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Dissertation Information for Lilia Pavlovsky

NAME:
- Lilia Pavlovsky

DEGREE:
- Ph.D.

DISCIPLINE:
- Library and Information Science

SCHOOL:
- Rutgers University (USA) (2003)

ADVISORS:
- Nicholas Belkin

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
- None

MPACT Status: Incomplete - Inspected

Title: Values in library design

Abstract: This is a study of how the "landscape" of a public library ("Library X"), as an information system, relates to the values of the people who created it. It is also an effort to define and classify the types of values that are reflected within the public space of the library. The research problem that motivated this study stated that people don't use information systems/libraries to the extent that the providers think is appropriate. It was hypothesized that such situations could occur because the values that underlie the system's design may not be congruent with those of the users of the system. This study begins to explore this problem by focusing on the values of the system in an effort to understand their role within.

Analysis of the literature examines multidisciplinary venues that have considered the symbolic aspects of artifacts. The effect of designers' choices on the shape of the system is an issue identified that warrants investigation. The theoretical framework integrates elements of Weick's (1995) view of organizational sensemaking with Gagliardi's, et al. (1992a) perspectives on the symbolic value of artifacts. The result provides a framework within which values can be identified. Methodological goals are to identify values that are reflected in the public space of Library X as well as in documents that define the library. Data was collected through fieldwork and from documents. Values were extrapolated from the texts and organized into tables that facilitated examination of relationships.

The public space of Library X was investigated with respect to how it reflected values. Institutional values were also identified and analyzed. Institutional values and values reflected by the artifact were compared. It was found that various value structures coexisted and were reflected within the physical environment of Library X. Incongruities and conflicts between various value sources were identified. A variety of value structures converge within the public space of the library suggesting a potential for mismatches between value structures.

MPACT Scores for Lilia Pavlovsky

A = 0
C = 0
A+C = 0
T = 0
G = 0
W = 0
TD = 0
TA = 0
calculated 2008-01-31 06:11:30

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