Bridging the digital divide. The role of librarians and information professionals in the third millennium
| Date | 11 April 2008 |
| Pages | 226-237 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/02640470810864118 |
| Published date | 11 April 2008 |
| Author | Seyed Vahid Aqili,Alireza Isfandyari Moghaddam |
| Subject Matter | Information & knowledge management,Library & information science |
Bridging the digital divide
The role of librarians and information
professionals in the third millennium
Seyed Vahid Aqili
Department of Communication, Islamic Azad University,
Sciences and Research Campus, Tehran, Iran, and
Alireza Isfandyari Moghaddam
Department of Library and Information Studies, Islamic Azad University,
Hamedan Branch, Iran
Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show how the digital divide has become a common
metaphor originating from now nearly obsolete phrases such as “information have and have nots” and
“information rich and information poor”. The article aims to focus on several dimensions of the digital
divide that pertain to service as well as the responsibilities of libraries.
Design/methodology/approach – This article places emphasis on the role of librarians and
information professionals in bridging the digital divide by indicating some aspects related to it as
evidenced in the literature including its definition, aspects, factors affecting, and internet users.
Findings – Libraries are treated as one of the major social tools which can solve the information
divide rooted in the digital divide and contribute to the realization of democratic society.
Research limitations/implications – Thisarticle revolves around the authors’ points of view. So,
further studies, especially comparative research between developed and developing countries which
vary in terms of digital divide rate, can help to understand the real role librarians and information
professionals play.
Practical implications – Rethinking the digital divide, librarians must redesign andredefine their
service menu for their customers through thinking functionally. They also need to review the various
IT devices and information services available and examine which can be employed to present a more
effective library service. In addition, policy-makers should consider the vital role that librarians can
play in the realization of knowledge-based society and sustainable development.
Originality/value – This paper provides a theoretical basis for librarians to be more active and
sedulous and policy-makers to be vigilant and place much value for information sector and its
professionals, particularly librarians working in various libraries.
Keywords Digital communication systems, Librarians, Informationprofession
Paper type Viewpoint
Librarians are expected to be leaders like conductors of symphony orchestras to carry all the
members working together to a single goal (Yamazaki, 2007).
The future is here. It’s just unevenly distributed (Gibson; quoted in O’Reilly, 2002).
Introduction
Information and communications technology (ICT) can be considered as an important
weapon in the war against world challenges. When used effectively, it offers huge
potential to empower people in developing countries and disadvantaged communities
The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available at
www.emeraldinsight.com/0264-0473.htm
EL
26,2
226
Received 23 March 2007
Revised 24 April 2007
Accepted 29 May 2007
The Electronic Library
Vol. 26 No. 2, 2008
pp. 226-237
qEmerald Group Publishing Limited
0264-0473
DOI 10.1108/02640470810864118
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