Identification, Extraction, Organization and Sharing of Personal Knowledge: Using Grounded Theory

This study aimed at evaluating the feasibility of identification, extraction, organization and sharing of personal knowledge of Kerman public librarians. This study was a qualitative one based on grounded theory. The research population consisted of all knowledge and information science experts in public libraries in Kerman and snowball sampling was used to select participants. In-depth interview was the data collection tool in this study. In order to ensure the validity and reliability of this research, Lincoln and Guba's evaluative criteria was adopted and data collected from the interview, were coded and analyzed. Personal knowledge is shared through group discussions, question and answer meetings with experts and elites or even sending an email to co-workers. Knowledge and information science experts in public libraries in Kerman have no definite tool to be always used by all for identifying of personal knowledge. The method of extraction of personal knowledge mostly depends upon the manner of organization of personal knowledge. Knowledge and information science experts’ success in personal knowledge management depends on letting out the knowledge available in their minds. In this regard, knowledge sharing which includes the dissemination or transfer of knowledge from one individual to a group or an organization is the fundamental factor for achieving goals and filling knowledge gaps in organizations. Therefore, it is the task of public libraries to promote the culture of personal knowledge sharing, create an encouraging and rewarding environment and establish trust among knowledge and information science experts at work