EMPOWERING LIBRARY SUPPORT STAFF: A 15-YEAR JOURNEY OF TRAINING, LEARNING, AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Globalization and rapid advancements in ICT have intensified competition across various fields, including academic libraries. The introduction of new technologies like Library Automation, Web 2.0, digitization, QR codes, and the recent AI tools has significantly raised user expectations. To meet these demands, effective use of ICT and continual updates to library practices are crucial. This requires comprehensive training for all library staff—professional, para-professional, and support staff. While professional staff often have access to stay updated through conferences, seminars, workshops and development programmes, para-professional and support staff, often lack such opportunities.  These support staff who are vital in delivering library services and representing the library to users, should also receive proper training in recent trends in the field. To address this, Ramniranjan Jhunjhunwala College, Ghatkopar, Mumbai has been conducting an annual one-week training programme for Library Support Staff (LSS) for the past 15 years. This paper discusses the learning experiences, features and evolution of the programme’s themes, topics, and sessions, along with feedback and challenges faced.