Analysis of Latent Themes and Sentiments Regarding Outsourcing in Libraries and Information Centres using LDA Topic Modelling and Polarity Distribution

A Study based on Scopus Data

Abstract

The ever-present budgetary constraints in libraries and information centres have created a need for some strategic response to the issue, and outsourcing seems to be one of the possible solutions. Administrators and managers of libraries have adopted this solution to varying extents in various setups. This study provides an analysis of 152 Scopus-indexed publications relating to the topic. The findings reveal a limited output, often attributed to single-time authors. Keyword co-occurrence, along with the LDA topic modelling, reveals the focal areas of research, which include technical services and digital curation, while topics like staff transformation, technology adoption, and research-focused services, and the role of librarians, remained latent. Sentiment analysis shows a major positive outlook (63.1%) towards outsourcing, particularly for its role in improving efficiency and service quality, although concerns about complexity and risks persist. The study will not only be beneficial for researchers interested in the area but also for administrators and managers in making informed decisions.