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An analysis of the changing role of systems librarians

An analysis of the changing role of systems librarians PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze technology-related librarian advertisements to examine the changing role of the systems librarian in today’s modern, technology-filled libraries.Design/methodology/approachThe authors examined 70 advertisements for technology-focused librarians posted on ALA’s JobList in 2014. The ads were examined for area of focus and required knowledge and experiences.FindingsThe ads revealed three main areas of focus: traditional systems, digital initiatives, and web services. In addition to traditional computer and library systems skills, employers were seeking candidates with project management, digital collection, customer service, technology implementation, and problem solving skills and experience.Practical implicationsThis study highlights how the adoption and expansion of library technology has altered the roles and responsibilities of systems librarians. Instead of solely focusing on maintaining library databases and ILSs, technology librarians have branched out and become more integrated within the library.Originality/valueThis study has implications for those entering the library field and LIS programs, as well as gaining insight into the expanding role of technology librarians today’s library. http://www.deepdyve.com/assets/images/DeepDyve-Logo-lg.png Library Hi Tech Emerald Publishing

An analysis of the changing role of systems librarians

Ratledge, David; Sproles, Claudene
Library Hi Tech , Volume 35 (2): 9 – Jun 19, 2017
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References (8)

Publisher
Emerald Publishing
Copyright
Copyright © Emerald Group Publishing Limited
ISSN
0737-8831
DOI
10.1108/LHT-08-2016-0092
Publisher site
See Article on Publisher Site

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze technology-related librarian advertisements to examine the changing role of the systems librarian in today’s modern, technology-filled libraries.Design/methodology/approachThe authors examined 70 advertisements for technology-focused librarians posted on ALA’s JobList in 2014. The ads were examined for area of focus and required knowledge and experiences.FindingsThe ads revealed three main areas of focus: traditional systems, digital initiatives, and web services. In addition to traditional computer and library systems skills, employers were seeking candidates with project management, digital collection, customer service, technology implementation, and problem solving skills and experience.Practical implicationsThis study highlights how the adoption and expansion of library technology has altered the roles and responsibilities of systems librarians. Instead of solely focusing on maintaining library databases and ILSs, technology librarians have branched out and become more integrated within the library.Originality/valueThis study has implications for those entering the library field and LIS programs, as well as gaining insight into the expanding role of technology librarians today’s library.

Journal

Library Hi Tech – Emerald Publishing

Published: Jun 19, 2017

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