Retaining LIS Professionals of Color: Examining Job Survival through Survival Analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACTExamining the factors influencing the decision of Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals to leave their positions, we conducted a survival analysis using the WILIS2 dataset, with a specific focus on professionals of color. In our study, we investigated the impact of the comfort level with newer technology and the perceived effectiveness of online courses during their graduate program on professionals' retention decisions, while also examining potential differential effects across racial groups. The results revealed that both the comfort level with newer technology and the perceived effectiveness of online courses were significantly positively associated with professionals' decision to stay in their positions. Importantly, we found no significant differential effects of these factors across different racial groups. These findings provide empirical support for promoting a comfortable level of technological proficiency and recognizing the value of online education as effective strategies to improve retention rates among LIS professionals, particularly those from minoritized backgrounds. Additionally, we discussed the implications of our study for Equity, Diversity, Justice, and Inclusion (EDJI) in the field, and offered suggestions for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment based on our findings.