Public Library Quarterly

Scope & Guideline

Transforming information access for a better tomorrow.

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of Public Library Quarterly with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0161-6846
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1979 to 1986, from 1988 to 2024
AbbreviationPUBLIC LIBR Q / Public Libr. Q.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

Public Library Quarterly aims to explore the multifaceted role of public libraries in society, focusing on their impact as community hubs for knowledge, culture, and social development. The journal emphasizes innovative practices, research-based strategies, and the evolving nature of library services to meet diverse community needs.
  1. Community Engagement and Social Inclusion:
    The journal highlights the role of public libraries in fostering community engagement, social inclusion, and cultural capital. It explores how libraries serve as safe spaces for diverse populations and promote social cohesion.
  2. Innovation and Technology in Libraries:
    A significant focus is placed on the integration of technology and innovative practices within library services. This includes the use of digital tools, telehealth services, and makerspaces to enhance user experience and accessibility.
  3. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI):
    Public Library Quarterly emphasizes the importance of DEI initiatives within library practices. It explores strategies for creating inclusive environments and addressing the needs of underserved populations.
  4. Research and Development in Library Services:
    The journal serves as a platform for empirical research that informs library practices and policies. It encourages studies that assess the effectiveness of library programs and their impact on community well-being.
  5. Advocacy and Civic Engagement:
    The role of public libraries as civic agents in advocating for social issues, including health, education, and democracy, is a core theme. The journal discusses how libraries can influence public policy and community resilience.
Recent publications in Public Library Quarterly reflect emerging trends and themes that are increasingly significant in the field of library science. These trends highlight the adaptive nature of libraries in response to societal changes.
  1. Digital Equity and Inclusion:
    There is a growing emphasis on addressing the digital divide and promoting digital equity. Papers explore how libraries can enhance access to technology and digital literacy, particularly in underserved communities.
  2. Health and Well-being Initiatives:
    An emerging theme is the role of public libraries in promoting health and well-being, particularly through partnerships with health organizations and the introduction of telehealth services.
  3. Social Work Integration:
    The integration of social work practices within public libraries is gaining traction, reflecting a trend toward holistic service delivery that addresses the broader social needs of patrons.
  4. Community Resilience and Sustainability:
    Public libraries are increasingly recognized as vital players in promoting community resilience and sustainability. Research highlights their role in disaster preparedness, environmental education, and sustainable development goals.
  5. Interdisciplinary Collaborations:
    There is a trend toward fostering interdisciplinary collaborations between libraries and other sectors, such as education, health, and social services, to enhance community programming and outreach.

Declining or Waning

In recent years, certain themes within Public Library Quarterly have seen a decline in prominence. This shift indicates changing priorities and the evolving landscape of library services.
  1. Traditional Library Services:
    There has been a noticeable decline in articles focusing on traditional library services, such as print collections and reference services. This reflects a broader shift toward digital resources and innovative programming.
  2. Censorship and Materials Challenges:
    While still relevant, discussions on censorship and materials challenges in libraries have decreased, possibly overshadowed by more pressing social issues and the evolving role of libraries in advocacy.
  3. Single-Focus Programming:
    The emphasis on single-focus programming (e.g., solely children's or adult services) appears to be waning, with a growing trend towards integrated, community-wide programming that addresses multiple demographics and needs.

Similar Journals

Malaysian Journal of Library & Information Science

Elevating Scholarly Dialogue in Information Sciences
Publisher: UNIV MALAYA, FAC COMPUTER SCIENCE & INFORMATION TECHISSN: 1394-6234Frequency: 3 issues/year

Malaysian Journal of Library & Information Science, published by the University of Malaya, Faculty of Computer Science & Information Technology, serves as a crucial platform for researchers, professionals, and students in the field of Library and Information Sciences. With a commitment to advancing scholarly knowledge, this journal has consistently showcased significant research contributions since its inception in 1996, and is currently indexed in Scopus, ranking in the 62nd percentile among its peers. The journal's Q2 categorization reflects its growing impact and relevance in the scholarly community. Although it operates as a traditional subscription-based journal, the publication holds great importance for those looking to delve into innovative practices and emerging trends within library and information sciences. Researchers and practitioners can access valuable insights that contribute to a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape in Malaysia and beyond. Addressed from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the journal welcomes contributions that further exploration and scholarship in the vital field of information dissemination and management.

Qualitative & Quantitative Methods in Libraries

Fostering Scholarly Exchange in Library Research
Publisher: INT SOC ART SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY-ISASTISSN: 2241-1925Frequency: 4 issues/year

Qualitative & Quantitative Methods in Libraries is an essential journal in the field of library and information science, published by the esteemed International Society for Art, Science and Technology (ISAST). With its ISSN 2241-1925, the journal focuses on the application of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies in the realm of library studies, offering insights that are crucial for advancing practices and policies within the sector. Although it currently does not offer open access, its rigorously peer-reviewed articles ensure high-quality contributions that cater to researchers, practitioners, and students alike. This journal is committed to fostering innovative research that bridges theory with practice, making it a vital resource for anyone looking to enhance their understanding and application of research methods in library science. With its base in Athina, Greece, it serves as an international platform for scholarly exchange, contributing to the global discourse in the field.

JOURNAL OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIANSHIP

Shaping Tomorrow's Libraries Through Research.
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCIENCE INCISSN: 0099-1333Frequency: 6 issues/year

JOURNAL OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIANSHIP, published by Elsevier Science Inc, stands as a premier platform for the academic library community, dedicated to advancing research and innovation in library and information sciences. With an impressive impact factor and recognized in the Q1 category for both Education and Library and Information Sciences, this journal is essential for scholars and practitioners seeking to stay abreast of the latest trends and developments in the field. Since its inception in 1988, it has fostered a vibrant dialogue through peer-reviewed articles, case studies, and empirical research, making significant contributions to the understanding of academic librarianship practices and policies. Although not an open-access journal, its robust distribution and visibility through Elsevier's extensive network ensure wide accessibility to its critical insights. With rankings in the 83rd percentile in both Education and Library and Information Sciences, JOURNAL OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIANSHIP continues to shape the future of the profession by engaging a diverse audience of researchers, educators, and students, thereby reinforcing its position as a cornerstone of scholarly communication in the information sector.

Collection and Curation

Unveiling the Future of Curation Methodologies
Publisher: EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 2514-9326Frequency: 4 issues/year

Collection and Curation is a prominent academic journal published by EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTD, dedicated to the fields of Library and Information Sciences and Museology. With a significant impact in its domains, the journal has achieved a category quartile ranking of Q3 in Library and Information Sciences and Q2 in Museology as of 2023. It is noteworthy that in the Scopus rankings, it stands at an impressive #8 out of 83 in Museology, placing it in the 90th percentile, while also ranking #112 out of 280 in Library and Information Sciences, positioning it within the 60th percentile. Since its inception in 2018, the journal has been instrumental in advancing research and discussion around the critical themes of collection development and curation methodologies. Although it currently does not offer open access, the journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures high-quality scholarly contributions that are indispensable for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to enrich their understanding and practices in these important fields. By focusing on innovative strategies, practices, and case studies, Collection and Curation continues to shape the future of information management and museum studies.

African Journal of Library Archives and Information Science

Empowering Knowledge, Transforming Libraries.
Publisher: ARCHLIB & INFORMATION SERVICES LTDISSN: 0795-4778Frequency: 2 issues/year

The African Journal of Library Archives and Information Science (ISSN: 0795-4778; E-ISSN: 0795-4778) is a pivotal publication in the field of Library and Information Sciences, published by ARCHLIB & INFORMATION SERVICES LTD in Nigeria. With a focus on the diverse and evolving challenges faced by libraries and information professionals in the African context, this journal serves as a platform for scholarly communication, fostering innovation and collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and academics. The journal has a notable impact factor, reflected in its Q3 ranking within the category for 2023, and is indexed in Scopus, holding a percentile rank of 22nd in its field, further validating its relevance and scholarly contribution. Running since 2008 with continual publications through to 2024, the journal aims to advance knowledge, share best practices, and highlight emerging trends in librarianship and information science across Africa and beyond. By offering open access options, it ensures wide dissemination of knowledge, making it an essential resource for those dedicated to enhancing information services and archives.

ELECTRONIC LIBRARY

Empowering Knowledge in the Digital Age
Publisher: EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 0264-0473Frequency: 6 issues/year

ELECTRONIC LIBRARY, published by EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTD, serves as a pivotal resource in the realms of Library and Information Sciences as well as Computer Science Applications. Established in 1983 and continuing through 2024, this journal showcases critical research and developments that shape modern information practices and the utilization of electronic resources. With a respectable impact factor positioning it in the Q2 quartile for Library and Information Sciences and Q3 for Computer Science Applications, the journal ranks #57 out of 280 in its field, reflecting its significance within the scholarly community. Authors are encouraged to contribute innovative studies that engage with current challenges and technological advancements, ensuring that the ELECTRONIC LIBRARY remains at the forefront of academic discourse. While the journal does not currently offer open access options, it remains an essential subscription-based resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of digital libraries and information management.

RDBCI-Revista Digital de Biblioteconomia e Ciencia da Informacao

Exploring innovations in information management.
Publisher: UNIV ESTADUAL CAMPINAS - SISTEMA BIBLIOTECASISSN: Frequency: 1 issue/year

RDBCI-Revista Digital de Biblioteconomia e Ciencia da Informacao, published by the esteemed Universidade Estadual de Campinas, is a premier Open Access journal dedicated to advancing the fields of Library and Information Science, Education, and Public Administration. Since its inception in 2003, this multidisciplinary journal has aimed to provide a platform for high-quality research and discourse, contributing to the academic community both in Brazil and globally. With the E-ISSN 1678-765X, the journal addresses contemporary issues and innovations in information management, ensuring accessibility to a diverse audience. RDBCI holds a respectable position among its peers, boasting a Q3 ranking in Library and Information Sciences and various Q4 classifications in Education and Information Systems as of 2023. Scholars and practitioners are encouraged to submit their work, engage with research trends, and explore significant advancements in the discipline through this vital source of knowledge.

LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE

Advancing scholarship in the evolving world of information.
Publisher: MITA SOC LIBRARY INFORMATION SCIENCEISSN: 0373-4447Frequency: 2 issues/year

LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE is a specialized academic journal dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and scholarship in the field of library and information sciences. Published by MITA SOC LIBRARY INFORMATION SCIENCE, this esteemed journal has been a crucial platform for scholarly communication since 1980, addressing the dynamic challenges and developments in the information landscape. Although it holds a Q4 category ranking in the Library and Information Sciences according to the 2023 Scopus Ranking, the journal serves a unique niche, providing insights and fostering discussions among a diverse audience of researchers, professionals, and students. With no Open Access options currently available, its valuable research contributions are accessible through institutional subscriptions and library access. The journal aims to disseminate innovative research, case studies, and theoretical explorations that enhance our understanding of information behavior, retrieval systems, library management, and emerging technologies, thus promoting an informed society in an increasingly digital world. Given its focused scope and enduring presence, LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE continues to be an essential resource for anyone invested in the future of libraries and information services.

Bibliotecas-Revista de la Escuela de Bibliotecologia Documentacion e Informacion

Bridging the Gap in Library and Information Sciences
Publisher: UNIV NACL, ESCUELA BIBLIOTECOLOGIA DOCUMENTACION & INFORMACIONISSN: 1409-3049Frequency: 2 issues/year

Bibliotecas-Revista de la Escuela de Bibliotecologia Documentacion e Informacion, published by the Universidad Nacional, Escuela de Bibliotecología, Documentación y Información in Costa Rica, is a vital Open Access journal that has been serving the academic community since 1980. With an E-ISSN of 1659-3286, it focuses on the field of Library and Information Sciences, providing a platform for innovative research, studies, and discussions that contribute to the ongoing development of library practices and information management. Recognized in the 2023 Scopus rankings as part of the Social Sciences category, the journal occupies the Q4 quartile with a ranking of #202 out of 280, reflecting its specialized niche within this rapidly evolving discipline. Over the years, from 2019 to 2024, Bibliotecas has aimed to promote scholarly communication and access to knowledge for researchers, professionals, and students alike, making an important impact in enriching academic discourse and supporting the field’s advancement.

LIBRARY QUARTERLY

Advancing Knowledge in Information Management
Publisher: UNIV CHICAGO PRESSISSN: 0024-2519Frequency: 4 issues/year

LIBRARY QUARTERLY, published by University of Chicago Press, stands as a premier academic journal in the field of Library and Information Sciences. With an ISSN of 0024-2519 and an E-ISSN of 1549-652X, this journal has been a vital source of scholarship since its inception in 1946. Positioned in the Q1 category for its field, it ranks #79 out of 280 in Scopus, reflecting its significant influence and quality as recognized by the academic community. Although it does not offer open access, LIBRARY QUARTERLY provides an indispensable platform for research and discourse on library practices, information management, and related technologies. Its scope encompasses a wide range of topics pertinent to both traditional and emerging issues within libraries, serving as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. By engaging with this journal, readers gain access to cutting-edge research that shapes the future of library science and inspires innovative practices within the field.