Professional Ethics, Job Security and Future of Library Services: Library Personnel in India

Contracting of library staff has become a significant topic for discussion of employment and its implications for the sustainability of library services and professional autonomy. Libraries are now faced with a digital environment, an expanding information landscape, technological innovation and a shifting institutional agenda. In this context, there are issues of employment security, professional development, institutional knowledge and service continuity with extended reliance on temporary staffing and contractual appointments. This article explores conceptual and institutional aspects of ‘contractualization' in Library and Information Services in the Indian context. Develops a critical analysis of the link between employment arrangements, ethical and professional behaviour in the workforce, workforce sustainability and service quality. It also advocates policy actions to highlight clear recruitment processes, fair working terms, ongoing professional development and responsible staffing. The study clearly separates the temporary replacement of regular professional roles from the replacement of the regular role itself.