MLIS (Masters in Library and Information Studies)

PrinceMax · 11-03-2010 02:20PM

Thanks. I hope you enjoy it. I'm doing the MLIS, which is the master course, but I think that is different to the MAs they have too.

marge2007 · 11-03-2010 02:24PM

Yes, I think they have a Masters in Information Studies as well. I hope you enjoy the course too.

Handsome Bob · 11-03-2010 03:38PM

PrinceMax wrote: »

Thanks. I hope you enjoy it. I'm doing the MLIS, which is the master course, but I think that is different to the MAs they have too.

Yes, MLIS students are treated like the A team by the department, the MA students are treated like the Z team.

Walls · 12-03-2010 04:27PM

If you haven't received an offer, can you say if you've received any acknowledgement of your application? If you have, contact the person on the email - offers should be made much more quickly with the new system. If you haven't heard, maybe some documentation is missing from your application and its on hold...

PrinceMax · 13-03-2010 02:05AM

Tell me, those who did it last year, - what was writing the thesis like? Was there much guidance from staff?

vicecreamsundae · 14-03-2010 05:19AM

i'm applying for this masters this week [and just crossing my fingers i haven't left it too late to be considered]. I don't have my six week experience yet [well i did two weeks work experience in transition year, but nothing to back it up haha] and a 1.1 BA Liberal Arts.

sort of confused with the online application though. if anyone has anything to add to my following queries, i'd appreciate it! i get really paranoid about applications that i'll interpret something wrong and mess up!

-the part that asks you about your 'career intentions'. how personal or formal should this be? and how detailed or how many words? honestly, i don't have an extremely clear idea apart from knowing i'd like to work in an academic or public library. would it be [in]appropriate here to elaborate on what i believe to be the importance of libraries in the community etc? would that just be seen as waffle? should i mention particular areas i'm interested in such as history or women and gender studies??
also, part of my motivation for doing this course is to work as a librarian in canada..is that something i should mention or again, just irrelevant?

-the two references i have so far are both academic, my old psychology and media lecturers. the application asks for one reference who can comment on my employment history...but all my previous jobs have been in retail -is that going to look bad, or does it not matter so long as the employer has positive things to say about my work ethic etc.?

-really confused with the self assessment form. do i print this out and mail it, or just edit it and upload it back to them?! it looks really messy, and when i'm honest, my score doesn't look particularly impressive...are most people generous with this?

sorry for all the questions, i am probably reading too much into it all, and should just send it off stat, but like i said, i just really don't want to make a big faux pas.

thanks for any help or other tips you can give me on this!just hate applications. i really want to get this finished in the next day or two [been procrastinating for ages and panicking a little now that i see some of you have offers already! congrats to those who do by the way!

parker kent · 14-03-2010 01:31PM

PrinceMax wrote: »

Tell me, those who did it last year, - what was writing the thesis like? Was there much guidance from staff?

I more or less had no help. Despite my hardest efforts (plenty of emails, phone calls etc) we didn't speak after April last year (Until 7 days before deadline day when he said he wouldn't have time to read any draft...I sent that email 1 month before the deadline). So over the entire summer I was left to my own devices. So I wasn't exactly happy with the situation. I would really, really emphasize the need to talk as much as you can with supervisors during term time, as they seemingly disappear into the abyss during the summer.

Other people's experience varied, some had great supervisors whilst others had similar to my own. The worst part of the supervisor experience is that you have to make contact with the supervisor first and get them to agree to being your supervisor. Other courses I know off make students give in a proposal and then appoint supervisors accordingly.

Of course this might be different now given the changes in the department.

PrinceMax · 15-03-2010 04:09AM

Parker, Thanks again for your advice.

Obviously the jobs market isn't good, but I still want to do this, as I'm looking for library work in the long term. But, aside from library work, is there anything else you can get out of it, while you're looking for the real deal? Someone suggested information architect. Or, would you be overqualified for library assistant positions, or general administration positions. Basically, are MLISs valued by any groups outside the library profession?

I only have 6 weeks' experience, but I'm hoping to get some more before I start. Concerned that I'll be coming out of the degree in 2011 to another unemployment spell.

PrinceMax · 15-03-2010 04:48AM

Also, is the UCD course CILIP accredited? It's no longer listed as being so on the CILIP website.

reddan · 15-03-2010 04:13PM

Howdy all,

I was wondering if any one who got offered a place in any course with the department of information studies got any email correspondence prior to their place offer. It's jus that I applied via a deferred application from last year and haven't heard anything at all yet?

PrinceMax · 15-03-2010 04:20PM

reddan wrote: »

Howdy all,

I was wondering if any one who got offered a place in any course with the department of information studies got any email correspondence prior to their place offer. It's jus that I applied via a deferred application from last year and haven't heard anything at all yet?

I got an email to tell me I had an offer. That's all. Didn't know you could defer a place? Is that on the MLIS? I've already paid my deposit but If work came along, I'd love to defer until next year, as I'd have the money to complete the course without borrowing.

eclectichoney · 16-03-2010 09:02AM

PrinceMax wrote: »

Parker, Thanks again for your advice.

Obviously the jobs market isn't good, but I still want to do this, as I'm looking for library work in the long term. But, aside from library work, is there anything else you can get out of it, while you're looking for the real deal? Someone suggested information architect. Or, would you be overqualified for library assistant positions, or general administration positions. Basically, are MLISs valued by any groups outside the library profession?

Eh... as a so-called 'qualified libraran' I'd kill for a library assistant post - that would be a typical MLIS grad job even in the good old days. These days, there are no LA posts, no shelving posts, nothing.

You'd need a compsci degree to be able to work as an information architect I imagine.

parker kent · 16-03-2010 03:50PM

eclectichoney wrote: »

Eh... as a so-called 'qualified libraran' I'd kill for a library assistant post - that would be a typical MLIS grad job even in the good old days. These days, there are no LA posts, no shelving posts, nothing.

You'd need a compsci degree to be able to work as an information architect I imagine.

+1000!

It is very, very hard to get any library related job these days. I also don't understand why DBS are starting a similar course now when UCD has one with 70+ graduating every year. In 5 years time maybe, but it seems like a lot of people for the 5-10 max positions available in the country that are in any way library related.

PrinceMax wrote: »

Parker, Thanks again for your advice.

Obviously the jobs market isn't good, but I still want to do this, as I'm looking for library work in the long term. But, aside from library work, is there anything else you can get out of it, while you're looking for the real deal? Someone suggested information architect. Or, would you be overqualified for library assistant positions, or general administration positions. Basically, are MLISs valued by any groups outside the library profession?

I only have 6 weeks' experience, but I'm hoping to get some more before I start. Concerned that I'll be coming out of the degree in 2011 to another unemployment spell.

The information architect thing I imagine relates to when SILS did a module called information architecture a few years ago, I think it ran for 2 years. I did it anyway in the final year of my degree back in sunny 2004!

Although you might also be referring to an information officer. Some companies have those.

reddan · 16-03-2010 06:25PM

PrinceMax wrote: »

I got an email to tell me I had an offer. That's all. Didn't know you could defer a place? Is that on the MLIS? I've already paid my deposit but If work came along, I'd love to defer until next year, as I'd have the money to complete the course without borrowing.

Sorry about the delay in getting back prince max. I only deferred my application, I wasn't offered a place. Last year I hadn't got the requisite work experience so I was advised by the school to defer my application and obtain the work experience in the mean time. I think that was because they'd recieved a huge amount of applications in light of the 'downturn', alot of civil servants decided to give it a lash for the year.

PrinceMax · 18-03-2010 01:15AM

When you guys say it is tough for work, do you think there are opportunities for graduates in the UK? To be honest, I'd prefer to find work elsewhere anyway.
I have to say, I'm having second thoughts about this now. The last thing I want is another extended period of unemployment. I'm only doing this in the hope I'll be able to get off the dole queue. I've been unemployed since finishing my BA. I've already paid a deposit for the course though, but I guess, no point in borrowing money to do a course that might only offer me the chance to be an even better educated dole recipient.

dmigsy · 18-03-2010 09:34AM

Just finishing this myself this year. There are no jobs here and very few in the UK.

eclectichoney · 18-03-2010 11:03PM

PrinceMax wrote: »

When you guys say it is tough for work, do you think there are opportunities for graduates in the UK? To be honest, I'd prefer to find work elsewhere anyway.
I have to say, I'm having second thoughts about this now. The last thing I want is another extended period of unemployment. I'm only doing this in the hope I'll be able to get off the dole queue. I've been unemployed since finishing my BA. I've already paid a deposit for the course though, but I guess, no point in borrowing money to do a course that might only offer me the chance to be an even better educated dole recipient.

There are jobs in the UK alright (try lisjobs net) but you have to remember you'll be competing with *lots* of people with *lots* of experience, so unless you already have a good solid 3 years (at a min.) experience, there is not really any point in applying imo.

Handsome Bob · 18-03-2010 11:13PM

I think the MLIS has value, not so much the MA. They tried to give the MA a clear purpose this year by adding the "pathway to Publishing" schtick, however due to cutbacks that has been a huge failure IMO. I wouldn't worry too much about the job prospects in regards to the MLIS, you are learning a lot of practical skills in regards to how Libraries work so you will find *something* eventually. He may how to endure about of working for free before you nail down a paid position but hey, it's the ends that matter.

I'm just glad I got a grant for the MA, otherwise I would have been paying €5000 for nothing.

V480 · 18-03-2010 11:50PM

LZ5by5 wrote: »

I'm just glad I got a grant for the MA, otherwise I would have been paying €5000 for nothing.

Sounds great! I'm doing an MA and didn't get the grant...

parker kent · 19-03-2010 02:52PM

LZ5by5 wrote: »

I wouldn't worry too much about the job prospects in regards to the MLIS, you are learning a lot of practical skills in regards to how Libraries work so you will find *something* eventually.

I wouldn't call it a practical course. I know the MAs see SILS as library student oriented, but believe me so much of what I learnt there was more or less irrelevant to real world libraries. A few of the modules (Teaching Librarian especially) are very good, but there are many, many pointless aspects to it.

I guess it is practical in that you get a professional qualification, but only do it if working in a library is what you want. I'm far from alone in thinking like this about the course too. It is what you do to become a librarian, so it has to be out up with, but it could do with an overhaul. It is not that it is an awful year, just that like most academic subjects, lots of what you learn has no real world value.

Chinafoot · 20-03-2010 01:24AM

Impassive wrote: »

How did other people here get their work experience? Do the public libraries take on people on a temporary basis? Or do I just go to academic libraries and ask if they'll let me in? Thanks.

You can apply to public libraries regarding work experience. You won't get paid and you'll probably only get one week (2 max) as there is competition for spaces. The staff embargo means we have lost a lot of people through retirement which haven't been replaced and as such there aren't a lot of staff to facilitate work experience people. With the work-to-rule currently in effect work experience placements have been cancelled in a lot of libraries.

I'm a library assistant in a public library and while I haven't completed the course in UCD, I'm currently doing the MSc in Information and Library Studies through Aberyystwyth University. Its widely recognised and you can stop at diploma level if you wish, as that is all that is needed in this country in order to become a librarian. (Personally I would recommend going for the MSc as there are so many qualified staff now its crazy.) Its all done via distance learning and the MSc takes an average of 3 years to complete.

Library jobs in the public libraries (I'm sure academic libraries are the same) are next to impossible to come by at the minute. Also, from a public library point of view, having the qualification will mean feck all without at least 2 years experience, as this is the minimum experience needed to become a Senior Library Assistant. Realistically you'll need a lot more. You aren't going to walk into a librarian position even when the embargo is over.

Recently we've had a lot of people asking about this course and also the "Library Assistant" courses offered in other colleges. If anyone doesn't get into this course please don't waste your money on these library assistant courses. If you want to be a librarian you are still going to have to get the proper qualification, and experience is what will stand to you.

Best of luck folks. Its a fantastic job

PrinceMax · 20-03-2010 02:12AM

I only have six weeks experience (full time), but I've lined up part-time experience for a few hours a week between now and September and I've also lined up further part time unpaid experience to do for the entire year while I'm completing the course. Do you think my outlook is still hopeless? I'd be looking for work in the UK or Canada.

Chinafoot · 20-03-2010 03:09PM

PrinceMax wrote: »

I only have six weeks experience (full time), but I've lined up part-time experience for a few hours a week between now and September and I've also lined up further part time unpaid experience to do for the entire year while I'm completing the course. Do you think my outlook is still hopeless? I'd be looking for work in the UK or Canada.

I don't think its hopeless...I'm sure you have the minimum work experience required for acceptance to the course. The jobs scene is going to be pretty dead for the next year or two at least however. If you're looking for work elsewhere then make sure you complete the masters and don't stop at the diploma. Many other countries won't accept the diploma as the librarian qualification.

Best of luck.

PrinceMax · 23-03-2010 12:10AM

Has anyone here done a Phd after the MLIS course?

reddan · 29-03-2010 02:32PM

Hey guys,

Did those of you who were offered a place on the course secure your place with a deposit yet? It's just that I've been confirmed a place for next year's mlis but there's been no mention of a deposit or anything like that.

vicecreamsundae · 30-03-2010 04:18PM

i just got a conditional acceptance to the MLIS -i need to get my six weeks experience to be officially accepted, though i believe I have til august to get it all so fingers crossed i can get it. there are three public libraries and two academic libraries withing 40 minutes from me so im HOPING i get a good few weeks from them.

are there many cases where people get accepted, but dont manage to get the six weeks, and cant do the course? that would be awful.

also, seeing as the experience can be in libraries or information, does anyone have suggestions of places to get work on the information side??

reddan, i havent paid my deposit yet. it wasnt mentioned in the email, but i saw it when i accepted my offer online. i must find out when it needs to be paid by.

passive · 09-04-2010 06:41PM

I also accepted the place, but amn't sure when the deposit has to be paid. I'll call them on Monday, I guess. Started my work experience too, and really enjoying it. I'm only doing 3 days a week, so I don't have to stop doing paid work too, so I'll be at it for another few months.

vicecreamsundae · 12-04-2010 12:46PM

i also must find out when the deposit must be paid.

has anyone had much trouble getting work experience? i was accepted two weeks ago and have since been in contact with 7 libraries in my town and my two neighbouring towns and have so far been rejected by two, and not heard back from the rest. it's getting me pretty worried.
one of the librarians i spoke on the phone with said that they couldn't take anybody on because of the embargo. even though i'm only asking for unpaid experience. is anyone else having this problem?

reddan · 13-04-2010 04:48PM

vicecreamsundae wrote: »

i also must find out when the deposit must be paid.

has anyone had much trouble getting work experience? it's getting me pretty worried.
one of the librarians i spoke on the phone with said that they couldn't take anybody on because of the embargo. even though i'm only asking for unpaid experience. is anyone else having this problem?

I had the same problem as this although I did manage to acquire some experience in the end through a university library.

I got alot of "were not employing" and "there's a potential insurance issue" when I mentioned it would be free experience. The truth is there are no such insurance issues really and there either just not bothered having another person in their work space.

If possible look up the nearest academic library-they are constantly understaffed and are actually affected by the recruitment freeze-near where you are online and seek out the associate librarian or librarian in charge. Explain your situation and obviously state you'll be doing it for free.

Thats the route I took and it turned out favourable for me.

vintagedee · 16-05-2010 10:58PM

Hi was wondering if anyone can help with a career aspirations essay? Im wondering how personal it should be?

MLIS (Masters in Library and Information Studies)

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