Opportunity matters: Tenure and faculty status for academic librarians

Abstract

This paper delves into the debate over faculty status and tenure for academic librarians. Unlike subject-area professors, librarians often lack the opportunity for these distinctions. It’s imperative that universities acknowledge the significance of these titles for librarians and reform the tenure process. Faculty status and tenure carry prestige in academia, offering job security, salary progression, and protection from arbitrary dismissal. They also safeguard academic freedom, allowing scholars to voice opinions and pursue research without fear of repercussions. However, the issue of tenure for librarians remains contentious. Granting tenure to academic librarians is crucial to creating a flourishing university culture.