IMLS to survey training programs for library staff

Information Outlook, April, 2003

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) will conduct a study to identify and analyze education and training programs for non-MLS-degreed library staff in the United States (e.g., preprofessional, paraprofessional, library technicians, media specialists). Although the basic credential for professional library service is the master's degree in library science, non-degreed library staff perform a range of duties in an array of settings-public, academic, school, and "special" libraries throughout the country. Their responsibilities continue to evolve as libraries increase their use of new technologies. IMLS is responding to the library community's need to know what training opportunities exist to prepare library workers.

IMLS has hired Caliber Associates to produce an inventory of training opportunities. A national list of courses and programs is being compiled using Web-based research and consultation with library leaders. Detailed information about program and course offerings will be gathered this spring using a Web-based survey. The inventory will explore:

* the wide range of institutions offering such programs and coursework, including colleges and universities; community colleges; state library agencies; vocational and technical schools; library consortia/cooperatives; state library associations; and commercial training organizations/vendors; and

* the modes of delivery, including face-to-face (classroom) instruction, distance learning (via traditional correspondence as well as Web-based coursework), and combinations of the two.