Human Resource Development in the Libraries

Libraries are integral part of the Higher education Institutions (HEIs) assisting in their teaching and research function. They are the called the heart and soul of the HEIs. With the rapid transformation in the Higher Education Systems, the application of computers and especially Information technology (IT) have revolutionized the way libraries acquire, transmit and store information. The Libraries of HEIs in India including North East (NE) India was late at adopting automation technology and have made slow progress in this direction. Lack of skilled manpower to maintain the automated systems and to provide proper e-information service to the academic community is a main problem. These developments have several implications on the library management process. One of the key issues is Human Resource Development (HRD). In an automated library environment the library manpower needs new skills and core competencies in different areas of automation. Human workforce is the most vital part of the Library, therefore the issue of the skill upliftment and development of the library staff needs outmost concern. HRD attempts to enable people in an organization to overcome their defects.