Assessing the Role of Library Associations

Library Associations play an important role in the promotion of librarianship as a profession vital to an informed and knowledgeable society. This paper discusses the importance of research in LIS, and considers the role of professional association in recognizing, enabling and promoting a research culture amongst qualified professionals. It shows that if the library profession is to grow and thrive as a true profession, demonstrating not only typical practice, but also considered scholarly approaches to the issues of its day, then its commitment in apt and relevant research practice is indispensable. It addresses the prospects, problems and challenges posed in the changing higher education environment in this Information Age. Throughout the world professional associations put substantial emphasis on the professional development of LIS community through fostering research. The Pakistan Library Association has inadequately realised its active research role in LIS and librarianship profession. As literature shows that it should be dedicated to motivate an