About the Journal
Scope
The Journal of Academic Library Practice (JALP) is a peer-reviewed, diamond open-access publication dedicated to the everyday work, creativity, and evolving expertise of academic library staff. Authors are not charged article processing fees to publish. The JALP journal provides a forum for practitioners to share insights, document innovations, reflect on challenges, and contribute to the broader discourse on academic librarianship.
The journal welcomes contributions that explore a wide range of professional practices in academic libraries, including but not limited to:
- Reflections on professional experiences or issues in the field
- Descriptions and evaluations of projects, services, or innovations
- Critical and theoretical approaches to library work
- Reports of practical research conducted in library settings
- Book reviews relevant to library practice and professional development
- Letters to the editor as they relate to content published in this journal
Submissions are peer-reviewed with the express mandate to the reviewers to strengthen the submission; authors can expect constructive feedback and support to strengthen their submission. New and early-career contributors are especially encouraged to submit; mentoring is available upon request for those seeking additional guidance.
The journal aims to publish work that is accessible, rigorous, and grounded in practice. All submissions are also expected to demonstrate engagement with relevant literature to support and contextualize the work.
This journal adopts the rolling publication model, ensuring the timely dissemination of ideas and insights.
This journal supports a culture of learning, experimentation, and mutual support within the profession, offering a welcoming space for all academic library staff to contribute, regardless of experience level.
As a Diamond Open Access journal, The Journal of Academic Library Practice is committed to removing financial and technical barriers to publishing and access. There are no fees charged to authors or readers at any stage of the publication process. All content is freely available online under a Creative Commons license, supporting wide and equitable dissemination, reuse, and citation.
Purpose Statement
The Journal of Academic Library Practice is a platform for academic library staff to reflect on, document, and share their professional practice. The journal aims to provide opportunities for academic library staff to engage in discourse on innovative as well as traditional practices. The journal reflects on real-world library services, fosters collaborative problem-solving, and supports emerging voices, developing their confidence and capacity in academic writing.
Vision
To cultivate a vibrant, inclusive community of library practitioners who lead innovation, strengthen library services, and shape the future of librarianship through shared practice and collaborative learning.
Mission
- To publish accessible, practice-focused content that reflects the diverse experiences and expertise of academic library staff across various contexts.
- To support the professional development of academic library staff, especially new and early-career colleagues, by offering an inclusive, low-barrier entry into academic writing without compromising on rigour.
- To cultivate a learning community where library staff collaborate to address shared challenges, test ideas, and advance both local and collective knowledge.
- To promote a culture of reflection, learning, and mutual support within the profession.