Adapting to the Digital Frontier: The Evolving Role of Library Professionals in the ICT Era

Amrutraj Ravi Benahal  | 12 August 2024 

Libraries and information management have seen a drastic change due to the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) era. This paper analyses the emerging roles and skillsets of library professionals in the context of a dynamic ICT landscape. Conventionally, librarians are custodians of physical collections, but technological evolutions such as the internet, digitization, big data, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing have revolutionized their functions. This study identifies key technological changes and their effects on libraries emphasizing the transition from conventional libraries to digital libraries, virtual reference service and automated library management systems. The research found the existing and latest hardware, software, technology competencies and related skills required for librarian professionals in this environment. This includes digital literacy, information literacy, data management, programming, and the ability to critically evaluate digital information. It also discusses the changing roles of a conventional librarian, who now has to act as a facilitator, educator, curator innovator and collaborator. Furthermore, the paper sheds light on the challenges and opportunities presented in the ICT era, such as the digital divide, privacy and security concerns, funding, and resource constraints, alongside opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and community engagement. By analysing multiple case studies and qualitative research on this topic, this study offers awareness of continuous learning and adaptation.

ISBN: 9788197594908