Taking Your MLIS Abroad: Getting and Succeeding in an International Library Job

by Lara Seven Phillips, Katherine G. Holvoet

For those who possess an ALA-accredited degree, there are opportunities to work in library settings around the world--and many of these attractive career options do not require non-English language skills or an EEC/Commonwealth citizenship. This guide to library work in countries outside the United States and Canada explains the benefits of taking on a library position in an international setting, how to find such a job, what to expect in working in a library outside of North America, and what strategies to employ to be successful and happy living and working in your host country.



This guide answers all the questions that a librarian considering a position abroad would have, and it also covers subjects and concerns that might not be as obvious. Based on the direct experiences of the authors as well as anecdotal accounts from other librarians who have worked around the world, the book informs readers about common cultural differences with the application and interview process; explains how workplaces and working assumptions can be different from American expectations; profiles the different procedures, collection scope, curricular support, and intellectual freedom policies of libraries outside the United States and Canada; and describes the unique experience of moving to another country and living as an expat.

Genres: Nonfiction

268 pages, Paperback

Published November 28, 2016

Reviews

[lara phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on this topic, ever. Perhaps the best book I read (or wrote) all year.

[Andrea · Rating 2 out of 5]

Perhaps I got to this book too late as it seems that a lot of this information seemed too dated to be useful (published 2016). The focus was more on academic positions and perhaps, that in itself is the important take-away from this book. Also, given that this is aimed toward librarians, it seemed that those in this profession could put their skills to use to investigate much of this on their own, though there is value in having it all in one place.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved all the bits of advice from librarians who have worked around the world, and that many listed the actual library they worked at. Really wonderful, packed full of useful advice.

[Danny Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

In-depth and exhaustive, and only increased my enthusiasm to take the plunge. Also, it makes librarian Rebecca Miller sound like a real badass.

[Lillian · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the current political environment there are some considering a life overseas. If you are a librarian this book is an excellent comprehensive resource on the decision, the requirements and what to expect.