/library/oar/handle/123456789/13661 2025-12-20T06:11:54Z 2025-12-20T06:11:54Z Scicluna, Ryan /library/oar/handle/123456789/141548 2025-11-21T13:45:57Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Enhancing student engagement : introducing social exchange theory in outreach practices for academic libraries Authors: Scicluna, Ryan Abstract: This paper delves into the potential of social exchange theory (SET) within the context of academic libraries, using the University of Malta Library (UML) as a case study. The study explores the application of SET to enhance library outreach practices. By harnessing the power of SET, which offers profound insights into human interactions and the reciprocal nature of social relationships, this research aims to develop a comprehensive approach to navigating library outreach assessment to spark a new wave of academic library research. SET, which focuses on the reciprocal exchange of benefits and obligations between various members of a community, provides a framework for evaluating and improving library services. Key initiatives, including training workshops, librarian chat services, stress-relief campaigns, and artistic and cultural engagement projects, were analyzed based on SET’s core elements: rewards and resources, mechanisms of exchange, social structures and social capital, and reciprocity and obligations. The findings highlight the concept that activities like personalized one-on-one sessions and workshops provide significant benefits, such as skill development, while fostering trust and user commitment between library users. Programs like stress-relief campaigns and charity events strengthen community ties and enhance the library’s role as a cultural hub. Initiatives such as chat-with-a-librarian demonstrate that reciprocal engagement builds long-term relationships and increases patron satisfaction. By assessing outreach through the lens of SET principles, this study emphasizes the importance of aligning activities with academic community needs. Applying SET strategies ensures outreach efforts foster meaningful connections, mutual benefit, and social capital, ultimately improving community engagement and the overall impact of library services.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/140652 2025-10-28T14:16:38Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The creative turn : academic libraries as spaces for art, reflection, and transformation : the ART Connect initiative at the University of Malta Library Abstract: Launched in October 2023, ART Connect is a University of Malta Library initiative that transforms the Library into a dynamic cultural space by showcasing student artwork and fostering creativity, collaboration, and community through biannual calls for submissions. The ART Connect Initiative at the University of Malta Library was created to transform academic libraries into creative and cognitive hubs. Traditional libraries are evolving beyond being just repositories of books to become spaces that foster creativity, mental well-being, and student engagement. Research by Worsley et al. (2022) and Shukla et al. (2022) demonstrates how participation in the arts can protect against mental health issues by promoting cognitive flexibility and emotional resilience. By fostering these mental health benefits, the ART Connect Initiative underscores the transformative power of creativity in promoting psychological well-being.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/140651 2025-10-28T14:17:12Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The heart of campus : reimagining the academic library as a third place : a case study of the University of Malta Library Abstract: The University of Malta Library, through its Outreach Department, has transformed into a vibrant centre of academic, cultural, and social activity. Between 2023 and 2024, it redefined the role of academic libraries through innovative campaigns, creative programming, and community-centred events. This poster presents key outreach initiatives that have fostered student well-being, academic success, creativity, sustainability, and engagement.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z Scicluna, Ryan /library/oar/handle/123456789/140021 2025-10-13T12:03:15Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The heart of the university campus : building connections and driving innovation through outreach initiatives at the University of Malta Library Authors: Scicluna, Ryan Abstract: The University of Malta Library’s Outreach Department has reimagined the role of academic libraries as dynamic centers of creativity, well-being, and community engagement. Between 2023 and 2025, creative and forward-thinking initiatives demonstrated how innovative programming, cultural projects, and personalized support can enhance inclusivity, academic success, and sustainability on campus. By bridging traditional library functions with forward-looking outreach strategies, the University of Malta Library has positioned itself as the heart of the university, fostering stronger connections between students, staff, and the wider community.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z