A LIBRARIAN is a fellow considered to be a specialist in the care and management of a library, trained in library sciences and engaged in library services. A librarian has many important roles to play.

In Pakistan, unfortunately, most of the libraries have inadequate and non-professional staff.

The non-progressive attitude of our society is to be partially blamed for this brain-drain in the field of librarianship.

Narrowing down, even in academic institutions their wages are not comparable to that of teachers and other administrative bodies. They are rarely a part of the policy-making body.

Cutting the chase, librarians are considered not more than clerks. Even the authorities concerned have failed to implement a proper service structure, and yet have not come up with an effective promotion formula till today.

Further obstacles that hinder the recognition of librarianship as a noble profession enlist the attitude and working habits of supporting staff in libraries.

SIDRA HABIB Via e-mail