Disseration Research: Factors influencing the development of institutional repositories
The development of an institutional repository (IR) is one of the more complex projects that librarians may undertake. While many librarians have experience managing large information system projects, IR projects involve a larger stakeholder group and require support from technical services, public services and administration to succeed. A survey by Lynch and Lippincott (2005) found that more than 40% of the 97 U.S. doctoral universities surveyed have developed an institutional repository. A significant increase in the development of repositories is expected with technology and process improvements. This study investigates the factors influencing the development of institutional repositories at academic institutions, identifying factors that aid repository development. Key to successful repository is the development of a strong narrative that can used to develop a project plan, identify collections, market the repository to faculty, and identify assessment measures. A comparative case study analysis approach was employed to gather and analyze data, and provide a detailed account and analysis of academic institutional repositories. By identifying how institutional repositories are developing and the challenges that they face, developmental models were identified for libraries, providing a generalized view of IR development to improve the process for future adopters. This study aims to contribute to a more informed understanding of the development of IRs and how individual institutions model repository development.
Case study sites:
- Indiana University
- Purdue University
- Indiana University Purdue University at Indianapolis
- University of British Columbia
- Simon Fraser University
- University of Washington
Presentations:
- Institutional repositories: What is success? Beyond Limits: Building Open Access
Collections (Pre-conference Session). (2007). British Columbia Library Conference. Burnaby, British Columbia,
Canada. April 19.
- Factors influencing the development of institutional repositories. Doctoral Poster Session. (2007).
Association of Library and Information Science Educators Annual Conference. Seattle, Washington. January
16.
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