Document Type
Article
Department
Libraries
Abstract
This scoping review maps existing literature on how librarians in developing countries apply evidence-based information practice (EBIP), identifying key themes and evidence gaps for future research. The review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage framework and applied the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 checklist alongside the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme for appraising study quality. From 6,693 records retrieved, ten studies met the inclusion criteria. The mapped studies suggest that librarians apply EBIP in diverse professional activities such as collection development, advocacy, reference services, information literacy instruction, decision-making, evaluation, monitoring performance, and enhancing service quality. Evidence-based approaches were considered to improve decision-making and user engagement. Barriers identified include limited research awareness, insufficient training, restricted access to quality evidence, inadequate information and communication technology infrastructure, and digital inequalities. The findings indicate that librarians could benefit from integrating EBIP into library and information science curricula by providing a structured implementation roadmap, while encouraging policymakers to prioritize evidence-based approaches in the library sector. Practical strategies identified include investment in capacity building, fostering partnerships, strengthening user feedback mechanisms, and adopting affordable digital tools. The studies reviewed identified the importance of embedding EBIP into daily library practices in developing countries to ensure relevant, responsive, and impactful information services. Evidence gaps identified for further research include digital skill levels and EBIP adoption, user engagement and influence on EBIP practices, EBIP framework and workflow for developing countries, and institutional barriers to implementation of EBIP.
Publication (Name of Journal)
Journal of Information Science Theory and Practice
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1633/JISTaP.2026.14.1.3
Recommended Citation
Kiwelu, J. E.,
Lyaka, M.,
Ngulube, P.
(2026). How can librarians in developing countries apply evidence-based information practices to enhance library services in the digital era? a scoping review. Journal of Information Science Theory and Practice, 14(1), 37-54.
Available at:
https://ecommons.aku.edu/libraries/138
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International License.