Role changes for the academic librarian to support effectively the networked learner: implications of the IMPEL Project

Abstract

The IMPEL team at the University of Northumbria at Newcastle have been engaged in investigating qualitatively the social, organisational and cultural impacts of the increasingly electronic environment in UK Higher Education. Initially, the IMPEL Project focused on the role of qualified library information staff. Three recurring themes are described, firstly that of the perceptions of staff of their existing and projected roles, secondly the changing role of the subject specialist and thirdly, concerns over possible loss of control. These themes are explored with reference to interview data and to recent literature. Subsequently, the IMPEL2 Project has adopted a campus-wide view of the impacts of electronic information provision, incorporating a focus on academic staff and student users, impacts of resource based learning and educational development for library and information staff. The findings from both projects promise to inform the issue of networked learner support in the teaching and learning experience in universities and colleges throughout the UK.