Case Sudy 2 – Public Librarian Clíodhna O’Reilly
When and why did you decide to do a masters?
As soon as I started my career as a library assistant in a public library, I knew I wanted to pursue this career path and become a librarian. A postgraduate qualification in LIS is essential for this progression, so it was something that I was always working towards.
Had you already got a future employer in mind?
I was already employed as a library assistant with Fingal County Council in County Dublin, Ireland. I knew they offered spon- sorships to undertake a master’s degree and I was delighted when I was granted this funding in 2019. I am very happy to stay with Fingal County Council and to further my career with them.
Has your masters helped with your career?
The masters has helped greatly with my career. Not only has it provided me with the knowledge and skills required by the profession, but it has also given me the confidence and support which has allowed me to progress. Within months of my final submis- sion, I was promoted to a librarian position. I am now working as a librarian and have achieved things I wouldn’t have thought possible, such as submitting research to an academic journal and speaking at the World Library and Information Congress (WLIC).
How did you choose your course? I chose Sheffield University and the LISM course based on research and a pros and cons list. Honestly, there was a certain amount of gut feeling involved too! Sheffield University has a strong global reputa- tion and their social media presence made me very excited to enrol there.
What were the main factors in your choice? The first thing I did was look up the CILIP accredited qualifications. Because I worked full time while stud- ying, I had to undertake a distance learning course that was flexible enough to fit around my work schedule. Out of the remaining options, I looked at the modules and assessments and how relevant they were to my work.
September 2022 INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL 25
Was it easy to find out about the courses? It was very easy to find information. CILP’s website was a great place to start; it gave an overview of all the courses and included links to other relevant pages. From there I looked at the courses’ web- pages and their social media to get a feel for the modules, the staff, and the culture of the courses.
How important is accreditation?
It was very important that it was an accredited course. CILIP accredita- tion is recognised by employers in many different countries. It is a quality assurance; you know that the course is rigorously assessed and that it provides students with the knowledge and skills required by the profession as identified by the Professional Knowledge and Skills Base (PKSB). IP
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