The status of library professionals in academic institutions of Orissa

Abstract

This study is based on a survey of library personnel working in different academic libraries in Orissa. It determines the type of status these library professionals prefer, the criteria for evaluating their performance for promotion and salary, whether they prefer to be evaluated like teachers, and the input of faculty members in library matters. The study shows that 80 per cent of the professionals interviewed preferred academic status rather than faculty status. This means they prefer to establish their own ranking system rather than be equated with teachers. All university librarians, however, prefer to be assessed for promotion through an expert selection committee, as is the case for teachers.