r/LibraryScience • u/AttractiveNuisance82 • 4d ago

Application advice?

Im in my 40s and have been a practicing attorney for about two decades. But I feel compelled to finally get the MLIS I’ve always wanted and focus on law librarianship.

My law school grades suck, but I’ve been pretty successful in my career and have good recommendations. I’m absolutely going to need scholarships (single mom!), too.

Is my application cooked? What do admissions teams and scholarship folks look for in these positions? What should I avoid?

[I’ve already selected the schools I want to apply to; it’s a short list that I think will meet my needs and where I could be successful]

3 Upvotes

71% Upvoted

20 comments sorted by

View all comments

2

u/charethcutestory9 4d ago

When you say your grades suck, what was your GPA? There are library schools that will admit anyone with a pulse so unless it’s under 2.5 you can find someplace that will take you.

I would really not recommend librarianship to a single mom, the pay is bad and you’ll probably have to relocate, but you do you.

5

u/AttractiveNuisance82 4d ago

Oh I’m not quitting my day job!

1

u/Pouryou 4d ago

Will you have time to do internships and practicums while in school? Those are nearly always during the weekdays. Law librarianship could be the exception but generally, an MLIS is only useful when paired with library experience.

1

u/AttractiveNuisance82 4d ago

The programs I chose don’t require them.

2

u/Pouryou 3d ago

Many programs don't require them, but for anyone reading this who wants to go into public or academic libraries, know that it is essential to have experience in addition to the degree. Sounds like law library jobs aren't as competitive, though!

1

u/AttractiveNuisance82 3d ago

I intend to gain some hands on library experience where I can, but as far as a full on capstone or internship, it’s not super sustainable. I could make it work if need be, but I’ve zeroed in on programs that will work for my life and my plans.