The Impact of Automation on Job Requirements and Qualifications for Catalogers and Reference Librarians in Academic Libraries

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to trace the impact of automation on job requirements and qualifications of catalogers and reference librarians in academic libraries by comparing and analyzing job advertisements from 1971 to 1990. Four periods were identified to reflect the influence of each important library automation development on job descriptions. Chi-square tests were used to see whether there are significant differences between catalog librarians and reference librarians with regard to duties and qualifications in each period; and whether there are significant differences in professional duties and qualifications for catalog librarians and reference librarians over the periods. With the development of automation in libraries, the requirements of previous work experiences for catalogers and reference librarians have become more similar, increasing needs for computer skills can be found in both groups, and a shortage of catalogers and greater demand for reference librarians have led to more entry-level positions being posted in both groups. There still remain differences between catalogers and reference librarians in major responsibilities and knowledge or skills needed.