The New Roles of Libraries and Librarians: Building Bridges to New Horizons

Abstract

Academic libraries are undergoing rapid transformation driven by digitalisation, evolving research practices, and new expectations from students, researchers, and institutions. This article examines the changing roles of libraries and librarians through two interconnected perspectives: insights from recent international literature on emerging professional identities, competencies, and responsibilities; and the practical experience of the Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) Library, which illustrates how these trends materialise in a health‑sciences academic environment. The article highlights developments in research support, information literacy, systematic reviews, scientific publishing, and digital transformation. It argues that librarians are increasingly embedded in research ecosystems, functioning as educators, data stewards, methodological partners, and contributors to scholarly communication. The RSU Library’s achievements demonstrate how libraries can build bridges to new horizons by embracing collaboration, innovation, and sustained professional development.