Academic Librarians’ Conception and Use of Evidence Sources in Practice

Objective – The objective of this study was to explore and understand how academic librarians use evidence in their professional decision making. Theresearcher aimed to gain insights on the relevance of the current EBLIP model topractice, and to understand the possible connections between scientific researchand tacit knowledge within the practice of LIS. Methods – A grounded theory methodology was used, following the approach ofCharmaz (2006). Participants were 19 academic librarians in Canada. Data wasgathered via online diaries and semi-structured interviews over a six-month periodin 2011. Results – Two broad types of evidence were identified (hard and soft), and aregenerally used in conjunction with one another. Librarians examine all evidencesources with a critical eye, and try to determine a complete picture before reachinga conclusion. As well, librarians use a variety of proactive and passive approachesto find evidence. Conclusions – These results provide a strong message that no single evidencesource is perfect. Consequently, librarians bring different types of evidencetogether in order to be as informed as possible before making a decision. Using acombination of evidence sources, depending upon the problem, is the wayacademic librarians approach decision making.