Bibliographic Control Practices in the Digital Age: Conceptual and Theoretical Framework Perspective

Authors

Juliana AkidiFollow

Date of this Version

Winter 2-12-2020

Abstract

Abstract

The study examined bibliographic control practices in the digital age from conceptual and theoretical framework perspectives. It illustrated selected conceptual model and theoretical framework that could be applied in the study of bibliographic control practices. The study related these theories and models to bibliographic control practices, with a focus on national bibliographic control agency. An author designed conceptual model was applied in order to bring out the tripartite roles of bibliographic control, which involve national bibliographic control, universal bibliographic control and universal availability of publications. In addition, the practices and their relationships were illustrated. Technology Acceptance model (TAM) propounded by Davis, 1989, and modified by the researcher was also applied to draw attention to the need for bibliographic agencies to embrace information and communication technology (ICT) in their practices; and also for users to accept and use technology in accessing and utilizing information resources/sources. The five laws of Ranganathan were also deemed an important theory to illustrate issues on availability, accessibility and utilization of information resources, which are the basic principles of bibliographic control practices. The study concluded that the conceptual model developed for the study enunciated the practices and brought out the relationship among the variables; while the five laws of Ranganathan and technology acceptance (TAC) model, brought to the limelight the need for bibliographic control agencies and users of information products and services of such agencies and other libraries to acquire and apply basic ICT skills and knowledge, so as to perceive the usefulness and ease of use of modern technology in this digital age for effective bibliographic control practices.