Rubin

1. What debt do we owe to C.C. Williamson? Why was his report so important then? Is it important for us today? In what ways?

2. What is the crux of the "library versus information" debate? Being currently enrolled in an ALA-accredited Library and Information Science program, weigh in with your thoughts on the debate.

3. Rubin describes three models that characterize professions: the trait model, the control model, and the values model. He points out that there are ways in which the LIS profession does or does not mesh with each of these models. Which of these three models seems the most useful in characterizing our profession? If you were to explain to an administrator what makes LIS a profession how would you do so?

4. The author talks about gender disparity in the LIS profession, noting that "women are more likely to serve as children's librarians or in cataloging positions; men are more likely to seek technology-oriented and managerial positions..." The author also notes that "librarians in children's services and cataloging generally receive lower pay than those in other basic service positions." How do you think LIS education could help to promote greater gender equity in the profession?

5. Rubin also talks about a lack of African American and Hispanic librarians. Here in Hawai`i that lack of diversity also applies to some Pacific-Island ethnicities. How do you think LIS education programs could help to alleviate this lack of diversity?

6. Rubin writes on page 119 that "What makes library and information science attractive as a profession is not merely satisfying information needs but caring about people, solving human problems, and improving lives." How does this match up with why you wish to become a member of the LIS profession?

RUSA guidelines and ALA Core competencies

1. How do you see yourself applying these guidelines and core competencies in your intended information profession?

2. How confident do you feel at this point in the LIS program that you have the knowledge and ability to put these guidelines and competencies into practice? Where do you feel deficient at this time?

Thomas

[Note: ICT refers to Information and Communications Technology]

1. The authors say that "One may say applications like automation, the web, the internet, institutional repositories, etc., are old stories. Hence we do not intend to go into these. The scene has advanced much more. Newer trends have set in. We shall discuss below emerging newer trends and their implications for academic librarianship." What are those emerging newer trends?

2. How do you intend to prepare for them?

3. Do you agree with the authors' assertion in the first sentence of 2.2.1?

4. What might be the consequences for the profession if librarians do not get the type of support identified by the authors as necessary from their library associations?

Hirsh

Questions for all

5. Study several current, entry-level job descriptions for your area of interest in library and information work. (Use periodicals, listservs, or online job lists. There are also a few job descriptions in the LIS 610 drawer of the filing cabinet in the LIS common area.) What are the duties expected for this type of position? What skills and knowledge are expected? How are you preparing yourself for these skills?

• How did you prepare for this interview?

• How do you approach a new job?

• Why do you want this position?

• What attracts you to this position in particular?

• How do you see your role as a librarian/information specialist here?

• Where do you intend to take this job? This library? What is your vision for the future?

• What strengths do you bring to this position?

• What trends do you see in [academic] libraries today?

• What is the role of a community college?

• If you were at a university or college campus and the administration told you they planned to close the undergraduate library, what arguments would you present against that decision?

• What do you think of affirmative action in hiring?

• How do you feel about working in a culturally diverse environment?

• If you could buy something for $5.00 that would make your job easier, would you buy it yourself?

• Tell us about your present/last job.

• What did you like best about your last position?

• Tell us about your experiences working in other library departments/units/types of libraries.

• Where do you see yourself five years from now?

• What plans do you have for publishing/getting a second Master's degree?

• What in your [teaching] profession prepared you for this job?

• In your MLISc program, which course impressed you most and why?

• What is your personal theory of supervising? Give examples.

• How would you create a collection development policy?

• What experience do you have with online cataloging?

• How long does it take to get a book on the shelf after ordering?

• Can you name some prominent children's authors?

• Do you think there is too much emphasis on electronic resources today?

• What database searching/Internet/Web site creation experience have you had?

• How would you approach bibliographic instruction?

• What personal qualities make you a good instructor?

• Is there any additional information you would like to share with us?

• Are there any questions you have for us?

• How will the person who takes this position be evaluated or promoted?

• Are you planning to offer any new services in the near future?

Your References

Because employers are most interested in the quality of your work habits, they value references from librarians you have worked with and for as employee, intern, and volunteer, and from your other employers. You should include at least two letters of reference. References from professors are important, but a strong resume includes professional, employment, as well as academic references. Always include a one-page cover letter tailored to that particular position and institution.