The Place of Library Experience in Library Education: Trends and Current Status

Abstract

WORK in the library field prior to completion of formal library education (pre professional library experience) has always been a defacto element in library education. Many students have served as volunteers or have held paid positions in libraries before entering library school; some have had several such work experiences. Indeed, a considerable number of students credit this exposure to librarianship as having had a strong influence on their recruitment into the profession. A need for financial support, coupled with a desire for appropriate work experience has led some students to accept librar)7 employment while attending library school. Others arrange their librar)' education around existing jobs in the field. The practicum (library experience sponsored by the library school as part of its instructional program) has provided students the opportunity to work in a controlled situation, designed to given maximum educational benefit.1 The major form of practicum is often called field work, professionally supervised library experience offered as part of the library