Library Policy Statements

I. PROGRAM INFORMATION

The goal of the Library and Information Science Program is to prepare professionals for work in all types of information handling agencies. The program leading to the Master of Library Science (MLSc) degree (with Plan A, thesis and Plan B, non-thesis options) consists of a core curriculum in library administration, technical services, and public services, plus electives enabling students to develop special skills for a particular type of library or information specialization. The program also seeks to expand the knowledge base of the profession through research, and shares its resources by extending services locally, nationally, and internationally.

Courses offered encompass the traditional core of librarianship as librarianship, microcomputer applications in librarianship, information centers, conservation & preservation, digital libraries, and database design. Since the program moved to the Department of Information and Computer Science (ICS), course offerings have expanded to include more programming, cognitive science, human-computer interface and networking topics.

In addition to the MLSc the program offers advanced certificates in school librarianship, and advanced library & information science.

The LIS program also offers dual masters degrees with Information and Computer Sciences, History, Pacific Island Studies, American Studies, Asian Studies, and Law. The program is also one of four academic programs that cooperate in the interdisciplinary doctoral program in Communication and Information Sciences (CIS).

II. COORDINATION OF COLLECTING RESPONSIBILITIES

The Science and Technology unit collects computer applications in information storage and retrieval, as well as insect and pest control, and telecommunications. Some titles on records management and information technology management fall within the business area. International librarianship is covered jointly with the area collections.

III. DESCRIPTION OF MATERIALS COLLECTED OR EXCLUDED

Language:

Primarily English, with some vernacular from Asia and the Pacific.

Chronological:

Emphasis is on the 20th & 21st centuries.

Geographic:

The primary interest is the United States. For international librarianship, the focus is Asia and the Pacific.

Date of Publication:

No limitations, but the emphasis is on current imprints.

Types/Formats of Materials Collected:

The Library collects print, non-print, CD-ROM, and online resources that support research in Library & Information Science. Books and journals, annual reviews, bibliographies, dictionaries, glossaries, directories, encyclopedias, case studies, proceedings, transactions, and publications of societies and associations are all collected. Dissertations are acquired only at the specific request of the faculty.

Treatment:

The primary emphasis is on theoretical and practical works on library administration, technical services, user services, and information science. Strong emphasis is also placed on theoretical and practical works on computer applications in information storage, management and retrieval. Materials about specific types of libraries, e.g., school, public, university, governmental, business, information centers and networks are also of prime interest. Publications of all types on archival and records management and preservation of library materials are collected. Historical and biographical materials are collected very selectively. Materials on the legal aspects of censorship and freedom of information are in demand for courses on social functions of libraries. Classification schedules and books on cataloging rules are purchased for use both by the school and the practicing librarians.

Date Compiled: 6/01 Compiler: Susan Johnson