What’s Missing from the MLIS? A Conversation with Working Librarians and the You, the Audience.

What do today’s librarians believe tomorrow’s students need? This session explores any gap between current MLIS curricula and the evolving realities of library work. Using audience participation, surveys, and practitioner feedback, we’ll examine key areas where those working in the field think new librarians often feel underprepared, including technology, social services, policies around censorship and equity-focused practices. Participants will reflect on how MLIS curriculum can better align with the day-to-day challenges and opportunities of the profession. Join us for a candid conversation about reimagining library education to meet the demands of a ever-evolving world.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify key gaps in current MLIS curricula based on feedback from practicing librarians across different library types.
• Evaluate how emerging trends and issues—AI, CDL, the issue of book banning, etc., —can be better integrated into library education.
• Generate actionable ideas for aligning MLIS programs with real-world library practice through curriculum innovation and practitioner input.
  

Presenters:

Jennifer G. Rochelle is an assistant professor of practice and the academic advisor for the MLIS at the University of Arizona College of InfoSci program. She holds a JD from CUNY School of law, specializing in social justice and public interest law. She also holds an MLIS from the University of Arizona, where she was a James E. Rogers College of Law Library Fellow. Before her career in library and info science, she practiced law in non-profits and as a public defender in New Mexico and Arizona.