Career Transitions for Librarians

The library world is constantly in flux as new job descriptions and brands of library services are continually created. Librarians just starting out can expect to evolve and change many times over the course of their career. As a result, many may choose to trade working in one type of library for another. Those seeking a fresh position or to make the jump to a different setting may find a guiding hand with this work edited by Anderson (community engagement manager, Metropolitan New York Lib. Council) and Pun (First Year Student Success Librarian, California State Univ., Fresno). An extensive collection of essays and interviews from librarians who have made drastic changes in their careers, the book features sections that discuss transitions among various institutions. For example, from specialized to academic libraries, academic to public libraries, and nontraditional pursuits. Chapters are replete with practical advice and strategies, interspersed with thoughtful interviews with library leaders. ­VERDICT An important book for professionals seeking horizons unknown, as well as administrators looking to update staff skills and job descriptions. Also a valuable addition to library science curricula. * Library Journal *
This is a very comprehensive look at how to move into new positions among various kinds of libraries. It includes chapters written by librarians about their career transitions, and also contains interviews and advice from seasoned librarians in various management positions…. This book contains very good advice…. This is a very good resource for librarians at any stage of a career, and the first-person narratives are very relatable. * Journal of Academic Librarianship *
Career Transitions for Librarians: Proven Strategies for Moving to Another Type of Library is filled with personal stories and interviews which capture the energy and dynamism of the 21st century librarian career. The book is an innovative and enlightening exploration of transitions across types of organizations, assignments, and geographies which affirms the exciting mobility and transferability of the information professional. -- Jim Neal, University Librarian Emeritus, Columbia University
Whether you’re in library school, considering a career change, or completely content in your current library type—this book is for you! You’ll find plenty of anecdotes from librarians who successfully changed library types and plenty of career advice to help you navigate your career. . . . I highly recommend this book for all librarians, whether you’re immediately looking for a change or just want to keep your options open. * Public Libraries *
Career Transitions for Librarians: Proven Strategies for Moving to Another Type of Library is filled with personal stories and interviews which capture the energy and dynamism of the 21st century librarian career.  The book is an innovative and enlightening exploration of transitions across types of organizations, assignments, and geographies which affirms the exciting mobility and transferability of the information professional.   -- Jim Neal, University Librarian Emeritus, Columbia University
Though this keen volume can be read as a career guide, reading it feels more like you're having a chat with a mentor about career options over a cup of coffee.  It makes a powerful statement that our field is not in crisis.  Rather, it is living through an invigorating period of transition. The anecdotes in this collection remind us that there are more options available with a MLIS than ever before. -- Miraida Morales, Ph.D. Candidate, School of Communication and Information, Rutgers
"As libraries transform, the differences between library types are less critical to our patrons.  Our patrons recognize that the role librarians and information specialists play today is less about what we have for people and more about what we do for and with people.  The contributors to Career Transitions for Librarians share the stories of top-notch national and global librarians and information leaders that help readers discover ways to elevate, advance and thrive in our dynamic professional world." -- Sari Feldman, Executive Director, Cuyahoga County Public Library, and Past President of the American Library Association