Geoffrey Z. Liu

Geoffrey Z. Liu is a Professor at the School of Information, San José State University, where he has been a faculty member since 1995. He holds a Ph.D. in Information Science from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and degrees in Library Science from Wuhan University, China. His academic career at SJSU progressed from Assistant Professor (1995–2000) to Associate Professor (2001–2012) and full Professor (2013–present).

Education:

• Ph.D. in Information Science, University of Hawaii at Manoa (1994)
• M.A. in Library Science, Wuhan University, China (1986)
• B.A. in Library Science, Wuhan University, China (1983)

Dr. Liu's research focuses on information retrieval systems, information seeking behaviors, distributed collaborative learning, and online education in the LIS field. He also explores virtual communities and school library development. His work bridges theoretical and applied aspects of information science, particularly in digital and online environments.

The recent publications reflect a consistent focus on information behavior, collaborative learning, and digital library systems. His research often employs quantitative and survey methodologies, with a geographic emphasis on China and comparative international perspectives. Themes include user interaction with information systems, educational technology, and institutional library policies.

Dr. Liu teaches technology-related courses such as INFO 202 (Information Retrieval System Design) and INFO 242 (Database Management), primarily in an online format. He has been actively involved in professional service, including serving as technology adviser for Stanford East Asia Library and on editorial boards for Chinese and international journals.

He has advised and contributed to non-profit initiatives such as the Evergreen Education Foundation, working on school library automation and rural community information services until 2006. He is currently Editor-in-Chief of the Interdisciplinary Journal of Information, Knowledge, and Management (IJIKM).