Investigation into the basis on which librarians are hired into special libraries in New Zealand

Abstract

The aim of this research was to investigate the basis on which librarians are hired into special libraries in New Zealand. It took a mixed methods approach, combining a content analysis of recently advertised job descriptions (from January 2004 -December 2005) with a series of qualitative interviews, to identify the types of qualifications, experience, skills, personal qualities, and other factors sought by employers in New Zealand special libraries. It also attempted to identify which of these factors most influence employers' hiring decisions. According to the results, the most sought after factors by employers in New Zealand special libraries are library/information qualifications, special library experience, knowledge of relevant subject matter, knowledge of information sources, research and writing skills, IT skills, communication skills, and a customer or client service focus. A great variety of other factors were also found to be sought by employers of librarians in New Zealand special librarie