But we're librarians not researchers: Building a research culture in the Library and Information sector

Abstract

In our work how often do we question standard ways of doing things? How often do we engage with research literature related to our profession? How often do we undertake research to improve our practice? This paper summarises content and feedback from a workshop undertaken at the LIANZA RLL1 Symposium, on Friday 27th May, 2016, at AUT campus, Auckland. The workshop examined research culture in the New Zealand Library and Information Science (LIS) sector. Specifically the workshop aimed to identify what constitutes research, reasons for undertaking research, barriers and challenges to undertaking research and possible solutions for creating a robust research culture within our own institutions and the Library and Information Science sector as a whole. Held at the end of the Symposium, the workshop provided an opportunity for discussion and reflection, not just on the Symposium itself, but on how we view ourselves as researchers individually and within our professional lives. This was a facilitated, discussion-based session where participants constructed their understanding through the shared experiences and knowledge of their colleagues in the LIS profession. The workshop produced ideas for fostering research mindedness and an evidence informed approach to practice as well as practical tips for fostering a robust research culture within the LIS profession.