“A Personal Information Adviser”. A new librarian’s role in the network society

Abstract

The authors discuss a new librarian’s role (in particular public librarians) in a network society, regarding individualisation of other services offered to the public. There are several topics which have been described recently, and make a prerequisites for such a proposal, like: individualisation as a general trend of social life and economy, individualisation of electronic information services for selected users’ groups, intensification of activities concerning information literacy. The proposal is based on a literature review (mostly referred to the new trends in library and information science), as well as discussion (including SWOT analysis) with the BA students during an “Information Users” course. The role of a Personal Information Adviser (PIA) arises from a need of information in all different fields of human activity. A PIA does not always have to answer any question, but he/she shall either indicate/ select adequate information sources, or teach a method of information searching, i.e. develop information literacy skills in a selected area. Proposed new role of public librarians can be perceived as a way of adapting professional tasks to changes being realized in a modern society, with positive influence in particular in regard of professional image, indispensability, competencies, and attitude.