Document Type
Conference Item
Publication Date
1-1-2007
Abstract
This study focuses on the use of Quality Management System (QMS) Standard (MS ISO 9001: 2000) as a tool to practice evidence-based librarianship by public university libraries in Malaysia. The study, based on interviews with Chief Librarians, investigates the adoption of quality accreditation method as a ground work towards effective management of the library, thus meeting customer expectations. The study involved libraries of 3 public Universities that have obtained the MS ISO 9001: 2000 certification. The study focuses on the problems faced during initial stages of preparation for certification, establishment of the quality system, maintenance and benefits of the system. Generally all libraries agree that the standards can be effectively used by libraries with correct interpretation of the requirements. The main reason for seeking the certification is ‘to improve library’s quality image in the university’ and ‘the mandate from the Government’. The major problem faced in the initial stages were ‘resistance from staff because of their lack of understanding of ISO requirements’ and ‘too much documentation’. However these libraries managed to overcome these problems through vigorous training sessions. The benefits reaped from the QMS based on MS ISO 9001: 2000 are evident, though not exactly as high as the library had expected initially. This study has shown some insights to the QMS of university libraries as a commitment to quality services for students, staff and researchers.
Keywords
Academic Libraries, Quality Control
Corp List
University of Malaya
Divisions
fsktm
Publication Title
[s.n]
Publisher
Library and Information Unit, Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, University of Malaya
Publisher Location
Kuala Lumpur
Event Title
International Conference on Libraries, Information and Society (ICoLIS 2007)
Event Location
Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Event Dates
26-27 June 2007
Event Type
conference
Additional Information
Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology Universiti Malaya