Conference Poster & Datasets: “Recipes for Success: Comparing ALA-Accredited MLIS Programs”

The following poster, loaded with data about LIS programs, was presented at the 2015 ALA Annual Conference.
Title
Recipes for Success: Comparing ALA-Accredited MLIS Programs
Author
Mandi Goodsett
Cleveland State University
Source
Cleveland State University Institutional Repository
Abstract

Discussion about the MLIS degree and what could be done to produce well-prepared new librarians for the workforce abounds in the current literature. As the ALA Committee on Accreditation re-evaluates its standards, and frustrated librarians continue to add to the over 150 comments on the Library Journal editorial “Can We Talk about the MLS?” by Michael Kelley, the time to re-evaluate the MLIS degree has arrived. In order to effectively move forward, however, a gap in the literature must be addressed: an overview of the MLIS as it currently stands is needed.
This poster presents data about the current requirements, opportunities, and structure of 60 of the 64 ALA-accredited library science programs as a basis of comparison and a foundation for future change.
The data were gathered through investigation of program websites and direct consultation of program administration personnel. The results show existing trends among programs in required courses, services and opportunities available for students, online vs. in-person courses offered, and admission requirements.
The information gathered in this study may be useful to library school administrators and faculty, those in libraries responsible for hiring and/or training new LIS professionals, recent LIS graduates, those in LIS graduate programs, and those considering which LIS program to attend.

Direct to Poster (PDF)
Datasets

• ALA Accredited Schools Study Data.xlsx
• ALA Accredited Schools Study Data.ods

Filed under: Associations and Organizations, Data Files, Libraries, Open Access, School Libraries