2015) stated that the utilization of Bolman and Deal’s reframing change model would
help in examining different approaches for bringing forth transitions in the library environment.
The changing library environment includes managing information technology and the manner in
which the IT initiatives influence the library’s collaborative workflow. Yi (2015) stated in the
research that the Library Directors often utilize the Bolman and Deal’s model to identify the
goals for the ongoing changes. The structural framework described by Bolman and Deal works
as a system for developing rules and policies for assisting the smooth functioning of the
organization as per the organizational charts. The structural framework supports the goals of the
organization in maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per the needs of the academic
communities. The delineation of the technologies, procedure and personnel needs of the
organization helps the same in planning the activities for adhering to the changing needs of the
academic communities. The library directors will take significant changes in the setup and the
operations of the same in order to support the different variables. The major variables in this
connection are demographics, human capital, and library characteristics, which clearly
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
contributes to the different transitions in library management. Harland (2017) stated in the
research that the framing model of Bolman and Deal delineates the transition experience with
four major themes. The themes are to build foundations for success, preparation for leading the
activities, being established and looking out for hazards clearly justifies the activities that might
be undertaken by the library manager. Brundy (2014) supported the themes stating that Bolman
and Deal’s reframing change model helps an organization in identifying the structure of the
business. The identification of the structure of the organization helps the manager in infusing the
transitions in the specific areas.
Fought (2018) stated in the research that the different developments that are undertaken
by the Library Directors are dependent on the technological innovations that are undertaken by
the same. The changes in the organizational operations help the Library Directors in adhering to
the needs of the academic communities. The experience gathered by the Library Directors helps
in inducing adaptability among the same. Takenaka (2017) stated in a research that the
adaptability of the Library Directors helps the same in implementing relevant technologies for
enhancing the previous library work and educational background. Library leadership requires the
director to have certain qualities and skills for success. Harris-Keith (2016) stated that the
Library Directors investigates the skills relevant to successful leadership and the needs of the
organization to bring forth modifications in the operations correlating to the needs of the
academic communities.
Harris-Keith (2016) surveyed Library Directors about their previous library positions,
and the manner in which the job responsibility prepared the same for a library leadership role.
The most likely Library Directors are chosen from among the people who previously held
positions as assistant directors or department head. Harris-Keith (2016) also noted that the
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Academic librarians who become a director without a supervisory experience lacks definite skills
in the areas of compliance, fundraising and safety of the operations. On the other hand, the lack
of proficient knowledge of the monitoring and controlling initiatives affect the role of a Library
Director. Harland (2017) stated in the research that the director’s role of maintaining the
efficiency of the operations is dependent on the understanding of the issues that are faced by the
same. On the other hand, the identification of the technological advancements that might be
introduced by the director helps in enhancing the workflow as per the concerns of the academic
communities. Technological innovations are continually impeding the manner in which
information is shared. The suitable links of communication helps an organizational system in
facilitating knowledge sharing attributes, which helps the same in undertaking informed decision
on the processes. On the other hand, the lucid communication links between the different
individuals helps in integrating the library resources and services. Andrews (2016) stated in the
research that the role of the library directors in the digital era is dependent on the establishment
of a comprehensive strategy that involves practical purposes for digital initiatives and embrace
new rules for the web environment and patron engagement. On the other hand, Mandeville-
Gamble (2016) noted that the developments of the operations by the library director help the
same in maintaining the performance as per the needs of the business. Therefore, the
technological innovations will be helping the library directors in maintaining the efficiency of
the operations as per the needs of the academic communities.
Marcum (2016) stated in a research that the library leaders must take steps to recalibrate
and articulate the library’s mission while operating in the digital era. In this relation, most of the
academic libraries have a digital collection accessible from everywhere at any time using various
devices. Mandeville-Gamble (2016) stated in a research that in the current years the academic
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libraries have gone through disruptive changes, such as digitization and rightsizing collections in
order to comply with technical modernizations and the changing needs of the academic
researchers. The transformative ability of the Library leaders helps the same in bringing forth
disruptive innovative practices in library management over the traditional practices. The infusion
of latest technologies will thereby support the transformative objectives of the leaders while
maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per the needs of the academic communities.
According to Mandeville-Gamble (2016), the transformative vision of the library leaders helps
the same in maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per the needs of the business.
Developing a transformative vision should include changes with a direct response to
technological innovations, societal influences and changes to higher education policies.
Directors should have the skill to embrace changes affecting the traditional methods unnecessary
for the current students and faculty.
The Library Directors employ different approaches in order to manage the evolving
environment for meeting the current needs of their students, faculty and staff. The fact that
Libraries are human organization empowers the activities of the leaders in developing the
processes as per the strategic vision of supporting the needs of the academic communities.
Prioritizing and accommodating the needs of faculty and students helps the Library Leaders in
facilitating reallocation of resources to accommodate new technologies in support of the
transformative vision. Marcum (2016) noted that the transformative visionary of leadership is
necessary to embrace emerging technologies that has created an environment of constant change.
King (2016) stated that the Leadership across campus contributes to the significant period
of reinvention that culminates from the strategic plan. The strategic plan includes the activities
relating to recognition of the library’s importance and the facilities that are expected by the
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
students or the library staffs. The identification of the needs of the stakeholders helps the library
director in maintaining the efficiency of the process design while adhering to the technological
innovations. The strategic planning of the different changes provides the authorities with an
overview of the activities and the integrated framework that might be followed by the same in
order to maintain the smooth functioning of the systems. The integrative model provides the
directors with the view of the student and faculty learning, academic support services, which
helped in developing an efficient model for empowering classroom learning. The library
directors aim at redesigning the libraries for freeing up space and thereby facilitate the
technological innovations in the settings. The implementation of technological reforms in the
concept of traditional learning practices has helped the library leaders I supporting the needs of
the students. On the other hand, the proper management of the activities in the library helped the
leaders in upholding the integrated functioning of the staff members.
Lombard (2018) stated that the different aspects of technological modificatiosn in the
libraries are dependent on the library personnel perceptions of gender and leadership. However,
Brundy (2014) stated that the leadership operations in the context of a library’s management are
not related to the gender of the leaders. The adaptability of the leaders to embrace the different
modifications helps the same in maintaining the efficiency of the workflow. On the other hand,
the leadership qualities relating to environment of collaboration, inclusivity and transparency
helps in maintaining the efficiency of the operations. Martin (2018) stated that the key elements
of change that are undertaken by the library directors are aimed at enhancing the operations as
per the technological innovations. On the other hand, the identification of the issues faced by the
staff and the students will help the library managers in mitigating the same for the progress.
According to the research undertaken by Martin (2018), generalized traditional characteristics of
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
library leaders are indicated to be masculine with aggressive behavior. However, King (2016)
stated that the leadership qualities of an academic director are dependent on the capabilities and
adaptability of the same over the gender constraints.
The different leadership cultures among the library managers aims at inducing the
collaborative functioning of the staff members as per the needs of the academic community. The
identification of the tending knowledge needs of the communities and the installation of latest
technologies helps in empowering the activities of the library directors. Andrews (2016) stated
in the research that the gradual development in the library space has helped the library leaders in
infusing the latest technologies for information control and transmission. King (2016) stated that
the continuous development of the IT systems has helped the library leaders in adhering to the
changing trends in the digital era and support informed decision making. The Academic Library
Directors should take part in the development of the Learning Commons and thereby restructure
the process in order to maintain the efficiency of the operations. On the other hand, Mandeville-
Gamble (2016) stated that the Library Directors must also take steps to make informed decisions
while implementing a latest technology in order to enhance the performance of the staffs.
The growth of the IT systems in the library settings facilitates collaborative learning
environments in the offices and among the staff members (King, 2016). The gradual
development of the library space has evolved to include different services but within a
centralized location as per the needs of students, faculty and the academic community. Martin
(2018) stated that the vision of the library leaders play an important role in upholding the
efficiency of the technological innovations and their implementation on the structure. The values
in the library leader acts as a pathway for integrating different technological innovations in the
processes in order to facilitate the smooth functioning of the systems as per the objectives.
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
Lombard (2018) stated that gender reveals no difference about leadership and the qualities that
might be developed by the library leaders in order to maintain the efficiency of the operations as
per the needs of the academic communities. The identification of the learning patterns in higher
education and learning standards will facilitate the Academic Library Directors in maintaining
the efficiency of the operations. On the other hand, the delineation of the education standards
will be helping the managers in installing latest technologies in order to support the increasing
needs of the students. According to Studwell (2017), library leaders must develop systematic
strategies that might lead to successful results for restructuring their library with the least amount
of resistance from staff. It will also help the leaders in maximizing the engagement of the staff
members in the process and hereby facilitate collaborative functioning. Martin (2018) stated that
innovation is a continuous process through the technological and pedagogical influences.
Therefore, the upgradation of the relevant technologies will be helping the managers in
maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per the needs of the students. The development of
strategy and an implementation plan helps the library directors in maintaining the efficiency of
the transition that is planned by the same.
The role of the Library Director is to demonstrate the library’s value. Articulating the
library’s importance requires the director to remain abreast of current changes and have direct
responses for the challenges met. Directors must take steps to identify the problems and mitigate
the same through the modifications. The changes directly affect the library functions and serve
its academic community as per the objectives. On the other hand, the Library Director should
assess the strength and weakness of the library. Studwell (2017) recognized that the strong leader
should take steps to encourage the involvement of the employees through consultation and
gathering employee's opinions. The effective communication and collaborative functioning of
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
the staff with the Library Director helps in maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per the
needs of the students.
2.2 Learning Commons
The concept of Learning Commons emerged because of the removal of libraries print
collection. It helped in empowering the user’s ability to access online resources. Collections
require smaller footprints allowing libraries the opportunity to reshape and reconfigure their
space to contribute to the learning process (Andrews, 2016). Initially, the Commons required
additional desktop computers for the transmission of knowledge enhancing data. However, the
influence of technology has continuously created a platform for influencing the pedagogical
environment. Andrews (2016) noted that the transition of the Commons occurred in three phases
starting in 2006 to 2015. Each phase was a response to the trends occurring in academia,
especially with the view of reutilizing the library space (Andrews, 2016). King (2016) discusses
the phases of repurposed library space as the Learning Commons 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0. Each version
of the Commons, according to King (2016) introduced the users to updated technologies. It also
provided efficient study space for the students to work individually as well as facilitate
collaborations. The Commons envisioned the utilization of the library space in order to provide
the students with opportunities like tutoring and other services (King, 2016). The Commons
altered the way in which the traditional library operated through the inclusion of student learning
initiatives. It has also helped the Commons in creating an environment that allows the faculty to
introduce different instructional methodologies such as blended and flipped instruction as per the
needs of the student.
May and Swabey (2015) stated in a research that the academic traditional libraries space
is being transformed to the Commons for ensuring the maximum utilization of the space. Most of
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
the academic institutions are transforming library space into Learning Common areas, which has
helped the same in ensuring the smooth functioning of the digitized and electronically available
platforms (May & Swabey, 2015). The vast transformation of the physical space in the academic
libraries into tutoring centers, classrooms, and technology influenced study rooms has helped the
academic organization sin adhering to the needs of the students. At the five libraries,
questionnaires were circulated and sweep observations were undertaken (May &Swabey, 2015).
The sweep method did have limitations because the activities of the patrons’ were observed,
which might be biased (May & Swabey, 2015). Both the approaches that will be utilized during
the research will have their specific limitations, as they did not allow for follow-ups or
clarifications. The research questions will be examining the needs for the student’s for being in
the library. The survey will include questions like: what library tools were used? Did they ask for
assistance from library staff? Socialize with friends? Study alone or in groups? The questions
will focus on activities directly linked to academic work and the library. The results will
demonstrate, student’s view on the library regardless of the new Learning Commons initiatives
(May &Swabey, 2015). King (2016) stated that the utilization of technology has revealed the
need of utilizing the digital media over print materials. The students preferred top browse on the
net to browsing the library stacks, which is time- consuming. Apart from all the digital
technologies, the students still utilize the library for retrieving the old edition books that are not
available on net. However, no evidence was found demonstrating the student’s grades who
utilized the Commons, which restricted the identification of the special benefits that are derived
from the concept (May &Swabey, 2015).
Gutierrez (2014) stated in a research that the Commons has existed since the emergence
of the Internet in the year 1990s. The Commons has shifted the space from the storage of
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
knowledge to the creation of knowledge by facilitating “self-direction in learning” (Gutierrez,
2014). Components of the Commons encouraged the campus-wide initiatives for teaching and
learning through the influence of relative technologies. The technologies played an integral role
in supporting academic research, tutoring and writing centers (Gutierrez, 2014). The Learning
Commons reflected on the diverse modifications that occurred in education and learning
environments. The Commons facilitated the students with a collaborative atmosphere, which
helped in enhancing the learning experience of the same. King’s (2016) stated in a study that the
Commons helped in re-establishing the library as the “nerve center” of campus instead of the
forgotten building with a collection of books.
The Learning Commons area at the University of Iowa transformed their library into an
environment incorporating a range of activities that emphasized on collaboration and
engagement within the academic spectrum (Thomas, 2015). Thomas (2015) also stated in a study
that the patrons’ patterns of utilizing the Commons he4lps in understanding the collaborative
approach of the same while operating in diverse academic economies. The researchers used a
survey called “Student Engagement in the Research University (SERU)”, which is composed of
questions focusing on students’ perceptions of the Learning Commons. SERU’s questions
mainly focused on the facilities provided by the learning commons and students’ overall
satisfaction through usage of the area (Thomas, 2015). The responses that were collected through
the survey portrayed that the students using the Learning Commons desires a quiet place to
study. However, apart from the quiet place the students also require a collaborative activity that
facilitates the suitable learning environment. Thomas (2015) stated that the two main reasons for
the students’ preference towards Commons are dependent on their accessibility to computer and
study alone platform. Thomas (2015) also noted that the students prefer a quiet place for
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
studying which will be helping the same in maintaining the efficiency of the learning attributes.
However, it is unclear if the Learning Commons is conducive to students learning or if the quiet
study place for students facilitates higher learning outcomes for the students (Thomas, 2015).
Karasic (2016) stated in a research that the library’s survival depended on its
transformation into the Commons and the inclusion of digital technology. The inclusion of the
digital technology in the context of the libraries has helped in enhancing the processes. The
evolution of the Commons is a result of technology and manner in which brought about
modifications in the library through less storage space (Karasic, 2016). The Commons represents
the transition of libraries from physically storing resources to virtually maintaining resources.
Technology has induced changes in higher education pedagogy, especially through the
introduction of active learning classrooms (Karasic, 2016). The Information Commons came into
existence in the year 1990s for addressing the needs of the user relating to their access over
desktop computers. However, as technology continually developed and information became
available virtually, physical desktop computers faced lower demand. The development of the
relevant technologies helped the users in accessing library resources and services from different
places and diverse devices.
Karasic (2016) stated that the Learning Commons emphasized on the discussing the void
created by the Information systems. However, the Information Commons did not include all
departments, which affected the collaborative approach among faculty and other campus
departments (Karasic, 2016). The development of the Learning Commons was a response to the
need for cooperation among the departments. The commons also emphasized on the inclusion of
technology while developing active learning classroom (Karasic, 2016). Restructuring the library
into the Commons has allowed different academic departments to work together and create a
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
positive environment for students in order to empower learning attributes (King, 2016). The
development of the Commons posed a serious threat to the academic libraries. However, the
technological developments within the libraries helped the same in maintaining their sustenance
through the induction of Commons.
King (2016) referred the Commons as the “repurposed warehouse” for highlighting the
different changes undertaken by the academic libraries in order to reutilize the space for other
tutoring services. The reinvention of academic libraries will help in serving the library’s core
purpose of academically supporting the students (Oliveira, 2018). Academic libraries undertake
transformations through identifying the needs of learners and anticipating the emerging trends
affecting higher education (Karasic, 2016). ACRL (2018) stated that the Commons utilizes the
“one-stop shopping” model for facilitating multiple uses of the renovated library space.
Commons model emphasizes on providing the librarian with a reference assistance (traditional
and virtual) relating to tutoring centers, study rooms and alliances with other vital academic
departments as per the needs of the students. Henrich (2013) stated in the study that the students
learn best when resources and services are steadily available. On the other hand, the resources
and information being “centrally located” help the student sin retrieving the same as per the
academic needs. Developing partnerships with other academic departments and units helped the
Commons in enriching their databases with the overall goal of assisting students in achieving
success (Thomas, 2015).
Takenaka (2017) stated in a research that the services provided by the Learning
Commons are dependent on the assessment of the needs of the students and delivering the same
for supporting their academic careers. Takenaka (2017) collected data from surveys,
observations and semi-structured interviews for understanding the objective of the Commons in
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
providing a large range of services for faculty and students (Takenaka, 2017). The research
enumerates Convenience relating to “one-stop shopping” for describing the activities of the
Commons. Takenaka (2016) concluded in the research that there are five conditions for the
Commons that might be utilized by the users. The conditions relating to convenient location,
entertainment space, student services for all university needs and provide incentives to the
students for using the Commons. The conditions helped the Commons in empowering the
different economic, psychological and educational needs of the students. Learning Commons in
Japan differ from national and local universities (Takenaka, 2016). Local universities have
established the Learning Commons outside of the library whereas national universities have
formed the Learning Commons inside of the library as in the United States (Takenaka, 2016).
Blummer (2017) examined the phases of the Commons in the study from the traditional
to the interactive learning spaces. The Information Commons were developed even before the
establishment of the Learning Commons through the utilization of most traditional library spaces
(Andrews, 2016). Restructuring the Information Commons into Learning Commons helped in
supporting the pedagogical changes through an advanced influence of technological innovations
in the higher education (Andrews, 2016). The technological innovations and knowledge sharing
elements through the utilization of digital platforms has helped in the development of the
Learning Commons. Remodeling the libraries allows the academic institution in redesigning a
space in support of the library’s mission of assisting the students with advanced learning
experiences (Oliveira, 2018). Historically, libraries have always been a storage place for
information and created a platform for users to access, communicate and retrieve information
(Virgil, 2013). However, technological innovations constantly influenced advanced library
resources and thereby allowing the patrons for accessing information virtually (Andrews, 2016).
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Cloud-based services removed the need of libraries to provide space for collections (Blummer,
2017). The services also provided students and researchers with the opportunity to save their
content virtually without the need for keeping a print or utilizing a USB (Andrews, 2016).
Peacock (2018) stated in a research that the 21st-century Learning Commons evolved
from the late 1990s and early 2000s information commons. The Information Commons
accommodated the utilization of technological aspects for bringing forth changes occurring
during the period in higher education academic libraries (Blummer, 2017). Information
Commons included many fixed desktop computers, viewing rooms, group and individual study
rooms (Blummer, 2017). However, Peacock (2018) stated that the 21st Century Learning
Commons needed the capability of adapting to the diverse information needs and learning styles
of their academic community. Therefore, the Learning Commons evolved from the very idea of
providing the students with different information in diverse spaces.
2.3 Academic trends: librarians & libraries
Academic libraries and academic librarianship evolved as a response to pedagogical and
educational approaches emerging in higher education (Blummer, 2017). The change in the
instructions from teacher-centered to learner-centered environment created an opportunity for
students to take an active part in their learning (Dewey, 1963). The Research Planning and
Review Committee of the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL) published an
article on 2018 top trends in academic libraries. The report produces a list of trends in the current
educational and technological environments (ACRL, 2018). Han (2016) stated that the Library
Directors must take steps to develop change readiness among the organization, which might
affect the patronage and user needs. On the other hand, Schulte (2018) stated that the different
changes in the libraries helps the directors in maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
the concerns of the students. The impact of technology affects the manner in which users access
information, such as OER (open educational resources) or Open Access and Demand-driven
acquisition (DDA). Technology affects the traditional role of the library and the librarians
(ACRL, 2018). Marcum (2016) stated that the up gradation of the services has helped the
librarians in adhering to the requirements of the students and the other academic communities.
Harland (2017) also stated that the technological innovations in the library helped the Directors
in maintaining the collaborative functioning of the propositions as per the needs of the students.
The evolution of the Learning Commons depended on the need of assessing Information
that might be acquired through online surfing. The online storage of media and information has
helped in avoiding the utilization of print resources and thereby adhering to the needs of the
students of retrieving data from different locations (ACRL, 2018). The library must maintain
sustainable contracts in order to license online content and platforms for the smooth functioning
of the libraries as per the needs of the students (ACRL, 2018). On the other hand, the librarians
demonstrate their value to researchers through the utilization of skillset for portraying the
manner in which the online resources and platforms might be utilized (Han, 2016). The changing
environment of the scholarly information ecosystem is a direct result of emerging online
resources and platforms (ACRL, 2018). Technological infrastructure allows scholarship to
facilitate visibility through online searches, such as open access repositories (Tyckoson, 2016).
On the other hand, the utilization of the Social media platforms in transmitting data and
information has helped the librarians in supporting the Learning Commons through efficient
networking. The steady communication policies of the librarians helped in maintaining the
efficiency of the operations as per the needs of the students and the academic communities
(Deodato, 2017). Sites like acdemic.edu and research gate provide the researchers with an
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DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
opportunity of sharing their study in the online sources for easy accessibility (Deodato, 2017).
Scholarly network sites, especially open access has influenced the manner in which the librarians
and researchers obtain information and data for the studies (Deodato, 2017).
The induction of the discovery tool over individualized resource searching options has
helped the researchers and librarians in maintaining the efficiency of the research that is
undertaken by the same (Deodato, 2017). The discovery tool provides the researchers through
facilitation of open access, which helped in enhancing the experience of navigating the web
(Courtney, 2015). On the other hand, the discovery tool also provided the librarians with
electronic resources within one unified search. Deodato (2017) stated that the libraries fail to
utilize social media to its full capacity because of traditional library principles. Long-standing
library principles such as control, authority, expertise, intellectual property and privacy limit the
library’s potential to embrace social media tools (Deodato, 2017). Social media provides an
opportunity for the librarian and library to communicate with users and access a variety of
information (Deodato, 2017). Marcum (2016) recommended in the research that the directors
must take steps to establish goals for productive change through the utilization of social media
channels. Setting goals will be helping the directors in providing quality resources and services
to its academic community (Marcum, 2016).
The primary goal of Academic libraries and librarian is to support the curriculum and
research needs of faculty and students on a collegial level. Technological innovations has
influenced instructional librarians to adapt to change especially within the constructs of distance
learning and blended learning methods (Heathcock, 2013). Instructional librarians teach students
in the traditional setting, but as of result of educational technologies and other online tools,
librarians need to acquire the skills to assist traditional and nontraditional learners (Schulte,
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2018; Shapiro, 2017; Deodato, 2017). New online tools and educational technologies influenced
curriculum innovations reshaping higher education standards (Schulte, 2018).
Traditional reference of the librarians was based on the picturesque representation that
portrayed the librarian answering to the queries of the students or assisting students to locate a
physical book or resource (Tyckoson, 2016). However, the current academic reference librarians
are not bound to sit behind a desk to answer questions or physically assist patrons to locate a
resource (Coleman, 2016). Reference librarians must take steps to facilitate patron’s requests
virtually by using various technical platforms allowing them to communicate, share resources
and provide information about services (Coleman, 2016). Coleman (2016) stated that the
academic libraries has undergone huge changes in response to technological innovations. Th4e
changing trends in the reference services since 2005 included online operations, such as online
chat, (IM) instance message and texting. The online services provided by various companies
have helped the Learning Common initiative in encouraging the involvement of the stakeholders
in the process (Cote, 2016). Coleman (2016) stated in a national survey that the developments in
the reference system affected the traditional referencing through increased modifications in the
online reference services and staff collaboration. On the other hand, the emergence of the online
technologies has helped the organizations in maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per
the needs of the student communities.
Coleman (2016) stated that the academic libraries continuously bring forth changes in
their staffing models for justifying the different models as per the reference services.
Recognizing the needs of the current users is an essential element of the reference service model.
According to Coleman (2016), academic the delineation of the expertise of the librarians allowed
the students to make in-person appointments with the subject specialist librarian. Appointment of
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consultations with the reference librarians has transformed the traditional position of the librarian
(Coleman, 2016). Cote (2016) stated that the staffing models helped in influencing the virtual
reference as per the needs of the students. Neither Coleman (2016) nor Cote (2016) discussed
the role of directors in deciding the role of the library staffs and the manner in which the changes
might be implemented in the operations. Lack of proper development in the library’s internal
policies would affect the quality of virtual reference (Cote, 2016). Virtual reference software,
such as Springshare allowed the academic libraries to add widgets for integrating with the online
catalog and database aiming to assist the users in performing a search (Cote, 2016).
Cote (2016) stated in the research that a study of the current virtual reference service
models offered inclusion of different platforms and staff models. Cote’s (2016) also stated in a
research that a negative feedback portrayed the incapability of a library while developing an
effective reference policy, technical and communicative skills. On the other hand, the ineffective
outreach to user and lack of a sustainable platform might also affect the virtual reference service.
Cote (2016) stated that virtual reference identified two common themes: the importance of
evaluating service usage and service provision. Several methods were used in the study to
identify the answers for the research questions. The analysis focused on the development of
concern reference transactions as well as comparison methods for reference platforms (Cote,
2016). Cote (2016) stated that the results of the study would be irrelevant within five years
because of the rapid modifications occurring in the field. Cote (2016) demonstrated in the
research that evaluation of the virtual reference services would help in enhancing the operations
of the librarians while adhering to the technological innovations.
Technology influenced the changes in academic librarianship and affected the manner in
which users’ access library resources and services. Virgil (2013) stated in the study that a formal
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inquiry into the changing role of the academic librarian helped in facilitating modifications in the
higher education library. One of the noticeable changes is dependent on the technological
innovations that modified the role of the librarian for assisting the students whether on or off
campus. Virgil (2013) included a thesis that explored the different steps that might be undertaken
by the librarians for assisting students with the traditional linear approach. Kitchens (2016)
stated that the traditional academic librarians have taught one-shot bibliographic sessions and
assisted students while referencing the research questions. Virgil (2013) examined the transition
of academic librarian’s role while introducing technology and media in academic libraries. Virgil
(2013) used Farber’s article for enumerating the study’s framework for discussing the librarian’s
role from the 1970s -2012. Virgil (2013) utilized the qualitative method that incorporated case
studies and interviews to gather Data. Virgil (2013) focused on the need for library instruction
introducing to the online resources and a timeline for librarians while developing insights on the
needs of tech-savvy users. The study established an understanding of technological influence on
academic librarians and libraries. The changes affected the role of the librarians and the manner
in which the users’ retrieve information to teach and assist the students (Virgil, 2013). The
qualitative analysis developed the concepts of academic librarianship to assist the same in
understanding the social phenomena of technologies. On the other hand, the research also
analyzed the influence of experiences of the librarians’ role on the different technological
innovations in the library (Virgil, 2013).
Virgil (2013) identified the role of the directors while empowering the activities that are
undertaken by the librarians through continuous adaptation to the changes because of technology
and the needs of the evolving learners. Pedagogical influences in higher education directly affect
information literacy and library instructions as per the needs of the student communities
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(Kitchens, 2016). Kitchen (2016) utilized Piaget’s constructivist theories of education and
Kuhlthau’s six stages of the research process for identifying the importance of library instruction
that is skewed. The instructional class of a traditional library brought about changes in the online
guides through continuous accessibility.
Heathcock (2013) undertook a qualitative research that investigated the role of teaching
librarians. Teaching librarians through the creation of information literacy courses with a full or
half semester, one- shot lesson, and embedded (blended) in a course learning management
system helps in enhancing the skills (Kitchens, 2016). LMS allows the students to access
instructional tools asynchronous and synchronous, which will be helping the same in accessing
the information as per the needs of the same (Rapchak, 2018). Traditional library instruction in
higher education remains important as it incorporates e- learning that creates the need for another
facet of library instruction (Heathcock, 2013). Heathcock (2013) stated in a research that the
project develops an embedded librarian program to assist distance learners in achieving success
out of the program. The evolving field of librarianship and distance learning affected the manner
in which libraries and librarians support online learners. Schulte (2018) stated in a research that
the model of embedded or blended librarian helped in encouraging the participation of the
librarians in the development of course curriculum for the blended and flipped instructional
approaches.
Heathcock (2013) stated in a research that the essential aspect of the embedded librarian
programs helps in maintaining the efficiency of the operations as per the needs of the business.
However, the need to evaluate and provide empirical evidence for the validity of the project is
being exercised by the librarians in order to support the needs of the students (Schulte, 2018).
The framework provided in the study investigates the need of a librarian within the constructs of
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the courses and the manner in which the experience of the librarians affect student learning
outcomes (Heathcock, 2013). Collaboration among librarians and the teaching faculty are vital to
student success (Kitchens, 2016). New pedagogies and new educational approaches are being
imbibed into the emerging academia, which resulted to the changing academic librarianship
(Schulte, 2018). The academic librarians play an active role in the changes that are planned by
the library directors through utilization of their skills within the scope of information
management, digital literacy, scholarly communication, and technology. Embedded librarianship
has progressed into librarians playing an integral role in developing the course curriculum
(Kitchens, 2016). Librarians embedded should offer an extensive range of services and an in-
depth knowledge- base in order to support the faculty and students within the LMS (Schulte,
2018). Librarians with various instructional and technical skills should be embedded into the
appropriate curriculum to display their knowledge-base and emphasize the resources the library
offers to support the course (Alverson, 2018). The case study, in the research, provides an
authentic experience for teaching faculty and librarians to have a successful collaboration with
positive results from student learning outcomes.
Heathcock (2013) undertook a project comparison in the research in order to assess the
needs of an embedded librarian. The embedded librarian for the two weeks was available during
an assignment, which required library research. During the two weeks, the student was able to
contact the librarian using synchronous and asynchronous modes. Although the students had
access to resources, but no longer had access to the librarian. Students in the semester-length
course had access to the librarian throughout the course. The qualitative method for the study
used citation analysis to examine the student's work (Heathcock, 2013). The researcher used
Patton’s methodology for qualitative interviews to incorporate the instructor’s perception of
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including an embedded librarian. Throughout the courses, the researcher maintained a notebook
reflecting on the experiences from the different classes as they occur.
Heathcock (2013) indicated in the research that regardless of the embedded librarians’
duration - students only access library resources and contacted the librarian when an assignment
required library research was due. Alverson (2018) research explored the role of the embedded
librarian in an online course. Embedded librarians have been part of online courses since 2008,
but were restructured in 2013 for accommodating the pedagogical and technological influences
(Alverson, 2018). The initial embedded librarian model consisted of the librarian being dedicated
to the course, preparing two bibliographic assignments and answering the research-related
questions on the discussion board (Alverson, 2018). The revised model established new
practices for interacting with online students, which included the librarian posting an
introduction video, an in-depth consultation appointment and one assignment (Alverson, 2018).
Incorporating the individual consultation brings forth improvements in the student's work.
Alverson, (2018) concluded the research stating the need for continual growth and sustainability
for embedded librarianship. The revised model outcome evaluated the student’s work in
comparison with previous models to show students performed better within the new course
design (Alverson, 2018).
Kitchens (2016) stated in a study that the collaboration between the faculty member and a
librarian helps in enhancing student research project. The project involved the development of a
research paper. The two-month project included numerous workshops, online resources, face to
face interactions with the professor and the librarian (Kitchens, 2016). Developing the course
with these different facets for the assignment created a non-linear approach to the overall project
(Kitchens, 2016). The development of the assignment blended the Kuhlthau's process and
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Piaget’s theories to channel activities that led to procedures for supporting student’s success and
engagement (Kitchens, 2016).
Rapchak (2018) utilized the LMS in the research study for identifying the concerns faced
by the students while learning from the online sources. Librarians provide all students with the
same level of quality and they cannot negate a resource because of the student's location
(Rapchak, 2018). The equal treatment to the students is dependent on the development of new
ACRL framework. It worked as a response to technological innovations and the ability of
librarians to portray an embedded approach in an online course. The digital course would create
an online environment for engaging and participating among the instructor, librarian and
students. Students can interact with one another virtually. However, different strategies are to be
implemented for student participation and overall student success (Rapchak, 2018). The online
course was asynchronous, and the traditional course met once a week for an hour. Rapchak
(2018) concluded that there was no significant difference concerning the student's meta-
cognition awareness. The only difference that was portrayed in the research was based on the
social meta- cognitive awareness was lower for online students (Rapchak, 2018).
Technology has transformed libraries and activities of the librarians while obtaining
resources to support the academic community. Technological innovations affect the Librarian
skills, which require enhancements through informed decision-making based on the
technological influences occurring within higher education (Kaatrakoski, 2016). It is vital that
the basic libraries market the resources and perform the activities as per the needs of the
academic community (Coleman, 2016). The suitable implementation of the different
technological innovations would support the Libraries in promoting their services and resources
relevant to the higher education standards (Kaatrakoski, 2016). Kaatrakoski and Lahikainen
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(2016) stated in a research that the changing culture in academic libraries is dependent on the
implementation of technologies affecting the profession of academic librarianship.
Kaatrakoski and Lahikainen (2016) stated in the research that the changes in the library
focus on embedding librarianship and knotworking. The research suggested the method of
knotworking that is utilized by librarians for working collaboratively as per the job role. On the
other hand, knotworking also assisted the librarians to develop services for faculty researchers
adapting to the changing library environment (Kaatrakoski&Lahikainen, 2016). An embedded
librarian is part of an LMS course, which helps in enhancing the research activities for
supporting the students in a particular discipline (Kaatrakoski&Lahikainen, 2016). Interaction
with faculty is necessary to develop a rapport before being embedded within a course
(Kaatrakoski&Lahikainen, 2016). Librarians emphasized on the problems with their changing
roles to meet the unique challenges of embedding. Creating a relationship between researchers
(faculty) and librarians would help in identifying themselves as equal to faculty to become part
of the academic environment (Kaatrakoski&Lahikainen, 2016).
Bowles-Terry and Donovan (2016) stated in the research that the changing roles of
instructional librarians in higher education have helped in supporting the technological
innovations in the libraries. Traditionally, librarians taught an instructional session during a
class. Kaatrakoski (2016) developed a library instruction program in the research for adhering to
the requirements of the librarian while establishing a positive rapport with faculty. Bowles-
Terry and Donovan (2016) argued that the one-shot model limited the librarian’s instructional
abilities and information literacy while integrating in general education programs. The one-shot
lesson will probably always exist, but there is the cultural change occurring in higher education
and librarians should become part of the shift (Bowles-Terry & Donovan, 2016). Bringing about
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change to library instruction involved the active support of library leaders. Library leaders decide
on the strategic direction for information literacy. Instruction librarians continue with the one-
shot lesson, but this method has to coexist with the new learning pedagogies and technology
(Bowles-Terry &Donovan, 2016). Bowles-Terry and Donovan (2016) recognized the importance
of the library leader’s involvement in the changing role of instructional librarians. Library
leaders have to support their instructional librarians. Bowles-Terry and Donovan (2016)
discussed the initiatives that the library leaders might take to collaborate with the other
departments and their librarians effectively.
Courtney and Wilhoite-Mathews (2015) focused on distance education with a general
review of different library instructional methods for online learning. The influence of technology
in the e-learning environment has allowed emerging teaching methods to replace traditional
classroom instruction. The emphasis of the study focused on evaluating the manner in which the
platform, consisting of theoretical and practical approaches to online instruction, might enhance
online information literacy instruction. Online education programs are meant to address the
needs of 21st-century learners. Librarians have the unique opportunity of being at the forefront
of technological modifications and thereby being a part of information accessible at any time
from any place (Courtney &Wilhoite-Mathews, 2015).
Technology is changing the field of academic librarianship and academic libraries.
Technological innovations are continually evolving and influencing change within the profession
and within the physical construct standard in most academic library settings (Deodato, 2017).
Technological transformations in higher education create a need for librarians and libraries to
adapt themselves to the new environment (Kumar, 2015). Academic library’s traditional
physical environments are transforming into active learning centers incorporating tutoring
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centers, tech commons areas, classrooms and other educational student initiatives (King, 2016).
It is clear that the academic librarians are engaging the traditional and distance learner by
developing various methods to motivate and engage students (Kitchens, 2016).
Instructional technologies and other innovative technologies have changed the way
librarians have assisted students in evolving to infuse different tools and instructional methods
(Kitchens, 2016). It is noticeable academic libraries are developing functional spaces to provide
students with access to library resources (Thomas, 2015). Developing an active Learning
Commons is essential for today’s learners. Libraries are restructuring their physical environment
to accommodate the needs of the learner, faculty and academic community (Thomas, 2015). As a
result, academic libraries and librarians have to evaluate and assess the needs of the students and
faculty to remain relevant (Takenaka, 2017).
2.4 Theoretical Framework
Dewey’s theory of experience in his Democracy and Education conceptualizes
experience “as the combined elements of active and passive” (Alexander, 1987; Hutchinson,
2015). The element of active represents “trying” whereas the passive element represents
“undergoing”. It is the theory of experience that will provide the theoretical framework for this
study. Dewey emphasized on the different ways to experience, learn, know and utilize intellect
for forging improvements in the librarianship (Berding, 1997). Dewey described experience as a
natural phenomenon occurring innately as part of human beings evolutionary make-up (Berding,
1997). Examining the change in academic libraries can be difficult from the loose coupling
perspective of Library Directors. The multi-lens of Dewey’s theory of experience can be utilized
while developing two fundamental principles of interaction and continuity (Glassman, 2001).
Dewey’s theory explained the changes occurring in academic libraries by explaining the
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perspectives of Library Directors experiences through the transition of the traditional library into
the Commons. Data collected may reveal Libraries Directors personal experiences and
perspective concerning their libraries transformation to include library staff changes, especially
the academic librarians. Harland’s (2017) research concluded that the Library Directors response
to change by the developers is dependent on the continuous evolution of strategies. The constant
strategies suggests the Director align with the college’s strategic vision, engage faculty and
students, build an agile culture, and demonstrate its value to the college. Dewey’s perspective of
experience arises from Directors’ interaction within their academic community to ensure
dependability through actionable means (Alexander, 1987). Dewey’s theory of experience
discusses societal changes to influence education constructively and positively, but through
experience (Ueno, 2015).
Gutierrez (2014) study interprets Vygotsky does not believe knowledge is gained from
experience, but from performing common task through interaction with others and learning from
teachers. According to Gutierrez (2014), experience is conceptualized individually and not
through others. On the other hand, Berding (1997) stated that individual experience cannot be
isolated from other influential factors while interpreting Dewey’s theory. Influential factors can
include societal and cultural elements (Gutierrez, 2014). The academic library’s transformation
into the Commons suggests the Library Directors to renew the understanding of their patron’s
individual needs, demands and learning styles, without prior experience. The traditional
environment of the academic library has evolved from technological and societal factors.
2.5 Summary
The studies presented in this paper indicate the changing role of the academic Library
Director resulting from the library’s transformation into the Learning Commons. Harland (2017)
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described the role of the director in the changing library environment and the manner in which
the initiatives might remain relevant within the academic community. The dissertation will
utilize the Dewey ’s theory of experience as the theoretical framework. Dewey’s multi-lens
framework may assist with an explanation of the changes occurring in academic libraries and the
perspective of Library Directors. Library Directors, librarians, and university administrators may
benefit from a study that explains the changing educational environment. The transition to the
Commons has an overall effect on the library and librarians.
2.6 Databases and Documentations accessed
The existing literature was collected using a variety of databases found in the North
central University library, as well as using electronic resources from Internet sites, and the
(ACRL) Association of College & Research Libraries, a division of the American Library
Association. Key terms such as Academic Library Director, Learning Commons, Higher
Education, traditional library space, and technology were used to search peer reviewed articles in
scholarly publications in EbscoHost, ProQuest, ERIC, Project Muse, Jstor, Open Access, and
Dissertation Central. The searches did provide information and an understanding concerning the
background, history and current research focusing on the transformation of academic Library
Directors role as well as providing this study with a theoretical framework.
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Chapter 3: Research Methodology
Research method
Modern technologies have radically transformed the learning spaces of the traditional
library spaces. This has resulted in the creation of e-learning, which has enhanced the learning
skills, abilities and competencies. Within this, the changing needs of the students play a major
role. This transformation has adversely affected the capability of the library directors regarding
coping up with the changes. In spite of this, they are entrusted with the responsibility to preserve
the core values. In this proposal, qualitative research would be conducted for delving deep into
the experiences of the Library directors towards coping up with the transformations (Robinson,
2014). Joint ventures with the academic departments is assistance for aligning to the changes in
an efficient and effective manner.
Conducting interview would be an effective step towards upholding practical experiences
about transformation of learning spaces in the libraries. As a matter of specification, the study
would focus on the role of technology in altering the learning conditions in the libraries. Within
this, the emphasis would be on the new and emerging pedagogies. Lack of guidance and support
compels the directors to expose resistance towards infusing technological education within the
curriculum of higher education. Therefore, triangulation method would be used for conducting
open ended semi-structured interviews (Vicary, 2017). This approach would be helpful for
tracking the experiences of the Directors.
Research methodology and design
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Previous research journals related to technological upgradation of the library spaces have
negated the experiences of the library directors. This was because of the quantitative study. The
major drive behind the transformation of the library spaces are technology, Learning Commons,
influencing alterations in the collections, workforce and the services. Success factors for the
academic libraries are stock of resources, work breakdown structure, budgets, and patrons and
miscellaneous. Reporting for the documentation is an essential activity, which is done annually.
Cooperation from the different agencies, in this aspect, is indication for the strengthening the
public relations. In this proposal, the researcher would consider ACRL metrics for assessing the
core academic library transformations. Quantitative research would not be considered as it fails
to project the perceptions related to the transformations (Alexander, 1987).
The researcher would even reject mixed method for shedding light on the different
perceptions related to the transformations in the library spaces and learning. As mixed method
considers various sources, it can deviate from the topic. Therefore, case study reference would be
used as it would be effective in peeking into the involvement of the users in the process of
developing the Learning Commons. Estimates can be made of the incapability of the researcher
regarding the perceptions towards policies and shifts within the workforce.
According to Alakur, (2015), for conducting qualitative research, Dewey’s theory would
be used for delving deeper into the experiences of the Library Directors. The results derived from
the theoretical consideration would be analysed through the theme of technological innovations
within the curriculum of higher education. Within this, transformative framework of the
technology is one of an important variable. Positive and negative reactions of the directors would
be considered. Within this, causal effects of ACRL documentation would form an integral
element. Synthesis of ACRL standards and metrics would play a major role in enhancing the
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awareness about the transformations in academic libraries. Along with this, qualitative research
design would be effective for exploring the unexplored realms regarding acceptance and
resistance to these transformations (Allan, 2016). Here, social constructivist theory would be
used for shedding light on the collaborative approach towards upgrading the standards and
quality of the learning process for the students.
Reliance on the sample responses would develop relevance, reliability and credibility
towards the transformations into the learning processes. Analysis of the library reports,
photographs would be an essential document for enhancing the awareness about the
transformations. The method and design of the proposal would include the purpose and
questions, projecting the issues and perspectives towards transformations. The researcher intends
to delve deeper into the stereotypical notions, which the directors possess about the
transformations. The collected data would provide concrete descriptions of the approaches
towards the transformations in the learning processes. Triangulation method would be beneficial
for expanding the thought processes through the consideration of various sources (Harland,
2017). This variety would further act assistance towards unleashing the evidences for
corroboration.
Case studies of five academic libraries, who have undergone transformations, would be
projected in the proposal. Interview responses would reflect the practical experiences in the
process of acquiring the changes. Variation in the sources would expand the scope and arena of
the sources. On the contrary, variation might compel the researcher to deviate from the actual
subject matter. Selecting the documents from the libraries would validate the findings of
triangulation within the reports (Robinson, 2014). Consideration of the websites would and other
sources would help the research in the development of relevant themes. Synthesis of the
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interview responses and the other sources would add flexibility into the knowledge base
regarding the growth and development of the learning processes.
In the phenomenological design approach, phenomenology relates to the perceptions
related to the transformations within the learning processes. The researcher would conglomerate
the perceptions of the directors and the samples. The aim of this phenomenological approach
would be to investigate the experiences and interpretations. Within the triangulation method,
thematic coding would be used for clarifying the different range, which persist within the
perspectives. Likert scale would be infused within the methodology for achieving the balance
between the responses. This scale would help in measuring the levels of acceptance or rejection
towards the transformations within the learning spaces in the libraries.
Andrews, Wright and Raskin, (2016) opines that Qualitative phenomenological approach
would allow the researcher to delve deeper into the personal opinions of the Directors regarding
adopting the changes. Consciousness about the preservation of these sentiments would be crucial
for catering to public interest. Referring to the case studies enhances the awareness of the
students regarding the transformations in the real life settings, which is the libraries. Infusion of
conceptual framework within this aspect reflects the thought process towards conglomerating
both the personal and professional spheres for upgrading the learning. Within this, essential links
would be established between ideas, concepts and variables for deducing social constructs, which
play a major role in enriching the preconceived skills, abilities and competencies in the field of
academics. Planning through the means of framework would be beneficial in terms of ensuring
better placement for the students (Aydin & Tonbuloğlu, 2014).
Phenomenological approach in this research would aim to project the lack of
preparedness for the directors in terms of the changes in the learning spaces in the libraries.
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Usage of qualitative interpretive measures would be assistance in terms of altering the approach
towards acquiring the necessary changes and their management. For this, review of the proposed
framework is needed.
Population
Full time academic Library directors from New York would represent the population for
this proposal. This is because the researcher hails from New York. The five academic university
library institutions are either colleges, universities or community colleges. The researcher would
consider those colleges, which are in the process of renovation from 2009 till the present
(Blummer & Kenton, 2017).
Sample
The samples for this proposal are selected through the probability basis. The criteria used
for this selection is sound knowledge of the transformations within the academic libraries. In
this, the recent libraries, which have undergone transformations would be considered. This
sampling method is crucial for selecting the samples, who possess sound knowledge of the
central phenomenon. Along with this, the researcher also selected the samples, who are familiar
with the investigation means. 5-8 academic library directors were selected in the meetings. Face
to face conversations were carried out in the initial phases for recruiting the samples for the
study. The face to face discussion would prove beneficial for enhancing the awareness about the
willingness towards participating in the interview process (Bowers, 2018).
The researcher would follow certain guidelines for conducting the phenomenological
qualitative research. Purpose sampling method relates to the selection of the samples from the
predefined groups instead of making random selections on probability basis. In this proposal, 5
academic library directors would be asked to complete the open ended oral and written
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interviews. Some of the directors are new to the positions, therefore, their responses would act as
a cornerstone towards broadening the scope and arena of the study.
Materials/instruments
Different materials and instruments are used by the researchers for executing qualitative
research design. Variation within the materials assists the researchers to relate the assumptions
with the problem statement and the rationale behind the study. In this proposal, open ended semi
structured interview would form an integral part in the collecting data on the perspectives and
experiences about the transformations in the learning spaces in the traditional libraries (Bowles-
Terry & Donovan, 2016).
Likert scale would be one of the other instruments for measuring the acceptance and
resistance to the changes in the learning and the instruction methods. At the initial stage,
demographic data would be collected by the researcher. Demographic data would assist the
researcher to attain balance within the wide ranging data and its classifications. This
differentiation, further act assistance towards validating the findings from the participants’
responses. Apart from this, numeric choice scale would also be used for collecting quantitative
data. In order to assess the feasibility of the collected samples, purpose sample method would be
employed. Graphical representation of the interview responses would help the researcher to
validate the outcomes. Delving deep into the aspect, interview strengthening of the relationship
between the interviewer and interviewee (Brundy, 2014). Using rationality in proposing the
questions would in gaining assurance, trust, loyalty and dependence from the samples. This
would be done according to the standard principles, where liberal approach is one of the prime
attributes. This liberty aligns with the freedom of speech, catering to the individual rights of the
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samples. Consciousness towards this direction indicates adherence to the ethics for conducting a
research.
Investigating the responses enables the researcher to make interpretations about the
phenomenons for adopting the changes in the learning process in academic libraries. Oral
interviews are assistance towards unleashing the personal experiences of the participants towards
the traditional and stereotypical discourses. Openness towards the trajectories contradicts the
limitations regarding the changes and its adoption or negation. Audio recording and
transcriptions for the responses would act assistance for analyzing the collected data in an
effective and efficient manner (Charles, 2017).
The written form of interview is selected for seeking an insight into the personal
experiences of the samples within the limited time. Along with this, written form of the interview
would be crucial for mitigating the instances of biasness and the conflicts. This approach would
add flexibility to the collected data and the anticipated findings. Within this, the professional
background of the samples would be taken into consideration for ensuring the successful
completion of the summary and analysis. Transparency in the process of data collection and
analysis would enable the researcher to avert the instances of biases.
As per the arguments of Charmaz, (2017), mention can be made of epoche (bracketing),
which would aid the researcher in asserting that biases and conflicts would not influence the
anticipated findings. The technique of bracketing would be beneficial for projecting the
subjective viewpoints of the samples instead of the sensory experiences of the researcher. NVivo
software package would add to the convenience of the researcher for analysing the qualitative
data.
Data collection, processing and analysis
61

DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
Data for the research would be collected through semi-structured oral and written
interviews of Academic Library Directors within 2 months. In order to cover the different areas
of investigation, purposive sampling method would be used for selecting the samples through the
purposive sampling method. Open forums and face to face discussions would be used for
assessing the feasibility of the sample selection (Colegrove, 2015).
Prior to the process of data collection, permission needs to be sought for IRB and site
selection. Using Informed Consent Forms for each of the participants would legalize the process
of data collection. Within this, their consent would be taken regarding audio recording of their
responses.
The first section of data collection would include demographic details of the participants.
This would be followed by the personal experiences regarding the transformation in the learning
process of the libraries. Written interviews would help the researcher to assess the familiarity of
the respondents regarding the transformation into Commons and the renovations. Intimation of
the interview process would be done through emails and postal services, indicative of effective
communication channels for reaching to the samples (Côté, Kochkina & Mawhinney, 2016). The
interview questions would also be distributed in hand of the samples. Along with this, brief
follow ups would be carried out for assessing the understanding of the respondents towards the
data collection process. In case of the oral interview, convenience of the samples would be
placed on top priority. Telephonic or Skype interviews would also be considered in accordance
to the schedule of the participants. Recording and transcriptions for the interview responses
would authenticate the data collection process.
Passwords would be installed for protecting the responses in the cloud services. The time
limit in this case is estimated as 7 years. Duly filled in Informed Consent Forms would also be
62

DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
stored in the cloud services, which would be password protected. Within this, mention can be
made of NVivo, which would form a cornerstone towards executing the data analysis in an
efficient and effective manner. As a matter of specification, the software would guide the
researcher in the process of thematic coding, which would provide a deeper understanding
towards the viewpoints (Courtney & Wilhoite-Mathews, 2015). Within this, interpretive
phenomenological analysis would be infused for conducting the analysis in an efficient and
effective manner (Robinson, 2010). Developing a framework would be convenient for the
researcher in terms of seeking an insight into the contextual experiences towards the
transformations in the learning spaces in the academic libraries. For analysing the collected
information, the personal opinions and viewpoints would gain a backseat.
Assumptions
The researcher assumes that the Library Directors will answer the interview questions
honestly with due consideration to their experiences and perspectives regarding the
transformation of the traditional library space into the Commons. The researcher is also hopeful
that the participants would possess sound knowledge about the influence technology has on the
process of the library’s transformation (Robinson, 2014). Estimation would also be directed
towards the technological influence on the role of their clerical and professional staff. In this
study, the researcher would assume that reliable answers would be proposed by the participating
Directors will answer open-ended and semi-structured interview questions with realistic
information and details with professionalism. Identifying the assumptions in this
phenomenological study relies on the researcher to have carefully chosen participants who have
experienced or is experiencing the study’s phenomenon (Creswell, 2000).
Limitations
63

DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
Associated with this study are some limitations, but efforts are made to rectify these
limitations by utilizing the study’s design and procedure. Participants that are academic Library
Directors are the primary source for producing data for the study. The limitation is addressed by
selecting Library Directors, as samples, from academic institutions that underwent the renovation
process. Another limitation, which is addressed, concerns with the possibility that credible and
accurate responses may not be produced (Stuart, 2015). This limitation will be addressed by
asking additional questions to the participants or rather follow-up questions to clarify their
answers if needed (Stuart, 2015). By using oral and written interview formats, the participants
may provide answers conducive to the study, with responses, that are thoughtful and
introspective. Additionally, oral interviews, incorporated into the study, would allow the
researcher to interact with the Library Director’s. Transparency in the conversations would be
crucial for gaining a clear perception about the participant's inclination towards the issues being
investigated (Seidman, 2013).
Delimitations
Specific choices would be made in this research for delimiting the study’s scope.
Academic Library Directors that have gone through or is going through the transformation
process would be selected as samples. Considering the perspective and experiences of the
participants will provide validity to the phenomenon being investigated (Stuart, 2015). The
perspective and experiences of other academic educator’s or higher education administrator
would be exempted in accordance to the criteria proposed for conducting the study. Though they
may have an essential role in the transformation process – it may not relate to the transformations
in learning spaces of the libraries (Creswell & Miller, 2000). Also, professional and clerical staff
members that work in an academic library and have experienced the renovation process, were
64

DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
excluded from the data collection process. Though their perspective and experiences are an
interest, it would develop irrelevancy to the issues being investigated. The data collection and
analysis for the study will not go beyond using the discussed materials and methods. The
researcher would attempt to limit the research within the research requirements.
Ethical Assurances
Before collecting data, the researcher needs to take permission from the Institutional
Review Board (IRB) to ensure that the ethical standards and considerations are met (Stuart,
2015). It is essential that the materials and instruments used in this study for data collection are
analyzed and approved by the NCU IRB to assure ethical compliance. The proposed research
study will not require participants to attempt or participate in any physical threat; therefore, no
bodily harm will be brought to the participants. Data collection tools are not coded, but the data
is coded. Also, all electronic data will be stored on a cloud systems, which are password
protected and private for seven years.
Summary
The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study is to investigate the academic
Library Director’s experiences and perspectives of the traditional library transforming into the
Learning Commons. The qualitative phenomenological approach will be utilized because the
design examines the experiences and perspectives of Director’s who have gone through or who
are going through the transformation process. The phenomenological approach will incorporate
the IPA technique, which allows the researcher to discover the participant’s perceptions of their
experiences, and understand the situation being investigated. Phenomenological design
juxtaposed with the IPA creates an efficient platform to reveal Library Director’s accounts,
experiences and their professional perspectives about the transformation process. The issue for
65

DISSERTATION PROPOSAL
this study is important because it relates to the changes occurring in higher education, especially
in academic libraries. Traditional library spaces are being converted into some sort of Commons,
which does represent a current trend. Therefore, understanding needs to be sought for managing
the changes properly.
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