There's a lot of focus on the "Next Gen" librarians out there bringing a youth perspective that's supposed to shake things up and introducing new ideas and practices into a profession that sometimes moves forward at a glacial pace. But the ideas of the new generation do not invalidate the work done by those who came before. In fact, change in…

Discusses the concept of information literacy and its target audience of library users. Topics discussed include the relationship of information literacy to bibliographic instruction (BI) and other library instruction; the role of librarians; terminology problems in librarianship; and the effects of information literacy on the value of information…

In fall 2005, Rachel Holt and Adrienne L. Strock's article, "The Entry-Level Gap," ("Library Journal" 5/1/05, p.36-38) became the talk of the town. Holt and Strock argued that the new Master of Library Science (MLS) graduates have trouble finding work because of low salaries and the disappearance of entry-level positions owing to…

Argues that if librarianship is to change its outside perceptions, it must first change its self-perceptions. Three areas in which true professions that demand recognition and respect have established clearly visible ground rules are highlighted: (1) credentials and librarianship as a profession or trade, (2) research, and (3) continuing…

In this article, the author discusses his immediate concerns about working at Butler Library at Columbia University. He discusses the structure of the library system and voices his concerns about the structure. The structure is best described as a stratified pyramid. The librarians hired into the "upper base" are either specialists without an MLS…

This discussion of the place of research in the field of library science notes empirical and scientific research; testing, analysis, and research design; theories and methodologies from other disciplines; the dilemma of quantification; library research needs; and the search for an audience. Twenty-six references are cited. (EJS)

Speculates on why graduate library schools have not, in the persons of their professors, produced theoretical leadership in Library Science. The ideals of professional ethical standards are contrasted with present practice. (RAA)

This final column by Herbert White addresses his concerns with the professional objectives of librarians and how librarians are perceived and treated. Highlights include the users' need for librarians; the role of the American Library Association in supporting libraries more often than librarians; and stressing institutions rather than people.…

Discusses problems inherent in the contemporary requirement that library educators, as members of university faculties, be scholarly academic personnel. The development of library schools, pragmatic practitioners, the educational trend toward university connection, the graduate school standard, and library educators as academics are considered.…

Briefly reviews the impact of the ideology of professionalism on librarianship and explores the affected labor-management and librarian-client relationships. (RAA)

Cautions that present purely qualitative accreditation standards tend to deny disaccreditation as a Committee on Accreditation (ALA) alternative and to reinforce mediocrity. Standards should be revised to accept certain quantitative, structural, and procedural changes to insure quality in library school graduates. (RAA)

Explores the concept of the "professional" in librarianship, the right mix of professional and support staff in libraries, librarians doing clerical work, professional credentials, and staffing changes resulting from technological advancement. (PEN)

Outlines the state of the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) on the eve of its 48th General Conference, reviews the important functions of IFLA, summarizes the important issues in international librarianship to be addressed at the conference, describes the IFLA relationship with ALA, and briefly discusses IFLA and politics.…

Argues that librarians should be committed to ensure access to knowledge, adhere to encouraging users to be knowledge self-sufficient, avoid outmoded models of professionalism, and not feel threatened by other information dissemination groups. Included are 26 references. (RAA)

Offers advice to librarians considering doctoral study in library and information science. Highlights include the difference between academic and professional degrees and how to select a school, choose a specialty, and evaluate the quality of a program. (EM)