Georgina Cane is a trainer and consultant with AIMA.

Title: The Alchemy of Information: Librarians, the Knowledge-Economy and the Future of Work (with Leonie Blair)

Abstract: The paper explores the changing nature of work and the opportunities and challenges presented to librarians. The 'knowledge economy' has entered common parlance with politicians, economists, business people and educators alike recognising that information and highly skilled workers are the two most highly prized components of successful businesses.

Peter Drucker introduced the concept of the information society in the 'fifties. Other contemporary thinkers, such as Barry Jones, Charles Handy, Lester Thurow and William Bridges expanding the concept particularly as it applies to changing patterns of work. The underpinnings to the new economy include:

• the rise of new telecommunication and information technologies?
• the growth of a global economy
• the increasing reach of the internet and e-commerce as a means of transaction
• the expansion of new organisational structures which have given rise to outsourcing, contract and casual 'employment'.

What will this mean for librarians? What new alchemy will librarians perform in the new millennium? Which profession could be better placed than librarianship to capitalise on a knowledge and information-based economy driven by communications technology and the sharing of ideas?

To thrive in this environment, however, librarians will have to be prepared to redefine their arena of work, and take risks. New modes and self employment will increasingly be open to librarians. Technical and client skills will need to be complemented by business skills, adaptation, innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit.