Librarianship as it is practised: a failure of intellect, imagination and initiative

Abstract

Purpose

To highlight some fundamental weaknesses in the library profession internationally, including an inability to analyse problems, imagine new solutions and press for change. Specific weaknesses highlighted are the approach to resource sharing, the construction of bibliographic records and the identification of items for conservation.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical assessment of the state of librarianship from the angle of an experienced librarian.

Findings

That much more analytical thinking, imagination and initiative are needed.

Research implications

That more data collection and rigorous research need to be done.

Originality/value

This paper was given in 1983; it is useful to consider how much has changed since then in the areas of identified weakness.

Citation

Line, M.B. (2005), "Librarianship as it is practised: a failure of intellect, imagination and initiative", Interlending & Document Supply, Vol. 33 No. 2, pp. 109-113. https://doi.org/10.1108/02641610510602655