Describes a study that sought to facilitate curriculum planning by ascertaining the attitudes of library school alumni regarding the value of various competencies in a master's program. Highlights include the possible impact of electronic information on competency, a literature review, competencies rated by type of library, and ratings by…

This contribution to "The Visible College" column considers the question of expanding the Master's in Library Science (MLS) program to better prepare students for future participation in the library profession. Benefits include exposure to core curriculum, opportunities for specialization, forming alliances with and taking classes in…

Provides a list of questions that college libraries should consider before deciding to participate in an internship, or practicum, program with library school graduate students. Topics include committing library resources, knowing enough about the intern, staff who can act as mentors, and preparation required. (Author/LRW)

Assesses continuing education programs and initiatives in library and information service (LIS) in South Africa. Reviews how apartheid left educational institutions unevenly developed and argues that despite the availability of programs to most LIS personnel, those not belonging to professional organizations and those from previously disadvantaged…

Based on a survey of graduates of University of Pittsburgh master's degree programs, this article presents information on special librarians and compares them with other library and business professionals. Data are included on gender, race, and age; social background; education; prior work experience; career paths; job interruptions; salaries;…

Describes a survey of state libraries that examined the extent to which prison libraries employ civilian staff and perceptions of the usefulness of special graduate programs or courses for prison librarianship. It is concluded that there is a limited market for librarians with specialization in prison librarianship and special planning is required…

Summarizes the results of a study that identified researchable issues related to the role of libraries in the information society. Specific research questions are presented within the categories of access to information; information needs and users; libraries and education; library models; the role of public services librarians; and education and…

Presents the results of a survey of 60 ALA-accredited programs concerning the role of practicum. Results discussed include the prevalence of practicums in the curriculum; percentage of students who undertake a practicum; administrative aspects such as faculty responsibility and compensation; and practicum requirements, credits, and funding. (nine…

Reports on a survey of Indiana University Master in Library Science (M.L.S.)-Chemical Information Specialist program graduates. Information includes graduates' educational background; the nature of first jobs and current positions held; and databases most frequently used. Graduates generally favored more training in computer skills, patent…

Explores the differences between the characteristics, goals, and required skills of librarian-trained managers employed in nonlibrary but library-related settings and those of directors of libraries. Methodologies used in the exploration included interviews with managers in nonlibrary settings, analysis of position descriptions from…

Discussion of the effects of cultural diversity on academic libraries and library and information science education examines the impact of demographics on affirmative action recruitment in business and higher education; effects of demographic trends on library and information science professions; faculty attitudes; and library and information…

Presents the edited transcript of a discussion among 10 library school deans and the American Library Association's accreditation officer that was held to address issues concerning library education, including the role that library schools should play in educating library support staff, curriculum changes, and differences in library school…

Explores the use of citation data in evaluating research performance of academic programs and individual faculty members based on a 10-year analysis of the School of Library and Information Science at Indiana University. The use of three methods conjointly for allocating citational credit to multiauthored works is discussed. (Contains 35…

Provides directory information, arranged by state, for colleges and universities that offer certification programs in school library media services. Undergraduate and graduate programs are indicated, as well as accreditation status; and schools in Puerto Rico and Canada are included. (LRW)

Eighteen mature academic librarians were interviewed regarding acceptance as colleagues by teaching faculty. Performing the role of librarian and exploiting campus governance activities contributed significantly to collegial acceptance more than a common interest in research. The most important factor was self-confidence as a librarian. Models and…