Lead with courage, compassion, and clarity using the professional development resources in our new digital catalog! https://alastore.ala.org/SS26catalog

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Now shipping! Designed as a real-world reference, the newest edition of OIF's "Intellectual Freedom Manual" offers clear, up-to-date insights on protecting intellectual freedom, fighting censorship, safeguarding privacy, and many other key IF topics. https://alastore.ala.org/ifm11

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #library #intellectualfreedom #censorship #bookbans

New account/instance, new #introduction

I'm Lindy (they/them), a #nature lover currently living in the mid-Atlantic region of the US. I hike frequently and love sharing photographs of the wondrous things I see when outdoors. #Hiking made me fall in love with being alive, and I’d love to pass that feeling onto others! #Fungi are my jam.

I’m a #Library worker and aspiring Archivist starting my #MLIS (Library Master’s) in the fall. I’ve worked in public libraries, academic libraries, and special collections and archives. I feel super passionate about lifelong learning and peoples’ access to information. I will probably gush about Libraries from time to time here.

I’m also an artist. I love taking materials and making a finished piece from them. I try to use reclaimed or recycled materials in my art as much as possible. In the past few years, I’ve gotten really into making #chainmail art. It’s the first time I’ve ever really stuck to a medium long-term, and I’m enjoying seeing my skills grow project by project.

Pics are of me on the beach in Hawaii last September and of my beloved cat, Doodle Noodle. She’s my darling-est dear and my best friend!

Yesterday's webinar for public library workers is now viewable on YouTube! https://youtu.be/q-uuGdGarn0?si=IZkaaJJcdz9Li0bw

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #library #publiclibraries

Timeline cleanse: celebrate 150 years of the American Library Association! https://youtu.be/v5L_7MB8G3c?si=Hd4Ww5K4BjUAel7g

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #library #ala150

As 2026 peeks over the horizon, we'd like to take a moment to reflect back on the past year, including the 20+ books we published: http://tinyurl.com/49d8vf8d

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #library

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals

by Kathleen Hughes on September 29, 2025

Student loans, tuition reimbursement policies, internships, research papers, and marketing classes are just a few of the many steps library school students navigate to earn a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Master of Library Science (MLS). Some programs also require comprehensive exams or portfolios demonstrating mastery of theory and practice.

Once the degree is in hand, the next step is applying for library jobs. Many students already have public library experience or are currently working in public libraries while finishing their degrees. No matter where you’re starting from–congratulations! Let’s talk about what comes next and how to navigate the job search with confidence and realism.

Understanding the Landscape

In the library world, there’s an unspoken belief that one isn’t truly a “librarian” until one earns a master’s degree. While this mindset can be motivating, it isn’t always accurate. Many current students are already competent and effective library workers and, in some cases, hiring managers.

Terminology also varies. Many public libraries prefer to use the term “library workers,” recognizing that patrons often see every staff member, regardless of title, as a librarian. What patrons care about most is service: getting their holds, a friendly smile, solid reader’s advisory, and a welcoming environment. Most are unconcerned with the internal distinctions about who attended library school and who did not. That said, patrons are often aware of who’s in management, who receives promotions, and who gets raises. Board meeting minutes are public, and community members read them. In a public library, visibility is part of the job. Being mindful of that can help prevent small missteps from turning into lasting challenges.

The Job Search

The first step is to carefully read the job posting. Know the difference between required qualifications (which often include the MLIS itself) and preferred qualifications (which might include experience in youth services, circulation, or supervision). Be realistic about the role. Some applicants apply “just to get their foot in the door,” hoping for a quick promotion. But what’s posted is what the library’s board approved. While advancement may be possible, there are no guarantees. An MLIS alone doesn’t guarantee an edge in future internal or external hiring.

Ask yourself: Will this position meet my needs in terms of salary, hours, and responsibilities? A well-fed, financially secure library worker is a happier and more effective library worker. Taking one for the team is admirable—but not if it leaves you with an empty refrigerator.

Do Your Homework

Before you interview, take time to research the library and its surrounding community. Visit the library as a patron. Read reviews, explore the website, and look at the calendar of events. Consider the commute, parking situation, nearby food options, and other logistical realities.

Also, consider whether the setting will be a good fit for your personality and needs. For example, if you’re neurodivergent, would a high-volume programming schedule be overwhelming? If you need quiet time during the day, will the layout and staffing model support that? Asking these questions now can help prevent burnout later.

What Hiring Managers Are Looking For

From a hiring manager’s perspective, one of the top priorities is availability, especially on weekends, and sometimes Sundays. Teamwork is another key focus. Most public libraries don’t have private offices for every employee, and the ability to collaborate and function well in shared spaces is essential.

Continue/Read Original Article Here: So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

#2025 #America #Books #Career #Education #Employment #History #Jobs #KathleenHughes #Libraries #Library #MasterOfLibraryAndInformationScience #MasterOfLibraryScience #MLIS #MLS #NewLibraryProfessionals #Practice #PublicLibraries #PublicLibrariesOnline #Theory #UnitedStates