Library networks, consortia and the changing role of information professionals

Abstract(s)

Libraries all over the world have seen remarkable changes due to the influx of new technology. The arrival of Electronic books and journals has made it mandatory for the information professionals to purchase their resources through consortia and it has become a very important feature of the academic library scene. Information professionals working in libraries have to gain experiences with new modes of delivering contents and the new genre of digital collections. We need concerted efforts in consortia building, electronic licensing, staff reduction as well as investments in staffs education and development so that users of the system have the access to much more content for the same funding. Attempts have been made here to examine the additional skills required for librarians and other traditional information professionals in managing new information environment specially as information system administrator or e-resources/ consortia manager.