Abstract

To update "Fesabid's report on information professionals in Spain” published in 2011, we review “Statistics on Spanish libraries 2012”. The impact of the economic crisis on the profession is assessed. We analyze whether the conclusions of Fesabid's study have been taken into account and are still valid.

Abstract

The main trends observed in the library and information science labour market and university education in 2012 have a general tone of survival with resignation. The economic crisis has caused many layoffs and left libraries without funds. New documents on professional ethics are mentioned. In the labour market, there is employment loss in the public sector. The decline in university enrolments that started in 2002 seems to have stopped and there has been a slight recovery with the new graduate title

Abstract

We describe how public funding for cultural and library services in Spain decreased in 2012. Therefore, we analyze the impact of this problem on library services, and explain some ways to reduce the damage, such as user contributions and crowdfunding (i.e., social microfinancing). We conclude by arguing that in any case public funding remains essential for stability of these services, and that library associations and librarians must demand it.

Abstract

The increased impact of the economic crisis on public libraries in Spain is described. The aim is to draw attention to the problems that will arise by 2012 in library services, staff, collections, and cultural and educational programs. The policy of deficit reduction and budget control will cause deep cuts in public investment in libraries. It is important to analyze this topic and see how to address it because public libraries are now more necessary than ever to meet the information needs of disadvantaged people.

Abstract

Will the crisis affect libraries? Can we defend libraries in times of crisis? This paper argues that we can answer yes to both questions. The crisis will affect libraries and one form of influence would be that we come to believe that in these times of scarcity we cannot defend libraries against needs of higher priority. Professionals must communicate what libraries contribute to society and the cost-efficiency of modern libraries. This is the role of professional associations, professionals and libraries. Three reasons to strengthen libraries are outlined: they enable and enhance personal growth and support self-taught learning; are public places not based on consumption; and assist the poor and contribute to social inclusion.

Abstract

This review of major developments in the library world in 2010 analyzes the impact of the global economic crisis through budget cuts to library services, with some examples from the Anglo-Saxon world in contrast to the Spanish case, and its adverse impact on the supply of services, collections and investments. On the contrary, we see continued and rising demand, mainly focused on collections and digital based services. The digitization of collections and the incorporation of electronic books are consolidated as the central elements of the operation and services of all types of libraries.

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICT) are often related to economic and social improvements. They have been associated with job creation as well as increases in the quality of work and remuneration. However, at a macroeconomic level, it is noteworthy that while the digitization process increases, employment and wages are generally deteriorating. Referencing EU-15 data, this article explores some uses of these technologies in relation to unemployment and wages, within an economic context marked by increasing problems of profitability and by the rise of financial markets.

Abstract

An information policy is a concerted action of various agents with information as the object, having as a purpose certain goals. The crisis we face is not only economic but also technological and due to changes in the organizational model, and we are already seeing some effects of deregulation and no planning. We can only establish solid information policies if we find a set of actions around which a wide spectrum of agents can be aligned without friction. 1. In the print world, policies should allow us to determine what exists and make that easily accessible, and know what is little used and will tend to be used less and ensure that it is preserved. 2. Research funding institutions can and must agree to facilitate open access to information and data. 3. Finally, the library-organization must be able to provide digital books, offer digital information that anybody can use, and ensure that born-digital materials are passed on to future generations. To this we must add the need to plan for information literacy training in schools. In these times of change, surrounded by uncertainty and some notable weaknesses, part of our professional duties should be devoted to elaborate agreements enabling us to take coordinated action in certain directions.

Abstract

The financial crisis and the economic adjustments within the most important media groups of the European Union (EU) have enlarged the North-South gap regarding financial strength, competitiveness and capitalisation, favouring Center European and UK patterns. The financial results of the 93 biggest media groups and enterprises in the EU provide evidence of not only the pernicious effects of financialization, but also the increase of regional divergences within the EU-28. The Mediterranean countries, which have got the worst results in all of the indicators analysed, are the most exposed to those dangers and confirm the poor advances of the media sector regarding convergence of management and economic solidity, at the expense of their capability to fulfil their social aims. The crisis has strengthened the position of the media groups in the North in front of the weakened South, that already had a greater dependence by its greater exposure to partisan interests. The daily circulation of press in the EU fell from 115.33 million copies distributed in 2008 to 82.54 in 2012, 27.73% less. 64.5% of the major media listed in the EU-28 is concentrated in five countries. 52.7% of the media has significant holdings in financial institutions.