Knowledge Conversion Abilities and Innovative Work Behavior of Indonesian Academic Librarians

• Published in: The International information & library review 2024-04, Vol.56 (2), p.150-166
• Main Authors: Masrek, Mohamad Noorman, Mutia, Fitri, Susantari, Tri, Yuwinanto, Helmi Prasetyo, Tri Atmi, Ragil
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Academic librarians; Academic libraries; Innovations; innovative work behavior; knowledge conversion; Knowledge management; Librarians; partial least square structural equation modeling
• ISSN: 1057-2317; 1095-9297
• DOI: 10.1080/10572317.2024.2331983

This study aims to investigate the connection between knowledge conversion abilities and innovative work behavior among academic librarians. It was undertaken due to the scarcity of information on the knowledge conversion capabilities of academic librarians and their association with innovative work behavior. This study conducted quantitative research using a survey questionnaire to collect data from 320 academic librarians working in public and private universities in Indonesia. The study found that academic librarians reported engaging in all four knowledge conversion processes, with combination being the most frequently used, followed by externalization and internalization. Additionally, academic librarians reported being engaged in both types of innovation, but more involved in service innovation than process innovation. The study found that externalization, combination, and internalization were positively related to innovative work behavior, but socialization was not significantly related. The study emphasizes the need for infrastructure and competencies support for librarians to foster knowledge conversion and access to knowledge management tools. A conducive work environment is essential for innovation in academic libraries, and relevant authorities need to provide adequate support. Moreover, this research enhances our understanding of the role of knowledge conversion abilities and innovative work behavior in the context of Indonesian academic libraries.