Re-envisioning the MLS: Perspectives on the Future of Library and Information Science Education

The future of libraries is at the heart of any discussion about the future of librarians, and this book continues the critical conversations around preparing future librarians. It explores the challenges and opportunities inherent in the future of the MLS degree, including the changing nature of the communities that libraries serve, how archival training must accommodate big data, the specialized skill sets librarians need on the job, and how best to prepare librarians for their role as educators.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2018
Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

The future of libraries is intricately linked to the future of librarians, and the success of instructional programs, particularly the Master of Library Science (MLS) degree, in preparing them for their careers is a central concern. Building upon the Re-envisioning the MLS initiative from the University of Maryland's iSchool and the Information Policy & Access Center (iPAC), this book continues the critical dialogues surrounding the preparation of future librarians.

Library and information science (LIS) programs constitute the cornerstone of librarianship, and their design necessitates input from a wide range of stakeholders in the field. This includes academics responsible for designing programs and courses, practitioners who assess their readiness to serve communities, hiring authorities evaluating candidates' qualifications, and others.

The second installment of this two-part volume delves into numerous challenges and opportunities associated with the future of the MLS degree. It examines the evolving nature of the communities that libraries serve and the need for LIS education to adapt accordingly. It also explores the importance of archival training in accommodating big data, the specialized skill sets required by librarians in the workplace, and the most effective methods for preparing librarians for their roles as educators.

These discussions will undoubtedly continue, as LIS education must continually evolve to ensure the effectiveness of libraries and the librarians who are at the forefront of their work. The future of libraries is a complex and multifaceted issue, and it requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders to navigate the changing landscape and ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital institution.

Weight: 492g
Dimension: 159 x 239 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787548855