Improvement of Information Services in the Libraries of Medical Sciences Universities in Iran by the Knowledge Management Approach

Knowledge management can create a sustainable competitive advantage in a dynamic environment. The current study aims to provide a model for improving information services in libraries of medical sciences universities in Iran based on knowledge management components (information technology, culture, and strategies).

This is a descriptive-analytical survey. The study population consists of 630 managers of the libraries of medical sciences universities in Iran in 2021-2022. The sample size was determined 373 using Cochran’s formula and sampling was done by a simple random method. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire including the Asian productivity organization’s knowledge management scale and the LibQUAL questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, and mean) and inferential statistics (correlation test, multiple regression analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis) were used for data analysis performed in AMOS software, version 24.

The knowledge management component of information technology had the strongest correlation with the quality of information services (β=0.26), followed by the organizational culture component (β=0.23). The component of strategy ranked third was with a beta value of 0.22.

The knowledge management components of information technology, organizational culture and organizational strategies are effective on the promotion of information services in the libraries of medical sciences universities in Iran. The library managers should pay more attention to the improvement of information technology infrastructures in libraries and optimize the processes and strategies by improving the organizational culture.