The original poster stated that her interests are in "history and
historic conservation, special collections, and archival work." Although
she didn't state the type of conservation work of interest, for special
collections and archival work, one would NOT typically get a museum
studies degree. The MLIS is the standard degree for what is termed
"special collections" (rare books and archives), while an MA in public
history would also serve one well for working with archives/manuscripts.
Ideally, one would "specialize" in special collections and archives in
an MLIS or public history program by taking relevant courses in the
program and doing internships/practica. In other environments, such as
universities, special collections librarians often have other advanced
degrees in addition to the MLIS. If one's interest is in the
conservation of paper-based materials, a focus on preservation and
conservation is available in some library science programs, complete
with hands-on practica. General archival conservation (e.g., removing
adhesive from photos, mending torn paper, cleaning soiled documents) can
be learned during internships. We have an intern here that is learning
these types of procedures, as well as some rare book conservation
practices, for a preservation practicum in her library science program.
She is studying under a trained and very talented conservator. I agree
with Michael that internships are very important. No, library science
education wouldn't enable one to get "any" job in a museum, but I don't
think the original poster wanted "any" job. It sounds like her interests
lie more in the library and archival realms and therefore the MLIS would
be an appropriate degree.
Vicki
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Vicki Meehan
Myers-Lenahan Archivist
Medical Heritage Center
The Ohio State University
510 Prior Health Sciences Library
376 W. 10th Ave.
Columbus OH 43210-1240
(614) 292-9966
[log in to unmask]
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Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2003 14:07:50 -0500
From: Arlyn Danielson <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: Re: Library Science and Museum Work
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While finding an internship in a museum is good advice and a good way to
get one's foot in the door, I disagree with Mike Rippy's assertion that
an MLS degree is a solid credential for a library OR museum. An MLS
degree is a solid credential for a library position, not a museum
position generally speaking. With 17 years of museum experience (I have
an MA in museum studies) I recommend that if someone wants to work in a
museum, working with collections and conservation and preservation of
collections, or exhibitions, he or she obtain an MA or certificate in
museum studies - not an MLS. There might be some overlap, but an MLS
degree is not good preparation by itself for strictly museum work. I
don't understand why Mike Rippy would say that "The MLS degree is a
solid credential for either setting." I am not against library degrees,
they are fine, but someone with a MLS degree may not be well qualified
for museum work based on degree alone.
=20
Arlyn Danielson
Newseum
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