Year: 2008
Type: article
Abstract: Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to examine present librarian skills in academic libraries and to propose possible directions of future libraries on skill requirements.This study provides a most valuable methodology to understand the current demands of employers for library staff.It also begins to highlight trends in how the skill set and outlook for future employees are currently being viewed.There has been a combination of these understandings with the Scenario Planning technique to draw threads anticipating skill requirements in three to five years.These approaches create a powerful analysis.Design/methodology/approach -An examination of recent library position advertisements and job descriptions in four countries showed broad communication and technology skills required in academic libraries.The key terms of skills were ranked according to the frequencies used in the advertisements and descriptions.Findings -A exploration of the expected skills for the future librarian.Originality/value -Original research based on data from the United States, Australia the United Kingdom and Hong Kong.The results are harmonised with predicted future trends from scenario planning exercises.
Authors: Steve O’Connor, Mei Li
Language: English
Subfield: Library and Information Sciences
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W15630982