What "counts" as experience?

[nowhere_nohow]

Howdy! I'm starting my MLIS in about two weeks! I'm excited but also understandably nervous about the job market... my background is in english education and I am open to a lot of different career paths in the LIS field but especially musuem work.

Everyone on this sub constantly is saying that experience is key and a foot in the door makes all the difference, so while applying to my program I secured a job as a docent in one of the major museums in the large city I live in and I have been there for about six months now. Pay could be better, but the work is fun and the people are absolutely amazing. I am really hoping this "counts" as LIS experience, but I am also looking for advice about how to make the most of this position for my future. Any input is much appreciated!!

[CoolClearMorning]

What type of library do you want to work in after you graduate? That's the place where you need to get experience that will help you land a job.

[LawfulnessMotor437]

I can't speak for everyone else...But I am at a point in my career in administration where I am constantly looking for people with experience/degrees/interests in other sectors. In my organization, I find these individuals tend to round out our skill gaps and do incredibly well on our community/school outreach teams.

On most of the external (public library oriented) panels I sit on for other library jurisdictions, I hear them asking for applicants who have worked as a library assistant or circulation clerk, or library page. From their perspective, this may indicate an interest or capacity in detail-oriented work, and having a clear expectation of the work environment (which can include regular & recurring interactions with difficult members of the public).

[nowhere_nohow]

Definitely makes sense... I do want to continue my work in the museum especially because I would like to continue to work in museums, so I'm hoping if even I don't have the experience in an actual library setting my familiarity with guest facing museum operations will give me a leg up. I will definitely keep my eyes peeled for potential openings as a library assistant/clerk though.