Environmental scanning: an essential tool for twenty-first century librarianship

ISSN： 0024-2535

Source： Library Review, Vol.57, Iss.7, 2008-08, pp. : 528-536

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Abstract

Purpose ‐ This article aims to highlight important aspects of environmental scanning (ES). As a managerial tool of high utility, ES may assist library professionals ‐ at all levels ‐ proactively assess and respond to change in the technological, demographic, economic and social environments that may have a future impact on the library profession and stakeholder services. Design/methodology/approach ‐ This article deepens the library literature related to the methodology of ES with concepts and ideas derived from the relevant management literature. Findings ‐ Based on an in-depth review of the library literature, the evidence suggests that librarians have not the used ES techniques consistently or systematically to manage change. Research limitations/implications ‐ While the results of this literature review imply that ES is underutilized as a tool to manage change in the library environment, it is entirely possible that practicing librarians actually utilize ES far more frequently than a review of the library literature suggests. Additional survey-studies addressing this concern will be required to resolve this important question. Originality/value ‐ This article provides useful information related to the importance of ES and the related methodology required to build a comprehensive ES initiative. In addition, the paper introduces the reader to the innovative goal of coordinating ES initiatives on a global scale. This is presented with a view toward developing cooperative programs and approaches that may increase the viability of our profession and strengthen our collective ability to increase stakeholder satisfaction.