[Publib] PhD Program (etc.)

[Robert Balliot]

I think the PhD offers what might be considered a less tangible benefit to
the
profession.  The process creates scholarly work and research that might not
otherwise be forthcoming.  In a sense, it follows the nature of libraries
themselves
that create somewhat intangible benefits - healthier minds and more
fulfilling
days.  Very difficult to count.  Very difficult to put a dollar value on it.

Our culture of acquisition puts a tremendous emphasis on demonstrating
self worth by having stuff.  Obviously, that is the definition of worth that
manifested itself in Oak Brook and overtook the library there.

It would be nice if honorary PhD's were offered in LSC, though  After 25 or
30
years solving problems as a professional, it seems that would warrant the
same credibility and value on paper as someone who spends an extra
year or two in school.


R. Balliot
http://oceanstatelibrarian.com


On Mon, Nov 2, 2009 at 11:05 AM, Bob Watson <librarybob at gmail.com> wrote:

> The focus here as turned to the "Masters' versus the "Bachelors"
> degree for library professionals.
>
> Personally, I'd most likely not want to hire a Bachelors degreed
> librarian ... there are lots of people who have BA degrees in other
> fields, plus an LTA degree.  Which is to say that I don't see the
> market for a Bachelors degree.  It brings less value than what many of
> those who have LTA degrees bring.
>
> I do, however, think that the Masters needs to be strengthened and
> divided into the specializations that comprise the various "library
> professions" that work in libraries.
>
> Bob Watson
> Director
> Lake Villa District Library
> Lake Villa, IL
>
>
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