Integrating research tools with library websites

Abstract

Purpose The present investigation aims to measure the extent of the adoption of research tools among libraries of higher education (HE) institutes across the world based on the types of research tools and their diverse purposes of use. This study also intends to identify the current practices followed by the HE libraries to implement research tools. Design/methodology/approach First, a stratified sampling method was used to select 130 HE libraries from four continents – Asia, Oceania, Europe and North America. Second, a two-step Web content analysis was followed to collect data from the selected libraries along the parameters chosen for the survey. Findings This study gives an overview of the recent advances in the use of research tools by the libraries with numerous examples. Highlighting the differential rate of adoption of research tools across the regions, this study illustrates the degree of acceptance of research tools among the libraries. Research limitations/implications This study limits itself to a handful of libraries with English websites in four regions only to avoid the language limitation of the researcher. Inaccessible websites of libraries of HE institutes were also excluded from the survey. Originality/value Future researchers may use the evaluation instruments as basic tools to develop advanced research instruments to carry out Web content analysis in diverse spheres. This study guides librarians to develop an improved understanding of the requirements of an immersive online environment with enhanced accessibility to a multiplicity of research tools and facilities to provide improved research support throughout the entire research life cycle.