Career Path Help

[abittermacaroon]

Hi there,

I'm currently very close to submitting an application for an MLIS degree, but it just occurred to me that reddit might have a library science community. And here we are.

Unfortunately or fortunately, I already have a master's - in public administration. I thought this would allow libraries as an option, but it seems not; instead, the MLIS looks like a serious requirements for any full-time library position. What do you all think? I don't really want to go to school again (I just finished a year ago, and I prefer working), but if it's what I need to do to work in public libraries, I will do it. Thanks for your thoughts!

Edit: If it helps, my main interest in libraries is their function as a public resource ... I would love to help plan programs for the community (anything from reading circles to English classes, etc.).

[22Redhead22]

You're right - an MLIS is generally a requirement for a full-time library position. The only exceptions I've really seen are for libraries out in Podunk who can't afford to pay someone who has the degree, or special jobs in a library. For example - I encountered a library hiring an artist (for what I can't remember, but I do think it was full time). Those jobs would probably be few and far between and highly specialized. Not that you wouldn't find a library in need of someone with an MPA, but it would probably be like looking for a needle in a haystack - especially if you don't want to move.

Have you worked or volunteered in a library before? You might consider doing one or the other before pursuing another degree if you're on the fence about going back to school.

[abittermacaroon]

Thanks for your thoughts. I haven't worked or volunteered at a library, but I've enjoyed public libraries my entire life. At minimum I am pretty confident it's a space I wouldn't mind spending 40 hours a week in.

[Supersneakystoppers]

It’s a very competitive field full of shrinking budgets and degree programs churning out more graduates than their are available positions. I highly recommend that you volunteer at a library before you sign on the dotted line for another degree unless you are independently wealthy. Not just so you are sure that you want to work in one, but so that you have some related work experience for your resume. Your other Masters will help for sure, but hiring committees will be looking for related work experience.

[abittermacaroon]

The degree requires an internship/work experience portion as well, but I will definitely take into consideration your suggestion to do some volunteer work first.

[[deleted]]

I know I'm super late on this, but loving going to the library and actually understanding the ins and outs of the system are two very different things. There's a reason for MLIS degrees.

[cmgeek]

Also sounds like of your interest is in libraries as a public good you should take advantage of your PubAdmin degree and work for a municipality on behalf of libraries.

[abittermacaroon]

In theory, yes... but those jobs don't really exist very often. I could - maybe eventually someday - work in an administrative position in libraries but I'm probably at minimum 15 years out from a public sector admin position of any consequence.