Qualities of Academic Librarians and their Relationship with Library Users

Abstract

Librarianship is a dynamic profession which faces new changes and challenges.
The shift from traditional means of disseminating information to the application
of Information and Communication Technology facilities, and the challenges of
managing the manpower in order to get the best result out of them cannot be over
emphasized. This study is a review of the qualities of academiclibrarians and
their relationship with library users. Librarians need to exhibit some qualities
so as to enhance good relationship with both staff and users, they most stand up
to embrace these changes and face the challenges ahead. The study highlighted
that the key aspect of the librarians work is facilitating and supporting learning
by teaching information retrieval skills to students and staff. Therefore, a broad
understanding of all aspects of librarianship from reference work to technical
services as well as experiences in teaching and web development are also
important in building and sustaining good relationship with library users in the
academic system.