The Role of Librarians in Collection Management and the Use of Information Technology in Library Services

Advances in information technology have prompted school libraries to adapt their collection management and services to users’ needs. In this context, the role of librarians extends beyond collection management to include the utilisation of information technology in the delivery of library services. This study aims to examine the role of librarians in collection management and the utilisation of information technology in library services, as well as to identify the supporting and inhibiting factors. The study employs a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collection techniques including interviews, observation and documentation. The results of the study indicate that librarians play a role in collection management through inventorying, classification, labelling, data entry and the organisation of the collection. Information technology is utilised to support collection searches, the borrowing and returning of books, and the guidance of students in using the library system. The implementation of collection management and services is supported by the availability of adequate facilities and collections, whilst constraints include a shortage of library staff, time constraints, and dependence on Wi-Fi networks. Librarians play a role in integrating collection management with the use of information technology in library services, although its implementation still faces limitations in terms of resources and network infrastructure.