Preparing LIS Professional Workforce for Managing Digital Library and Information Centres A Conceptual Framework

Abstract

The manpower is very important aspect in implementing an automated system/computerisation in the library and establishing a digital library for it. The librarian and other library staff play an important role in the process of establishing digital library, networking of digital libraries for information sharing. During the implementation of extending digital library activities, librarian should ensure a proper coordination of the activities in the library. Library professionals should be aware of handling modern technology and electronic gadgets. Therefore technology to awareness of library professionals and their participation in the library automation, networking and digitisation project is important for successful installation of modern system or in organising IT based digital library services. It is equally important that library professionals & staff should have computer knowledge and professional experience. Their involvement in the development of modern digital system is essential for successful implementation. The present paper highlights the concept of manpower planning, definition of human resource development, need of human resource and manpower planning for library activities, continuing education programme (CEP) for LIS professionals, role of various national level library organisations (both Government and associations) for imparting IT training for running modern libraries in network and digital environment. It also highlights the importance of manpower planning and need of trained workforce for implementing the computerised library and information services for the end users. The status of various categories of library professionals, other administrative staff working in the library, the requirement of IT training for them, role of various agencies imparting training to the LIS professionals & other staff are described in brief.