A dissemination divide? The factors that influence the journal selection decision of Library & Information Studies (LIS) researchers and practitioners

Authors

  • Michelle Dalton University College Dublin

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29173/lirg553

Keywords:

scholarly communication, academic publishing, research

Abstract

With increasing volumes of research output and the continued emergence of new publishing venues, scholarly publishing has become a crowded landscape. This study analyses the factors that influence LIS authors when selecting a journal for submission, and in particular the significance of open access (OA) options and bibliometric indicators in this decision-making process. An online questionnaire with Likert scales was used to collect and rank the preferences and attitudes of LIS professionals. As part of the analysis, two separate sub-groups were examined using inferential statistical tests to explore if the research-practice divide so often cited in the LIS literature is also replicated in journal selection. It is concluded that choosing a journal for LIS research is a complex decision for both faculty members and librarians. Whilst some commonality exists between both groups, many variables show evidence of a divide in practices and preferences in consonance with the existing research.

Author Biography

Michelle Dalton, University College Dublin

Michelle Dalton is a Liaison Librarian in University College Dublin, Ireland. Research interests include scholarly publishing, social media and research methods in LIS.

Published

2013-10-04

Issue

Section

Refereed Research Articles