The concept of Librarian 2.0 in Kuwaiti academic libraries

Abstract

Attempts have been made to explore the impact of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on the entire gamut of the library and information sector and to conceptualise the transformation of conventional libraries into Web 2.0, Library 2.0 and Librarian 2.0, which will bring a changing scenario to the information industry. In the last few years, discussion and debate about the ‘core competencies’ needed by Librarian 2.0 have appeared in the academic environment. This investigation aims to identify the key skills, knowledge and attributes required by Librarian 2.0 in academic libraries in Kuwait. Twenty librarians from four academic libraries in Kuwait participated in a series of focus groups. The five themes discussed as being crucial to Librarian 2.0 include: communication, teamwork, technology, learning and education, and personal traits. This article provides a detailed discussion of each of these themes. The results show that in the age of Web 2.0 librarians in Kuwait academic libraries need more knowledge and awareness of communication and teamwork skills. Furthermore, they need to shift their attitude towards the concept of Librarian 2.0 by developing a clear understanding of the key factors that must be present in any Librarian 2.0. The study findings contribute to providing a framework towards the concept of Librarian 2.0 in academic libraries in the State of Kuwait. This framework will contribute to improving their awareness of and attitude to this topic in the future.