Libraries require qualified personnel who have received library science education to organise and deliver information resources. The competencies of librarians are directly related to the quality of library services. Competency encompasses the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for effective job performance. In the digital age, librarians need expanded skills, including data management and information technologies, to meet the evolving needs of the information society.

This study focuses on the evolution of librarian competencies using bibliometric analysis. Bibliometric indicators highlight the impact of publications but do not fully represent their quality. Bibliometrics has been widely used since the development of the Science Citation Index in the 1960s. Understanding the quality and quantity of scientific output using bibliometric techniques has recently gained momentum. This study aims to analyse the focal points and future trends of research in library and information science using bibliometric techniques. It examines the distribution of publications by year, document type, country, language, and journal. The research also aims to summarise information about librarian competencies to guide future studies.

Anotable increase in publications in library and information science has been observed since the mid-2000s. 2017 was the period with the most intense research activity on librarian competencies, with 51 publications. The decrease in 2023 is due to indexing delays rather than a decline in research output. The dataset comprises 693 publications from various countries; articles lead the publication types with 629 publications (90.8%). Reviews, editorials, book reviews, and letters constitute the remaining dataset. English publications dominate as the “lingua franca” of global scientific literature. Other languages like Spanish, Portuguese, and French also contribute as indicators of global knowledge exchange. However, the representation of Turkish is minimal, indicating limited Turkish content production in this field.

The academic literature highlights 20 significant journals in library and information science, showcasing the richness and diversity of the discipline. Journals such as “Journal of Academic Librarianship,”, “Journal of the Medical Library Association,” and “Reference Services Review” reflect current developments in the field, reflecting intense academic activity.

A total of 693 publications in the “Information Science & Library Science” category in theWeb of Science database were analysed. Strong interactions were found with disciplines like Computer Science, Education, Law, Communication, and Management. Upon examining the 693 publications, most are at the Q2 and Q3 levels. The publications were authored by 1361 different authors; Kanwal Ameen, Amara Malik, and Lili Luo are among the top three authors in terms of publication count. Multiple publications by top authors highlight the depth and breadth of the subject, emphasising the attractiveness and interdisciplinary nature of the field.

When examining publication data, it was determined that 43.22% (n=299) of the publications were single-authored, while 56.90% (n=394) include 2 to 20 co-authors. Two-authored publications constitute 28.28% (n=196), three-authored ones represent 15.58% (n=108), and publications with four to eight authors represent 13% (n=90). Publications with ten or more authors account for only 0.58% (n=4). A total of 1361 different authors were identified. Based on the citation and publication criteria, collaboration was found among 32 authors. An analysis evaluating collaboration strength revealed three clusters, 288 connexions, and 300 connexion strengths. Laura Saunders stands out with five publications, 29 connexions, and 33 total connexion strength. Lloyd’s single publication had a significant impact with 146 citations. Laura Saunders ranks second with five publications and 141 citations, while Lili Luo ranks third with six publications and 109 citations.

A total of 617 keywords were used in 693 publications. Similar terms were grouped together, and after combining frequencies, 444 different keywords were identified. The top 20 most frequently used keywords are listed. “Information Literacy” emerges as the most emphasised topic. Central terms like “Libraries” and “Competencies” are also frequently used. This analysis highlights the importance of information literacy and underscores the complexity of the field, helping researchers understand the literature and identifying future research opportunities.

These findings emphasise that librarians in the digital age play a broader role beyond book lending to adapt to the dynamic needs of the information society. Core competencies include utilising technology, ensuring access to information and equity, and promoting information literacy. Equipping librarians with the skills is crucial for meeting contemporary societal information needs.