Abstract

This paper has as its starting point the premise that it is useful for the Spanish research ecosystem to have consolidated, open journals with international influence. Evaluation of journals is important because of the role of publications in establishing research credentials. Features required to achieve a balanced and fair evaluation system are described. The tools currently available to this purpose in Spain have major limitations. A proposal based on the ISOC database is presented, providing new assessment criteria that combine the trajectory or track record, openness and internationality of the Spanish humanities and social sciences academic journals.

Abstract

An overview of the iSchools movement and its evolution in recent years is presented. Its growth at a global level is described, stating that the number of centers outside the United States has surpassed the number inside. Perspectives of growth are analyzed. Continental chapters have been created, and the European one is described. Considering that, at present, there are 6 Iberian iSchools, some future possibilities for collaboration are suggested.

Abstract

A picture is presented of the state of library and information university education in Spain. Statistical data is provided about both the number and type of the university education describing existing institutions, degree levels and providing data on student enrolment and teachers.

Abstract

To update "Fesabid's report on information professionals in Spain” published in 2011, we review “Statistics on Spanish libraries 2012”. The impact of the economic crisis on the profession is assessed. We analyze whether the conclusions of Fesabid's study have been taken into account and are still valid.

Abstract

This paper studies how public statistical data are becoming open in the catalogs of Spain’s central and regional governments. It starts with the hypothesis that documentary treatment is insufficient, especially if we consider that statistics are particularly relevant in the open data world. This paper examines three issues regarding official statistics: what meets the requirements required of open data, how data can be found in the catalogs, and whether they can be properly understood ahead of reuse. These three aspects involvedefining open data and public statistics, considering whether it is possible to identify the statistical information in the portals, and finally determining if the documentary treatment allows reuse with guarantees. The results show a wide disparity, both in the form of designating the statistical information (findability) and how to offer it (accessibility). Therefore, a portal can increase data dispersion when they are recovered. Furthermore, only some portals describe datasets so that they are readily intelligible. We conclude with the need to concentrate efforts or at least coordinate actions with respect to the supply of open data in Spain.

Abstract

To know our libraries is also to know the status of our profession and our society. Thus, we draw on various data sources to describe and analyze the library scene in 2011 with the intention of determining their status. Access to library services, collections, professionals, expenses (and lack of expenditures), technologies, use of libraries, news about library legislation and the new political context are addressed.

Abstract

The increased impact of the economic crisis on public libraries in Spain is described. The aim is to draw attention to the problems that will arise by 2012 in library services, staff, collections, and cultural and educational programs. The policy of deficit reduction and budget control will cause deep cuts in public investment in libraries. It is important to analyze this topic and see how to address it because public libraries are now more necessary than ever to meet the information needs of disadvantaged people.