LIS Study Circle's meeting took place at Dept. of Library & Information science, University of the Punjab, Lahore (Pakistan) on August 19, 2009. The topic was 'Knowledge Management in Libraries'. The discussion's focus, mainly, was on:
- Definitions and Concepts of Information, Knowledge, and Knowledge Management (KM)
- Evolution of Concept & Terminology
- Technology for KM Applications
- Role of Librarians and Libraries in KM
The participants explored the topic in open discussion and it was really a brainstorming session started from 6:30 p.m. and ended up on 8:15 p.m.. followed by a tasteful dinner at PU Executive Club.
Findings:
- It was felt that the concept and technological applications of KM are still in evolution phase.
- Business community and researchers from Business Studies' domain are playing the pivotal role in development of the discipline.
- KM domain offers much attraction for libraries and information professionals as it opens up new avenues of service for librarians/information professionals.
- The participants agreed that librarians/information professionals may/can play an important role in KM as they are traditionally and historically engaged in handling explicit knowledge.
- However, it was felt that an enhanced skill set of social, management and technological skills is necessary to play an effective role in KM practices.
- KM demands a proactive role of librarians/information professionals in an organization.
- The most important element in KM was considered the 'organizational culture'.
Recommendation:
- There is a need to introduce the KM concept and enhance needed competencies of librarians/ information professionals of the country on a wider scale through active programming like lectures, seminars, workshops, etc.
- It was also recommended by the participants that a formal seminar/workshop should be arranged by professional associations, library schools, or any other professional group/organization, etc. on 'Knowledge Management and Role of Libraries'.
