Member: elphaba44

Definitely SI is a fantastic program for information studies, particularly the technological aspects. SI also has quite a few programs and classes that they work on with other schools at the University of Michigan, including the law school and the school of public policy. Some of the programs have recently been re-vamped and new specializations were added, so I can’t say much about them--I focused on libraries and archives. Overall, it wasn’t a particularly easy program (of course, I had other personal issues going on at the time) but I did learn quite a bit. My archives classes were generally much better than my library classes. My favorite class was an elective on information and intellectual property law.

My first year there I was somewhat wary about the gung-ho “new technology is great and perfect” attitude that seemed to prevail to the neglect of older technologies. However, in my second year, things seemed to simmer down a bit and incorporate comparisons of old, new, and developing technologies and their usefulness.

SI was undergoing transition while I was there, and many of the students from my year were really frustrated. Many of the classes we took have either been significantly changed or discontinued. Scheduling was difficult, especially with the shifting course-work and requirements. However, I think the transition period is over, so things should be more or less settled now.

The program requirements at SI include practical experience. It is entirely possible to complete this requirement through coursework, but most students take advantage of internships. The career services department (which is also in charge of practical experience and internships for credit) is absolutely fantastic. Really, they are one of the best things at SI. The University of Michigan has quite a few libraries and archives, so it is fairly easy to find a place to work or intern.

Some of the things I liked least about my experience: Some classes seemed a bit too theoretical as opposed to practical. Currently, SI is split between two campuses. (However, a new complex which will bring all of SI into one place should be finished for the fall semester of 2010). Perceived prejudice against the program since it is not a “traditional” library program. (Though I think this is changing very quickly and is not as much of an issue anymore.)

Some of the things I liked best about my experience: Smallish class sizes. The professors are extremely approachable and knowledgeable. Great facilities and opportunities to play with new technologies. A good selection and flexibility in coursework and program requirements. Ann Arbor, although a bit on the expensive side, is a wonderful place to work, live, and play—tons of great stuff going on all the time.

Hope this has helped. Feel free to contact me again!

posted by PhoenixTerran at 11:43 am (EST) on Sep 26, 2008

I really enjoyed my time in library school @ UT and both the law school and library school are ranked highly in the nation. If you are interested in law librarianship, there are several opportunities to take "joint" courses taught by professors both in the School of Information and in the Law School. Dr. Phil Doty from the School of Information, most specifically, has offered courses on federal information policy, copyright law, and information privacy and so would be worth talking to.

Because my focus area was young adult services while I was in library school, I can't really speak of the program in terms of academic or special librarianship - but there are several opportunities to find student jobs in the UT Libraries and the School of Information sponsors a librarianship mentor program (matching professional mentors with library students) that I highly recommend (my mentor was awesome, even though the experience ultimately confirmed to me that an academic environment was not the right place for me!)!!

Things that I wish I had known going into the program:
1) the Dean of the School of Information, Dr. Dillon, is a brilliant, hillarious Irishman who is passionate about furthering the field and is constantly telling you to dip your feet in every track ("take courses in information architecture, take courses in archival enterprise, etc!"). He's great but DON'T LISTEN TO THIS! Your advisor will probably spend your first meeting encouraging you to specialize - and this is really the best approach. Taking a course or two on digital libraries or another tech-focused track is probably good for everyone, but if your goal does not include archives or working with children or cataloging...don't listen to the whole spiel about experiencing everything. That's what the required "core" of classes is supposed to do.

2) Don't get too attached to Austin because practically no one gets a job there after graduating.

3) Try to get as much library experience (unpaid internship, paid part-time, paid full-time) in your chosen area if at all possible. Once it comes down to finding a job, even if it is an entry-level position, having non-professional experience can help make the difference.

Let me know how it goes and good luck!!

posted by mermerlibrarian at 4:59 pm (EST) on Sep 24, 2008

Nope, don't mind - I love SLIS Bloomington. :) For either law or academic librarianship, you would be good here. We have a joint JD/MLS program that would be great for you. I'm currently doing an internship for my specialization certificate. They aren't required for all specializations, but I recommend it because it's really important on resumes. I also have jobs in the university libraries as a reference assistant and a graphic designer, and there are plenty of job opportunities available. We're consistently ranked #1 in the country for scholarly productivity and at least #7 over all. I didn't apply to any other schools, so I have nothing really to compare it to. If you have questions, feel free to call up Rhonda in the SLIS office and talk to her - she's the director of admissions and one of the friendliest and most helpful women ever. Also, let me know if you want to know more and I'll try to help!

-Becca

posted by rarelibrarian at 7:26 pm (EST) on Sep 23, 2008

Hello! I just invited you to be my "friend" on LibraryThing! I'm inviting all the people who've read The Fox Woman and w/ whom I share a few other faves. I recently started a small book club w/ 2 other women friends. We're reading The Fox Woman as our first book (my choice) and I'll be leading the discussion. Any suggestions for questions that would prompt stimulating discussion? ~Mary Louise

posted by CarlisleMLH at 9:22 am (EST) on Sep 10, 2008