Re: GEN: curious about credentials?

[TerrieM498@AOL.COM]

Patricia,

I share your concern.  I am a State accredited school media specialist K-12.
 My library degree was a BSED program with about 40 required hours of
coursework.  My MSED is as a reading specialist.  In looking at the MLS
program, I have found that many of the programs are less demanding than the
BSED program I went through!  Many people do not understand that the
standards changed, and most of the coursework I had is the same coursework
now required in the MLS programs.  I have considered going back, but find I
make more money as a school librarian, have the credentials, and am better
trained than most others I have encountered in the public library world (I
work for a public library part-time).

To answer your question though...
The American Library Association has accredited certain programs based on
content of the program, the education of the instructors, and (to some
degree) politics.  It does not mean your program was bad, or that you are not
a skilled librarian.

In terms of employment...it depends.  I have interviewed and had offers from
libraries advertising for ALA accredited MLS only positions.  I have also
been turned away at the door because my program was not the specified.  It
depends on the organization and what they are really looking for to fill
their position.

Hope that helps!

Terrie Miller
Banneker Elementary School
Kansas City, Missouri
TerrieM498@aol.com