Library Worklife

Support Staff

The Institute for Museum and Library Services to Survey Training Programs for Library Staff

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) conducted a study to identify and analyze education and training programs for non-MLS-degreed library staff in the United States (e.g., pre-professional, paraprofessional, library technicians, media specialists).

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the Nation’s libraries, and as such, is committed to building the capacity of libraries to serve the public. Although the basic credential for professional library service is the Masters in Library Science, non-master degreed library staff performs a range of duties in an array of settings-public, academic, school, and "special" libraries throughout the United States. Their responsibilities continue to evolve as libraries increase their use of new technologies. IMLS is responding to the library community’s need to answer questions about what training opportunities exist to prepare this essential library worker.

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

A wide range of institutions offering such programs and course work including colleges and universities; community colleges; state library agencies; vocational and technical schools; library consortia/cooperatives; state library associations; and commercial training organizations/vendors.
Modes of delivery including face-to-face (classroom) instruction, distance learning (via traditional correspondence as well as Web based course work), or a combination.

IMLS will release a report analyzing the findings and identifying characteristics of successful programs in late 2004.

The Institute of Museum and Library services is an independent Federal agency that fosters leadership, innovation, and a lifetime of learning by supporting the nation’s museums and libraries. Created by the Museum and Library Services Act of 1996, P.L. 104-208, IMLS administers the Library Services and Technology Act and the Museum Services Act. For additional information, contact IMLS at www.imls.gov or (202) 606-8536.