The TLS Job Search Playbook: Tools for Mentors and Supervisors Supporting MLIS Students in the Job Search Process

Abstract

The University of Maryland (UMD) Libraries is home to many graduate student workers and graduate assistants who are a part of UMD College of Information’s Master of Library & Information Science program. As the place where graduate students come of age as library and information professionals, UMD Libraries helps them gain practical experience and valuable skills. As their supervisors and mentors, we desire to support them on their professional journeys—including the academic library job search; however, it can be challenging to know where to start with advising current students entering a precarious job market. This presentation will share tips and strategies for guiding MLIS students through the job search process. Based on the Teaching and Learning Services (TLS) unit’s work with the Research and Teaching Fellowship (RTF), this presentation will unpack the various stages of the job application process, from writing cover letters and CVs to preparing for interviews and open forums. The aim is to share TLS’s tried and tested methods for navigating MLIS graduate students through the job search process in order to equip other mentors and supervisors in UMD Libraries with the tools they need to guide their own employees.