Workshop 3: What is the LIS profession?

This workshop saw four LIS professionals discuss their current positions, roles, values, and skills pertaining to their work. Of special note I found the discussion of values a valid one at this point in my journey.

I agree with Julanne and Katrina’s discussion that after doing one Masters and during this current LIS Masters, my biggest ambitions stem from a feeling to change the world. The only problem with these lofty ideas of self-worth is the punishing realisation that the industry is in a difficult spot right now. Finding a job in the publishing industry is hardest, but work as an information professional at a library isn’t much better.

As indicated in the talks, I believe what I really need to do is get work in as many places as possible related to libraries. And as one of the speakers said, a goal of an LIS professional should be to make information accessible to users. In this, I hope to be employed in places beyond my previous job titles in libraries (working largely as a shelver and not behind the scenes on the collection management itself), and help this information become easier to find.

Like Julanne, I see a potential opening in working at heritage libraries and societies. Earlier this year I was offered such a chance, but being that I had a full semester of university and was still settling into this year, I passed on this opportunity. I now regret making this decision because the internship could have benefitted me and my LIS practice. Still, the offer is out there in the form of the contact giving it, and I may be able to grasp at that glimmer of light that shone briefly earlier this year for my career.