To Degree or Not to Degree

Today, we feature a posting from the folks at Liblime that is sure to spark some debate and some soul searching. Just how necessary is it for library workers to have an advanced degree in librarianship? And is it always so? These are the questions that librarian Gretchen Hendrick Gardella sought to answer in a recent poll. While there was no consensus in the responses she received, the diversity of answers was reflective of the many different opportunities that exist for library work. Gretchen also noted, however, that "[t]he votes and responses all did agree on one important thing. That some type of specialized education should be required for those who wish to be librarians." Wrap your heads around the possibilities in: The MLIS.

Passing the Torch

Eight years ago, I voluntarily stepped in to help a colleague curate this wonderful digest of library news and insights. It was a labor of love that turned into almost a decade of volunteer service. I truly enjoy PinHawk Librarian News and I sincerely hope that you too have enjoyed the reading experience. I have decided, however, that the time has come for me to step back and hand these duties over to someone who is every bit as enthusiastic about this profession as I am. Fresh eyes and fresh thinking are fertile ground for fresh ideas. Our digest needs them, especially in the wake of the pandemic and the changes it has spawned. If you are looking for a way to give back to our industry or are seeking to serve your colleagues in a meaningful way, we are looking for our next editor(s). I am ever grateful for your support and camaraderie over the years and plan to help rain and on-board my replacement. Contact me directly if you would like to be considered for or have any questions about what the "job" entails. I am not going anywhere, but am looking forward to getting back to my own library blogging and writing, I hope you will look for me. As I so often say, thank you for reading along!

- John DiGilio, Editor

Pushing the boundaries,

John J. DiGilio, MLIS, JD, Editor of Librarian News Digest
Firmwide Director of Research Services, Sidley Austin LLP
Founder & Editor, informed.JD
Phone: 323.459.4999
LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/johndigilio/
Blog: Pinhawkblog.com
Twitter: @pinhawkhappens

Note: Any opinions expressed are solely my own and are not intended to reflect those of my employer or affiliated organizations.