Enter the iSchool JobWeb

Purpose

The School of Information has established mentoring programs with both The University of Texas Libraries and the Austin Public Library System. Both programs are formal and collaborative relationships between the two library systems and the School of Information.

The Mentor Programs provide individual students with the opportunity to learn more about librarianship and careers for information professionals through one-on-one relationships with both public and academic librarians. Mentors and students share expertise, insights, and networks. Participants are not limited to students on a library career path; those interested in other information specialties and career paths are also encouraged to apply and will be placed when a suitable match can be found.

How it works

During the first two weeks of the fall and spring semesters, a notice will be published via "the Insider," the student discussion email list. This notice will contain:

• the application deadline
• links to the application forms (also listed below)
• date students will be notified of matches
• date and location of the Mentor Program orientation

Volunteer mentors from the the UT Libraries and Austin Public Library are matched with interested and eligible School of Information students. The appropriate Mentor Program Steering Committee attempts to match each student with a mentor working in the student's areas of interest. The mentor and student spend a minimum of six hours together during the semester. Activities may include introducing the student to specific library operations, discussing professional and career issues during lunch or coffee, job shadowing or joining the librarian in appropriate committee, departmental and other meetings. Group activities may include orientations to work units or areas of work responsibilities (e.g., collection development, library instruction, reference services, technical services, digital library services), "behind the scenes" tours of libraries, and coaching and advice on recruitment and job searching.

Austin Public Library Mentor Program Forms

Austin Public Libraries Mentor Program Information Sheet: MS Word | Adobe .pdf
APL Mentor Program Student Application: MS Word Form

UT Libraries Mentor Program Forms

UT Libraries Mentor Program Information Sheet: MS Word | Adobe .pdf
Student Application - MS Word Form

If you have questions about the program, or you want to pick up a paper copy of the application, contact:

Ronald D. Pollock
Director of Career Services
School of Information
UTA 5.336
rpollock@ischool.utexas.edu
(512) 471-2623