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Keywords
Management, Organizational change, Information technology, Learning, Hong Kong, Academic libraries
Abstract
Libraries and information services face many challenges from changes in the information environment, most of which have occurred as a result of developments in electronic information resources and the evolution of the "digital age". This paper outlines the characteristics of the information society, describes various aspects of the challenges facing libraries, both externally and internally, and makes suggestions as to how library managers can make changes within their organisations in order to ensure that they retain their place in the information world. Examples of changes taking place in the authors' own workplace, the University of Hong Kong Libraries, are outlined.
Introduction
The evolution of the "digital age" has prompted profound changes in the library and information services environment. The main characteristics of the information society have been defined as:
... changed perceptions of the importance of the role of information; the growth in the amount of information now available and the wide variety of formats; the size and continued growth of the information sector in modern economies; and the rate of technological change and the impact of technology (Mullins et al., 2000, p. 5).
Clearly this has implications for libraries and their staff, who must be ready to face new challenges, and devise procedures to manage organisational change.
Examples quoted in this article refer mainly to a number of strategic plans and initiatives that have been implemented at the University of Hong Kong libraries (the Libraries)
during the past few years. We also draw on a paper presented by the Libraries in 1998 to an international workshop for library administrators, the Commonwealth University Management Benchmarking Club. This document outlines the mechanisms and procedures necessary to ensure and improve library services, plan strategic goals, develop mechanisms for improving communications and financial management, expand the use of information technology, and use space and equipment in the libraries more effectively. It also focuses on ways of training for the Libraries' staff, on the updating of skills (particularly with regard to the new technology), to promoting flexibility in performance, and to encouraging staff research into services and operations.
Developments in information technology
Developments in information technologies and advances in telecommunications have revolutionised the...