The librarian as change agent in the diffusion of technological innovation

Abstract

Librarians face new roles in the computer dominated electronic information environment. As change agents responsible for diffusing the new technology, they must bridge the gap between technology and the end user in a manner that enables the end user to effectively and efficiently use available technology. In order to accomplish this proactive role, librarians must be conversant with the technology, provide bibliographic instructions, and assist users in addressing information needs and evaluating the relevance of information retrieved. To achieve these ends, librarians must again become educators and not merely custodians of the world's knowledge.