Library Science and Information Services, MS (53-775) (33 hours)

The Library Science and Information Services program prepares candidates to become PK-12 school librarians. Our graduates provide learning environments that are rich in information resources and collaborate with teachers to maximize student learning. The Library Science program is guided by the ALA/AASL Standards for Initial Programs for School Library Media Specialist Preparation (2010).

Vision Statement: The Library Science and Information Services program prepares school librarians who are indispensable in preK-12 schools.

Student Learning Outcomes: Graduates with a Master of Science degree in Library Science and Information Services will use the knowledge and skills obtained in the program to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of learners and learning and who model and promote collaborative planning, instruction in multiple literacies, and inquiry-based learning, enabling members of the learning community to become effective users and creators of ideas and information. Candidates design and implement instruction that engages students’ interests and develops their ability to inquire, think critically, gain and share knowledge.
• Promote reading for learning, personal growth, and enjoyment. Candidates are aware of major trends in children’s and young adult literature and select reading materials in multiple formats to support reading for information, reading for pleasure, and reading for lifelong learning. Candidates use a variety of strategies to reinforce classroom reading instruction to address the diverse needs and interests of all readers.
• Model and promote ethical, equitable access to and use of physical, digital, and virtual collections of resources.  Candidates demonstrate knowledge of a variety of information sources and services that support the needs of the diverse learning community. Candidates demonstrate the use of a variety of research strategies to generate knowledge to improve practice.  
• Advocate for dynamic school library programs and positive learning environments that focus on student learning and achievement by collaborating and connecting with teachers, administrators, librarians, and the community. Candidates are committed to continuous learning and professional growth and lead professional development activities for other educators. Candidates provide leadership by articulating ways in which school libraries contribute to student achievement.
• Plan, develop, implement, and evaluate school library programs, resources, and services in support of the mission of the library program within the school according to the ethics and principles of library science, education, management, and administration

Full admission to the program requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 and personal interview.

Conditional Admission - An applicant who does not meet the overall grade point average must be classified as “a non-degree seeking student” until achieving a minimum 3.50 graduate GPA in 12 hours, taking the following courses: LIS 5100  - Foundations of Librarianship (3); LIS 5250  - Developing and Managing Collections (3); LIS 5240  - Library Media Administration (3) and LIS 5322  - Reference Sources and Services (3). These courses must be taken and grades received prior to enrolling in other courses required for the degree or reapplying for admission.