A systems librarian – whoever are they?

Abstract

The author of the article presents his nine-year experience in implementing library systems. Today, a generation of library computerization pioneers in Poland is passing away. Their activity enabled relatively cost-effective set-up of a computerized workplace. However, due to the limited resources, some of the installations implemented were fairly unusual, and their simple replacement by integrated library systems is difficult or causes resistance. The role of the systems librarian is to understand and convince others that the library has to change its work organization in order to successfully use the currently produced systems. The systems librarian should also participate in the data transfer process as well as remove inconsistencies and increase standardization. The role of the systems librarian requires full-time employment in the library.