Diverse Readings for Library and Information Science Students
Choosing the right readings in library and information science (LIS) goes beyond textbooks. As a student in this field, it's essential to stay ahead of the trends, learn from up-to-date sources, and broaden your knowledge base to cover a diverse range of subjects. This article will guide you through selecting the right resources, the importance of staying current, and the value of diverse reading in LIS.
The Role of Textbooks vs. Current Research
From my experiences as a graduate student and librarian, textbooks serve as a foundational source rather than an all-encompassing tool. They cover the core theories and concepts that are vital for a strong academic grounding. However, they can become outdated rather quickly. The key is to integrate current research and primary sources into your learning. Peer-reviewed journals, citation lists, scholarly articles, and monographs are crucial in maintaining the currency of your knowledge.
The term 'currency' is paramount, especially when researching trending topics. Skimming through monographs and their bibliographies can lead you to essential primary sources. The internet plays a significant role, as a quick search can often uncover information that textbooks or journals might not have covered yet. While Wikipedia is often criticized, it can be a valuable starting point, as the citation lists provided by its authors can direct you to reputable sources.
Staying Informed with Professional Articles
To stay relevant, you should actively seek out professional articles in LIS. These articles are often the cutting edge of research and technology in the field. They dissect the latest trends and developments that libraries are using. It's equally important to keep abreast of technological changes, as these evolve rapidly. Just ensure that the articles you read are from respected professionals or organizations. This can be verified by checking how and in what manner the articles are cited by other professionals in the field.
The Value of Diverse Reading
Moreover, reading a wide range of materials outside the strict confines of academic journals is highly beneficial. This includes professional magazines, memoirs, fiction, and any other random books. As a librarian, a diverse reading habit equips you with a broader perspective and a wider knowledge base. The essence of this advice is simple: never limit yourself to only one genre or type of reading material.
Examples of Diverse Reading
Consider reading mystery novels, manga, science fiction, new books, and even older books. Each of these genres offers unique insights and can provide random information that may be useful in the future. For example, a mystery novel might give you an understanding of human psychology that could enhance your customer service skills. Manga and science fiction, on the other hand, can offer imaginative ideas for innovative library design and services.
Conclusion
As a library and information science degree student, your education is about more than just mastering the core concepts. It's about staying current, being curious, and continuously expanding your knowledge base. By integrating both current research and diverse reading materials, you can develop a well-rounded and versatile skill set that will serve you well throughout your career.
So, the next time you strike up a conversation with a fellow librarian or an author, remember that your library science journey is enriched by a variety of sources. Whether it's a technical article or a novel, every read contributes to your unique understanding of the field.