Areas of Modernization of Library and Information Education in Kazakhstan

The purpose of this article is to analyse current trends in library and information education in Kazakhstan and identify mechanisms for supporting continuous professional development of librarians in the context of digital integration and modernization. The study used a survey of 120 library students from two Kazakh universities, content analysis of educational programs, and comparative analysis of Kazakhstan's library education programs against international standards from European and Asian countries. The results of the study showed that training programs for future librarians have changed significantly in the context of digital integration. The analysis revealed that most librarian courses focus on improving skills in working with electronic resources, studying databases, and using digital tools to effectively serve users. Students of library specialities are actively involved in practical work with information systems, which allows them to be ready to work in conditions when conventional methods are gradually being replaced by new technological approaches. However, despite significant progress, the results of the study show that many educational programs still need to be improved in terms of integrating the latest technologies into the training of librarians. This includes a greater focus on training on working with digital platforms, developing big-data analysis skills, and improving the information and analytical competencies of future librarians, which is important for ensuring effective service. The experience of other countries can be useful for Kazakhstan in the context of modernization of library and information education, in particular through the adaptation of international standards and practices in the use of digital technologies, the integration of inclusive services and the improvement of educational programs for future librarians, since European and Asian countries such as Norway and Japan are actively developing digital libraries and learning platforms, which can contribute to the improvement of Kazakhstan's library systems and improve training.