An Endangered Species: The Science/Engineering Librarian

Abstract

Library information school (LIS) students without science background often express fears and concerns to pursue a career in engineering librarianship. A successful transition from graduate student to practicing engineering librarian requires a complex combination of knowledge and skills. Faculty status with the requirement for tenure is a fact of life for engineering librarians. Most librarians have not received extensive training in research methodology and they have usually limited access to research funds. The support and assistance of colleagues is critical and the establishment of support groups for various research needs can provide a mechanism for discussing common concerns. The author will suggest strategies to encourage library students to pursue careers and leadership positions in engineering libraries and information science fields. In addition, this poster will highlight issues new engineering librarians encounter in the workplace, and the recruitment and retention of engineering librarians.