Capacity Building for Librarians during the Stage of Establishing a Modern Open Access Library at Library and Information Network Center (LINC), HanoiUniversity of Technology (HUT), Vietnam

Abstract

Library and Information Network Center (LINC), Hanoi University of Technology (HUT) are in the transition from a traditional library model to a modern open access library. Capacity building for librarians becomes a key issue for this library to adapt new changes. However, librarians encounter difficulties in identifying core competencies needed to work effectively in a new environment. This study focuses on investigating LINC to define problems relating to human resource development. The application of literature review on previous studies aims at ascertaining core competencies. A particular model study for staff development at University of Nebraska-Lincoln Library, America is employed in an effort to help LINC gain a useful lesson-learned. Besides, analysis of SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) and STEP (Social, Technological, Economic and Political impact) models as well as change management theory are also introduced to assist library staff in coping with changes. Two major research findings have been presented in this research. A list of seven core competencies can be considered as necessary knowledge and skills during this transition stage for staff at LINC. Additionally, in an attempt to help LINC staff actively get involved in advancing needed capabilities, the study model, SWOT, STEP, and change management are integrated in this paper as useful tools. This research is expected to be a theoretical model for other academic libraries to find out core competencies for librarians in Vietnam.