The role of librarians is defined by their ability to identify user needs and then use techniques from both library and information science to meet those needs. Positions that utilize these abilities outside of the traditional library should not be considered as alternative careers. (CLB)

Perhaps librarianship is faced with problems even greater than those of education. In fact, its very existence is being challenged. Library schools have consistently tried to educate almost all librarians and information scientists in one mold. This simply cannot be done--it never could. Library educators must give up their rather immature notion…

This paper reports a study of the developing skills profile of information professionals, exploring the similarities and differences between library and information-based work in the light of the merger of the UK Library Association and the Institute of Information Scientists in April 2002. It examines areas of convergence such as the growing…

Library/Information Science (LIS) education is facing cataclysmic change brought about by changes in the information professions. LIS education must provide education for the evolving information professions or it will become obsolete. Two central characteristics describe the status of LIS schools and their likely evolution. First is the depth and…

The purpose of this, the first international library conference held in China and sponsored by a Chinese institution, was to enhance the development of library and information science, promote the status of library and information professionals, and exchange ideas of research and practices in the field. In addition to ceremonial speeches, 134…

This annual publication describes and appraises activities and trends in the field of information science and technology. The chapters contain scholarly reviews of specific topics as substantiated by the published literature. This volume's nine chapters fit within a basic framework of four sections: "Planning Information Systems and…

The Internet and new information technology have created new jobs for librarians in nontraditional settings. This article examines new (corporate libraries and information centers) and redefined (academic and public libraries) "techno-jobs" in the information field. Provides a survey of market indicators and offers job hunting hints.…