Competency definition and validation for library and information professionals in Malaysia

Changes in the information market, situational peculiarities of the develop ing nations, and certain methodological considerations prompted this Identi fication and validation of competencies for library and information profess ionals in Malaysia. procedures were used to identify sets of knowledge and skill competencies for future entry-level professionals in the Institutiona l settings of academic, public, and special libraries in six operational do mains. Leading professionals were engaged in the validation exercise. A dis tinct emphasis was placed on competencies related to changing information d ynamics, information technology applications, management capabilities, and service aspects of the professional practice. The validated competencies ar e expected to serve as evaluation criteria for formal education programs, g uidelines for national manpower development in the field, and articulation of a clear focus for the preparation of future professionals.