For the layperson or the beginning librarian, Haycock and Sheldon bring together the work of 18 leading educators and practitioners in the field of librarianship. Separated into three parts, this is a broad overview of the profession, answering the age-old questions, “What is it that you do?” and “Why do you need to go to school?” Beginning with 5 essays on the foundations, values, and context of the field, the work continues with 11 chapters on the functions and competencies of librarianship, followed by 2 chapters on “Moving beyond Boundaries.” Twelve appendixes provide documents of importance to librarians and their field. Notes for each chapter are presented in a listing at the end of the work, along with an extensive index. --Sara Marcus
"For the layperson or the beginning librarian, Haycock and Sheldon bring together the work of 18 leading educators and practitioners in the field of librarianship. Separated into three parts, this is a broad overview of the profession, answering the age-old questions, what is it that you do? and why do you need to go to school? Beginning with five essays on the foundations, values, and context of the field, the work continues with 11 chapters on the functions and competencies of librarianship, followed by two chapters on Moving beyond Boundaries. Twelve appendixes provide documents of importance to librarians and their field. Notes for each chapter are presented in a listing at the end of the work, along with an extensive index to assist the user in locating the area of importance to them."
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Booklist
"…Michael Gorman's offering on professional ethics and values in a changing world is certainly worthwhile, informed by his long engagement with the philosophy of librarianship… Donald O. Case's chapter 'Information Seeking,' is nuanced and appreciative of the complexities of the digital environment. And Laura Kane's chapter on 'Careers and Environments' is an upbeat excursion through many traditional and emerging streams of librarianship…Edward Evans deals ably with all aspects of library marketing and creating service collections and offer some good advice for both new and seasoned practitioners about how to build partnerships and sustain relationships."
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College & Research Libraries News
"Writing for the layperson or the beginning librarian, Haycock and Sheldon bring together the insights of 18 leading educators and practitioners in the field of librarianship. Separated into three parts, this is the first published broad overview of the competencies of professionally trained librarians. Finally answering the age-old questions asked of many librarians—'What is it that you do?' and ÔWhy do you need to go to school?'—The Portable MLIS introduces the continually evolving, changing, and oftentimes exciting universe of librarianship. . . . A welcome addition to a public or academic library, this might also be a useful book for those in a school or other small library where the importance of a trained librarian needs to be emphasized."
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ARBA
"Haycock and Sheldon have compiled a series of essays on all aspects of librarianship, written by experts in the field. This collection serves as an introduction to library work for those interested in the field, those just starting out, or as a refresher for the experienced professional. It provides excellent discussions on the core competencies necessary for each aspect of librarianship, from systems to public service. Librarianship in its wider context, such as its history, ethics, values, and role in human rights and global issues, is also covered. The book is broken down into three sections: foundations, values, and context; functions and competencies; and moving beyond boundaries. Extensive appendices provide foundational documents in librarianship, including core values, code of ethics, position statements, and competency lists. This is an excellent and comprehensive resource on the role and value of librarianship in today's world."
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Info Career Trends
"The Portable MLIS is an innovative and timely publication. . . . This library information science education-based, pragmatic volume would be a good addition to the professional collections of Library Schools and all other libraries."
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Library Times International
"The title makes for an instant textbook for library program foundation courses or those thinking of joining the profession. Veteran librarians will want to dip into specific essays as part of their personal professional development. Recommended."
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Library Media Connection
