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Journal of Radical Librarianship

 

Publication analysis


About the publication

Title: Journal of Radical Librarianship

ISSN: 2399-956X

Website: http://journal.radicallibrarianship.org/index.php/journal/index

Purpose, objective, or mission: The Journal of Radical Librarianship “is an open access journal publishing high quality, rigorously reviewed and innovative scholarly work in the field of radical librarianship….The scope of the journal is any work that contributes to a discourse around critical library and information theory and practice.”1

Target audience: Librarians and library and information science (LIS) practitioners, managers, scholars, and students who are interested in “radical librarianship,” loosely defined for the purposes of the journal as “the ethical roots of librarianship.”2

Publisher: The journal is self-published by the editors.3 Its platform and workflow are supported by OJS/PKP.4

Peer reviewed? Yes, the journal has a policy for manuscripts to undergo either open or double-blind review.5

Type: LIS scholarly journal.

Medium: Online and open access.

Content: The Journal of Radical Librarianship publishes LIS articles on a broad range of topics but emphasizes that articles should contribute “to a discourse around critical library and information theory and practice.”6 Sections include Research Articles, Editorials and Commentary, and Reviews. The journal’s Announcements page issues calls for proposals and papers on specified topics; a 2018 call was for proposals offering a “structural critique of race and power in LIS.” 7

Frequency of publication: The Journal of Radical Librarianship is published on a continual basis: articles are published as soon as they are ready under the year’s volume number.8

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines: Submissions.

Types of contributions accepted: The Journal of Radical Librarianship publishes research and scholarly articles that offer critical analyses of “the influence of neoliberal policy on the profession.”9 With this basis in critical LIS theory and practice, the journal covers many “traditional” topics, such as information literacy, digital rights, cataloging, and technology, but also brings nondominant discourses to the field, with topics including including politics and social justice; anti-racist theory, critical race analysis, anti-colonial studies; equity, diversity, and inclusion; gender variance, queer theory, and phenomenology; the political economy of information and knowledge; critical pedagogy; and sustainability and environmentalism.10 The editors will also consider nontextual formats.11

Submission and review process: Authors submit manuscripts online and must ensure compliance with the Submission Preparation Checklist. “Prospective authors are welcome to send outlines or drafts to the editor in advance of making a formal submission. Submissions can be sent throughout the year. Revisions may be required before a decision is made to accept or reject the paper.”12 The journal gives authors and reviewers the option of open or double-blind peer review. The authors and reviewers must all agree to an open review; if not, the manuscript undergoes double-blind review.13

Editorial tone: The tone is scholarly but appropriate for the topic and type of submission.

Style guide used: “Manuscripts should be prepared according to any consistent bibliographic style.”14

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

The Journal of Radical Librarianship is a fairly new journal (first published in 2015) that is based in the UK but has an international scope and seeks contributions from “library and information workers, researchers, and academics from anywhere in the world.”15 LIS authors, including graduate students, who are writing critically about LIS theory, research, and practices, especially in ways that engage in nondominant discourses, consider a progressive point of view, and disrupt neoliberal library policy, will find encouraging and supportive editors and a high-quality, relevant journal.

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: Data not available.

Audience location and language or cultural considerations: The Journal of Radical Librarianship is based in the UK and North America and is written in English, but the journal’s scope is international and the editors hope to find “editors and authors from beyond the English-speaking world” as the journal grows and evolves.16 Authors should consider an international audience for their articles and explain jargon or region-specific practices accordingly.

Reader characteristics: Readers are librarians and LIS professionals, scholars, researchers, and students from around the world in all types of libraries and information organizations. Further, readers may be members of the Radical Librarianship Collective, which is an organization “building solidarity for those critical of the marketization of libraries and commodification of information.”17

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: Readers have a solid academic and practical knowledge of LIS subject matter.

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

Authors should keep in mind that readers expect authors to approach LIS scholarship with a consideration of critical, radical, and nonhegemonic analyses. Readers will expect traditional LIS topics to be analysed and critiqued from new, radical, or nondominant points of view, and they expect writing on newer topics crucial to the profession’s progressive advancement and a disruption of its neoliberal and market-based practices.

Last updated: April 20, 2018


References

Show 17 footnotes

  1. “About the Journal,” Journal of Radical Librarianship, accessed April 20, 2018, https://journal.radicallibrarianship.org/index.php/journal/about.
  2. Stuart Lawson, “Editorial,” Journal of Radical Librarianship 1 (2015): 1, https://journal.radicallibrarianship.org/index.php/journal/article/view/1.
  3. “About the Journal” lists the editors and their subject areas.
  4. “About the Journal.”
  5. “About the Journal.”
  6. “About the Journal.”
  7. “Announcements,” Journal of Radical Librarianship, accessed April 20, 2018, https://journal.radicallibrarianship.org/index.php/journal/announcement.
  8. “About the Journal.”
  9. Lawson, “Editorial,” 1.
  10. “About the Journal.”
  11. “Submissions,” Journal of Radical Librarianship, accessed April 20, 2018, https://journal.radicallibrarianship.org/index.php/journal/about/submissions.
  12. “Submissions.”
  13. “About the Journal.”
  14. “Submissions.”
  15. Lawson, “Editorial,” 1.
  16. Lawson, “Editorial,” 1.
  17. “Home,” Radical Librarians Collective, accessed April 20, 2018, https://rlc.radicallibrarianship.org/.
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Judaica Librarianship

 

Publication analysis


About the publication

Title: Judaica Librarianship

ISSN: 0739-5086 (Print, prior to the 2014, volume 18 issue) and 2330-2976 (Online)1

Website: http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/

Purpose, objective, or mission:Judaica Librarianship is the scholarly journal of the Association of Jewish Libraries, an international professional organization that fosters access to information and research, in all forms of media relating to all things Jewish. The Association promotes Jewish literacy and scholarship and provides a community for peer support and professional development.”2 Membership is open to librarians, libraries, and library supporters. The journal itself is a “forum for scholarship on the theory and practice of Jewish studies librarianship and information studies.”3

Target audience: Members of the ALA with an interest in Jewish culture, members of the Association of Jewish Libraries, members of the American Theological Library Association, and anyone interested in Jewish library and information science.4

Publisher: Association of Jewish Libraries (AJL).5

Peer reviewed? Yes, using a double-blind system.6

Type: LIS scholarly.7

Medium: Online as of 2014, volume 18. Prior to that, the journal was in print.8

Content: “Judaica Librarianship, the peer-reviewed journal of the Association of Jewish Libraries, provides a forum for scholarship on all theoretical or practical aspects of Jewish Studies librarianship and cultural stewardship in the digital age; bibliographical, bibliometric and comprehensive studies related to Jewish booklore; historical studies or current surveys of noteworthy collections; and extensive reviews of reference works and other resources, including electronic databases and informational websites.”9

Additionally, the journal covers “LGBTQ issues, Linked Data in libraries, and digital humanities,”10, as well as the history of bookstores,11 the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Library of the University of Haifa’s role in promoting information literacy,12 and public librarians’ opinions on including controversial Holocaust denial materials in library collections.13

The journal has also covered major changes in cataloging rules and classification schemes for Judaica, documented important local cataloging practices, described the earliest automation systems with Hebrew capability, and reviewed landmark Judaic reference works, as well as children’s books.14

Frequency of publication: Annually.15

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines: http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/submission_guidelines.html

Types of contributions accepted: The journal publishes a wide range of articles related to Jewish studies librarianship and information studies. In addition to the topics below, the journal also welcomes “thoroughly revised and updated versions of papers presented at AJL Annual Conferences or chapter meetings.”16

Sample article titles include “Virtual Libraries vs. Physical Libraries in Jewish Studies,” “Establishing Uniform Headings for the Sacred Scriptures,” “The Jewish Press in France: A Review of the Contemporary Scene, 1993,” and “Strongly Traditional Judaism: A Selective Guide to World Wide Web Resources in English.”17

From the Focus and Scope page the journal covers the following topics:

  • “Theoretical or empirical studies integrating library and information science with aspects of Jewish studies and related fields that could stimulate the scholarly discussion about Jewish libraries (history of the book, bibliometrics, literary studies, media studies, Jewish languages and linguistics, information technology, literacy studies, or social history).
  • Best practices and policies for Jewish libraries of all kinds: school libraries (all levels); community center libraries; public libraries; Judaica collections in religious institutions; archival collections; museum and historical society libraries; research libraries; and special libraries.
  • Innovative approaches to data curation, discovery tools, or preservation of library materials in the digital age.
  • Descriptive essays and surveys of noteworthy collections.
  • Digital humanities projects relevant to Jewish studies and other digitization projects.
  • Historical or bibliographical studies pertaining to Hebraica and/or Judaica materials, libraries and librarians, or generally to Jewish booklore.
  • Library services for users, including but not limited to reference tools and instruction guidelines for teaching Jewish literacy, cultural programming, or any other outreach programs.
  • Collaborative collection development initiatives across library networks.”18

The journal also sponsors a student essay contest, open to students currently enrolled in an accredited LIS program. Essays should be related to Jewish studies librarianship. The winning essay will be considered for Judaica Librarianship publication, and the winner will receive a cash prize.19

Submission and review process: Judaica Librarianship has an Open Access policy with a 12-month moving wall. As is standard, the journal does not accept simultaneous submissions or previously published manuscripts.20

To submit an article for consideration, authors must first create an account through the site and follow the detailed submission guidelines.21

When submitting, keep in mind that the journals follows the guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).22

Editorial tone: Articles are extremely reader-friendly, with a professional, yet conversational tone. As such, while LIS terms and phrases are employed throughout, both LIS and non-LIS readers with an interest in Jewish library concerns can enjoy all this journal has to offer.23

Style guide used: For style guidelines, please follow the Chicago Manual of Style, 16th edition and Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th edition.24

For academic writing guidelines, follow Christopher Hollister’s Handbook of Academic Writing for Librarians and Strunk and White’s The Elements of Style.25

For romanization of non-Latin languages (Hebrew, Cyrillic, Ladino, and Judeo-Arabic), consult the Library of Congress Romanization Tables; for the romanization of Yiddish, refer to the YIVO system.26

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

The journal is an excellent place for new and established writers looking for a community-oriented, peer-reviewed journal devoted to Jewish LIS studies. Additionally, this publication welcomes new ideas, as well as fresh takes on established theories. Thirdly, the editorial team works closely with writers to ensure style and content are up to the journal’s standards, so unpublished and published authors alike can feel comfortable throughout the entire review process.27

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: Although exact circulation numbers are unavailable, the journal has over 25,000 downloads since becoming an online publication in 2014.28 Additionally, it is safe to say the Association of Jewish Libraries (AJL) comprises a large portion of the journal’s audience. AJL is an international organization, with members from “North America and beyond, including China, the Czech Republic, Holland, Israel, Italy, South Africa, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.”29

 Audience location and language or cultural considerations: The AJL is headquartered in New Jersey30, and members of the journal’s editorial board are affiliated with North American universities, including Arizona State University, Stanford University, Yeshiva University, University of Washington, University of Toronto, and the (U.S.) Library of Congress.31

Additionally, the AJL holds a conference each year at a different location. Typically, the conference is held in North America, but in 1971, it was held in Jerusalem.32 Although the bulk of the work for the journal is done through online collaboration, the AJL conferences serve as a useful forum for the editorial board to discuss their work in person.33

The journal is published in English,34, but—as mentioned above—it promotes Jewish literacy and LIS studies worldwide.35 Thus, this journal is defined by its Jewish LIS interests, rather than by a specific geographic area.36

Lastly, articles often include Yiddish or Hebrew terminology, which is generally explained within the text.37

Reader characteristics: Readers belong to the AJL,38 and, whether or not they’re information professionals, tend to be interested in Jewish LIS news. Additionally, readers likely work in libraries, museums, and other cultural or information centers. AJL’s membership includes two divisions: one containing Research Libraries, Archives, and Special Collections; the other containing Schools, Synagogues, and Centers.39 All members receive a subscription to Judacia Librarianship.40

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: Because this journal is published by the Association of Jewish Libraries, most readers will be familiar with LIS subject matter.41 However, because not all readers are affiliated with LIS professions42, articles use specific LIS terms sparingly and explain them where necessary.

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

Readers of this journal have a strong interest in news from a Jewish library perspective and are likely to welcome new studies, research, programs, or notes from the field. This publication is also an excellent choice for learning more about and becoming part of the larger AJL community. Authors should also keep in mind that the audience of this publication encompasses readers outside the LIS profession “and includes scholars researching the history of the book,” professionals affiliated with museums and bookstores, etc.43

Last updated: April 9, 2018


References

Show 43 footnotes

  1.  “About Judaica Librarianship,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/about.html
  2. “About Judaica Librarianship,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/about.html
  3. “Focus & Scope,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/aimsandscope.html
  4. “About Judaica Librarianship,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/about.html
  5. Judaica Librarianship, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1518891580073/340702
  6. “Submission Guidelines,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/submission_guidelines.html
  7. Judaica Librarianship, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1518891580073/340702
  8. “About Judaica Librarianship,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/about.html
  9.  Judaica Librarianship, Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed April 9, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/
  10.  Rachel Leket-Mor, email message to author, April 5, 2018.
  11. Rifat Bali, “Istanbul’s Jewish Bookstores: Monuments to a Bygone Era,” Judaica Librarianship 20 (2017): 159, accessed April 9, 2018, https://doi.org/10.14263/2330-2976.1213.
  12. Cecilia Harel, Yosef Branse, Karen Elisha, and Ora Zehavi, “The Younes and Soraya Nazarian Library, University of Haifa: Israel’s Northern Star,” Judaica Librarianship 19 (2016): 24, accessed April 9, 2018, https://doi.org/10.14263/2330-2976.1142.
  13. John A. Drobnicki, “Holocaust Denial Literature Twenty Years Later: A Follow-up Investigation of Public Librarians’ Attitudes Regarding Acquisition and Access,” Judaica Librarianship 18 (2015): 54, accessed April 9, 2018, https://doi.org/10.14263/2330-2976.1035.
  14.  Judaica Librarianship, Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/
  15. Judaica Librarianship, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1518891580073/340702
  16. “Focus & Scope,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/aimsandscope.html
  17. Judaica Librarianship, Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/
  18. “Focus & Scope,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/aimsandscope.html
  19. “About Judaica Librarianship,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/about.html
  20. “Policies,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/policies.html
  21. “Submission Guidelines,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/submission_guidelines.html
  22. “Policies,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/policies.html
  23. “About Judaica Librarianship,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/about.html
  24.  “Submission Guidelines,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/submission_guidelines.html
  25.  “Submission Guidelines,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/submission_guidelines.html
  26. “Submission Guidelines,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/submission_guidelines.html
  27. “Submission Guidelines,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/submission_guidelines.html
  28.  Judaica Librarianship, Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/
  29. “About AJL,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://jewishlibraries.org/about.php
  30. Judaica Librarianship, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1518891580073/340702
  31. “Editorial Board,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/editorialboard.html
  32. “Conference Proceedings,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://jewishlibraries.org/Conference_Proceedings
  33. Rachel Leket-Mor, email message to author, April 16, 2014.
  34.  Judaica Librarianship, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1518891580073/340702
  35.  “About AJL,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://jewishlibraries.org/about.php
  36. “Focus & Scope,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/aimsandscope.html
  37. “Submission Guidelines,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://ajlpublishing.org/jl/submission_guidelines.html
  38. “Digital Publications,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://jewishlibraries.org/Digital_Publications
  39. “Divisions,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, http://jewishlibraries.org/content.php?page=Divisions
  40. “Subscription Information,” Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/subscription.html
  41. Judaica Librarianship, Association of Jewish Libraries, accessed February 17, 2018, https://ajlpublishing.org/jl/
  42. Rachel Leket-Mor, email message to author, April 5, 2018.
  43.  Rachel Leket-Mor, email message to author, April 5, 2018.
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International Journal of Librarianship (IJoL)

 

Publication analysis


About the publication

TitleInternational Journal of Librarianship (IJoL)

ISSN: 2474-3542

Websitehttp://ojs.calaijol.org/index.php/ijol

Purpose, objective, or mission: The International Journal of Librarianship (IJoL) “is a peer­-reviewed open access journal dedicated to publishing articles on as broad an array of topics as possible from all aspects of librarianship in all types of libraries.”1

Target audience: IJoL‘s primary audience is members of the Chinese American Librarians Association (CALA), an affiliate of the American Library Association (ALA) that provides a forum for discussion and development among Chinese American librarians and information professionals.2 However, as an international and open-access journal, IJoL‘s scope and reach is worldwide.

Publisher: IJoL is published by CALA, an affiliate of the ALA.3

Peer reviewed? Yes. Articles deemed suitable by the editors are double-blind peer reviewed.4

Type: LIS scholarly journal.

Medium: Online.

Content: “IJoL publishes original research papers, practical developments, reviews, and commentaries of value to professional practice in librarianship in general. It encourages communication on librarianship within and among relevant professional and academic communities.”5 Regular columns include Featured Articles, Reports from the Field, LIS Education around the World, Commentaries, Reviews, and News.

Frequency of publication: Twice each year.6

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines: Submissions.

Types of contributions accepted: IJoL accepts Featured Articles, which are original research or comprehensive, in-depth analyses; Reports from the Field, which “describe the implementation and assessment of innovative practices in libraries of all types” and report on distinguished Chinese librarians; Reviews of books, articles, or conference papers; and Commentaries offering perspectives on current topics.7 The journal publishes on all topics related to libraries and librarianship, including “academic, research, public, school and special libraries” and other information institutions; it is focused on, but not limited to, “major development of Chinese librarianship throughout the world.”8

Submission and review process: IJoL uses the Open Journal Systems9 online portal for submissions and offers guidelines and a submission checklist, which authors should follow to ensure that processing and publishing is not delayed.10 Each section has its own policies, so authors should check that their submissions meet these requirements as well. The editor sends suitable articles to two referees for blind review, and articles may be accepted as is, with revisions, or declined.11

Editorial tone: The tone is overall scholarly but also appropriate to each column and topic.

Style guide used: Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, sixth edition.12

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

IJoL‘s first issue was in 2016, so it is a very new scholarly journal. It is the official journal of CALA, which was established in the 1970s.13 In the first editorial, Editor-in-Chief Guoying Liu introduces the journal as “a forum for librarians and other researchers from Canada, China, the UK, the US and other countries to share their research, best practices and perspectives in international librarianship, international collaboration and academic exchange, library spaces and services, library technology and innovation, and other aspects of information science and studies.”14 This journal is a great fit for scholars, professionals, and students whose work or research focuses on Chinese librarianship, but the journal publishes on all topics of library and information science, including all types of libraries and information institutions.

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: IJoL statistics show that there are 131 registered users and 113 registered readers in 2018.15

Audience location and language or cultural considerations: IJoL readership is most likely Chinese and Chinese American librarians and information professionals. However, this is an English-language international journal that publishes on all LIS topics, and its readership is similarly international. Authors should keep in mind this international readership and explain regionalisms and particular terms and practices accordingly.

Reader characteristics: Readers are librarians and information professionals, scholars, and students interested in Chinese librarianship and information communities, as well as broader topics and current trends affecting LIS professionals throughout the world. The editors of IJoL are from universities and libraries in the United States, China, and Canada.16

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: Readers most likely have a strong understanding of LIS subject matter; however, writers should explain regional or particular terms, concepts, and practices for an international readership.

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

LIS authors should keep in mind that the readership for this journal is global but there is a particular interest in Chinese librarianship throughout the United States, Canada, and China. Readers of the journal are LIS scholars, professionals, and graduate students who are interested in developments particular to Chinese user populations and research and practices that can be extended to a similarly global population. As a new, open-access journal, LIS authors can peruse what types of articles are being published and editorials that explain the journal’s direction.17

Last updated: April 6, 2018


References

Show 17 footnotes

  1. “Editorial Policies,” International Journal of Librarianship, accessed April 3, 2018, http://ojs.calaijol.org/index.php/ijol/about/editorialPolicies.
  2. “Membership,” cala-web.org, accessed April 3, 2018, http://www.cala-web.org/membership.
  3. “Editorial Policies.”
  4. “Editorial Policies.”
  5. “Editorial Policies.”
  6. “Editorial Policies.”
  7. “Submissions,” International Journal of Librarianship, accessed April 3, 2018, http://ojs.calaijol.org/index.php/ijol/about/submissions.
  8. “Editorial Policies.”
  9. “About This Publishing System,” International Journal of Librarianship, accessed April 3, 2018, http://ojs.calaijol.org/index.php/ijol/about/aboutThisPublishingSystem.
  10. “Submissions.”
  11. “Editorial Policies.”
  12. “Submissions.”
  13. “About,” cala-web.org, accessed April 3, 2018, http://www.cala-web.org/about.
  14. Guoying Liu, “Editorial: Message from Editor-in-Chief,” International Journal of Librarianship 1, no. 1 (2016): 1, https://doi.org/10.23974/ijol.2016.vol1.1.17.
  15. “Statistics,” International Journal of Librarianship, accessed April 3, 2018, http://ojs.calaijol.org/index.php/ijol/about/statistics?statisticsYear=2018.
  16. “Editorial Team,” International Journal of Librarianship, accessed April 3, 2018, http://ojs.calaijol.org/index.php/ijol/about/editorialTeam.
  17.  Guoying Liu, “Editorial: Celebrating One Year Anniversary and Introducing the Third Issue,” International Journal of Librarianship 2, no. 2 (2017): 1-2, https://doi.org/10.23974/ijol.2017.vol2.2.54.
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International Information & Library Review

 

Publication analysis


About the publication

Title: International Information & Library Review

ISSN: Print ISSN: 1057-2317, Online ISSN: 1095-9297

Website: http://www.tandfonline.com/toc/ulbr20/current

Purpose, objective, or mission: “The overall mission of the International Information & Library Review is the provision of knowledge that will assist in the success of libraries and information-related institutions around the world.”1

Target audience: The target audience for International Information & Library Review is “library and information professionals and paraprofessionals in public, academic, special, government, and corporate environments” from around the world.2

Publisher: Taylor & Francis.3

Peer reviewed? Yes. “All papers in International Information & Library Review have undergone editorial screening and peer review.”4

Type: LIS scholarly journal.

Medium: Print and online.

Content: With a global perspective and articles written by scholars and professionals from many different countries and institutions, the International Information & Library Review “focuses on three broad areas: policy and ethical issues, including digital values, around the world; the ways in which information technologies and policies are used to help in decision-making, problem solving and improving the quality of people’s lives; and designing and implementing information systems and services in libraries and other organizations around the world.”5

Besides original articles, regular columns include Digital Trends and the Global Library Community, Advances in Library Data and Access, The Library Workforce, Perspectives on Public Services, Global Postcards: Research, Projects, and Experiences from the Field, and Digital Heritage: Spotlight on Europe.6

Frequency of publication: Four issues per year.7

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines: Instructions for Authors and Invitation for Column Contributions.

Types of contributions accepted: International Information & Library Review publishes “current and anecdotal information” with an emphasis on “research, current developments, and trends related to library and information leadership and management; marketing, advancement, and development; collaborative projects and insights; scholarly communication and publication; collection development and management; technology and digitization; public and technical services; physical and virtual environments, and organizational behavior.”8 Besides original articles, the journal welcomes proposals and articles for its regular columns.9

Submission and review process: International Information & Library Review uses an online submission system for manuscript management and the peer-review process.10 The Taylor & Francis Authors Services website offers an overview of the publishing process and detailed instructions for authors.11 The journal uses Editorial Manager for the peer-review process, with detailed guidelines for authors.12

Editorial tone: The overall editorial tone is scholarly, especially for the original articles. Each column has its own guidelines and topics, so authors should read these and sample articles carefully if submitting an article or proposal to a particular column.13

Style guide used: Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, sixth edition.14 Taylor & Francis provides a document outlining APA style.15

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

International Information & Library Review is a well-established, highly regarded journal in the worldwide library and information science (LIS) community. LIS scholars and professionals who are conducting original research that appeals to a worldwide audience and who can contribute to the journal’s regular columns are a good fit for this journal. The journal’s authorship is from within and beyond the LIS community: “Contributions to the journal have come from staff or members of many different international organizations, including the United Nations, UNESCO, IFLA, and INTAMEL, and from library and information scientists in academia, government, industry, and other organizations.”16 The journal does not court student authors, and contributors seem to be well-established professionals in LIS and related organizations, but column editors do invite proposals, which may be a way for LIS students to explore publishing in this high-level journal.

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: Data not available.

Audience location and language or cultural considerations: International Information & Library Review has a worldwide scope and reach. Its audience includes “information scientists, librarians and other scholars and practitioners all over the world.”17 The journal is written in English for an international audience. Regional terms and practices should be explained.

Reader characteristics: Readers are LIS scholars, professionals, and practitioners from around the world, as well as stakeholders in international organizations, such as the United Nations, UNESCO, IFLA, and INTAMEL,18 who may not be in the LIS field but who are interested in international information-sharing practices and standards.

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: Overall, readers will have an advanced understanding of LIS subject matter, but because readers are from all over the world and sometimes from outside of the field, jargon, regionalisms, and novel practices should be explained.

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

Authors submitting to the International Information & Library Review are writing for an international readership. Readers expect “timely articles on research and development in international and comparative librarianship, information sciences, information policy and information ethics, digital values and digital libraries.”19 They are interested in how LIS practice and theory are evolving around the world–on the international stage and in particular regions–and how this might have an impact on their own policies and practices.

Last updated: April 2, 2018


References

Show 19 footnotes

  1. “Aims and Scope,” International Information & Library Review, accessed April 2, 2018, https://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?show=aimsScope&journalCode=ulbr20.
  2. “Aims and Scope.”
  3. “Aims and Scope.”
  4. “Aims and Scope.”
  5. “Invitation for Column Contributions,” International Information & Library Review, accessed April 2, 2018, http://explore.tandfonline.com/cfp/bes/iilr-columns.
  6. “Invitation for Column Contributions.”
  7. “Journal Information,” International Information & Library Review, accessed April 2, 2018, https://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?journalCode=ulbr20.
  8. “Aims and Scope.”
  9. “Invitation for Column Contributions.”
  10. “Instructions for Authors,” International Information & Library Review, accessed April 2, 2018, https://www.tandfonline.com/action/authorSubmission?journalCode=ulbr20&page=instructions.
  11. “Author Services,” taylorandfrancis.com, accessed April 2, 2018, https://authorservices.taylorandfrancis.com/.
  12. “Editorial Manager: Tutorial for Authors,” version 14.1-Q4/2017, www.ariessys.com, accessed April 2, 2018, https://www.ariessys.com/wp-content/uploads/EM-Author-English.pdf.
  13. See “Invitation for Column Contributions,” for links to each column’s guidelines.
  14. “Instructions for Authors.”
  15. “Taylor & Francis Standard Reference Style: APA,” tandf.co.uk, accessed April 2, 2018, https://www.tandf.co.uk//journals/authors/style/reference/tf_APA.pdf.
  16. “Invitation for Column Contributions.”
  17. “Invitation for Column Contributions.”
  18.  “Invitation for Column Contributions.”
  19.  “Invitation for Column Contributions.”
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Urban Library Journal (ULJ)

 

Publication analysis


About the publication

Title: Urban Library Journal (ULJ)

ISSN: 1944-9682

Website: https://academicworks.cuny.edu/ulj/

Purpose, objective, or mission: ULJ “addresses all aspects of urban libraries and librarianship.” The journal was formerly titled Urban Academic Librarian.1

Target audience: ULJ’s audience includes librarians, LIS students, and other professionals working in urban libraries, those serving diverse and urban populations, and those interested in these and related fields.

Publisher: ULJ is published by the Library Association of the City University of New York (LACUNY)2 and is sponsored by the Office of Library Services at CUNY Central.3 The journal is hosted by CUNY Academic Works.4

Peer reviewed? Yes, double-blind peer review.5

Type: LIS scholarly journal.

Medium: Online.6

Content: ULJ publishes research, theory, and practice articles addressing “all aspects of urban libraries and librarianship.”7 The journal has a regular book review section. Furthermore, the journal publishes Selected Proceedings from the 2017 LACUNY Institute, which regularly appear in one issue of each volume.8

Frequency of publication: ULJ “is published online on a rolling basis, and will be collected into issues twice per year.” 9

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines: Author Guidelines.

Types of contributions accepted: ULJ “welcomes articles dealing with academic, research, public, school, and special libraries in an urban setting”10 The journal’s scope is broad, as it invites manuscripts on “areas such as public higher education, urban studies, multiculturalism, library and educational services to immigrants, preservation of public higher education, and universal access to World Wide Web resources.” Further, the editors invite recommendations for columns or special issues.11 The website lists the most popular articles, according to full-text download statistics.12

Submission and review process: ULJ accepts submissions via the journal’s website.13 Authors can submit manuscripts at any time. Manuscripts that the editors determine to be in the journal’s scope are sent to at least two reviewers for double-blind peer review, and authors receive reviewers’ comments. The editors strive to make decisions on manuscripts, including peer review, within sixty days of receipt.

Editorial tone: Articles exhibit a formal, academic style.

Style guide used: Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association.14

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

ULJ is a long-established leading journal, and its peer-review process, emphasis on research, and scholarly tone make it a viable option for LIS professionals and scholars with experience in urban libraries or whose research focuses on theories and practices in urban and diverse settings. It may not be suitable for beginning or student authors, but those with workable ideas should not be discouraged from submitting.

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: Data are not available for ULJ. LACUNY, the journal’s publisher, has about 150 members.15

Audience location and language or cultural considerations: LACUNY members are City University of New York faculty and staff, as well as library employees from affiliated institutions.16 ULJ editorial board members are mostly from CUNY campuses. However, the journal’s reach and relevance are broad because it is an open-access journal and its articles are of interest to LIS professionals throughout the United States and in other countries. It is written in English.

Reader characteristics: Overall, readers have master’s degrees in educational technology, computer science, and library science, and are associated with urban academic libraries. The journal is also relevant to librarians, library staff members, and other LIS professionals in a variety of libraries in urban settings or with diverse populations. Academic librarians and practitioners in other types of libraries, including school, public, and special, contribute to the journal, showing that the interest in urban libraries is emphasized more than the library type.

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: Readers will possess considerable knowledge about LIS topics and subjects, with many readers knowledgeable about the inner workings of academic libraries. However, specialized jargon should be avoided or explained, in order to appeal to a wide range of librarians.

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

ULJ is a scholarly journal that publishes theoretical, practical, and heavily researched articles. Readers are from academic, public, school, and special libraries serving urban and diverse populations. Topics including services to immigrants, services to students, affordability and open educational resources, libraries as community spaces, advocacy, and the urban library setting are all suitable.

Last updated: March 23, 2018


References

Show 16 footnotes

  1. “About This Journal,” Urban Library Journal, accessed March 23, 2018, https://academicworks.cuny.edu/ulj/about.html.
  2. “Publications,” lacuny.org, accessed March 23, 2018, https://lacuny.org/Publications.
  3. “About This Journal.”
  4. CUNY Academic Works, accessed March 23, 2018, https://academicworks.cuny.edu/.
  5. “About This Journal.”
  6. “About This Journal.”
  7. “About This Journal.”
  8. For example, Urban Library Journal 23, no. 2 (2017), https://academicworks.cuny.edu/ulj/vol23/iss2/.
  9. “About This Journal.”
  10. “Author Guidelines,” Urban Library Journal, accessed March 23, 2018, https://academicworks.cuny.edu/ulj/author_guidelines.html.
  11. “About This Journal.”
  12. “Most Popular Papers,” Urban Library Journal, accessed March 23, 2018, https://academicworks.cuny.edu/ulj/topdownloads.html.
  13. “Submit Article,” Urban Library Journal, accessed March 23, 2018, https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cgi/login.cgi?return_to=https%3A%2F%2Facademicworks.cuny.edu%2Fcgi%2Fsubmit.cgi%3Fcontext%3Dulj&context=ulj.
  14. “Author Guidelines.”
  15. “Paid Members,” lacuny.org, accessed March 23, 2018, https://lacuny.org/Paid-Members.
  16. “Join Us,” lacuny.org, accessed March 23, 2018, https://lacuny.org/Membership.
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Technical Services Quarterly

 

Publication analysis


About the publication

Title: Technical Services Quarterly

ISSN: 0731-7131 (print), 1555-3337 (online)

Website: https://www.tandfonline.com/toc/wtsq20/current

Purpose, objective, or mission: Technical Services Quarterly is “dedicated to providing a forum for the presentation of current developments and future trends concerning the technical operations of libraries and information centers.” Its purpose is to keep readers informed of developments and research and “practical implementation of systems and applications of traditional and non-traditional technical services and the public operations they influence and sustain.”1

Target audience: LIS professionals, particularly those who are involved with the technical operations of libraries and information centers.

Publisher: Taylor & Francis.2

Peer reviewed? Yes.3

Type: LIS scholarly journal.

Medium: Print and online.4

Content: Technical Services Quarterly publishes original articles on research, theory, and implementation of all aspects of technical services in library and information centers. Regular columns include Technical Services Report, Tech Services on the Web, Reviews (of software and books), and Trending Tech Services.5

Frequency of publication: Quarterly.6

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines: Instructions for Authors.

Types of contributions accepted: Technical Services Quarterly “accepts original research, theoretical, and implementation articles pertaining to technical services, automation, networking, document delivery, information technology, library instruction and information literacy, reference and bibliography, case studies, cost analysis, staffing, space, organizational behavior and leadership, and collection development and management.”7 The journal advises authors to include a literature review and provides a link to guidelines.8

Submission and review process: Technical Services Quarterly uses Routledge’s Submission Portal to manage manuscripts. Manuscripts “undergo editorial screening and peer review by anonymous reviewers.”9 Taylor & Francis provides an Author Services website that gives a helpful overview of the publishing process.10

Editorial tone: This is a scholarly journal dealing with technical aspects of LIS geared toward professional technical operations of a library. As such, articles are technical and scholarly in tone. LIS-specific terms are used with the underlying assumption that the reader is familiar with them. While the language and tone are technical and scholarly, articles must also be interesting and readable.

Style guide used: Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 6th edition.11

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

Technical Services Quarterly is geared towards LIS professionals, especially those whose interests lie in the technical operations of libraries. For authors and researchers whose manuscripts are geared toward current and future trends in collection methods, technical services, OCLC, metadata, document delivery, among other subjects, this journal is ideal for submission. Articles have addressed interlibrary loan, ebook cataloging and management, low-cost textbooks, and technology-specific studies and reviews; there is a wide variety of librarian roles represented.

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: Data not available.

Audience location and language or cultural considerations: This is a print and online journal published in the United States. Although it does have appeal for international librarians due to its technical nature, Technical Services Quarterly is geared toward American libraries and uses American English. Editorial board members are from U.S. universities and libraries.12

Reader characteristics: This journal is geared toward LIS professionals in the technical field who are interested in the latest trends.

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: Readers are most likely to be LIS professionals and, given the technical nature of this journal, will be highly knowledgeable of LIS terminology and practice.

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

Readers of Technical Services Quarterly are LIS professionals who are highly interested in the latest technical information and research. Readers are interested in cutting-edge technology and how it is being implemented in libraries and information centers. Writers who follow trends and understand how the technology of libraries is evolving would be the best bet for this journal.

Last updated: March 21, 2018


References

Show 12 footnotes

  1. “Aims and Scope,” Technical Services Quarterly, accessed March 21, 2018, https://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?show=aimsScope&journalCode=wtsq20.
  2. “Aims and Scope.”
  3. “Instructions for Authors,” Technical Services Quarterly, accessed March 21, 2018, https://www.tandfonline.com/action/authorSubmission?journalCode=wtsq20&page=instructions.
  4. “Journal Information,” Technical Services Quarterly, accessed March 21, 2018, https://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?journalCode=wtsq20.
  5. “Aims and Scope.”
  6. “Journal Information.”
  7. “Aims and Scope.”
  8. “Instructions for Authors.”
  9. “Instructions for Authors.”
  10. “Author Services,” taylorandfrancis.com, accessed March 21, 2018, https://authorservices.taylorandfrancis.com/.
  11. “Instructions for Authors.”
  12. “Editorial Board,” Technical Services Quarterly, accessed March 21, 2018, https://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?show=editorialBoard&journalCode=wtsq20.
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Weave: Journal of Library User Experience (Weave UX)

Publication analysis


About the publication

Title: Weave: Journal of Library User Experience (Weave UX)

ISSN: 2333-3316

Websitehttps://www.weaveux.org

Purpose, objective, or mission:Weave is a peer-reviewed, open access, web-based publication featuring articles on user experience (UX) for librarians and professionals in related fields.”1

Weave provides “a forum where practitioners of UX in libraries can have discussions that increase and extend our understanding of UX principles, research, and design.” Its primary aim is “to improve the practice of UX in libraries, and in the process, to help libraries be better, more relevant, more useful, more accessible places.”2

Target audience:Weave’s intended primary audience consists of people in libraries who are using or are interested in using UX. That means not only people whose job title or primary areas of responsibility are UX-related, but anyone at all who has an interest or stake in improving library experience for users, and that includes everyone who works in a library, from administrators to instruction librarians to catalogers.”3

Publisher: Michigan Publishing, a division of the University of Michigan Library.4

Peer reviewed? Research-based scholarly articles are subjected to a double-blind review process. Weave‘s Dialog Box provides a platform for non-scholarly pieces published in a variety of formats.5

Type: LIS scholarly journal.

Medium: Online.

Content: Weave primarily publishes full-length, peer-reviewed, scholarly articles. It also publishes “non-scholarly, conversational pieces,” which “extend beyond the traditional book review section and feature critical dialogue not only with books, but with other media that set the boundaries of library UX.”6

Frequency of publication: Issues are published twice a year.7

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines:  https://mpub.janewaysharedhosting.com/weaveux/submissions/

Types of contributions accepted: Weave is looking for two types of submissions:

  • Full-length, scholarly articles of relevance to user experience in libraries, subject to a double-blind, peer-reviewed process.
  • Dialog Box is intended for “pieces which avoid the traditional scholarly voice,” and provides a forum for “a richer, more inclusive, and engaging discussion.” Submission formats vary widely and include practitioner interviews, ethnographic and/or personal narratives, interactive pieces, artwork, zines, and more.8

Submission and review process: Before writing an article, Weave asks that you send a short pitch using their pitch template to provide the following information: working title; brief description of how the article will advance user experience in libraries; why you think it’s a good fit; what value Weave‘s readers will get from the article; where you are in the writing process; your institutional affiliation; and additional authors. 9

Editorial tone: Professional.

Style guide used: APA style is used for in-text citations and references. The Chicago Manual of Style is used for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and other general style issues.10

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

Weave editors are committed to advancing the conversation on user experience in a library setting. It is an opportunity for UX professionals to learn from each other and share their ideas. Authors are welcomed to contribute both practical and theoretical material. Whether you have ideas you want to explore or have already composed a full-fledged article, Weave is an excellent place to start if you want to write about user experience in the LIS field.

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: Circulation data such as page views are not publicly available.

Audience location and language or cultural considerations: Weave is an English-language, open access, web-based publication with an international readership. Editors are experts in the field of user experience, and based in Canada and the United States. The journal has published articles from authors in England, Canada, Israel, Australia, and Sweden, in addition to the United States.11

Reader characteristics: Weave‘s readers include anyone with an interest in improving users’ library experience. They may be UX practitioners or other professionals working in libraries or related fields. 12

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: Readers may have expertise in user experience practices, or have some familiarity with UX in a library setting.

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

Prospective authors should consider how their article would advance user experience in libraries, as well as further the goal of helping libraries “be better, more relevant, more useful, more accessible places.13

Last updated: September 10, 2020


References

Show 13 footnotes

  1. “About,” Weave: Journal of Library User Experience, accessed September 10, 2020, https://www.weaveux.org/about.html
  2. “Editorial Philosophy,” Weave: Journal of Library User Experience, accessed September 10, 2020, https://www.weaveux.org/about.html#philosophy
  3. “Editorial Philosophy.”
  4. “About.”
  5. “Editorial Philosophy.”
  6. “Submit,” Weave: Journal of Library User Experience, accessed September 10, 2020, https://mpub.janewaysharedhosting.com/weaveux/submissions/
  7. “Archive,” Weave: Journal of Library User Experience, accessed September 10, 2020, https://quod.lib.umich.edu/w/weave/12535642.*
  8. A. Scarlet Galvan, “Dialog Box: A New Call for Submissions,” Weave: Journal of Library User Experience 2, no. 1 (2019),  http://dx.doi.org/10.3998/weave.12535642.0002.103
  9. “Submit.”
  10. “Weave Article Template,” Weave: Journal of Library User Experience, accessed September 10, 2020, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DAivBYdF8NnToUdnEHULRlp3z8elklqW/view
  11. “Archive.”
  12. “Editorial Philosophy.”
  13. “About.”
Continue Reading

Library Trends

 

Publication analysis


About the publication

Title: Library Trends

ISSN: 0024-2594 (Print) and 1559-0682 (Online)1

Website: http://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library_trends/index.html

Purpose, objective, or mission: Per their site, “Library Trends is an essential tool for professional librarians and educators alike. Every issue explores critical trends in professional librarianship, and includes practical applications, thorough analyses, and literature reviews.”2

Target audience: College and research libraries, public libraries, library systems and networks, special libraries, and international college and research libraries.3

Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press.4

Peer reviewed? Yes.5

Type: LIS scholarly; provides resources for the professional development of librarians and educators, with its research-oriented analysis of current library trends, literature reviews, and coverage of practical applications.6

Medium: Print and online.7

Content: Articles on library trends, practical applications, special libraries, emerging technologies, and more.8 Recent article topics include empowerment as it pertains to connectivity (specifically, Native Americans affiliated with Standing Rock, as well as parents living in rural parts of the Congo), informed asset-based pedagogy, and LIS services through WeChat in Chinese university libraries.9

Frequency of publication: Quarterly.10

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines: http://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library_trends/guidelines.html

Types of contributions accepted: Library Trends does not accept single-article submissions; rather, each issue covers a specific topic, and manuscript submissions are invited and organized by guest editor(s). “Articles published in Library Trends are typically in the range of 4,000-10,000 words, not including references and supplementary material. Longer or shorter submissions can be accommodated, but this is dependent on the significance of the content and subject to consultations with the guest and general editors.”11

Submission and review process: “Articles must be submitted in Microsoft Word, typically via e-mail or an electronic file sharing service, to the guest editor, who will then shepherd it through for review.”12

Editorial tone: “The style and tone of the journal is formal rather than journalistic or popular.”13

Style guide used: The Chicago Manual of Style, 17th Edition.14

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

Library Trends is an excellent choice for LIS authors who work well with specific writing prompts. “A guest editor proposes the theme and scope of a new issue, draws up a list of prospective authors and article topics, calls for submissions to the issue, arranges for review of the manuscripts, provides short annotations of each article’s scope, and prepares a statement of philosophy guiding issue development.”15 Working closely with a guest editor in such a structured manner allows LIS authors to hone desirable skills such as discipline and teamwork. It also provides valuable networking opportunities. All in all, this journal is a prestigious choice for both new and seasoned LIS authors.

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: “Print circulation: 459.”16

Audience location and language or cultural considerations: The journal is published in English in the U.S.17, so it’s safe to say that a substantial portion of its readers live in the U.S. However, as mentioned above, many articles cover issues pertaining to libraries around the world, so authors should limit colloquialisms, specific cultural references, etc. to ensure their pieces appeal to readers worldwide.

Reader characteristics: No readership information is provided, although the journal allows advertisers to rent lists of subscribers who belong to a variety of scholarly associations, including the American Studies Association (ASA).18 Most readers will be interested in scholarly topics and will likely have advanced degrees. The publication notes, “Issue topics for Library Trends are developed in many ways. We value recommendations from professional librarians, archivists, and other information personnel, from members of the faculties of schools of library and information science, and from others whose concern is with issues of the management of cultural heritage,”19 suggesting that many readers value the preservation of cultural heritage as it pertains to libraries.

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: Readers are likely to have a solid understanding of LIS issues and terminology pertaining to public libraries, international libraries, research libraries, special libraries, etc.20

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

Readers expect authors to provide well-researched articles on new and emerging LIS trends.21Additionally, readers will expect a thoughtful analysis of the theme in question (e.g., empowerment for the volume 66, no. 2 issue).22 Finally, due to the journal’s international focus, readers will expect authors to be well-informed on the ways specific cultures and LIS trends intersect.

Last updated: March 12, 2018


References

Show 22 footnotes

  1.  Library Trends, Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends
  2.  Library Trends, Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends
  3. “Advertising Info,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends/advertising-info
  4.  Library Trends, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 11, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520795935546/48848
  5.  Library Trends, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 11, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520795935546/48848
  6. Library Trends, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 11, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520795935546/48848
  7.  Library Trends, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 11, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520795935546/48848
  8.  Library Trends, Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends
  9. Antony Bryant, ed., “Table of Contents.” Entire issue, Library Trends 66, no. 2 (2017).
  10. Library Trends, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 11, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520795935546/48848
  11. “Author Instructions,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends/author-instructions
  12.  “Author Instructions,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends/author-instructions
  13. “Guest Editing an Issue,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends/guest-editing-issue
  14.  “Author Instructions,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends/author-instructions
  15. “Guest Editing an Issue,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends/guest-editing-issue
  16. “Advertising Info,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends/advertising-info
  17. Library Trends, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 11, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520795935546/48848
  18. “Mailing List Rental,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 12, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/advertising-mail-lists/mailing-list-rental
  19.  “Guest Editing an Issue,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends/guest-editing-issue
  20. “Advertising Info,” Johns Hopkins University Press, accessed March 11, 2018, https://www.press.jhu.edu/journals/library-trends/advertising-info
  21. Library Trends, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 11, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520795935546/48848
  22. Antony Bryant, ed., “Table of Contents.” Entire issue, Library Trends 66, no. 2 (2017).
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Library Resources & Technical Services

 

Publication analysis


About the publication

Title: Library Resources & Technical Services (LRTS)

ISSN: 2159-96101

Website: http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alcts/resources/lrts/index.cfm

Purpose, objective, or mission: LRTS “is the official journal of the Association for Library Collections and Technical Services. Its purpose is to communicate thoughtful reflection on practice as well as research.”2 Also, LRTS‘s website states it is a “peer-reviewed journal that takes a critical approach to the questions and challenges facing librarians and libraries.”3

Target audience: All LIS professionals and those involved with cataloging, continuing resources, collection management, and preservation in particular.4

Publisher: American Library Association.5

Peer reviewed? Yes.6

Type: LIS scholarly journal.7

Medium: LRTS was available in print until 2014. As of 2012, it became available online.8

Content: LRTS offers scholarly articles on “collections, scholarly communication, preservation (including digitization), acquisitions (including licensing and economic aspects of acquisitions), continuing resources, cataloging (including descriptive metadata, authority control, subject analysis, and classification).”9

Frequency of publication: Quarterly.10

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines: http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts/authinst

Types of contributions accepted: “Editorials, book reviews, letters to the editor, and the annual report of the president of the Association for Library Collections & Technical Services” are regularly published.11

Submission and review process: Authors are asked to submit original, unpublished manuscripts (between 5,000 and 10,000 words) which aren’t currently under consideration elsewhere.12 LRTS asks authors to submit their manuscripts through the site’s Editorial Manager.13 All manuscripts are subject to a double-blind peer review. “The editor and members of the editorial board will work with authors whose work is promising in order to improve methodology, analysis, or presentation.”14

Editorial tone: Per the journal guidelines, “Write the paper in a grammatically correct, simple, readable style. Use active voice to the extent possible. Avoid jargon, anthropomorphism, and informal vocabulary. The first use of acronyms must be accompanied by their full spelled-out form.”15 Additional manuscript requirements can be found on the For LRTS Authors page.

Style guide used: The Chicago Manual of Style.16

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

Library Resources & Technical Services is an excellent publication for LIS authors interested in analyzing how behind-the-scenes library work (e.g., collection management, acquisitions, etc.) impacts the profession as a whole. Of particular note, LRTS welcomes contributions from new and seasoned authors alike, noting that “For the profession to thrive, beginning professionals, as well as experienced librarians, should address the most pressing issues we face.”17 Additionally, as mentioned above, LRTS is published by the prestigious American Library Association, “the oldest and largest library association in the world.”18

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: 5,800. This number includes 4,600 ALA members, 860 other paying subscribers, and 340 complimentary subscriptions.19

Audience location and language or cultural considerations: Most subscribers and ALA members live in the United States, though approximately 150 live outside the U.S.20 The journal is published in English (with technical services jargon added where necessary).21

Reader characteristics: Sixty percent of LRTS readers work in academic libraries; the other 40% work in public, school, and special libraries. In addition, approximately 75% of LRTS readers are also members of ALCTS. ALA members who subscribe to LRTS share similar interests in cataloging information, collection development, archival materials, etc. They read LRTS for information on their area of expertise, as well as strategies for managing their respective libraries. (Each journal includes a section entitled “notes on operations” that serves the latter purpose.)22

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: Because most subscribers are members of ALCTS, they will have general knowledge of LIS topics and understand technical terms and practices related to cataloging and classification (FRBR, RDA), archival studies (digitization, OCR), etc. It is vital that prospective authors be familiar with specialized practices and responsibilities relevant to this publication.23

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

Readers of this publication are familiar with technical terms used in behind-the-scenes LIS operations. Additionally, studies indicate that LRTS is ranked twelfth among the seventy LIS “refereed journals in supporting promotion and tenure decisions.”24 To effectively reach this audience, articles must be well-written and thoroughly researched. The editor of LRTS suggests browsing through recent issues “to get a sense of style, length, and tone.”25

Last updated: March 8, 2018


References

Show 25 footnotes

  1.  Library Resources & Technical Services, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 7, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520461833714/340494
  2. “What Is the Focus of LRTS?” American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts/authfaq#1
  3.  Library Resources & Technical Services, American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts
  4. “What Is the Focus of LRTS?” American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts/authfaq#1
  5. Library Resources & Technical Services, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 7, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520461833714/340494
  6.  Library Resources & Technical Services, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 7, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520461833714/340494
  7.  Library Resources & Technical Services, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 7, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520461833714/340494
  8.  Library Resources & Technical Services, American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts
  9.  Library Resources & Technical Services, American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts
  10. Library Resources & Technical Services, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 7, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520461833714/340494
  11.  Library Resources & Technical Services, American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts
  12. “For LRTS Authors,” American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts/authinst
  13. “How Do I Submit a Paper?” American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts/authfaq#4
  14. “What Is the Focus of LRTS?” American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts/authfaq#1
  15. “For LRTS Authors,” American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts/authinst
  16. “For LRTS Authors,” American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts/authinst
  17. “For LRTS Authors,” American Library Association, accessed March 7, 2018, http://www.ala.org/alcts/resources/lrts/authinst
  18. “About ALA,” American Library Association, accessed March 8, 2018, http://www.ala.org/aboutala/
  19. Mary Beth Weber, email message to author, September 15, 2008.
  20. Mary Beth Weber, email message to author, September 15, 2008.
  21.  Library Resources & Technical Services, Ulrichsweb Global Serials Directory, accessed March 7, 2018, http://ulrichsweb.serialssolutions.com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/title/1520461833714/340494
  22. Mary Beth Weber, email message to author, September 15, 2008.
  23. Mary Beth Weber, email message to author, September 15, 2008.
  24. Mary Beth Weber, email message to author, September 15, 2008.
  25. Mary Beth Weber, email message to author, September 15, 2008.
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Reference & User Services Quarterly (RUSQ)

 

Publication analysis


About the publication

Title: Reference & User Services Quarterly (RUSQ)

ISSN: 1094-9054

Website: https://journals.ala.org/index.php/rusq

Purpose, objective, or mission: Reference & User Services Quarterly (RUSQ) “is the official journal of the Reference and User Services Association of the American Library Association. Its purpose is to disseminate information of interest to reference librarians, information specialists, and other professionals involved in user-oriented library services.”1

Target audience: Reference librarians, information specialists, students, and information professionals worldwide, as well as members of the Reference and User Services Association.

Publisher: American Library Association.2

Peer reviewed? Yes, double-blind peer review.3

Type: LIS scholarly journal.

Medium: Online, open access to all issues.4

Content: RUSQ disseminates information in areas of interest to librarians, including “reference services, collection development, reader’s advisory, resource sharing, technology for reference and user services, and other aspects of user services.”5 Further, “through its many columns, reports, and reviews the journal also publishes an array of useful professional information.”6 Regular columns include From the President of RUSA, For Your Enrichment, Information Literacy and Instruction, Management, Amplify Your Impact, Readers’ Advisory, The Alert Collector, and A Reference for That.

Frequency of publication: Quarterly.

About the publication’s submission guidelines

Location of submission guidelines: Submissions.

Types of contributions accepted: Potential authors need to read the article “Thoughts on Scholarly Writing: Suggestions for Authors Considering Publishing in RUSQ,”7 by Barry Trott, the journal’s editor. This article explains RUSQ‘s acceptance, review, and publication process. It is also a helpful resource for authors who want to publish in any scholarly journal.

RUSQ “publishes empirical (quantitative and qualitative), theoretical, and historical research and essays as peer-reviewed featured articles.”8 Manuscripts submitted to RUSQ need to be within the journal’s scope, which includes “all aspects of library services to adults in all types of libraries.”9

Submission and review process: Manuscripts are submitted in a digital format as an e-mail attachment to the editor.10 Manuscripts go through a double-blind peer-review process.11 The peer-review, acceptance, revision, and publication process is detailed in Trott’s article.12

Editorial tone: The overall tone is scholarly with clarity. Articles should be grammatically correct and written in a simple, readable style.13

Style guide used: Chicago Manual of Style, 15th edition, and its companion website. The submission guidelines offer examples of the required endnote format. Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th edition, or the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary should be consulted for questions relating to spelling and word division.14

Conclusion: Evaluation of publication’s potential for LIS authors

RUSQ is the journal of the Reference and User Services Association, which is a division of the American Library Association. As such, it is a leading journal in the field of adult user services. RUSQ is an ideal place for librarians and LIS professionals in public, academic, and special libraries to publish research and scholarship that uniquely contributes to the theory and practice of reference services to adult library users and that moves the profession forward. It may be a better forum for advanced, rather than novice, LIS writers.

 

Audience analysis


About the publication’s readers

Publication circulation: Data not available.

Audience location and language or cultural considerations: RUSQ is a U.S.-based journal written in English. The journal is affiliated with the American Library Association, so readers are concerned with issues related to libraries in America, and they are aware of and seek out more global perspectives on these issues. RUSQ became an open-access journal in order to reach more readers worldwide and to benefit librarians everywhere, especially where subscription costs are prohibitive.15 

Reader characteristics:  RUSQ readers are librarians, information professionals, and students in academic, public, and special libraries who have a keen interest in developments in the field of adult reference and user services. With the open-access policy, RUSQ‘s readership is expanding outside of North America, and writers should assume a global audience of professionals and students. Trott addresses RUSQ editors’ and readers’ expectations: “Prospective authors will make their manuscripts more attractive to editors and to readers by looking for areas that have not already been widely explored. If you are examining a topic about which much has been written lately, you need to make clear what your work brings to the discussion and how it forwards that discussion in useful and perhaps provocative ways.”16

Knowledge of LIS subject matter: RUSQ readers are very familiar with LIS subject matter. However, the journal’s style emphasizes that articles be readable and clearly written. “The tone of feature articles in RUSQ should be scholarly, but scholarly writing does not need to be impenetrable and obscure. Active voice, declarative sentences, and attention to language are all important.”17

Conclusion: Analysis of reader characteristics and their potential impact on authors

Readers of RUSQ are LIS professionals and students working in all types of libraries and information centers. Potential authors must take into consideration the fact that readers belong to a certain segment of the library and information science field, particularly on the service side of librarianship, and articles must be aimed at informing and advising this portion of the profession. Authors should keep in mind the journal’s international scope and its emphasis on scholarly but straightforward writing.

Last updated: March 6, 2018


References

Show 17 footnotes

  1. Home, Reference & User Services Quarterly, accessed March 5, 2018, https://journals.ala.org/index.php/rusq.
  2. “Journal Sponsorship,” Reference & User Services Quarterly, accessed March 5, 2018, https://journals.ala.org/index.php/rusq/about/journalSponsorship.
  3. “Editorial Policies,” Reference & User Services Quarterly, accessed March 5, 2018, https://journals.ala.org/index.php/rusq/about/editorialPolicies.
  4. “Editorial Policies.”
  5. “Submissions,” Reference & User Services Quarterly, accessed March 5, 2018, https://journals.ala.org/index.php/rusq/about/submissions#onlineSubmissions.
  6. “Editorial Policies.”
  7. Barry Trott, “Thoughts on Scholarly Writing: Suggestions for Authors Considering Publishing in RUSQ,” Reference & User Services 53, no. 1(2013):2-4, http://dx.doi.org/10.5860/rusq.53n1.2.
  8. “Editorial Policies.”
  9. “Submissions.”
  10. “Submissions.”
  11. “Editorial Policies.”
  12. Trott, “Thoughts.”
  13. “Submissions.”
  14. “Submissions.”
  15. Barry Trott, “RUSQ Moves to Full Open Access,”Reference & User Services Quarterly 57, no 1(2017):2-3, http://dx.doi.org/10.5860/rusq.57.1.6433.
  16. Trott, “Thoughts.”
  17. Trott, “Thoughts.”
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