Jump Start Your Career in Library and Information Science

This practical guide is designed to help new librarians begin to manage a successful and satisfying career in the library and education science profession. Although the first years are often overwhelming, they can be the key to creating a successful career. Unless one is fortunate enough to have good mentors or strong support groups, a new librarian may drift into an unsatisfying career. This book emphasizes the value of defining one’s own idea of success and positioning oneself to be prepared to take advantage of opportunities that arise. This book contains advice and anecdotes gathered from research and interviews with more than 70 information professionals in a variety of library-related careers. The modular format allows a reader to read any chapter on its own or to read the chapters in any order, choosing which ones are most relevant at any point. The book covers eight broad topics: career planning, job searching, gaining experience and education, developing interpersonal and leadership skills, networking, mentoring, and writing for publication. Lists of related readings and websites are included.

Author Biography

Priscilla K. Shontz currently works as Library Supervisor at the University of Houston at Cinco Ranch. She is a Past President of the American Library Association New Members Round Table and is editor of the Serials Review column “Bits and Bytes”.