Bridging the IT gap : systems librarians in New Zealand special libraries

Abstract

The current body of research into the roles and tasks of systems librarians gives a good overview of the types of tasks involved in the systems librarian role generally. It does not however give any indication of how widespread this role is within New Zealand special libraries or what the characteristics of the role are in New Zealand special libraries. Current research often mentions that a key component of the systems librarian role is the interaction between systems librarians and their information technology departments. Despite being identified as a key role in existing research, this relationship is not specifically investigated in any of the current research. Using a sequential explanatory method which utilises both surveys and interviews, this study investigates the incidence and characteristics of the systems librarian role and people working in this role in New Zealand special libraries. It then further investigates issues and work practices that affect the working relationship between systems librarians and information technology departments within New Zealand special libraries. With regards to the systems librarian position in New Zealand special libraries, this study found that the position of systems librarian is rare in New Zealand special libraries, and that in the absence of this position, library managers are generally responsible for tasks that otherwise would be the responsibility of systems librarians. With regards to the relationship between systems librarians and information technology departments, this study found that although affected by a number of factors, the working relationship between New Zealand special libraries and their information technology departments is generally a positive one.