Distance library education in the era of globalization and information technologies: The experience and prospects

The current period is characterized by intensive informatization and globalization processes and stimulates building the single education space. At the same time, the ongoing transformations in the library area makes adjustments in the content of training librarians. The expanding information and technological environment requires libraries to adapt as fast as possible. The authors emphasize that building a complex library infrastructure is impossible without highly competent specialists. The authors suggest that distance learning is a promising trend in training library and information specialists in the single education space. They review the experience of distance learning in Kazan State Institute of Culture where it is introduced in several disciplines. The results of satisfaction survey are presented. The difference in the opinions of the full-time and off-campus students is demonstrated. Based on the survey, the authors conclude that most of the students are not ready to switch to distance learning. Main provisions for the highly efficient distance education, its main advantages and disadvantages are revealed. Introduction of distance learning is seen as essential for increasing efficiency of the Russian higher library schools.