A sceptical review of the library and technology transfer

Optimistic statements about the contribution of libraries to economic growth are a common theme in LIS literature. A review of what commentators on technology transfer say about the process whereby industry takes up innovatory technology casts doubt on the realism of such suggestions. The elements present in technology transfer can be defined as a complex of artefacts, techniques and the absorptive capacities of the receivers. The information element of any of these is almost never specifically isolated by writers from within the business and industrial environment. Companies license existing technologies or acquire them in other related ways, having become aware of them by a variety of informal methods, most commonly distinguished by face to face contact. Whilst companies do need advice and support of various kinds, the information element of these is characterised by know-how and know-who, rather than the know-what which libraries most normally provide. Problem solving, rather than access to large, formal information resources, is what industry seeks and they do not expect to obtain this from libraries. The role which libraries can genuinely perform is in support of R and D, with the emphasis on the research part of this. In future, information professionals are more likely to play a part in technology transfer in the character of information brokers, database creators or consultants than as members of the staff of an established library service.