Information Ninja: A Metaphor for Adding Value to Library and Information Science Professionals for Competitive Advantage

Taking a broader perspective of the purpose of librarianship and beyond, this presentation examines librarians‟ new job designation and profile. The paper observes that in the light of new developments occasioned by increased use of technology it generates changes in the context of librarians work, designation and job profile and this ultimately necessitates changes in professional identity. Such changes to librarians‟ job designations in the midst of other competing information service providers add value to the profession and give it a competitive advantage. As librarians‟ we are Information Ninjas and our training prepares us not only for Boolean search but more importantly we are experts in information gathering, intelligence and counterintelligence and that gives us a competitive edge. The purpose of this paper therefore is not to offer predictions, solutions or answers but rather to initiate and provoke the reflection and discussion that must take place amongst us in order for our profession to be proactive to the challenges of our competitive world. Libraries provide access to information and protect patrons' right to explore new ideas, no matter how controversial or subversive. For us protecting unfettered access to information is important. Now it has become common knowledge that security operatives are mining the mass of information people publish about themselves overseas, tracking everything from common public opinion to revolutions. Governments and corporations are tracking our digital lives, and that surveillance means our right to freely research information is in jeopardy. So what do we do? As information ninjas we are responsible for providing new online privacy-protection services that shield patrons from unwanted spying of their library activity. The paper concludes that librarians are the secret masters of the world. They control information.

Keywords: Information Ninjas, Metaphor, Adding Value, Librarians, Job Profile, Competitive Advantage.