| CODE | LIA5031 | ||||||||||||
| TITLE | Introduction to Libraries: Theory, Principles and Practices | ||||||||||||
| UM LEVEL | 05 - Postgraduate Modular Diploma or Degree Course | ||||||||||||
| MQF LEVEL | 7 | ||||||||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | 5 | ||||||||||||
| DEPARTMENT | Library 福利在线免费 and Archive Sciences | ||||||||||||
| DESCRIPTION | This introductory study unit covers libraries in terms of their basic theory, principles and practices that have made them what they are today. Their various aims and functions as well as the methods used towards reaching them will be delved into. Such theories, principles and the ways they have been put in practice varies over time and as such current theory and practice will be discussed in terms of evolving needs and expectations. Study-unit Aims: 1. Trace the historical foundation and evolution of library theory in terms of their role and function in different times and across different geographical and social settings; 2. Discuss the principles of librarianship: what do the different types of libraries aim to achieve and how this has evolved over time; 3. Evaluate the extent to which past and present practices have reflected such theory and principles. Learning Outcomes 1. Knowledge & Understanding: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Critically discuss the theoretical foundations behind libraries as information providers for present and future needs and the implications behind decisions as to what to acquire, make available and retain permanently; - Demonstrate knowledge regarding the principles of librarianship (acquisition, accessibility, preservation) in terms of their value and interpretation over time and in different contexts; - Distinguish between different practices that have been utilized in attempting to satisfy the theory and practice guiding libraries. Such practices vary according to the social context, local tradition and resources available. 2. Skills By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Recognize the value of having a sound theoretical foundation behind the setting up of a library and the skill of adapting such theory to changing realities,particularly in the digital age; - Put in practice such basic principles as acquisition, accessibility and permanent keeping in at least one type of library (National, Academic, Public, Special); - Evaluate current library practices particularly in the Maltese context, comparing them with those abroad. Main Text/s and any supplementary readings: Main Texts: - (1999). Ritchie, S. (ed.). Modern Library Practice. Elm. - (1988). Humphreys, K.W. A National Library in Theory and in Practice. British Library Publications. - (2009). Zerafa, L. et al. A Mosaic of Library and Archive Practice in Malta. MaLIA. Supplemantary Texts: - (2007). Grover, R.G et al. Introduction to the Library and 福利在线免费 Profession. Libraries Unlimited. - (2009). Cornish, G. Copyright: Interpreting the Law for Libraries, Archives and 福利在线免费 福利在线免费, 5th ed. Facet Publishing. Other readings will be indicating during the course of the study-unit. |
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| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture and Fieldwork | ||||||||||||
| METHOD OF ASSESSMENT |
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| LECTURER/S | William Zammit |
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2025/6. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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