South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science

Scope & Guideline

Advancing knowledge in library and information science.

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science 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
ISSN0256-8861
PublisherFORUM PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
Country-
Type-
Converge-
AbbreviationS AFR J LIBR INF / S. Afr. J. Libr. Inf. Sci.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPO BOX 93895, BOORDFONTEIN 0201, SOUTH AFRICA

Aims and Scopes

The South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science aims to advance knowledge in the field of libraries and information science by providing a platform for innovative research and discussions. It encompasses a diverse range of topics pertinent to the information landscape, particularly in the South African context and beyond.
  1. Artificial Intelligence in Libraries:
    The journal has a strong focus on the integration of artificial intelligence technologies in library services, exploring how these innovations can enhance information retrieval, data management, and user service delivery.
  2. Digital Literacy and Education:
    There is a consistent emphasis on digital literacy frameworks and educational approaches, particularly in relation to equipping librarians and users with essential skills for navigating the digital information environment.
  3. Open Access and Scholarly Publishing:
    The journal addresses issues surrounding open access publishing, including the promotion of open access repositories and the implications for research dissemination in the academic community.
  4. Information Management and Services:
    Research related to information management practices, including the use of ICTs in libraries, knowledge management, and the provision of information services, is a core area of focus.
  5. Community Engagement and Indigenous Knowledge:
    The journal also highlights the role of libraries in community engagement, particularly in the context of preserving indigenous knowledge and supporting local development.
The South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science has been actively publishing on themes that reflect current trends and emerging issues in the field. These topics are increasingly relevant for practitioners and researchers alike, indicating a proactive approach to the evolving landscape of information science.
  1. Artificial Intelligence Applications:
    A significant trend in the journal is the exploration of artificial intelligence applications in libraries, including its impact on service delivery and information management.
  2. Digital Transformation in Libraries:
    There is an emerging focus on the digital transformation of library services, including the adoption of new technologies and innovative service models to meet user demands.
  3. Impact of COVID-19 on Library Services:
    Research examining the adaptations and changes in library services due to the COVID-19 pandemic is increasingly prominent, highlighting resilience and responsiveness in the field.
  4. User Experience and Engagement:
    An increasing emphasis on user experience and engagement strategies reflects a shift towards understanding user needs and improving service delivery in library settings.
  5. Sustainability and Knowledge Organization:
    Emerging themes related to sustainability in knowledge organization practices are also gaining traction, indicating a growing awareness of environmental and social responsibilities within library services.

Declining or Waning

While the journal continues to evolve, certain themes appear to be declining in prominence based on recent publications. These waning topics reflect shifts in research priorities and emerging trends in library and information science.
  1. Traditional Librarian Roles:
    There is a noticeable decrease in research focusing on traditional librarian roles and responsibilities, as the field shifts towards technology-driven competencies and services.
  2. Physical Library Spaces:
    Studies centered on the importance and management of physical library spaces are becoming less frequent, indicating a move towards virtual and digital libraries in response to changing user needs.
  3. Printed Materials and Resources:
    Research examining the use and management of printed materials is declining, likely due to the increasing reliance on digital resources and online information access.
  4. Public Library Services:
    While still relevant, the frequency of studies specifically addressing public library services is diminishing, possibly overshadowed by the focus on academic and digital libraries.
  5. Historical Library Practices:
    There is a waning interest in historical perspectives of library practices, as contemporary issues like technology integration and digital literacy take precedence.

Similar Journals

Qualitative & Quantitative Methods in Libraries

Transforming Library Practices with Research-Driven Insights
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.

Biblios-Revista de Bibliotecologia y Ciencias de la Informacion

Navigating Contemporary Challenges in Bibliographic Studies
Publisher: UNIV PITTSBURGH, UNIV LIBRARY SYSTEMISSN: 1562-4730Frequency: 4 issues/year

Biblios-Revista de Bibliotecologia y Ciencias de la Informacion, published by the University of Pittsburgh's Library System, stands as a pivotal contributor to the field of Library and Information Sciences. Holding an ISSN of 1562-4730, this peer-reviewed journal has been offering Open Access content since 2011, reinforcing its commitment to the democratization of knowledge. Despite its current classification in the Q4 quartile with a Scopus rank of 257 out of 280 in its category, the journal plays a crucial role in disseminating research that explores contemporary challenges and innovations within the library science landscape. It is particularly relevant for researchers, practitioners, and students invested in the future of information management and bibliographic studies. With coverage from 2014 to 2024, Biblios provides a platform for scholars to engage with critical discourse, share findings, and enhance the global library and information community.

LIBRARY JOURNAL

Navigating Trends in Information Management
Publisher: REED BUSINESS INFORMATIONISSN: 0363-0277Frequency: 12 issues/year

LIBRARY JOURNAL, published by REED BUSINESS INFORMATION, is a vital periodical in the field of Library and Information Sciences, providing a rich resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. With a history spanning from 1945 to its recent issues, this journal captures the evolving landscape of library science, offering insightful articles that address current trends, practices, and challenges within the profession. Although not an open access journal, LIBRARY JOURNAL is highly regarded for its content, which reflects the challenges faced by libraries and the critical role they play in education and community services. Despite its Scopus ranking of 159 out of 210, the journal continues to contribute significantly to discussions around information management, bibliometrics, and digital libraries, making it an essential read for those invested in the ongoing development of library services and information literacy in the digital age.

RDBCI-Revista Digital de Biblioteconomia e Ciencia da Informacao

Championing high-quality research for a global audience.
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.

Digital Library Perspectives

Transforming Information Access in a Digital World
Publisher: EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 2059-5816Frequency: 4 issues/year

Digital Library Perspectives, published by Emerald Group Publishing Ltd, is a pivotal journal in the dynamic fields of Education, Information Systems, and Library and Information Sciences. With an impressive Scopus ranking that places it in the Q1 category for Library and Information Sciences and Q2 for both Education and Information Systems, this journal has established itself as a significant resource for scholars and practitioners alike. The journal's ISSN is 2059-5816 and its E-ISSN is 2054-1694, facilitating broad accessibility to cutting-edge research and innovative practices within digital library environments. Published since 2016, it continues to offer a platform for the exploration of emerging trends, challenges, and technologies affecting digital libraries and information services. Researchers, professionals, and students will find that the journal not only highlights critical advancements but also fosters discussions around best practices and future directions in the industry. While it operates under a subscription model, it remains a crucial contributor to the scholarly dialogue in this essential sector.

Bibliotecas-Revista de la Escuela de Bibliotecologia Documentacion e Informacion

Championing Open Access for a Wealth of Knowledge
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.

PORTAL-LIBRARIES AND THE ACADEMY

Advancing Knowledge at the Intersection of Information and Education
Publisher: JOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESSISSN: 1531-2542Frequency: 4 issues/year

PORTAL: Libraries and the Academy is an esteemed academic journal published by Johns Hopkins University Press, focusing on the intersection of library and information science, academic practice, and scholarly communication. With an ISSN of 1531-2542 and an E-ISSN of 1530-7131, this journal offers rigorous peer-reviewed research essential for librarians, researchers, and information professionals committed to enhancing academic libraries and fostering innovative practices in higher education. It holds a strong position in its field, ranking in the 61st percentile within Social Sciences and Library and Information Sciences, and categorized as Q2 in both Development and Library and Information Sciences for 2023. Though the journal is not Open Access, its content is invaluable for anyone interested in staying abreast of the latest trends and challenges in library services and academic environments. Since its inception in 2001, PORTAL has continuously contributed to the discourse on the evolving role of libraries in academia, making it a critical resource for those striving to bridge the gap between information access and higher education pedagogy.

LIBRI-International Journal of Libraries and Information Studies

Pioneering Research for a Global Library Community
Publisher: WALTER DE GRUYTER GMBHISSN: 0024-2667Frequency: 4 issues/year

LIBRI - International Journal of Libraries and Information Studies, with ISSN 0024-2667 and E-ISSN 1865-8423, is a premier academic publication in the field of library and information science. Published by the esteemed Walter de Gruyter GmbH in Berlin, Germany, this journal has carved a distinguished place in academic discourse, earning a Q2 ranking in 2023 within its category, which underscores its impact and relevance to the community. With a comprehensive history spanning from 1950 and ongoing coverage until 2024, LIBRI provides a platform for rigorous research and innovative studies that advance the understanding of libraries and information systems globally. Researchers, professionals, and students are invited to engage with its diverse articles that cover a plethora of topics relevant to today’s information landscape. Although not an open-access journal, its contributions are valuable for those seeking to enhance their knowledge and stay updated in a rapidly evolving field.

Library Management

Championing Best Practices for Modern Library Management
Publisher: EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 0143-5124Frequency: 9 issues/year

Library Management, published by Emerald Group Publishing Ltd, is an esteemed academic journal dedicated to the field of Library and Information Sciences. Since its inception in 1979, the journal has continued to be a vital resource for researchers, scholars, and practitioners interested in the evolving practices of library management, information organization, and the role of libraries in the digital age. With an impressive Q1 ranking in the Library and Information Sciences category and a strong performance in Scopus metrics (ranked #85 out of 280), Library Management offers innovative insights and evidence-based research that aim to enhance library services and management practices globally. As an essential contributor to the academic and professional landscape, the journal's objectives include promoting scholarly discourse, fostering best practices, and providing a platform for cutting-edge research that addresses current challenges and opportunities in library management. Researchers and professionals in the field can access a wealth of knowledge without open access barriers, ensuring that the latest findings are available to those dedicated to advancing the discipline.

Documentation et Bibliotheques

Innovating the landscape of information science.
Publisher: ASSOC AVANCEMENT SCIENCES TECHNIQUES DOCUMENTATIONISSN: 0315-2340Frequency: 4 issues/year

Documentation et Bibliothèques is a pivotal academic journal published by the Association pour l'Avancement des Sciences et Techniques de la Documentation, based in Montreal, Canada. Focusing on the fields of library science and documentation, this journal serves as a crucial platform for disseminating research and practical insights that drive innovation in information management and library services. Although it does not follow an open access model, it boasts a dedicated readership among researchers, professionals, and students who seek high-quality content in the realm of information science. With its commitment to advancing theoretical and empirical studies, Documentation et Bibliothèques remains an essential resource for navigating the evolving landscape of documentation and library services. For those interested in exploring how strategic documentation practices can enhance knowledge dissemination, this journal provides a wealth of valuable resources and scholarly articles.