Sustainable relevancy in the changing library job market in Kuwait
Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication
ISSN: 2514-9342
Article publication date: 7 October 2021
Issue publication date: 5 December 2022
Abstract
Purpose
The Library and Information Science (LIS) discipline face challenges such as technology applications and information overload in its effort to remain relevant in the challenging job market. This study aims to determine the skills and knowledge needed for LIS professionals in the job market to rethink the current syllabus and offer better future employability.
Design/methodology/approach
The research used a survey method to collect data concerning personal information, LIS employment opportunities, job titles and skills needed. Content analysis followed to determine librarianship job listings and the need for LIS graduate jobs in Kuwait.
Findings
The findings suggested difficulties and challenges; they also compiled a comprehensive list of skills needed and recommended courses and institutions hiring LIS graduates. The research improves decision-making in syllabus development and experiences recommended by employers.
Practical implications
Academic departments can follow this research to develop and update their syllabuses according to the requirements of the job market, thus offering better future job opportunities.
Social implications
As LIS graduates are provided with better education, the updating of their employability skills will help them socially by recognising their employment status and economically by raising their pay.
Originality/value
The research is the first in Kuwait to collect LIS job titles and analyse employability needs.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank all employers, Appendix 5, that have participated in answering the survey and provided valuable comments despite their commitments. Special thanks to Mrs Fatma Alnajar, Manager of the Research Administration, at the PAAET for her continuous valuable guidance.
Funding: This research was partially funded by the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training.
Declaration of interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.
Citation
Buarki, H.J., Alomar, M. and Abdulhadi, M. (2022), "Sustainable relevancy in the changing library job market in Kuwait", Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, Vol. 71 No. 8/9, pp. 800-836. https://doi.org/10.1108/GKMC-03-2021-0037
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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