Networking and the Role of the Academic Systems Librarian: An Evolutionary Perspective

Abstract

This paper explores the role of the academic systems librarian from an evolutionary perspective, with a primary focus on the effect that networking technologies have had on this role. Stages of evolution of this role are described, using examples from the literature and from surveys taken over the past few years. The author discusses new tasks the systems librarian has added as a result of this fundamental technological change, outlines trends in the field that are occurring in reaction to this change, and proposes some thoughts for the next stage of development of the systems librarian role.