A maturity model for evidence-based library and information practice in university libraries
Ever wondered what evidence-based practice looks like in an organisation? How can a library leader identify areas of development to build capacity for evidence-based practice among staff?
These are the questions myself and Clare Thorpe at the University of Southern Queensland aimed to answer with this research. The first stage of this research generated a capability maturity model that describes what evidence-based library and information practice may look like at university libraries. Five maturity levels, from Ad hoc to Transforming are described across three dimensions – Process, Evidence and Engagement.
Data collection for this stage was approved by the USQ Human Research Ethics Committee (approval number H18REA114).
Find out more about the EBP capability maturity model in our research article in the 2020, Issue 1 Evidence Based Library and Information Practice journal.
Not a university library? The EBP capability maturity model can still be used as a guide, though further research is required to better understand complexities and factors unique to other information settings.
Past research
I have contributed to research projects that have resulted in a number of co-authored publications. Projects related to:
- examining experiences of evidence-based practice in the LIS profession
- exploring ways to support for university students located in regional and remote areas, and
- research in the LIS profession (LISRA project) with the “broad aim of the project is to encourage and enable research culture and practice within the Australian Library and Information Science profession.”
Other research
Exploring evidence sources used to inform library and information practice
This research focused on understanding the role of evidence in informing library and information practice in special libraries in Australia. The aim of this research was to help raise awareness of the types of evidence used in daily professional practice.
Innovation in Australian archival institutions: a pilot study
This research sought to gain an insight into current trends and potential for innovation in publicly funded, Australian archival organisations, and explore influences associated with innovation implementation. Capturing a snapshot of current innovation efforts and capabilities, this research aimed to provide some understanding about the extent of innovation in these organisations as they respond to a constantly changing and complex environment.
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