Unveiling soft skills in library and information science: Students’ strategies for academic success

Abstract

This study examines the importance of soft skills in the professional advancement of library and information science students, focusing on communication, teamwork, adaptability and career development. Using a selective sampling strategy, data was acquired from 211 library and information science students, comprising 88.2% from public and 11.8% from private institutions in Bangladesh. The majority of the students (55.5%) were male, and 86.7% indicated awareness of soft skills. The study utilized SmartPLS 4 to assess a self-constructed conceptual framework. The reliability and validity were established via Cronbach's alpha, composite reliability and average variance extracted. The structural model analysis demonstrated strong prediction capabilities (R² and Q² > 0.1). A mediation analysis found significant indirect impacts of soft skills development initiatives on career readiness. This groundbreaking study, although confined to specific universities, offers insights into the soft skills tactics employed by library and information science students. The results can be used to inform the creation of internationally coordinated adaptive library and information science education programmes that address shifting professional requirements.