Careers in Rare Books and Manuscripts: Frequently Asked Questions
Careers in Rare Books and Manuscripts: Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ answers questions about Career Development in the Rare Books and Manuscripts Field.
It is maintained by the Membership and Professional Development Committee of the Rare Books and Manuscripts Section (RBMS) of the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL), a division of the American Library Association (ALA).
Education- I am an undergraduate interested in pursuing a career in rare books and manuscripts. What should I major in?
- What qualifications do I need to become a librarian / archivist?
- Which universities offer accredited library science programs?
- What education is required to obtain a job in rare books or manuscripts? Is a second advanced degree required?
- Which library schools offer courses in rare books and manuscripts librarianship?
- Where can I find continuing education resources for librarians interested in rare books and manuscripts?
- Are there scholarships or grants available specifically for studying rare books and manuscripts?
- Where can I learn more about rare books and manuscripts?
- What knowledge or skills are recommended for a successful career in rare books or manuscripts?
- What can I do while in library school to give me an edge in the field?
- What sorts of technical skills do I need to be competitive in the world of rare books and archives?
- I enjoy working on digital projects and learning about Web 2.0 applications and issues. Would these interests be useful in a special collections position?
- I’m not sure yet whether I want to work in a library, archive, or museum. Are the skills needed for one setting transferable to the others?
- I’m interested in the preservation and conservation of rare materials. Where can I go for more information?
- Can you point me to online resources and tools for cataloging?
- Where can I find listings for positions that involve rare books and manuscripts?
- What types of positions are available in the field?
- I’m thinking of becoming an archivist. Where can I learn what it’s like to work in the field?
- What is the job market like for new librarians / archivists?
- I found a job listing that asks for three years of professional experience. I don’t have that much experience. Should I still apply?
- I don’t have any experience working in an academic library. Can I still apply to positions in academic institutions?
- Are there any networks or discussion groups for new special collections professionals?
- Can you recommend any resources to help people in historically under-represented groups begin careers in special collections?
- What is RBMS and what does it do?
- Where can I find out how to join RBMS?
- How can I become more involved in RBMS?
- How often do RBMS committees meet?
- How can I tell which committee is the right one for me to join?
- Are there conferences for rare book and manuscript professionals?
- What is the difference between the RBMS Preconference and the ALA Annual and Midwinter meetings? Which one(s) should I attend?
- I can't afford to attend any conferences. Are there any scholarships available?
- I am interested in reading more about an RBMS Preconference or conference program that has been held in the past. Are published proceedings available?
- I am not able to attend the workshops at the RBMS preconferences. Are workshops ever offered anywhere else?
- Are there any electronic discussion lists that address current issues in rare book and manuscript librarianship?
- I have a few old books and other printed items in my personal library. Where can I find more information about them?
- I'd like to keep on top of what is going on in the field of rare books and manuscripts. Does RBMS have its own journal?
- Is there anyone I can talk to with questions I have about the profession?