Staying afloat in the academic library job pool

CHICAGO—There has never been a more challenging time to find a position as an academic librarian, especially for those who have recently completed their library education. In “How to Stay Afloat in the Academic Library Job Pool,” published by ALA Editions, editor Teresa Y. Neely and a crack team of experts present the information needed for smooth sailing. Job hunters jumping into the job pool for the very first time, as well as those back in the water after a dry spell, will benefit from their collective wisdom. Including a foreword by former ALA president Camila A. Alire, this book offers:

• practical and specific advice on how the job-search process works, including the how-tos of reading between the lines of a job listing and assembling a compelling application packet;
• keys to understanding the mysterious ways of search committees, and what criteria may be used to determine successful candidates;
• the nuts and bolts of undergoing a successful job interview, plus tips for negotiating when an offer is made.

Neely is director of access services, University Libraries, University of New Mexico. Previous positions included head of reference at the Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery, University of Maryland, Baltimore County; and adjunct professor at the College of Information Studies, University of Maryland, College Park. She is also the author of "Information Literacy Assessment: Standards-Based Tools and Assignments."

ALA Store purchases fund advocacy, awareness, and accreditation programs for library professionals worldwide. ALA Editions publishes resources used worldwide by tens of thousands of library and information professionals to improve programs, build on best practices, develop leadership, and for personal professional development. ALA authors and developers are leaders in their fields, and their content is published in a growing range of print and electronic formats. Contact ALA Editions at (800) 545-2433, ext. 5418, or editionsmarketing@ala.org.