Abstract

Two closely related aspects of the information and documentation sector -university education and labour market- are discussed. We consider the equivalencies and transferability of previous courses and degrees for credit towards the Information and Documentation degree, and some possible effects of the new three-year degrees. In relation to the labour market in our sector, we discuss the opacity of our contribution to the digital content economy. Summarized in tables, the most striking results of our analysis of employment and unemployment rates and types of job openings posted in information and documentation in 2014 are presented and discussed.

Abstract

The evolution of the labor market for information professionals in 2015 is analyzed with a focus on the graduates of library and information science (LIS). For those who were qualified from 2009 through 2014, statistical data from the Spanish Statistics National Institute (INE) report on employment were used. Also the labor market evolution between 2009 and 2015 for information professionals with university degrees was analyzed using data from the Spanish State Public Employment Service (SEPE). Finally, information was obtained through a questionnaire sent to LIS graduates in the 2014-15 academic year. The results are shown in tables and figures along with comments that complete the situation analysis. The three sources of information show signs of a troubled but improving labor market.

Abstract

The suitability of Library and Information Science undergraduate studies to jobs in Public Administration is reviewed. Tables and graphics that show the consequences of the current economic crisis on the employment rates of Public Administration are shown. Some final considerations about the relevance of the selection process that graduates must pass to access the different areas of Public Administration in Spain are given.

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 article analyses the IweTel mailing list about Library and Information Science in its 20 anniversary. With so many social networks, communication platforms and collaborative work methods, the merits of e-mail distribution lists, whether monodirectional newsletters or discussion forums, are questioned in the 2.0 world. Do they still make sense or are they obsolete? Given the large number of mailing lists that are working effectively, and seeing their evolution over the recent years, the author concludes that mailing lists will survive for many more years.

Abstract

The professional commitment of those who work in the information sector goes beyond the exercise of their technical activities. We live in a time when problems are universal. Therefore, we can’t disconnect from our tasks when we leave the workplace. The social reality ethically engages information professionals in cooperative development activities. This text reflects on this commitment and the different ways to carry it out.

Abstract

Although information professionals are working with the newer technologies, sometimes little innovation is seen in their services. The innovation skills of professionals and students of library and information science are discussed. The possibilities to be innovative are considered, given the existing structures and senior personnel that sometimes are reluctant to make changes.

Abstract

The public library has to be considered as a transversal service cross-linked not only to cultural, but also to social, educational and economic policies. It is a service immersed in numerous social processes of the community. In consequence, public library projects have to be connected to and carried out in cooperation with other municipal policies. This new concept for public libraries implies a consideration of the types of professional profiles required for its successful development. The purpose of this text is to reflect on the needed professional profiles. In public libraries, we cannot talk about just one profile of competencies, but several profiles differentiated according to the different workplaces. As a consequence, we need to talk about the knowledge and skills specifically associated with a profile. This text also considers the benefits of working in public libraries with multidisciplinary teams of information professionals, cultural/community coordinators, social workers, educators, etc.

Abstract

The relationship between information technologies and information professionals is becoming more complex in an environment in which, for the first time, standards and legislation are ahead of implementation and there are many hidden commercial interests. One example is the workshop on open document formats organized by the EU. Confrontation between ODF (ISO 26300) and Microsoft’s attempt to convert Ooxml into an open format through ISO was widely debated, but there was little discussion about practical solutions. Adobe’s strategy, opening its formats when free applications are in use, has proved successful.