“Changing Roles and Responsibilities of Librarians in the Digital Era: Opportunities and Challenges”

Abstract

With the rapid advancement of technology and digital transformation, libraries have undergone a significant transition from traditional physical repositories of books to modern digital libraries offering global access. This evolution has reshaped the roles and responsibilities of library professionals, who now require advanced information technology skills, digital literacy and innovative approaches to manage resources efficiently. The study explores the changing responsibilities of librarians in the digital era, highlighting their roles as researchers, information providers, coordinators and preservers of digital resources. The emergence of digital libraries has expanded access, enhanced efficiency and facilitated better resource management but has also posed challenges such as information overload, skill requirements and effective information sharing. The paper concludes that library professionals must continuously adapt, acquire new IT and communication skills and embrace innovations to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving knowledge environment. The success of digital libraries depends largely on the ability of librarians to integrate traditional values with modern technologies to ensure accessibility, preservation and user satisfaction.