The South African experience illustrates the developmental role that information services can play in the change process. Resource centers can empower people by providing access to information. The library and information science profession is facing challenges in formation of information policy in the postapartheid state. (SK)

Describes the ideal environment in school libraries for retaining professionals who combine the best tasks and skills from library science and technology. Institutions should have: a desire for change; ample support staff; staff development opportunities; high priority on people skills; and high expectations of staff and leaders. (AEF)

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…

Investigates what has changed in librarianship in the last decade, challenges the profession has faced, and positions library professionals should take in the rapidly evolving technological environment. Provides information on the demands of the profession, changes library schools have made, and the future outlook. (AEF)

Proposes a model for educating information professionals based on three requirements that underlie all information service: academic preparation in digital librarianship; education and practice to cultivate change management and interpersonal skills; and a practicum to develop technological perspective and provide a future orientation. Builds on…

Findings from interviews with geoscience information specialists from government, academic institutions, and corporations reveal the following common themes for educational development: new technologies; changing models for libraries and information services; funding priorities; increasing and competing demands on the information specialist's…