IMPACT OF LIBRARY PROFESSIONALS' ONLINE INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SELF-EFFICACY ON MANAGEMENT CONTROL IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES

Abstract

Purpose – The current study aims to examine the impact of library professionals’ online information retrieval self-efficacy (OIRSE) on management control in university libraries of Pakistan.

Design/ methodology/approach – Grounded in Bandura's framework of self-efficacy (SE), the current research study examines the four main sources including vicarious experience, mastery experience, psychological states, and social persuasion. The study used the model to examine how these four factors impact the management control within university libraries. Research data was collected from library professionals working in the libraries of HEC recognized universities in Punjab and Islamabad by using a survey questionnaire. Multiple linear regression tests were used to assess the impact of independent variables including, vicarious experience, mastery experience, psychological states, and social persuasion on the dependent variable (management control).

Findings – The results of the study show that psychological states, mastery experience, and social persuasion significantly and positively impact the management control. Alternatively, vicarious experience did not illustrate a significant impact on management control. Among all four factors, physiological states show a high impact on management control as compared to all other SE sources. Overall, the study highlights the pivotal role of OIRSE in contributing the effective management within the library.

Practical Implications – The outcomes of the research provide valued insights for devising training initiatives, programs for professionals’ development, and organizational policies aimed at consolidating the library professionals’ SE, which will promote the better management in university libraries.

Originality Value – The current study offer significant perceptions into various key factors shaping the process of information retrieval, leading them to effectively manage the everyday library tasks. This is an area that has not been examined thoroughly in the national or international context. This study is valuable because it adds to academic discussions and will likely improve effective management in libraries.