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Library and Information Science Advising

2023-24 Academic Catalog Page

Library and Information Science Advising Program

Contact: Stefanie Bluemle, director of Thomas Tredway Library, 309-794-7167

Overview

Graduate programs in Library and Information Science (LIS) do not specify a preference for any particular undergraduate major. Accordingly, Augustana does not offer a pre-LIS major, minor or concentration, but does offer pre-LIS advising by Tredway librarians to assist students majoring in any discipline(s).

The key to preparing for graduate work in library and information science is a broad and demanding liberal arts education. Such an education develops the skills that will be needed for graduate study: critical thinking, reading and comprehending difficult material, writing and speaking clearly, and conducting thorough research using sources thoughtfully and effectively. Consider taking classes that help you develop these skills beyond the FYI sequence.

Strong computer skills are highly desirable for most librarian positions; additional courses in Computer Science are recommended if student is interested in library systems management, digital initiatives or database construction. Students may also choose additional courses that will prepare them for a specific area of LIS. For example, a student interested in K-12 school librarianship or children's librarianship may want to take Children's Literature or Adolescent Literature. Students interested in pursuing management positions in libraries might want to consider an Introduction to Business or Accounting.

Other services and activities

Advising: Tredway librarians can provide guidance in curriculum planning and the graduate admissions process. Pre-LIS students are welcome to consult them in addition to their major advisor(s). Students interested in becoming a Media Specialist (K-12) and seeking teacher certification should meet with an Education department advisor early in their academic career.

Student employment: It is strongly recommended that students interested in library and information science seek employment in a library, either at Augustana's Thomas Tredway Library, at a public library in the Quad Cities, or a library in the student's hometown. If applying to work at the Thomas Tredway Library, students should indicate their interest in studying library and information science on their employment application(s) each term.

Additional activities: Participation in extracurricular activities such as the Web Authors Guild or peer tutoring at the Reading/Writing Center are also recommended, as appropriate to each individual students' interests. Volunteering at a local public or school library can also provide valuable experiences. There is also a Future Librarians group organized by Tredway librarians that can help you get in touch with other current students interested in these careers. Numerous Augustana alumni in varied library careers are willing to be contacts for our current Augustana students.