Abstract

Based on an historical analysis of the last five decades of research, this article analyzes the elements that define the journalism in Latin America. The work is based on the common social structures and the fact that journalism mediates in the construction of reality throughout the region, proposing a model that describes the individual, organizational and social aspects that have influenced the development of the profession. The results indicate that the educational problems linked to both the identity and the autonomy of the profession, the cultural value associated to professional practice, the existence and reach of the Teachers Associations, political and economic peculiarities, and the considerable influence exercised by Europe and the United States, are all aspects that make Latin American journalism different journalism in the rest of the world. Still, despite these similarities, neither a shared conceptualization nor a homologated operationalization of the profession exists in Latin America.

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 economic crisis and the rapid advances of information technology have led to reflection about how libraries should face the digital challenge and the need to adapt daily work routines and professional profiles. This paper considers whether libraries are restrained environments that can have an inhibiting effect on their profesional staff, harming their adaptation to the new digital environment. There are several reasons for this: technology dependence, a workplace model that gives priority to established structures, the rigidity of the structures involved in the decision-making process, and attachment to our traditional roles.

Abstract

Communication with the library user is being changed by the loss of the library’s information monopoly, the dematerialization of the book and the importance of technology in the non-face-to-face relationship. Within the new ways of communication, the ability to become used to tools and devices in a daily and non-work environment is essential. Library professionals must begin to understand the new ways of communication as a balance between the personal and profesional domains.

Abstract

An overview is given of the profession of Information and Documentation in 2011. The economic crisis was the main factor that determined professional development and the labour market. Some of the key reports that have been outlined in social networks and blogs are also described.

Abstract

For years, librarians, record managers and information scientists have seen themselves as outside of the labor market associated with new technologies. It seems that the profession remains mired in the past, rather passive and with little ambition. Certainly information and communication technologies (ICT) applications have been adopted and used, but very few information professionals have taken a leadership role at the level of designing them as one might have expected.

Abstract

A picture of developments in the Library and information science profession in 2009 is presented. Topics included are professional skills, values, social image, scientific and professional activities: congresses, conferences, journals, distribution lists, associations and the specific labor market.

Abstract

Moocs (massive open online courses) are a powerful innovation within the global knowledge system. This report describes and presents their key features, challenges that must be overcome for their implementation and good outcomes, and opportunities posed to information and communication professionals and scholars. A selection of existing courses of potential interest to librarians and information specialists is offered.

Abstract

A review of various reports and studies reveals the most important aspects and events in 2014 of the library and information science (LIS) profession and academic programs. The economic crisis in Spain has continued to hit hard, although to a lesser extent. In this environment, a general major concern is to demonstrate the social benefits delivered by libraries. The profession is becoming more hybridized with other professional sectors. As for university education, we note a slight improvement in the statistical data, but also an outrageous structural reform of university cycles by the Spanish Ministry of Education. There has also been an unfair tightening of accreditation agency requirements for the approval of six-year research periods for academic researchers in LIS.