Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
Fall 1-7-2019
Abstract
Knowledge sharing activities are indicators for professional growth. It consists of inconceivable diverse and complex patterns through which professionals gain more from each other. This type of knowledge sharing experience is essential for professional growth. Ordinarily, except engage in certain activities, professionals do not benefit much from each other. The process that unfold in what the professionals know best is through the process of sharing tacit knowledge. Librarianship as a profession is at its critical point where issues to contend with emerges, based on current trends in library and information sciences. The dynamics that surround users’ diverse information needs and technological changes have become critical factors to consider. Librarians in the academic environment in Zimbabwe have no option than to tap into the newly launched Zimbabwe Transitional Stabilization Programme (TSP). This programme lay emphasis on quality service delivery and research collaboration. This article therefore investigates how knowledge sharing can strengthen librarians’ resilience and innovative drive to adjust to constant change. The quantitative research approach was employed in this study. The quantitative (survey) collected data from respondents through the questionnaire instrument. The data collected were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis. Findings from the data gathered revealed that, innovative strategies for current and future practices on knowledge sharing among librarians were infused. The knowledge sharing patterns among librarians in Zimbabwe has becomes more deepened. Proposed ways in rendering services in line with current trends in professional development have created more awareness among academic librarians such that, professional associations and their special interest groups (SIG) have place emphasis on the importance of knowledge sharing. Cooperation and collaboration becomes the cornerstone for the survival of professionals in a digital economy. Several factors such as lack of support from institutions, negative attitude among others has interfered with knowledge sharing. Knowledge sharing has also brought unprecedented opportunities for professional growth. The study recommends praxis-oriented strategies through which capacity building in knowledge sharing be attained in the different university libraries in Zimbabwe.