Generational differences and job satisfaction in university library professionals

Abstract

This paper discusses findings of a study that has been launched to identify the level of job satisfaction of library professionals by generational cohorts. The aim of this study is to evaluate the level of job satisfaction among three generations (i.e. Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y) of the professional staff of the university libraries of Sri Lanka in terms of five job satisfaction parameters namely; work, coworkers, compensation, promotion and supervision. The population of the current study consisted of 125 library professionals of 15 universities under University Grants Commission in Sri Lanka. A semi structured questionnaire was used as the main data collection instrument. The results of the study indicated that there are some differences and similarities of job satisfaction of university library professionals in perceptions associated with three generations. There is a significant difference of job satisfaction in perception of both "work" and "supervision" among three generations. Guidelines have been developed to enhance the level of job satisfaction of university library professionals. Job satisfaction of library professionals is essential and a fundamental determinant of the development and organization of the service.