Research on Information Science and Public Libraries

Assessing the Soft Skills of Public Librarians

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Saleh Rahimi 1
Faramarz Soheili 2
Fatemeh Rahimi 3

1 Knowledge and Information Science, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

2 Knowledge and Information Science, Payame Noor University. Tehran. Iran

3 Knowledge and Information Science, Razi University. Kermanshah. Iran

https://doi.org/10.61882/publlij.2025.2072885.1036
Abstract
Purpose: Librarians working in public libraries must possess not only technical expertise but also strong soft skills This study aims to assess the level of knowledge, soft skills, and essential competencies among public librarians in Kermanshah Province.
Methods: This applied research employed a survey design. The statistical population included all librarians (140 individuals) in public libraries of Kermanshah Province, with a sample size of 102 determined using Cochran’s formula. Data were collected using Saunders’ (2019) questionnaire, which assesses five components: general skills, communication, user services, management, and technology. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used to test the reliability of the questionnaire, and SPSS software was employed for data analysis.
Results: The Friedman test results showed that the soft skills of public librarians in Kermanshah Province are not equal in terms of mean or rank, and there are significant differences among these skills. The highest priorities for public librarians were interpersonal communication and user service skills, which fall under the communication component.
Conclusions: Soft skills can enhance public library services and increase user satisfaction. This study revealed that public librarians in Kermanshah province consider communication and service-oriented skills as the core of their profession, while technological and managerial skills receive less attention. Given technological advancements, librarians must not only maintain traditional skills but also update their digital and managerial competencies. Targeted training programs can effectively enhance librarians’ professional capabilities.

Keywords

Soft Skills
Communication Skills
Public Librarians
Kermanshah Province
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Research on Information Science and Public Libraries
Volume 31, Issue 2
Spring 2025
Pages 51-64

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