Rating and Social Compensation of the library profession

Abstract

This article shows the social contradiction regarding librarianship in its process of professionalization, which has low social value, but an efficient labor market. These findings are part of the research entitled Librarianship as a profession in Colombia, conducted between 2010 and 2012. The mixed methodological approach involved experts, professionals, employers, and students. Results show that library profession has recognition and prestige in its traditional approach associated with libraries, that job placement is fast with formal contractual relationships, that there is a high rate of employability, and wage conditions are superior to other professionals. Therefore, it can be said that Colombian society has validated and socially accepted the praxis of librarianship, but not under the conditions its professionals would expect.