How can information poverty indicators be used to demonstrate the impact of Libraries NI's information services?

Abstract

Purpose: This thesis establishes a theoretical framework which demonstrates how information poverty can be conceptualised and targeted at three levels: macro (strategic), meso (community) and micro (individual). A framework of information poverty indicators are developed to demonstrate how it can be addressed at societal, community and individual levels.

Originality: The study is innovative, valuable and significant, in that, it is the first time a macro, meso and micro model of information poverty indicators has been developed and applied to illustrate the impact of public libraries at strategic, community and personal levels.

Methods: The research uses Libraries NI as a case study from which to investigate how information poverty can be addressed at societal, community and individual levels. Mixed methods, using quantitative and qualitative data, obtained from semi-structured interviews with library staff and external stakeholders, a survey of branch library managers and focus groups with library users and non-users, were employed. Secondary data from the Northern Ireland Census (2011) and a content analysis of documents strengthened the primary data from the interviews, survey and focus groups.

Findings: The study revealed that an integrated approach is needed to address information poverty. By developing strategic and community partnerships, libraries can have an impact at addressing information poverty. Community engagement and targeted interventions to specific groups were key to addressing it. Raising awareness of library services was fundamental to reducing information poverty.

Practical implications: The research is topical given the emphasis from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) to address poverty and social exclusion. The study will provide recommendations to Libraries NI to improve their capacity to address information poverty. While the study looks specifically at public libraries, it has wider implications and the three-level framework of information poverty indicators can be used within other contexts.

Date of Award	Jul 2015
Original language	English
Sponsors	Department of Employment and Learning, Northern Ireland
Supervisor	Jessica Bates (Supervisor), Linda Clarke (Supervisor) & Victor Mc Nair (Supervisor)