Research on Information Science and Public Libraries

Qualitative assessment of digital storytelling by public librarians in Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Mariam Keshvari 1
Samira Amiri 2

1 Department of Knowledge and Information Science, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran

2 Ph.D. Student of Knowledge and Information Science, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran

10.61882/publlij.2025.2064597.1000
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to conduct a qualitative assessment of digital storytelling by public librarians in Iran.
Methods: This research is evaluative in nature and utilizes a researcher-developed rubric for assessing digital stories. The study population was selected through census sampling and included 75 digital stories (Videocast) produced by public librarians and shared on the National  Virtual Network of Readers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, specifically frequency and mean.
Results: Based on literature, evaluation criteria for the digital stories were identified as "story map", "content features of the story", "narration and voiceover", "multimedia elements", and "final product", all of which were examined using the rubric. The rubric’s validity was confirmed through expert consultation, and its reliability was calculated using Cohen’s kappa coefficient, resulting in a value of 0.78. The highest mean score was observed in "content features of the story" (mean = 3.8), while the lowest was in "story map" (mean = 1.13). Cohesive theme (mean = 3.9), emotional content (mean = 3.8) and dramatic questions (mean = 3.8) were rated "excellent". In contrast, appropriate ending, creativity, story reorganization, and suitable introduction, with means of 1.08, 1.1, 1.12, and 1.2 respectively, were identified as the weakest aspects of the evaluated stories.
Conclusion: In general, the stories produced by public librarians are in a relatively satisfactory condition. However, several important elements require further improvement, including the introduction, the conclusion, and the reorganization of the narrative. Therefore, in order to enhance the quality of these outputs, it is necessary to strengthen the skills of internalization and creative production.

Keywords

Digital Storytelling
Videocast
Public Library Librarians
Evaluation
Rubric
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Research on Information Science and Public Libraries
Volume 31, Issue 3 - Serial Number 122
Reading Special Issue
September 2025
Pages 71-86

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