Do Academic Librarians Possess the Necessary Competencies to Execute Embedded Librarianship? A Survey of Librarians’ Practicing in College Libraries in West Bengal, India

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate whether academic librarians working in government-aided degree colleges in West Bengal, India, possess the competencies necessary to practice embedded librarianship. Employing a mixed-methods design, data were collected through a structured online questionnaire and follow-up telephonic interviews with 116 full-time academic librarians. The study revealed that most librarians demonstrate strong competencies in interpersonal communication, teaching, and collaboration. However, weaknesses were identified in areas such as instructional design, advanced data analysis, and digital content management. Despite their active involvement in embedded librarianship-related activities, more than 80 percent were unaware of the concept prior to the study. Numerous barriers, including staff shortages, heavy workloads, limited institutional support, and lack of recognition, inhibited the broader implementation of embedded librarianship. The findings suggested a need for targeted professional development, increased institutional support, and strategic policy initiatives to enable librarians to fully adopt embedded practices. This was the first empirical study in the Indian context, specifically West Bengal, assessing embedded librarianship readiness among college librarians. It contributes to local and global discourse on transforming academic librarianship.