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Journal Central

This study aims to investigate research trends in specialized services by using text mining to investigate research related to library specialized services and to suggest implications. To this end, we conducted a comprehensive survey of academic papers and dissertations on library-specific services using RISS, KISS, KCI, and DBPIA. Based on the analysis results, text mining techniques were used and the collected data was preprocessed. The tools used for the analysis were Python and NodeXL. In addition, the analysis subjects selected through the PRISMA literature selection procedure were titles, keywords, and abstracts, and frequency analysis, TF-IDF, and network analysis techniques were used for the content analysis of the abstracts. The research results show that, firstly, research has been conducted steadily since 2003 in terms of the number of research papers by year, and when divided by period, the number of studies appears to be increasing. Second, in the word frequency(TF) analysis, the words public library, specialization, operation, program, and use showed high frequencies in that order throughout the entire period, and words related to specialized services such as materials and region formed the top 10. Third, the results of TF-IDF word analysis showed that the words public library, specialization, specialization library, plan, and activation had high weights in that order during the entire period, and words related to specialization services such as specialization service, program, region, and National Sejong Library appeared. Fourth, as a result of the degree centrality analysis, related words appeared in the order of specialization, necessity, operation, data, and plan throughout the entire period.

The objective of this study is to examine perceptions regarding the collaboration and support between public libraries and small libraries for activities aimed at addressing the knowledge and information divide. To this end, a survey was conducted. A subsequent analysis of the survey results yielded the following implications. Firstly, the necessity of fortifying knowledge and information divide reduction activities between public libraries and small libraries was confirmed. Secondly, the designated areas should prioritize the implementation of reading culture programs and the promotion of existing library services. Thirdly, the following improvements for public libraries were proposed: The objectives of the initiative include securing a budget, strengthening the support and liaison role of regional representative libraries, and promoting education to enhance the expertise of small library operators and volunteers. Fourthly, the following improvements were proposed for public small libraries: The objectives of the initiative include securing librarian personnel, improving awareness, and expanding facilities and equipment. Fifthly, the report highlighted the potential for enhanced collaboration between public libraries and small libraries, emphasizing the importance of facilitating the exchange of opinions and information, as well as specialized education on resolving public-private conflicts and linked management. The findings of this study can be employed as fundamental data for collaborative endeavors between public libraries and small libraries in activities aimed at addressing the knowledge and information divide.

This study analyzed public librarians’ perceptions and attitudes toward youth-only spaces by conducting a survey of 142 librarians working at 25 public libraries in the Busan area that provide services for youth, and conducting in-depth interviews with 3 librarians who have experience in youth services. The research findings showed that public librarians in Busan highly recognize the necessity of teen users and teen services, and also demonstrated positive attitudes toward the need for youth-only spaces. In particular, the most important factor in operating youth-only spaces was found to be respecting youth opinions and promoting their participation. To realize this, a shift in awareness among library stakeholders must be prioritized, and it was confirmed that librarians should recognize that youth are the true owners of library spaces and support them in proactively creating these spaces. Additionally, it was emphasized that youth opinions should be actively reflected in various service areas including collection development, program planning, and operations.