Library and information studies in Malta: challenges and opportunities

Abstract

The Maltese Islands strive to keep abreast with the developments taking place within the realm of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The University of Malta appointed its first full‐time lecturer in Library Studies in 1992, within the Centre for Communication Technology (CCT), in response to an increase in the number of libraries and a need felt by librarians for professional training. Growing need for professional training from library professionals has led to the University appointing a second full‐time academic and seriously considering offering Library and Information Studies at degree level, as of October 2003. This paper discusses in detail the challenges faced by the Division of Library and Information Studies at the University of Malta, in the context of a small island state.