The use of applied library and information studies (LIS) research in New Zealand libraries

This study investigated the perceptions of New Zealand information professionals regarding LIS (library and information studies) applied research, by determining their reasons for and against consulting it, their tendency towards conducting it and encouraging others in their employ to produce it, and their opinions concerning the current relationship between LIS research and practice and how it might be improved. The study found that the amount of research consultation by information professionals is low; levels of research production, and encouragement for employees to produce research, are even lower. Participants most often consult the research to stay current with trends and developments in LIS, and to support workplace activities such as decision making, problem solving, planning and evaluation. The research is most often not consulted due to time constraints. Associational relationships were apparent between the amount of research consultation and education and employment participant variables. Respondents indicated that the most effective strategy for improving the current relationship between research and practice is the encouragement of research productions that include practical guidelines for the application of results in a workplace context.