#publiclibraries — Public Fediverse posts

This is kind of sad, the whole San Mateo County #publiclibraries has no internet access, so no internet nor computers.

> There's a major AT&T outage.

> NO Public PC
>No wiFi

> No ETA on when this will be fixed.

It has been like this since 05/01 - at least.

All Hail Libraries!

It is National Library Week in the US, and what better opportunity to take a moment to appreciate the joy and wonder that is the modern library system?

National Library Week | ALA

However you use your library, there’s joy waiting for you there.

Bored? Library. Curious? Library. Broke? Library. Rich? (Donate to the) library. Interested in the past? Library. Worried about the future? Library. Need to do your taxes? Library. Want to learn a new language? Library. Want to build a better community? Library!

“Congratulations on the new library, because it isn’t just a library. It is a space ship that will take you to the farthest reaches of the Universe, a time machine that will take you to the far past and the far future, a teacher that knows more than any human being, a friend that will amuse you and console you — and most of all, a gateway, to a better and happier and more useful life.” ― Isaac Asimov

* * *

Encountering ICE

Public library directors share tips for dealing with federal immigration activity

https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2026/03/26/encountering-ice/

#ICE #immigration #libraries #publiclibraries #police #protectpeople #bibliotheques #bibliotheque @libraries

created a gallery of #cleveland #photographs taken by my coworker, adam jaenke from the last 5-6 years. #publiclibraries https://clevepl.github.io/nps/ uses #iiif

created a gallery of #cleveland #photographs taken by my coworker, adam jaenke from the last 5-6 years. #publiclibraries https://clevepl.github.io/nps/ uses #iiif

created a gallery of #cleveland #photographs taken by my coworker, adam jaenke from the last 5-6 years. #publiclibraries https://clevepl.github.io/nps/ uses #iiif

created a gallery of #cleveland #photographs taken by my coworker, adam jaenke from the last 5-6 years. #publiclibraries https://clevepl.github.io/nps/ uses #iiif

created a gallery of #cleveland #photographs taken by my coworker, adam jaenke from the last 5-6 years. #publiclibraries https://clevepl.github.io/nps/ uses #iiif

Did you know...

Libraries aren't just for books. Lots of US public libraries offer free online training courses for a wide swath of interests.

A Louisville Free Public Library card grants you access to multiple training platforms, including LinkedIn Learning, which is usually $20/mo just by itself.
https://www.lfpl.org/lifelong-learning#151

Also... You don't even need to be a resident of Louisville/Jefferson County, KY to get a card. Sure, if you're in Jefferson Co it's free, but LFPL cards are also available to 22 nearby counties (including 7 in Indiana) for only $35/yr. https://www.lfpl.org/howdoi#204

#lfpl #publiclibraries #freetraining #louisvilleArea

School Library Journal: Librarians Must Step Up As Data Disappears. “Public data underpins research, journalism, policy, and civic understanding. It functions much like a public library. Quiet. Foundational. Often unnoticed until constrained. If shared facts depend on institutional stability, then protecting public data is not a technical concern. It is a civic obligation. When the reference […]

School Library Journal: Librarians Must Step Up As Data Disappears. “Public data underpins research, journalism, policy, and civic understanding. It functions much like a public library. Quiet. Foundational. Often unnoticed until constrained. If shared facts depend on institutional stability, then protecting public data is not a technical concern. It is a civic obligation. When the reference […]

School Library Journal: Librarians Must Step Up As Data Disappears. “Public data underpins research, journalism, policy, and civic understanding. It functions much like a public library. Quiet. Foundational. Often unnoticed until constrained. If shared facts depend on institutional stability, then protecting public data is not a technical concern. It is a civic obligation. When the reference […]

School Library Journal: Librarians Must Step Up As Data Disappears. “Public data underpins research, journalism, policy, and civic understanding. It functions much like a public library. Quiet. Foundational. Often unnoticed until constrained. If shared facts depend on institutional stability, then protecting public data is not a technical concern. It is a civic obligation. When the reference […]

School Library Journal: Librarians Must Step Up As Data Disappears. “Public data underpins research, journalism, policy, and civic understanding. It functions much like a public library. Quiet. Foundational. Often unnoticed until constrained. If shared facts depend on institutional stability, then protecting public data is not a technical concern. It is a civic obligation. When the reference […]

Look for the ALA Store at #PLA2026 ... Booth 1611! Apparel, bookmarks, posters, totes, and gift and professional development books galore. https://www.placonference.org/

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #publiclibraries #library

Look for the ALA Store at #PLA2026 ... Booth 1611! Apparel, bookmarks, posters, totes, and gift and professional development books galore. https://www.placonference.org/

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #publiclibraries #library

Look for the ALA Store at #PLA2026 ... Booth 1611! Apparel, bookmarks, posters, totes, and gift and professional development books galore. https://www.placonference.org/

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #publiclibraries #library

Look for the ALA Store at #PLA2026 ... Booth 1611! Apparel, bookmarks, posters, totes, and gift and professional development books galore. https://www.placonference.org/

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #publiclibraries #library

Wonderful!! 📚

https://www.wri.org/insights/reviving-nairobis-libraries-builds-healthier-communities

#PublicLibraries #BooksandLibraries

Public AI Inference Utility publicai.co/about #AI #PublicLibraries #OpenSource #Swiss

I really appreciate IPL for stocking Ukrainian books and for being the rare third space to exist in.

#publiclibraries #indianapolis #ukraine

@jkirkendall
Love public libraries!
“ Public libraries rock. ”
#libraries #publicLibraries

Keep your eyes out for the return of the #VictoriaSeedLibrary!

#SeedDonation bins will be popping up this month at library branches across #VictoriaBC & #seeds will be available to take out at the Downtown Public Library during opening hours. Support local #SeedSecurity by saving and donating seeds. 🌱

#LifecyclesProjectSociety #nonprofit #FreeSeeds #SeedLibrary #LocalSeeds #ShareSeeds #CultivatingCommunities #SeedsForCommunity #YYJ #FoodSecurity #FoodSystems #FoodEquity #gardening #VancouverIsland #VanIsle #PublicLibraries

On my #Localhistory blog, I explore some of the history of the 1730 building that houses the cutest little library in the world (in my estimation), and one of the places that fundamentally shaped me. Here's the story of Scotia, NY's Abraham Glen house:

https://hoxsie.org/2026/02/18/the-abraham-glen-house-the-scotia-public-library/

#ScotiaNY #scotia #schenectady #histodons #libraries #PublicLibraries

Grant Guidelines for Libraries and Museums Take “Chilling” Political Turn Under Trump
Former Institute of Museum and Library Services leaders expressed concern that the new funding guidelines could encourage a more constrained or distorted view of American history.
https://www.propublica.org/article/institute-of-museum-and-library-services-grant-guidelines-donald-trump
#Museums #Libraries #PublicLibraries #GrantFunding #AmericanHistory #FascismInTheUSA

A Message from the Public Library Association Board Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement in Minneapolis and the PLA 2026 Conference – Public Libraries Online

 A Message from the Public Library Association Board Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement in Minneapolis and the PLA 2026 Conference

by Kathleen Hughes on January 30, 2026

PLA is heartbroken by recent events and has been coordinating closely with city and venue partners to support them and to foster a safe and welcoming conference environment. We are committed to moving forward with PLA 2026 in Minneapolis, April 1–3, and look forward to gathering in strength and solidarity with Minnesota colleagues and with all of you around the country—in person or virtually.

Public Safety

We hear and understand the concerns that have been voiced, and we recognize each library, exhibitor, and attendee may evaluate circumstances differently. PLA’s highest priority is the safety and wellness of our attendees, partners, and staff.

The Minneapolis Convention and Visitors Bureau is maintaining a continuously updated FAQ page that outlines what is occurring in the area. The convention center, surrounding hotels, restaurants, cultural attractions, and transportation infrastructure have remained fully operational and supported by coordinated security, hospitality, and public safety resources over the past month.

Out of an abundance of caution, we offer these suggestions to support safety while traveling to and around the city:

• Download the PLA 2026 Conference mobile app when we launch in late February and subscribe to alerts
• Review Know Your Rights resources such as this and this
• Make a digital copy of and plan to carry personal identification (REAL ID or passport) with you at all times.
• Share your itinerary with someone at home and check in regularly
• In general, we always recommend taking off your conference badge when traveling outside conference venues and staying alert to your surroundings.

The PLA 2026 Virtual Conference will coincide with the in-person event and is another option for real-time online learning, livestreams, and connection with peers.

Local Support

We also have heard a loud and strong desire from library workers across the nation to support our colleagues and the city at this time. Local officials have told us that the best way that we can do this is to continue to visit, dine, shop, enjoy arts and culture, visit libraries, and engage with residents and local businesses in the Twin Cities.

PLA also is collaborating with local partners to add opportunities to connect, donate, and support our Twin Cities colleagues, residents, and organizations. Please stay tuned as we explore options to strengthen our connections and create the greatest impact.

In this moment, we hope you will join us in showing up for the city and residents of Minneapolis. Our Public Library Association biennial conference offers a tremendous opportunity to support healing and the resilience of this vibrant, inclusive American city and the mission-driven library workers in the Twin Cities.

Editor’s Note: These are the sites for reference: https://www.ilcm.org/immigration-resources/know-your-rights/immigrants-refugees/ and https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/immigrants-rights

Continue/Read Original Article Here: A Message from the Public Library Association Board Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement in Minneapolis and the PLA 2026 Conference – Public Libraries Online

Ahead of Print in BFP: New article explores award-winning Siegburg City Library. Thomas Druwe highlights how the Siegburg City Library became 'Library of the Year' through inclusive education, partnerships, and digital innovation. #PublicLibraries #LibraryInnovation #SocialInclusion #Germany

https://doi.org/10.1515/bfp-2025-0054

Yesterday's webinar for public library workers is now viewable on YouTube! https://youtu.be/q-uuGdGarn0?si=IZkaaJJcdz9Li0bw

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #library #publiclibraries

Yesterday's webinar for public library workers is now viewable on YouTube! https://youtu.be/q-uuGdGarn0?si=IZkaaJJcdz9Li0bw

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #library #publiclibraries

Yesterday's webinar for public library workers is now viewable on YouTube! https://youtu.be/q-uuGdGarn0?si=IZkaaJJcdz9Li0bw

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #library #publiclibraries

Yesterday's webinar for public library workers is now viewable on YouTube! https://youtu.be/q-uuGdGarn0?si=IZkaaJJcdz9Li0bw

#ALA #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LIS #MLIS #libraries #librarianship #InformationScience #library #publiclibraries

Ahead of Print in BFP: New ahead-of-print article: Dresden's public libraries named Library of the Year 2025. Henriette Mehn explores why Dresden's library system was honored for its everyday excellence, community outreach, and sustainable innovations. #PublicLibraries #LibraryoftheYear #Germany

https://doi.org/10.1515/bfp-2025-0055

If you're in #VictoriaBC on February 14 - come & see me at #SeedySaturday 2026! I'll be working at the #LifecyclesProjectSociety table & will have #FreeSeeds to give away to folks who stop by!

Come & get some free seeds from us! Learn more about our nonprofit, sign up for updates or to volunteer with us & get info on our #VictoriaSeedLibrary that we are relaunching at #PublicLibraries in Victoria & surrounding municipalities.

Victoria Seedy Saturday will be hosted on February 14, 2026 from 11am-4pm, at the Crystal Gardens. Come for seeds and seedlings, garden talks, a kids table & more!

https://farmfolkcityfolk.ca/seedy-events/victoria-seedy-saturday/

#SeedsSovereignty #ShareSeeds #TradeSeeds #BuySeeds #SellSeeds #GetYourSeeds #FoodSecurity #FoodSystems #SeedsForTheRevolution #SeedLovers #SeedSavers #CommunityEvent #CommunityBuilding #CommunityConnecting #VancouverIsland #VanIsle #nonprofit #YYJEvents #FamilyFriendly

My 8th visit to the North Sulawesi Provincial Library and Archives in 2025. I borrowed two books on my visit this time.

#sofiaflorina #ソフィアフロリナ #august2025 #2025stories #2025story #selfie #selfies #myselfie #myselfies #library #libraries #biblioteca #библиотека #bibliothèque #bibliotheque #perpustakaan #図書館 #publiclibrary #publiclibraries #librarylover #librarylovers #booklover #booklovers #book #books #bookish #read #bookworm #bibliophile

Seed Libraries at Public Libraries Are Growing
https://www.almanac.com/seed-libraries-public-libraries-are-growing

#SolarPunkSunday #Seeds #SeedLibrary #SeedLibraries #PublicLibraries

My 6th visit to the North Sulawesi Provincial Library and Archives in 2025. I borrowed two books on my visit this time.

#sofiaflorina #ソフィアフロリナ #july2025 #2025stories #2025story #selfie #selfies #myselfie #myselfies #library #libraries #biblioteca #библиотека #bibliothèque #bibliotheque #perpustakaan #図書館 #publiclibrary #publiclibraries #librarylover #librarylovers #booklover #booklovers #book #books #bookish #read #bookworm #bibliophile

My 5th visit to the North Sulawesi Provincial Library and Archives in 2025. I borrowed two books on my visit this time.

#sofiaflorina #ソフィアフロリナ #july2025 #2025 #2025stories #2025story #selfie #selfies #myselfie #myselfies #library #libraries #biblioteca #библиотека #bibliothèque #bibliotheque #perpustakaan #図書館 #publiclibrary #publiclibraries #librarylover #librarylovers #booklover #booklovers #book #books #bookish #read #bookworm #bibliophile

Southern states ban transgender books from YA and children's sections in libraries

https://fed.brid.gy/r/https://www.advocate.com/politics/alabama-tennessee-transgender-books-libraries

Southern states ban transgender books from YA and children's sections in libraries

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://www.advocate.com/politics/alabama-tennessee-transgender-books-libraries

Southern states ban transgender books from YA and children's sections in libraries

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://www.advocate.com/politics/alabama-tennessee-transgender-books-libraries

Southern states ban transgender books from YA and children's sections in libraries

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://www.advocate.com/politics/alabama-tennessee-transgender-books-libraries

Southern states ban transgender books from YA and children's sections in libraries

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://www.advocate.com/politics/alabama-tennessee-transgender-books-libraries

Creating learning alliances for flourishing food environmental futures

Deborah Dutta
Miwa Takeuchi
Anita Chowdhury
Sonder Edworthy
Chantal Eves
Syma Habib
Anika Haroon
Sophia Thraya
Liana Wolf Leg

#Immigration #IndigenousKnowledge #LearningAlliances #Placemaking #FoodJustice #PublicLibraries #ClimateAction #EnvironmentalJustice

#Read all you want! #OpenAccess
#Share generously! #KnowledgeSharing
#Grow your understanding of #Food
#Repeat

https://canadianfoodstudies.uwaterloo.ca/index.php/cfs/article/view/709

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals

by Kathleen Hughes on September 29, 2025

Student loans, tuition reimbursement policies, internships, research papers, and marketing classes are just a few of the many steps library school students navigate to earn a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Master of Library Science (MLS). Some programs also require comprehensive exams or portfolios demonstrating mastery of theory and practice.

Once the degree is in hand, the next step is applying for library jobs. Many students already have public library experience or are currently working in public libraries while finishing their degrees. No matter where you’re starting from–congratulations! Let’s talk about what comes next and how to navigate the job search with confidence and realism.

Understanding the Landscape

In the library world, there’s an unspoken belief that one isn’t truly a “librarian” until one earns a master’s degree. While this mindset can be motivating, it isn’t always accurate. Many current students are already competent and effective library workers and, in some cases, hiring managers.

Terminology also varies. Many public libraries prefer to use the term “library workers,” recognizing that patrons often see every staff member, regardless of title, as a librarian. What patrons care about most is service: getting their holds, a friendly smile, solid reader’s advisory, and a welcoming environment. Most are unconcerned with the internal distinctions about who attended library school and who did not. That said, patrons are often aware of who’s in management, who receives promotions, and who gets raises. Board meeting minutes are public, and community members read them. In a public library, visibility is part of the job. Being mindful of that can help prevent small missteps from turning into lasting challenges.

The Job Search

The first step is to carefully read the job posting. Know the difference between required qualifications (which often include the MLIS itself) and preferred qualifications (which might include experience in youth services, circulation, or supervision). Be realistic about the role. Some applicants apply “just to get their foot in the door,” hoping for a quick promotion. But what’s posted is what the library’s board approved. While advancement may be possible, there are no guarantees. An MLIS alone doesn’t guarantee an edge in future internal or external hiring.

Ask yourself: Will this position meet my needs in terms of salary, hours, and responsibilities? A well-fed, financially secure library worker is a happier and more effective library worker. Taking one for the team is admirable—but not if it leaves you with an empty refrigerator.

Do Your Homework

Before you interview, take time to research the library and its surrounding community. Visit the library as a patron. Read reviews, explore the website, and look at the calendar of events. Consider the commute, parking situation, nearby food options, and other logistical realities.

Also, consider whether the setting will be a good fit for your personality and needs. For example, if you’re neurodivergent, would a high-volume programming schedule be overwhelming? If you need quiet time during the day, will the layout and staffing model support that? Asking these questions now can help prevent burnout later.

What Hiring Managers Are Looking For

From a hiring manager’s perspective, one of the top priorities is availability, especially on weekends, and sometimes Sundays. Teamwork is another key focus. Most public libraries don’t have private offices for every employee, and the ability to collaborate and function well in shared spaces is essential.

Continue/Read Original Article Here: So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

#2025 #America #Books #Career #Education #Employment #History #Jobs #KathleenHughes #Libraries #Library #MasterOfLibraryAndInformationScience #MasterOfLibraryScience #MLIS #MLS #NewLibraryProfessionals #Practice #PublicLibraries #PublicLibrariesOnline #Theory #UnitedStates

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals

by Kathleen Hughes on September 29, 2025

Student loans, tuition reimbursement policies, internships, research papers, and marketing classes are just a few of the many steps library school students navigate to earn a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Master of Library Science (MLS). Some programs also require comprehensive exams or portfolios demonstrating mastery of theory and practice.

Once the degree is in hand, the next step is applying for library jobs. Many students already have public library experience or are currently working in public libraries while finishing their degrees. No matter where you’re starting from–congratulations! Let’s talk about what comes next and how to navigate the job search with confidence and realism.

Understanding the Landscape

In the library world, there’s an unspoken belief that one isn’t truly a “librarian” until one earns a master’s degree. While this mindset can be motivating, it isn’t always accurate. Many current students are already competent and effective library workers and, in some cases, hiring managers.

Terminology also varies. Many public libraries prefer to use the term “library workers,” recognizing that patrons often see every staff member, regardless of title, as a librarian. What patrons care about most is service: getting their holds, a friendly smile, solid reader’s advisory, and a welcoming environment. Most are unconcerned with the internal distinctions about who attended library school and who did not. That said, patrons are often aware of who’s in management, who receives promotions, and who gets raises. Board meeting minutes are public, and community members read them. In a public library, visibility is part of the job. Being mindful of that can help prevent small missteps from turning into lasting challenges.

The Job Search

The first step is to carefully read the job posting. Know the difference between required qualifications (which often include the MLIS itself) and preferred qualifications (which might include experience in youth services, circulation, or supervision). Be realistic about the role. Some applicants apply “just to get their foot in the door,” hoping for a quick promotion. But what’s posted is what the library’s board approved. While advancement may be possible, there are no guarantees. An MLIS alone doesn’t guarantee an edge in future internal or external hiring.

Ask yourself: Will this position meet my needs in terms of salary, hours, and responsibilities? A well-fed, financially secure library worker is a happier and more effective library worker. Taking one for the team is admirable—but not if it leaves you with an empty refrigerator.

Do Your Homework

Before you interview, take time to research the library and its surrounding community. Visit the library as a patron. Read reviews, explore the website, and look at the calendar of events. Consider the commute, parking situation, nearby food options, and other logistical realities.

Also, consider whether the setting will be a good fit for your personality and needs. For example, if you’re neurodivergent, would a high-volume programming schedule be overwhelming? If you need quiet time during the day, will the layout and staffing model support that? Asking these questions now can help prevent burnout later.

What Hiring Managers Are Looking For

From a hiring manager’s perspective, one of the top priorities is availability, especially on weekends, and sometimes Sundays. Teamwork is another key focus. Most public libraries don’t have private offices for every employee, and the ability to collaborate and function well in shared spaces is essential.

Continue/Read Original Article Here: So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

#2025 #America #Books #Career #Education #Employment #History #Jobs #KathleenHughes #Libraries #Library #MasterOfLibraryAndInformationScience #MasterOfLibraryScience #MLIS #MLS #NewLibraryProfessionals #Practice #PublicLibraries #PublicLibrariesOnline #Theory #UnitedStates

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals

by Kathleen Hughes on September 29, 2025

Student loans, tuition reimbursement policies, internships, research papers, and marketing classes are just a few of the many steps library school students navigate to earn a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Master of Library Science (MLS). Some programs also require comprehensive exams or portfolios demonstrating mastery of theory and practice.

Once the degree is in hand, the next step is applying for library jobs. Many students already have public library experience or are currently working in public libraries while finishing their degrees. No matter where you’re starting from–congratulations! Let’s talk about what comes next and how to navigate the job search with confidence and realism.

Understanding the Landscape

In the library world, there’s an unspoken belief that one isn’t truly a “librarian” until one earns a master’s degree. While this mindset can be motivating, it isn’t always accurate. Many current students are already competent and effective library workers and, in some cases, hiring managers.

Terminology also varies. Many public libraries prefer to use the term “library workers,” recognizing that patrons often see every staff member, regardless of title, as a librarian. What patrons care about most is service: getting their holds, a friendly smile, solid reader’s advisory, and a welcoming environment. Most are unconcerned with the internal distinctions about who attended library school and who did not. That said, patrons are often aware of who’s in management, who receives promotions, and who gets raises. Board meeting minutes are public, and community members read them. In a public library, visibility is part of the job. Being mindful of that can help prevent small missteps from turning into lasting challenges.

The Job Search

The first step is to carefully read the job posting. Know the difference between required qualifications (which often include the MLIS itself) and preferred qualifications (which might include experience in youth services, circulation, or supervision). Be realistic about the role. Some applicants apply “just to get their foot in the door,” hoping for a quick promotion. But what’s posted is what the library’s board approved. While advancement may be possible, there are no guarantees. An MLIS alone doesn’t guarantee an edge in future internal or external hiring.

Ask yourself: Will this position meet my needs in terms of salary, hours, and responsibilities? A well-fed, financially secure library worker is a happier and more effective library worker. Taking one for the team is admirable—but not if it leaves you with an empty refrigerator.

Do Your Homework

Before you interview, take time to research the library and its surrounding community. Visit the library as a patron. Read reviews, explore the website, and look at the calendar of events. Consider the commute, parking situation, nearby food options, and other logistical realities.

Also, consider whether the setting will be a good fit for your personality and needs. For example, if you’re neurodivergent, would a high-volume programming schedule be overwhelming? If you need quiet time during the day, will the layout and staffing model support that? Asking these questions now can help prevent burnout later.

What Hiring Managers Are Looking For

From a hiring manager’s perspective, one of the top priorities is availability, especially on weekends, and sometimes Sundays. Teamwork is another key focus. Most public libraries don’t have private offices for every employee, and the ability to collaborate and function well in shared spaces is essential.

Continue/Read Original Article Here: So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

#2025 #America #Books #Career #Education #Employment #History #Jobs #KathleenHughes #Libraries #Library #MasterOfLibraryAndInformationScience #MasterOfLibraryScience #MLIS #MLS #NewLibraryProfessionals #Practice #PublicLibraries #PublicLibrariesOnline #Theory #UnitedStates

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals

by Kathleen Hughes on September 29, 2025

Student loans, tuition reimbursement policies, internships, research papers, and marketing classes are just a few of the many steps library school students navigate to earn a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Master of Library Science (MLS). Some programs also require comprehensive exams or portfolios demonstrating mastery of theory and practice.

Once the degree is in hand, the next step is applying for library jobs. Many students already have public library experience or are currently working in public libraries while finishing their degrees. No matter where you’re starting from–congratulations! Let’s talk about what comes next and how to navigate the job search with confidence and realism.

Understanding the Landscape

In the library world, there’s an unspoken belief that one isn’t truly a “librarian” until one earns a master’s degree. While this mindset can be motivating, it isn’t always accurate. Many current students are already competent and effective library workers and, in some cases, hiring managers.

Terminology also varies. Many public libraries prefer to use the term “library workers,” recognizing that patrons often see every staff member, regardless of title, as a librarian. What patrons care about most is service: getting their holds, a friendly smile, solid reader’s advisory, and a welcoming environment. Most are unconcerned with the internal distinctions about who attended library school and who did not. That said, patrons are often aware of who’s in management, who receives promotions, and who gets raises. Board meeting minutes are public, and community members read them. In a public library, visibility is part of the job. Being mindful of that can help prevent small missteps from turning into lasting challenges.

The Job Search

The first step is to carefully read the job posting. Know the difference between required qualifications (which often include the MLIS itself) and preferred qualifications (which might include experience in youth services, circulation, or supervision). Be realistic about the role. Some applicants apply “just to get their foot in the door,” hoping for a quick promotion. But what’s posted is what the library’s board approved. While advancement may be possible, there are no guarantees. An MLIS alone doesn’t guarantee an edge in future internal or external hiring.

Ask yourself: Will this position meet my needs in terms of salary, hours, and responsibilities? A well-fed, financially secure library worker is a happier and more effective library worker. Taking one for the team is admirable—but not if it leaves you with an empty refrigerator.

Do Your Homework

Before you interview, take time to research the library and its surrounding community. Visit the library as a patron. Read reviews, explore the website, and look at the calendar of events. Consider the commute, parking situation, nearby food options, and other logistical realities.

Also, consider whether the setting will be a good fit for your personality and needs. For example, if you’re neurodivergent, would a high-volume programming schedule be overwhelming? If you need quiet time during the day, will the layout and staffing model support that? Asking these questions now can help prevent burnout later.

What Hiring Managers Are Looking For

From a hiring manager’s perspective, one of the top priorities is availability, especially on weekends, and sometimes Sundays. Teamwork is another key focus. Most public libraries don’t have private offices for every employee, and the ability to collaborate and function well in shared spaces is essential.

Continue/Read Original Article Here: So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

#2025 #America #Books #Career #Education #Employment #History #Jobs #KathleenHughes #Libraries #Library #MasterOfLibraryAndInformationScience #MasterOfLibraryScience #MLIS #MLS #NewLibraryProfessionals #Practice #PublicLibraries #PublicLibrariesOnline #Theory #UnitedStates

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals

by Kathleen Hughes on September 29, 2025

Student loans, tuition reimbursement policies, internships, research papers, and marketing classes are just a few of the many steps library school students navigate to earn a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Master of Library Science (MLS). Some programs also require comprehensive exams or portfolios demonstrating mastery of theory and practice.

Once the degree is in hand, the next step is applying for library jobs. Many students already have public library experience or are currently working in public libraries while finishing their degrees. No matter where you’re starting from–congratulations! Let’s talk about what comes next and how to navigate the job search with confidence and realism.

Understanding the Landscape

In the library world, there’s an unspoken belief that one isn’t truly a “librarian” until one earns a master’s degree. While this mindset can be motivating, it isn’t always accurate. Many current students are already competent and effective library workers and, in some cases, hiring managers.

Terminology also varies. Many public libraries prefer to use the term “library workers,” recognizing that patrons often see every staff member, regardless of title, as a librarian. What patrons care about most is service: getting their holds, a friendly smile, solid reader’s advisory, and a welcoming environment. Most are unconcerned with the internal distinctions about who attended library school and who did not. That said, patrons are often aware of who’s in management, who receives promotions, and who gets raises. Board meeting minutes are public, and community members read them. In a public library, visibility is part of the job. Being mindful of that can help prevent small missteps from turning into lasting challenges.

The Job Search

The first step is to carefully read the job posting. Know the difference between required qualifications (which often include the MLIS itself) and preferred qualifications (which might include experience in youth services, circulation, or supervision). Be realistic about the role. Some applicants apply “just to get their foot in the door,” hoping for a quick promotion. But what’s posted is what the library’s board approved. While advancement may be possible, there are no guarantees. An MLIS alone doesn’t guarantee an edge in future internal or external hiring.

Ask yourself: Will this position meet my needs in terms of salary, hours, and responsibilities? A well-fed, financially secure library worker is a happier and more effective library worker. Taking one for the team is admirable—but not if it leaves you with an empty refrigerator.

Do Your Homework

Before you interview, take time to research the library and its surrounding community. Visit the library as a patron. Read reviews, explore the website, and look at the calendar of events. Consider the commute, parking situation, nearby food options, and other logistical realities.

Also, consider whether the setting will be a good fit for your personality and needs. For example, if you’re neurodivergent, would a high-volume programming schedule be overwhelming? If you need quiet time during the day, will the layout and staffing model support that? Asking these questions now can help prevent burnout later.

What Hiring Managers Are Looking For

From a hiring manager’s perspective, one of the top priorities is availability, especially on weekends, and sometimes Sundays. Teamwork is another key focus. Most public libraries don’t have private offices for every employee, and the ability to collaborate and function well in shared spaces is essential.

Continue/Read Original Article Here: So You’ve Earned Your MLIS: Now What? Advice and Reflections for New Library Professionals – Public Libraries Online

#2025 #America #Books #Career #Education #Employment #History #Jobs #KathleenHughes #Libraries #Library #MasterOfLibraryAndInformationScience #MasterOfLibraryScience #MLIS #MLS #NewLibraryProfessionals #Practice #PublicLibraries #PublicLibrariesOnline #Theory #UnitedStates

Creating learning alliances for flourishing food environmental futures

Deborah Dutta
Miwa Takeuchi
Anita Chowdhury
Sonder Edworthy
Chantal Eves
Syma Habib
Anika Haroon
Sophia Thraya
Liana Wolf Leg

#Immigration #IndigenousKnowledge #LearningAlliances #Placemaking #FoodJustice #PublicLibraries #ClimateAction #EnvironmentalJustice

#Read all you want! #OpenAccess
#Share generously! #KnowledgeSharing
#Grow your understanding of #Food
#Repeat

https://canadianfoodstudies.uwaterloo.ca/index.php/cfs/article/view/709