Change-readiness instrument for library managers: Development and analysis of a scale

Department/Unit

Libraries

Document Type

Article

Source Title

Library Management

Volume

45

Issue

5

First Page

287

Last Page

296

Publication Date

6-4-2024

Abstract

Purpose: This study focuses on developing a scale that encompasses aspects of readiness to change by library management in dealing with the next normal scenario in libraries. It investigates measuring change readiness in terms of library service operations, workflows, administration, programs and spaces, which can give an overview of a library institution's preparedness to meet new roles and expectations.

Design/methodology/approach: The descriptive quantitative research was employed using a two-phase approach. It attempts to design an instrument referred to as change-readiness instrument for library managers (CRILM), which was derived from an original self-developed questionnaire consisting of a 20-item readiness-for-change attributes. Validity and reliability of CRILM were tested using Exploratory Factor Analysis and Cronbach’s Alpha. Sample size calculation was employed to determine the required number of subjects to participate in the study. Library managers who are head librarians from different types of libraries were the target samples. Content validation of the items was conducted for suitability and context.

Findings: CRILM was tested both valid and reliable. The initial results yielded from the respondent sample indicated that CRILM is deemed suitable for measuring change-readiness among library managers and libraries. The factor-analyzed items were grouped into three subscales based on their characteristics, namely, flexibility in work and services, learning support readiness and adaptive to changing service environments.

Research limitations/implications: CRILM covered the major domains and constructs of change readiness in the context of a library setting. However, the scale should be subjected to further testing and use by a wider target group to strengthen its usability and confidence level. Item analysis was not employed.

Practical implications: The results of the study offer help to library managers in assessing the readiness of their organizations to effectively manage change and be future-ready.

Originality/value: This study attempts to bridge the gap in readiness-for-change instruments by introducing a scale in the library service environment as a potential contribution in the practice of library management.

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Digitial Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-08-2023-0086

Disciplines

Library and Information Science

Keywords

Library administration

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