Journal of Studies in Library and Information Science

Abstract Background and Objectives: Social media has emerged as a pivotal tool in modern organizational communication, offering interactive platforms that facilitate two-way engagement between organizations and their stakeholders. In the context of public libraries, these platforms provide librarians with opportunities to gather, process, and apply knowledge about patrons effectively, enhancing service quality and organizational efficiency. Customer knowledge management (CKM), which encompasses knowledge from customers, knowledge to customers, and knowledge about customers, is increasingly recognized as a key determinant of organizational performance. While organizations are progressively integrating social media into their operations, empirical evidence regarding its impact on CKM and subsequent organizational performance remains limited. The present study aimed to examine the relationships between the multidimensional characteristics of social media—entertainment, social, and cognitive—CKM, and organizational performance in public libraries in Qom Province, Iran.
Methodology: This applied research adopted a descriptive–survey design. The population included 112 full-time librarians employed in public libraries across Qom Province in 1404 (2025), from which 86 participants were randomly selected. Data were collected using two validated instruments: the Social Media Use Questionnaire (Ali-Hassan et al., 2015), assessing entertainment, social, and cognitive dimensions, and the Customer Knowledge Management Questionnaire (Akhavan & Khajeh Ali, 2021), measuring knowledge from, to, and about patrons. Content validity was confirmed through CVR and CVI indices, and reliability was verified via Cronbach’s alpha. Data were analyzed using SPSS with one-sample t-tests, Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and mediation analysis to determine the direct and indirect effects of social media on organizational performance through CKM.
Findings: Findings revealed that all three dimensions of social media positively and significantly influenced CKM. The entertainment dimension impacted knowledge from customers (β=0.508, p<0.01), knowledge to customers (β=0.245, p<0.01), and knowledge about customers (β=0.306, p<0.01), suggesting that engaging and enjoyable content motivates patrons to actively participate and share knowledge. The social dimension demonstrated the strongest effect on knowledge from customers (β=0.772, p<0.01) and was also significant for knowledge to customers (β=0.583, p<0.01) and knowledge about customers (β=0.617, p<0.01), highlighting that social interactions, networking, and collaboration foster knowledge exchange and understanding of patron needs. The cognitive dimension positively influenced all CKM components (knowledge from customers β=0.671, knowledge to customers β=0.478, knowledge about customers β=0.325, p<0.01), indicating that the capacity of patrons and librarians to process, analyze, and apply information enhances knowledge management outcomes, although its relative effect is slightly lower than the social and entertainment dimensions. Customer knowledge management itself had a direct positive impact on organizational performance (β=0.632, p<0.01), and mediation analysis showed that social media indirectly improves performance through CKM (β=0.487, p<0.01), emphasizing the critical role of knowledge management as a mechanism linking digital engagement to organizational outcomes.
Discussion: These findings suggest that social media serves not only as a channel for communication and engagement but also as a strategic tool for enhancing knowledge flows and organizational effectiveness. The significant influence of the entertainment dimension underscores the importance of designing stimulating and attractive content that encourages participation and knowledge sharing. The strong effect of the social dimension indicates that platforms supporting interaction, collaboration, and networking facilitate richer insights about patrons and improve service personalization. The cognitive dimension highlights the importance of information literacy and analytical capabilities among librarians and patrons in leveraging social media for knowledge management. Collectively, these results suggest that integrating social media strategies with CKM initiatives can enhance both knowledge acquisition and dissemination, ultimately improving organizational performance. Library administrators should develop strategic social media programs that balance entertainment, social interaction, and cognitive engagement to maximize CKM outcomes. Training workshops for librarians on effective social media use, content design for engagement, and analytical skills for processing patron knowledge are recommended. Furthermore, these findings provide insights for policymakers on the potential of social media to enhance service efficiency, customer satisfaction, and organizational learning in knowledge-intensive institutions. Future research could explore the integration of emerging digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics, to further strengthen CKM and optimize organizational decision-making. Overall, this study demonstrates that social media plays a significant role in strengthening customer knowledge management and enhancing organizational performance in public libraries. By leveraging the entertainment, social, and cognitive dimensions of social media, organizations can facilitate patron engagement, improve knowledge flows, and enhance decision-making processes. These insights highlight the strategic importance of digital engagement in knowledge-intensive service organizations and provide a framework for library managers and policymakers to design more effective knowledge management and social media strategies.

Abstract Background and Objectives: The major focus of current research is “identifying patterns of information seeking and retrieval behaviors among Ph.D. candidates of Mohaghegh Ardabili University based on valuation.”
The present research also seeks to answer the following questions:
1.     How much do users value the successful output of search results? 
2.     What is the status of users' information-seeking and retrieval behavior based on their value?
3.     What are the behavior patterns of users’ information seeking and retrieval on the web based on their valuation?
4.    Eventually, the research hypothesis was that “there is a significant correlation between the value of the statistical society and their information seeking and retrieval behavior.”
Methodology: The research has been conducted using synthetic methods, both quantitative and qualitative. The research method in the quantitative part was quasi-experimental, and in terms of the qualitative method, content analysis was used. The data, in the quantitative method, has been collected with a questionnaire and by observation and a semi-structured interview has been chosen for the qualitative method. A Ph.D. candidate in human sciences (archaeology, literature, history, meteorology, and geography) at Mohaghegh Ardabili University founded the current research community by visiting the library website daily between 1398 and 1400 to conduct research and research. They used library databases that were selected based on purposeful sampling, and a sample of 48 people was selected. A quantitative approach and a semi-experimental method with observation tools have been used to examine students' search behavior and information retrieval, and a qualitative approach and content analysis method with a semi-structured interview tool have been used to examine students' views on web search behavior. The tool for collecting quantitative and qualitative data was two questionnaires and a report file. The first questionnaire is organized in two parts: the first part includes the demographic characteristics of students, and the second part includes the level of experience using the Internet and computers. The first part includes the demographic characteristics of students, and the second part includes the level of experience using the Internet and computers. The second questionnaire included 20 questions on a 5-point Likert scale in relation to measuring the amount of internal value, achievement, utility, and perceived cost incurred by users. In order to measure the content validity of the questionnaire, opinions were sought from a group of experts (professors of the library and information department) and their opinions were applied; their reliability was also assessed using a preliminary study, which had an internal value of 0.85, an achievement value of 0.89, a practical value of 0.87, and a cost of 0.89, according to Cronbach's alpha. A search session was held for each subject to perform two tasks and was observed. The entire search process carried out by each subject was saved by screen capture software. A semi-structured interview was conducted to examine the user's point of view while performing the search task, and its results were analyzed in textual form.Then with descriptive statistics, Mean and Standard deviation were evaluated and patterns of information-seeking behavior were identified using the frequency of strategies and tactics. Analysis was also performed using a one-sample t-Test and Pearson Correlation Coefficient.
Findings: demographic analysis is indicated that attainment value in males is higher than female's. Therefore, male users attach more subjective and personal importance to seeking and retrieving information than female users. Also, the analysis is indicative that the state of intrinsic value, attainment value, utility value, and the perceived cost of seeking and retrieving information is in a favorable state and above the average level (3). Users who give more value to seeking and Retrieving information use fewer but more relevant strategies and techniques and spend less time, while users who give less value use more unrelated strategies and techniques and spend more time.
Discussion: The perceived value of seeking and retrieving information is a motivational cognitive approach that has an effect on strategy and tactics. Increasing and decreasing perceived value influence information-seeking strategies. Perceived value as a cognitive motivational factor affects users' information search and retrieval behavior. Intrinsic value, attainment value, utility value, and cost of seeking people affect their priorities and choices and bring about further progress in academic and scientific fields for them. Motivated behavior appears in the path of correct valuation; if the task lacks internal, external, and useful importance for the student, she will not be motivated to continue working in the process of searching and retrieving information.

Abstract Background and Objectives: : Librarians mediate between information resources and users and play a central role in guiding knowledge access and supporting a culture of reading within society. This role extends beyond organizational activities and information services; librarians’ individual reading behaviors and personal tendencies also contribute to the quality of professional services and to their professional and personal development, and position them as role models for other social groups. Examining librarians’ reading tendencies and habits can offer insight into their academic standing and educational needs and inform strategies to strengthen professional knowledge. This study aimed to identify librarians’ reading tendencies and habits and to examine the role and impact of reading on their professional knowledge, skills, and job performance. Methodology: This descriptive survey study assessed librarians’ reading tendencies. The study population included librarians who were members of professional groups and online networks, which enabled questionnaire distribution. Eligibility criteria required formal or contractual employment in various types of libraries. Data were collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire; experts confirmed face validity, and Cronbach’s alpha assessed reliability. Of 178 respondents, 126 valid questionnaires were included in the analysis, and the study used convenience sampling. Findings: The results showed that most librarians preferred print books and considered them more effective for reading. Regarding subject matter, participants most often favored literature, philosophy, and psychology. Most librarians also viewed reading as influential in improving job performance and reported a strong tendency to recommend appealing books to others. However, most respondents did not allocate a fixed monthly budget for book purchases and instead obtained books through exhibitions, large bookstores, or online platforms. Discussion: The study demonstrated that reading plays a central role in librarians’ personal and professional development and in improving the quality of library services. Accordingly, professional organizations should support librarians’ reading habits and information literacy by organizing training workshops, establishing incentive systems, improving access to up-to-date resources, and forming structured reading groups.

Abstract Background and Objectives: Information literacy skills in the electronic environment are one of the essential skills. Without these skills, students cannot be sufficiently successful in their scientific and research affairs. Therefore, graduate students do not access electronic information sources due to their weaknesses in information search. The aim of this study was to assess the information literacy of graduate students in electronic environment in Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz. Methodology: This research is an applied study in terms of its purpose, and in terms of method, it is mixed research. The simultaneous mixed method is used to examine a variable quantitatively and qualitatively at the same time, and at the end of the work, the results of the quantitative and qualitative parts are combined and will answer the research questions. In the qualitative part of the research, the case study method has been used. Thematic analysis is a method to recognize, analyze and report patterns in qualitative data. In this section, the participants included 3 faculty members of Knowledge and Information Science and 5 library managers who participated in the research in the form of focus groups. The focus group method is one of the most common methods of data collection in qualitative research, which is used to collect information and investigate the problem. In this research, a focus group was used to identify the challenges of conducting appropriate searches in electronic collections by graduate students. Quantitative part of the research was a descriptive-survey study. The statistical population in a small part includes 4443 graduate students of Shahid Chamran University, of which 354 people have been selected by the stratified sampling method. The data collection tool in this section was using a standard questionnaire (B-TILED) designed by Beile (2005). By localizing this questionnaire, this version contains 32 questions with a five-point Likert scale (from very little to very much). This questionnaire consists of demographic sections, knowledge of library services, search strategy, knowledge of using electronic resources, evaluation of information literacy, citation, ethical considerations and copyright. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to measure the reliability of the questionnaire. The results of Cronbach's alpha coefficient showed that the questionnaire and its components have acceptable reliability (0.94). Findings: The results show that the graduate students of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz have a relatively good information literacy in the electronic environment. The significance level obtained in the section of knowledge status of library services is 0.001, which is less than the significance level of 0.05. In fact, this part of the results shows that the average value of the knowledge of library services among graduate students of Shahid Chamran University is less than the standard number and the knowledge of library services in the electronic environment is not at an optimal level. Also, the significance value for the elements of search strategy, knowledge of electronic resources, ethical considerations and copyright is 0.001, which is less than the significance level of 0.05. This part of the results shows that the graduate students of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz have a desirable situation in the electronic environment in terms of search strategy ability, knowledge of electronic resources, ethical considerations and copyright. A significant value for citation status equal to 0.202 has been obtained and this value is higher than the significance level of 0.05. This means that the difference between the standard number and the average obtained is not significant and it is not possible to judge whether the citation situation is desirable or undesirable among students. This numerical difference between the standard number and the obtained average can be affected by chance or the introduction of disturbing variables. The results of the data analysis indicated that there is no significant difference in the information literacy status of graduate students of Shahid Chamran University in the electronic environment according to gender. The analysis conducted on the information literacy status of graduate students of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz in the electronic environment according to the educational level shows that there is a significant difference between the two groups. So that doctoral graduate students have a better situation than master's students regarding information literacy in the electronic environment. Qualitative data analysis led to the identification of 40 basic themes and 4 organizational themes related to challenges (including information, skills, organization, software and hardware challenges) and thematic analysis led to the identification of 27 basic themes and 3 organizational themes. These organizing themes include knowledge enhancement, skills enhancement, and systems updating mechanisms for better search by graduate students when properly searching electronic collections. Discussion: Although the information literacy situation of graduate students of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz in the electronic environment is favorable, but the challenges identified in this study affect the information literacy of students in the electronic environment. To overcome these challenges, libraries can enhance students' information literacy through knowledge and skills development.

Abstract Background and Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to introduce, analyze, and identify the most significant features of scientific genealogy software, with the ultimate aim of proposing a conceptual model for designing a specialized scientific genealogy system tailored to the field of Information Science. Scientific genealogy software has increasingly become an essential tool for mapping academic relationships, tracing intellectual lineages, and visualizing the transmission of knowledge across generations of scholars. These systems offer a structured approach to understanding how ideas, theories, and methodologies evolve through mentorship, supervision, and institutional affiliation. Despite the growing importance of such tools within the broader academic landscape, there has been limited effort to systematically evaluate their features and adapt them to the specific needs of Information Science and Knowledge Studies. This study seeks to address this gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of existing genealogy software, identifying their core capabilities, and developing a framework to guide future development in this field. By focusing on Information Science, the research highlights the disciplinary identity of this domain and its unique requirements for documenting scholarly heritage. Methodology: This study was applied in nature and employed a descriptive–correlational design for data collection. In the first stage, existing genealogy software systems were reviewed, and their features were categorized. In the second stage, the study population comprised experts in Information Science and Knowledge Studies. Using purposive sampling and careful identification of knowledgeable individuals, 65 specialists in scientific genealogy within the field of Information Science were selected. Data were collected through a researcher-designed questionnaire, whose content validity was confirmed by experts in the field. To establish construct validity, the results of the measurement model were examined using first-order confirmatory factor analysis. For data analysis, Smart PLS 3 software was employed, which is one of the most widely used tools for structural equation modeling. This methodological approach allowed the researchers to test hypotheses regarding the influence of different software components on overall system capabilities, ensuring that both technical and conceptual dimensions were rigorously examined. Findings: The statistical tests indicated that several components significantly influence the capabilities of scientific genealogy software. These components include: Data Entry and Registration – The ability to accurately record and input information directly impacts the effectiveness of genealogy systems. Without reliable data entry, the integrity of the entire system is compromised. Search, Storage, and Retrieval – Efficient search mechanisms, along with reliable storage and retrieval functions, are critical for enabling users to access and analyze genealogical data. These features determine how easily scholars can trace academic lineages and explore intellectual connections. Auxiliary Features – Additional functionalities, such as visualization tools, export options, and integration with external databases, contribute to enhancing the software's usability. Visualization, in particular, plays a crucial role in making complex relationships more comprehensible. Reporting – The ability to generate structured reports and summaries was identified as an essential feature for academic and administrative purposes, enabling institutions to document scholarly contributions and supervisory networks. Help and Guidance – Built-in guidance systems, tutorials, and user manuals significantly enhance the accessibility and user-friendliness of the software, ensuring that even non-technical users can benefit from the system. Financial Tariffs – The cost structure and licensing models also influenced the adoption and sustainability of genealogy systems. Affordable and transparent pricing models were found to encourage broader usage. The findings demonstrated that the importance of these features is not uniform. Each software package, while sharing certain commonalities, possesses unique characteristics that distinguish it from the others. Consequently, the study concluded that a combination of different genealogy systems may be necessary to achieve optimal functionality within the field of Information Science. This underscores the need for a hybrid approach that integrates diverse capabilities rather than relying on a single, monolithic system. Discussion: Unlike general-purpose genealogy tools, systems developed for Information Science must accommodate the specific requirements of academic lineage mapping, including the representation of doctoral supervision, institutional affiliations, and interdisciplinary collaborations. This study underscores the importance of integrating both technical and organizational considerations. For instance, while advanced search and retrieval functions are indispensable, factors such as cost, accessibility, and user support must also be addressed. Furthermore, the results suggest that future development should not aim for a single “perfect” system but rather adopt a modular approach that combines the strengths of different software packages. Based on these findings, the study proposes that the development of scientific genealogy software for Information Science should be guided by a hybrid model that integrates diverse capabilities. Such a model would ensure that the system is not only technically robust but also responsive to the practical needs of researchers, educators, and administrators. By emphasizing the heterogeneity of existing tools and advocating for a composite approach, this research contributes to the advancement of Information Science as a discipline. It also provides a roadmap for enhancing the visibility and impact of scholarly genealogies, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of academic heritage and intellectual continuity. Ultimately, this study demonstrates that scientific genealogy systems, when carefully designed and adapted, can serve as powerful instruments for strengthening disciplinary identity, promoting collaboration, and preserving the intellectual legacy of Information Science.

Abstract Background and Objectives: The arrival of new generative artificial intelligence tools and large language models (LLMs) has significantly altered how people access information and learn. As Generative AI tools become more common in academic environments, they bring both clear benefits and notable concerns. This technology offers powerful capabilities, like producing summaries and answering questions, to make learning faster and more personalized. The issue is complicated by AI's dual potential to both complement and replace cognitive activities vital for deep learning. While previous research has touched upon AI in education, this study investigates an area not yet fully explored: how these new tools are actively changing student study habits. Existing studies have often been small-scale or focused on narrow audiences, leaving a recognized gap in the literature regarding a deep, systematic understanding of these impacts. This research addresses that gap by comprehensively examining the effects of generative AI on study habits through an innovative methodology. The goal is to provide a clear overview of the opportunities and challenges, offering evidence-based guidance for educators, students, and policymakers on the responsible use of these transformative tools. Methodology: This study used a qualitative Delphi method to gather and synthesize expert opinions on this rapidly evolving topic. The Delphi method is well-suited for areas with limited empirical data because it provides a structured process for achieving consensus. In a novel application, the "expert" panel was composed not of humans, but of 10 of the world's leading generative AI models: Claude 3.5 Haiku, ChatGPT 4o, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini 2 Flash, Grok 3, Perplexity AI, DeepSeek V3, Llama 3.1 70B, Mistral AI 1, and Qwen AI 2.5 max. This approach was designed to leverage the collective knowledge and analytical capabilities of these systems, completing the process in a fraction of the time required for human panels. The process involved three structured, iterative rounds. One model, Claude 3.5 Haiku, was assigned the role of "referee" to guide the process. In the first round, the panel answered an open-ended question, and the referee synthesized the responses into a 30-item Likert scale survey. The entire panel then completed the survey. The referee analyzed the results for consensus and disagreement, finding seven points of dispute. The process of revising and re-answering the questionnaire was repeated until, in the third and final round, the AIs reached a unanimous agreement on all topics. Findings: The expert panel's consensus revealed that generative AI has a dual impact, with significant advantages offset by considerable drawbacks. The tools can enhance academic results and reduce study time by making learning more efficient and personalized. The primary benefit identified was personalized learning, where AI creates customized pathways that match a student's speed and style. Other key advantages included accelerated access to information, immediate constructive feedback for correcting errors, intelligent time management assistance, efficient text summarization, and increased student engagement through interactive environments. These advantages, however, are balanced by serious risks. Chief among the concerns was the potential for over-dependence on technology, weakening students' intrinsic learning abilities and memory. This links to a potential decline in critical thinking and problem-solving, as students may rely on AI for answers rather than engaging in deeper cognitive effort. Finally, the panel highlighted important ethical issues, including student data privacy concerns and the risk that algorithmic biases could worsen educational inequality for certain student groups. Discussion: The findings point toward the need for a thoughtful balance in integrating AI into education. AI should be used to supplement and support traditional methods, not replace them. Consequently, educational systems must prioritize developing strong digital literacy and critical evaluation skills. This requires teaching students to use these tools effectively, critically assess their output, and apply them in a responsible, ethical manner. The study's methodology also demonstrates that using an AI expert panel in a Delphi study is an innovative and effective way to research emerging technologies. The authors acknowledge the study's limitations, noting the results are dependent on the specific AI panel selected. Given the rapid pace of AI development, future research could replicate the study with newer models. It is also suggested that future work could combine the AI panel with human experts for a more nuanced dialogue or evaluate the AIs' reasoning capabilities to better understand the "why" behind their consensus.