Local information in Thailand : An activity theory analysis of the Provincial University Library Network’s (PULINET) Local Information Working Group

The thesis is a compilation thesis (thesis by publication) comprising a theoretical and methodological framing of the research project as a whole, along with summaries and full-text inclusion of four published articles that explore and shed light on the overall research aims in complementary ways. The conclusions of this study suggest that working together as a group on local information aspects, requires not only a mutual and deep understanding of the local information concept, the roles and competencies of the information professional, and organisational conditions affecting their possibilities to perform these activities, but also an open recognition of and attention to the tensions and contradictions that surround these activities in various aspects and levels of work. This research provides a unique and pioneering internationally contextualised investigation of Thailand’s provincial university libraries’ local information resources and activities. It opens up opportunities for deeper, follow-up studies into particular areas of interest and concern within the Thai context, as well as for international comparisons with similar activities and projects in other countries, regions, and communities, including digitisation of indigenous and local knowledge (ILK). Set within the field of library and information science, the study presents new avenues of research in both empirical and theoretical terms, adding insights into the internationally underexplored Southeast Asian region. The results should be of interest to the LIWG members, local information professionals, provincial universities and policy makers in Thailand, shedding light on the tensions and contradictions associated with local information activities. There are actionable insights into what issues to address, why and how. These results can also offer similar insights and grounds for comparison with information professionals’ work with local information, cultural heritage and ILK in other countries and regions.