Global Metamorphosis and Soft Skill Development for Library Professionals

Abstract

The twenty-first century has witnessed libraries evolve from traditional repositories of information to dynamic, user-centered knowledge hubs. The demand for soft skills, including communication, teamwork, adaptability, empathy, problem-solving, leadership, and cultural intelligence, has intensified. This paper recognises the growing significance of soft skills in library and information science (LIS) practice within a rapidly changing global context. The study identifies the essence of soft skill development in enhancing professional performance, innovation, and supports the delivery of services. It also observes the alignment between soft skill development and global trends such as digital transformation, multicultural engagement, and knowledge sharing. The findings emphasise the need to embed soft skill training into LIS education, continuing professional development, and reframe institutional policies to ensure soft skill development. The paper asserts that the integration of soft skills is fundamental for library professionals to sustain relevance and resilience in the evolving information ecosystem.