Evolving Roles and Competencies of Reference and Rsearch Libraries for Effective Services in Academic Libraries in North- Central, Nigeria

Abstract

The study is on evolving roles and competencies of reference and research librarians for effective services in academic libraries in North- central Nigeria. Reference service has long been recognized as and dispensable part of the functions of a library and information system. It is provided to the users in search of information deemed appropriate to meet their information needs. The new role assumed by the reference librarians, as a result of innovations, would make it imperative for them to provide such reference services as would ensure the maximum use of resources for the benefit of the users. These innovations have deep impact on the roles, competencies, skills and knowledge of library and information professionals. The paper discussed the various competencies for reference and research librarians such as camtasia, webdesigns and libguides.The paper further enumerated and discusses the various evolving ICT tools for virtual reference services such as; chat softwares, video conferencing softwares and e-mails. The paper highlighted the challenges for the acquisition of modern skills for reference and research librarian such as: cost of internet connectivity, poor ICT infrastructure and lack of ICT skills. The paper also concluded that superb internet connectivity should be made available to allow the librarians make usage of the evolving computer- based applications available for the reference and research librarians. The study further recommended that librarians should be provided with modern infrastructures to avoid poor utilization of computer- based applications and regular training and retooling should be put in place to constantly allow the librarians to embrace new technology