Question for Library and Information Professionals

[Aderyneryn]

I notice there are a few on here so I hope you don't mind me asking this question.

I am currently studying for an MSc in Library and Information Studies via distance learning. It is taking me longer than anticipated because - well, I have 2 children under 4!

I'm actually so sick of studying and want to get back to work. I am thinking of stopping with the PG Diploma. I'd now be considered qualified with just the diploma - although I'll be a little sad not to have completed the whole masters degree.

Anyway, will my job opportunities be severely limited if I am applying for jobs with just a diploma. Will I be able to compete with those who already have a Masters degree?

My background is information work but I now want to work as a librarian. I am willing to work as library assistant or voluntarily to gain more experience. Will anyone employ me as an assistant if I say I have a diploma? Would I be better off going the voluntary route?

I'd really appreciate some 'in the industry' advice.

Bump incase any of you are around.

Hi Aderyneryn

In my experience there is no particular advantage in having the MSc rather than the PgDip. I work with people in similar roles to me with both.

I've got an MSc and have never seen a job advert where it was required. I sweated blood over that dissertation as well...

The only time it would matter is if you wanted to work abroad as I believe that only the MSc is recognised as a professional qualification in the US (this is only from hearsay though).

In some sectors you will be expected to work towards Chartered Librarian status in order to progress, or as a requirement of your appointment. You can do this with either the PgDip or the MSc.

HTH!

Hi Aderyneryn

In my experience there is no particular advantage in having the MSc rather than the PgDip. I work with people in similar roles to me with both.

I've got an MSc and have never seen a job advert where it was required. I sweated blood over that dissertation as well...

The only time it would matter is if you wanted to work abroad as I believe that only the MSc is recognised as a professional qualification in the US (this is only from hearsay though).

In some sectors you will be expected to work towards Chartered Librarian status in order to progress, or as a requirement of your appointment. You can do this with either the PgDip or the MSc.

HTH!

...to answer the 2nd part of your question, as an employer I wouldn't really regard someone with the MSc as more qualified. I would be looking for practical, relevant experience.

My first post after qualifying was as a library assistant. It gave me good experience and a taste of what working in the health information sector was like. It was also a useful "in" as I got my first professional post in the same organisation.

If you find it hard to get a job though I'd definitely consider volunteering. I know several people who have found good jobs this way. It also fills out your cv.

Thank you Shona.

Can you take a break before completing your dissertation? I'm not a librarian but an archivist, but 'd say the MSc was worth getting if only cos you've put in so much work already. You may be able to complete it while you're working - I would think that some empliyers would be happy to support this as part of your professional development.

employers even

Agree with Shonaspurtle, I don't think you'll have any problems getting a job with the diploma. My DH is a senior librarian and just has the diploma.

I am a SAHM at the moment, but used to work in the library/information field - when recruiting I was always more interested in relevant practical experience than library qualifications TBH. I did the full MSc and no one has ever expressed any particular interest in my dissertation. Ho hum.

You should go for it and start applying for jobs. You might get asked in interview why you decided not to do the full MSc, but just be honest about it - I'm sure any interviewer will completely understand your reasons! Stress the fact that you are keen to get back into the workplace, build on your practical experience, etc etc.

Volunteering would look great on your CV - it can only be beneficial for you, so definitely a good thing to do if there is a lack of paid employment in your area.

I have a BA degree and then did a year's PG course which led to the MSc. I passed the course, got the diploma and couldn't see the point of doing the dissertation. I worked in academic libraries for 8 years and "only" having the PG diploma was never an issue. I managed to get chartered status before DD1 was born and hope that when/if I do go back to work (am a SAHM at the moment)that this plus the diploma will be enough.

Best of luck - I am full of admiration for anyone who combines study with looking after children

studying. Via distance learning. With two very young children.

I call it madness.

The only thing that spurred me into action to complete the report for chartership was being 6 months pregnant with my first baby!

As others have said, the actual experience is important, so not having the Masters shouldn't be a problem.

I've been searching for Library and Information Studies via distance learning - would you mind telling me where you are doing it? I searched on the OU site but didn't find it , then found one offer in USA - I'm in Germany but want to start something soon so distance learning would be great.

I know a few people who did it via distance learning through Aberystwyth university, if that helps?

Will check it out, thanks.

University of Northumbria at Newcastle do this course too.

Mine is through Aberystwyth. It requires attendance of 3 study schools. That's the nice bit.

Thanks everyone for your responses. That has made me feel more positive. My tutor has been implying I'll be at a disadvantage with just the diploma.

If I am allowed to defer (again!) I will leave my options open to return and complete the masters. I would have liked to have done a dissertation.

I will definately check out the Newcastle one as I have family there so it would be good for any visits I would have to make - as long a steh main part is distance learning it would be perfect.

Ha! They would say that wouldn't they aderyneryn...looks better for their stats returns if you all stick it out through to Masters...

Aderyneryn, I finished the bulk of my dissertation while working. Initially I was part time while doing the research and then full time when writing up (no kids though...).

It was hard to get myself motivated after a day at work but I guess you already know all about that!

I had endless extensions and doubt you would have a problem that way - as Marina says, it makes their stats look better if you complete the MSc.

I work in a very similar field to Marina- specialist HE library and our Assistant Librarian "only" has the diploma so no bar to employment there. He also got the job over five people with the full MSc due to relevant experience.

I did my distance learning MA from Northumbria Newcastle and can fully recommend it. The three accredited (CILIP) distance learning providers for this kind of MA/MSc are Northumbria, Aberystwyth and Robert Gordon (Aberdeen). Definitely get onto the CILIP website for more info.

Tis a cracking job but you'll never be a librarian, you'll be a Knowledge Manager or Information Scientist. Tsk, branding!

Personally I prefer Book Whore.

With the dissertation, if you were to base it on something in your new job it would look a lot better on the cv than doing it on something easy to hand just to get the letters IYSWIM. Why not leave your options open, as you've said, and you might find something that really catches your interest so it becomes less of a chore (tho still hard work, I know) .

The emoticon was made for Cilip's increasingly desperate attempts to rebrand us do you not think, fellow Book Whore?

I also pimp British drama DVDs to unwary foreign students ShowOfHands: "You liked Persuasion, Sigrid? Oh, you'll love Oi for England"

Aderyneryn
I'm also an information professional. I have a PG diploma and never finished my dissertation (many years ago). I have never been asked about this by potential employers. I'm also a CILIP member and the combination of chartered membership plus PG diploma plus first degree (which is in the subject area I cover) has always been sufficient. I've worked in academic libraries and in special libraries.
As far as getting a job is concerned, you have got relevant experience. You shouldn't need to have to consider voluntary work unless it is helping out at your children's primary school or a local charity. Good luck.

Thanks again everyone. It's nice to know there are so many of you here.