Discusses what makes occupations develop into professions, what prevents this development, and the functions that differentiate professional and paraprofessional library work. The factors that have influenced the development of paraprofessionalism in library and information work are examined, and paraprofessionalism in North American and…

In an effort to help overcome present deficiencies in African university libraries, the author proposes improved training for librarians, recognition of the librarians' professional status, subject specialization, continuing education for academic librarians, and improved library organization. (LS)

Examines performance of library profession in Zambia in the context of the criteria of professionalism. Highlights include contribution of librarians to the growth of library profession in Zambia; belonging to a professional association (Zambian Library Association); library education; service-orientation to society; publications of the…