In this mixed methods and multi-phased study, through a multi-round feedback and confirmation process, we established a meaningful approach to developing, revising, and finalizing a competency framework for InterProfessional Informationists (IPI). As an emerging profession, IPI has not yet been established as a formal educational program with a…

This article describes the evolution of a required Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) research methods course moving to a focus on evidence-based library and information practice (EBLIP). It describes how a research methods course was revised, beginning with results from a "typical" course review and morphing into work that…

In this article we connect critical librarianship and its practices of information literacy (IL) with working-class experiences of higher education (HE). Although the research literature and professional body of knowledge of critical information literacy (CIL), is one of the most theoretically-developed areas of wider critical librarianship…

In 2015, surveys of students, faculty, and librarians and other library staff elicited their perceptions of the contributions of community college libraries to student success, both directly and via librarian collaboration with faculty. The three surveyed groups agreed substantially that libraries and librarians contribute to student success, both…

As library and information science (LIS) becomes an increasingly technology-driven profession, particularly in the academic library environment, questions arise as to the extent of information technology (IT) knowledge and skills that LIS professionals require. The purpose of this paper is to ascertain what IT knowledge and skills are needed by…

Animated maps of the library stacks were integrated into the catalog interface at Pratt Institute and into the EBSCO Discovery Service interface at Illinois State University. The mapping feature was developed for optimal automation of the update process to enable a range of library personnel to update maps and call-number ranges. The development…

Using data from the 2003 National Survey of College Graduates, this paper examines earnings in the library science labor market and assesses the impact of gender on the income attainment process. We use this cross-sectional dataset to determine if there are significant income differences between male and female library science professionals. The…

This article presents two recent studies, an AHRC-funded exploration of the role of empathy in community librarianship (Study 1) and an investigation of the role of empathy in service to minority ethnic users (Study 2). Qualitative elements of each methodology are presented, namely a series of focus groups with frontline staff, interviews with…

This study of the way librarians use the library literature examined interlibrary loan requests at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Data were analyzed on: subjects, journals, and years requested; library types; patron types; and citation sources. The practical and technical aspects of librarianship were found to be the most…

To determine whether present alternatives in library education in Ohio are adequate to the educational demand, a study of potential enrollment for graduate programs in library science during the coming decade was conducted as part of the Graduate Education for Librarianship in Ohio Project. Library associates (professional staff members without…

This paper discusses the effects of operational convergence, and the subsequent growth of the hybrid library model, upon the professional self-identity of academic library staff. The role of professionalism as a concept and motivational driver within contemporary academic librarianship is examined. Main themes of investigation include the extent…

Raises questions about influence of present reference practice on library user perceptions of the librarian as information intermediary and on user ability to distinguish between librarians and other staff. Questions are discussed within context of client-professional relationship, using data from study of users of three midwestern university…

Long a controversial topic in the specialized world of reference librarianship, unobtrusive evaluation is a useful tool in gauging the degree to which reference librarians are effectively performing their jobs. Based on a nationwide survey of government documents reference service in Canada, This book examines the broad philosophical implications…

Analyzes the effects of human capital, institutional, and personal factors on earnings of library faculty with a master of library science degree employed by the University System of Georgia. Finds that earnings increase with experience, position, and higher academic rank; that gender discrimination is absent; and that intellectual contributions…

This study investigated the post-master's educational needs and interests of information professionals. The population for the study consisted of members of the library associations of Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Ontario, Canada. About 78 percent of the respondents held a master's degree in library science, 22 percent a master's degree in another…