Reskilling and Upskilling Library Professionals for the Fifth Industrial Revolution

Abstract

This research focused on the need of reskilling and upskilling of library professionals in light of the new Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR). The 5IR differs from its predecessors in that it combines sophisticated technologies with people-centered approaches that reshape the delivery of information services. To keep up with actual user demands, library personnel need to acquire new competencies and improve some of the existing ones. The paper, drawing from various literatures, discusses the level of readiness of professionals about digital literacy, training, technology adaptability, implementation obstacles, and the preparedness gaps. The review was carried out using a qualitative desk-based approach, relying on secondary data obtained from peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, and academic reports retrieved from reputable scholarly databases such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Semantic Scholar, and institutional repositories. These sources provided empirical and conceptual evidence on reskilling, upskilling, and technological adaptation within library practice. The available information shows that librarians are more cognizant of innovations in artificial intelligence, robotics, and other smart technologies, and many of them regard these innovations as enablers of greater inclusivity and qualitative service delivery. Still, inadequate funding, limited infrastructure, and skills gaps in the workforce obstruct effective adoption. The paper recommends intentional targeted capacity building, active professional development, and stronger institutional frameworks.