Knowledge Sharing Attitude of Library Professionals: A Survey

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand the attitude of library professionals to share knowledge and identify barriers that hinder knowledge sharing among them in Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Quantitative research method was used for the study. Using stratified random sampling technique, 100 library professionals working in Maulana Azad Library and other departmental libraries of AMU were selected as a sample population. For the collection of data, a questionnaire was designed and administered to the library professionals up to the level of Semi-Professional Assistants. Out of 100 distributed questionnaires, 60 duly filled questionnaires were returned back and retained for analysis. Most of the findings of the study supported the literature reviewed and shows that library professionals have positive attitudes towards knowledge sharing, and they share knowledge for finding solution to the job-related problem and improvement in the job performance. Library professionals mostly use information technology–based tools such as e-mail, mobile/telephone, social media (Facebook), blogs and others for sharing of knowledge with colleagues. They acknowledged the importance of intrinsic motivation in knowledge sharing rather extrinsic motivation. Lack of communication, lack of time and training, political and cultural reasons are perceived as the major barriers to knowledge sharing in libraries by library professionals.