HI-
Im new here and will start my MLIS program in the fall of 2008.
However, Im coming at a roadblock looking for jobs.

While I've found alot of sites that have good information, Im finding other job sites that have postions that mostly require higher level(ie. Director). Im in the midwest so Im trying to use NSLS to look for things. I have a bit of exeperience having finished up a contracted job through a local library near me.

Im supposed to be gurateed an interview to reapply for my old job(its become a permenenat one) so that is fine and dandy. but of cousre Im up against all the other candidtes, so Im trying to look for other opportunities in the meantime.

Im going on Careerbuilder, Monster, Yahoo hot jobs, places like LIS jobs, even the ALA job. And b/c Im entry level its a bit more difficult trying to start out. I have my resume updated to reflect that I will start school in the summer, which I think is a good idea, to highlight that I further my interestt in working at a libray, etc. But Im sure there are tons of MLIS student either starting up or finishing who are applying for jobs with more experience.

Im trying to keep the range to a 45 minute commute max for say a part time. I have read the well dressed librarians blog and its very helpful with good tips. Im just not sure where to look since school hasnt started, etc. I try to do a 9-5 search and take off weekends, and that is working okay but I find its the same thing all the time so it gets a bit depressing. I heard networking is a good way to start so I signed up for the ALA membership as a student and the new member round table as well.

Im not sure if there is anything else I can do. What is the job market like for entry level librarianship? Do you have any other tips for ideas for places to look? I do physically go out and get applications for libraires nearby me as well as volunterring. I may start volunteering next week about 1xs a week so I get a bit more practice processing books. (I used to work in Tech Services.) So I am not sure if that will help me much, but I figure it is a start.

Thanks!

It is also very difficult to get a position in a library near a library school as so many people are searching there. You may be forced to get a job somewhere other than a library and then you could either volunteer or work part-time at a local library.

Don't worry, we all start there!!

Networking is important. Business people do it all the time and that's how many positions are filled. After all, looking for a good candidate takes time and money, but if someone already knows who you are from so and so meeting, etc. etc. -- that person is going to refer you and you've got a job you didn't even need to apply (and weren't even looking).

Yes, volunteer at your local library. I did that before library school, and I got a job as a library assistant for a State office. I had 24 days experience mainly shelving books, but it was good enough for them. I beat out 8 candidates that were in library school. The difference - I was enthusiastic about the job, so don't worry about those "tons of MLIS students", think about how you come across to that employer.

Besides ALA, join SLA (Special Libraries Association). They have non-library positions and internships.

There are library "recruiters". Check in your area.

And gee, don't forget Barnes and Noble or other bookshops. I know of students working there and so by the time they graduate, they have the skills to manage a library (or go into a corporate library setting). Every experience counts! (Libraries are changing and many are turning to the bookstore model ...)

Be patient. Looking for work IS a full-time job.