Impact of e-learning on the role of New Zealand academic librarians in information literacy

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand the impact of the increased popularity of online learning on the role of the academic librarian in the New Zealand context. Particular emphasis is placed on the practice of information literacy teaching. A qualitative study was designed to investigate some of the issues facing these librarians. Eleven academic librarians involved in e-learning in a professional capacity participated in in-depth interviews aimed at identifying their level of involvement in e-learning, their preparation and training, and the challenges and benefits arising from their participation in e-learning. The results showed that the librarians were involved in a wide range of e-learning programmes, from teaching to producing and providing access to online resources. The librarians reported that their collaboration with non-library colleagues increased, showing a number of benefits including increasing the profile of the librarians and their libraries. As e-learning is a relatively new field, these librarians are in need of support from their institution, particularly with training, recognition and resources.