Expert Committee on Staff Pattern for Kerala Agricultural University Library and Information System (KAULIS)

Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) having a Library and Information System (KAULIS) extending services to its more than 48 campuses spread over the length and breadth of the State as part of its modernization programmes constituted an expert committee on staff. The terms of reference was to examine the work load and nature of work in libraries at different levels in the university; and suggest a staff pattern including qualifications and professional training required for its library and information service staff. The committee in its report submitted in 1999 opines that library and information service scenario is witnessing revolutionary changes in the mediums and methods for accessing, storing, organising, processing and disseminating information. Library management functions are currently in a transitional phase as the forces affecting the supply; organisation and delivery of information adjust to the new digital paradigm. To harness the possibilities offered by ICT the committee has redefined the librarian’s role, status and qualifications in a much wider context. Considering the requirement of the high tech system developed by KAU the committee evolved various recommendations and a staff formula which can satisfy the present and future needs for staffing the library and information service system of the university. The pattern suggested in the report can serve as a model also for other State Agricultural Universities engaged in modernizing their systems