AXPBBGS@UICVMC.BITNET (Bernie Sloan) (01/12/90)
----------------------------Original message----------------------------
To: PACS-L
From: Bernie Sloan
(axpbbgs@uicvmc)
I've read a lot of PACS-L postings about microcomputer support staff,
library systems programmers, etc. I have a related quick question.
As we move into the 1990's, what kind of technical/managerial skills
will library ADMINISTRATORS need in order to be able to make the plans
and decisions needed to support the "electronic library", or the "li-
brary of the future"? What kind of background and abilities should the
library administrator of the future have as electronic information
technologies play an increasingly significant role in the operation
of the library?LYAA060@UTXVM.BITNET (01/16/90)
----------------------------Original message---------------------------- Seems to me the most important qualities for administrators in this area will be: (1) solid marketing sense based on knowledge of users' needs and what different technologies/systems will do for the user; (2) ecumenical view of the library encompassing all its functions and seeing organizational setup as fluid rather than solid; (3) ability to make decisions under uncertainty and take risks; and (4) fund- raising skills. I'm not convinced a highly technical computer background is necessary as long as the person is able to communicate and learn. --John Kupersmith UT Austin