Value of an MLIS?

Library Research Service has a quick survey: The value of an MLIS to you. Students can participate, but they're really aiming for feedback from those in the field. I'm interested to see the results. It doesn't claim to be scientific, but should give a Q&D picture.

I can think of a few fellow students who question the value of an MLIS. But these are the same folks who complain about the workload and the emphasis on theory versus practical training. By the end of the semester, I'm usually with them on the work load. But on the issue of theory vs practicality. I tend to side with the other camp: Give me the theory; I can get the practical training on the job or at training courses. This is a graduate program. For the time, effort and money I am putting into this, I want an education, not a job training program.

I've found that the debate surrounding practical vs theoretical emphasis of MLIS programs is not limited to my program and classmates. At first, I was surprised by this. (Again, master's program...hello?) But different people have different goals and perspectives. Some are pursuing the MLIS purely for advancement. If they've been successful to date without the degree and theoretical background, I can see where they might question its value.

I've also heard many people question: Do you really need a master's degree to do the job? This is particularly true for people outside of the library world. My family and friends were surprised that I needed to pursue (yet another) degree for this career change.

I've joined late in the game, so I'm missing some of the history on this. Is the MLIS requirement relatively new? I heard somewhere that ALA pushed for the MLIS requirement. Is that true? Is so, didn't that action reflect the wishes of the membership?

And maybe all of this is the point of the survey? If so, it barely scratches the surface of the issue.

remind me again. why am i doing this?

Okay, so maybe taking nine credits this semester wasn't my smartest move. After several weeks of very little sleep trying to juggle the workload, kids, job, scouts, PTA, and that guy who sleeps next to me and pays for all of this...I'm wondering, "Why, why, why did I decide to go back to grad school (again)?" A few minutes catching up on bloglines, and I have my answer. (Isn't the web a wondrous thing?)
[Found at Speak Quietly.]

Even Captain Kirk has an inner librarian...

[Found at LibrarianInBlack]

when librarians get married

Check out this awesome wedding invitation. It's the ultimate in geek chic!

Make sure to check out the catalog card and response cards here.

Can you tell I'm a fan of librarian/writer/humorist Scott Douglas (La Counte)? While you're there, check out the rest of his blog and his column at McSweeney's Internet Tendency. What the heck, while you're at it, pre-order his new book at Amazon.com. I grabbed an ARC at ALA Midwinter in Philly. It's a fun read for your inner librarian.

(I know what you're thinking, and no, you can't borrow mine. What do I look like...a librarian or something?)