Perception of career path in library and information centres

Lazarus, Gift N., Ogunbote, Kehinde O. & Funom, Blessing C.
Keywords: Career path, information science, library, librarianship
Library and Information Perspectives and Research 2021 3(1), 58-70. Published: August 14, 2021

Abstract

Career reflects one‟s self-perception within one‟s social context in regard to one‟s past and present experiences as well as future plans. This paper focused on career path in library and information science. It discussed the historical background of library and information science (LIS) career in Nigeria. Libraries and librarianship have evolved over time in Nigeria. However, they have not yet gained a proper recognition or place among institutions and professions in the country. The paper further described the library and information science jobs you are currently available which include library services consultant; library manager; web archivist; integrated library system administrator among others. This paper also emphasized on educational requirement for one to become a librarian and influences on career path of individual. Challenges in the career path of library and information science practice are the professional requirement, mandatory publication in academic or professional journals (for academic librarians), among others. The paper recommended that stakeholders like the Nigerian Library Association (NLA), library schools, practicing librarian and information managers should market library services and create awareness of the potentials (job opportunities) of the library and information profession.