Human Resource Challenges in the Digital Age Redefining Roles of Library and Information Science Professionals

Abstract

The digital transformation has fundamentally reshaped the information landscape, propelling libraries from traditional repositories into dynamic digital hubs. This evolution presents a profound human resource challenge for Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals and their institutions. This paper investigates the critical gap between legacy skill sets and the demanding new competencies required in the digital age. It identifies key challenges, including a significant skills mismatch in areas like data analytics and digital content management, difficulties in recruiting and retaining tech-savvy talent, and inherent resistance to organizational change. In response, the roles of LIS professionals are being radically redefined, expanding into emerging specializations such as data curation, digital scholarship support, user experience design, and scholarly communications management.