Specialist Library and Information Studies degree give graduates industry relevant skills.
The first group of learners to undertake the Open Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Library and Information Studies are set to graduate in 2022 and are looking forward to using the knowledge, skills and abilities, they have gained during their degree studies to take their careers to the next level.
First offered in late 2017, the Bachelor of Library and Information Studies (BLIS) is delivered fully online and prepares learners for a career in library, archives, information, or records management.
Graduates of the programme learn how to provide culturally responsive library and information services. They learn to:
First offered in late 2017, the Bachelor of Library and Information Studies (BLIS) is delivered fully online and prepares learners for a career in library, archives, information, or records management.
Graduates of the programme learn how to provide culturally responsive library and information services. They learn to:
- analyse individual, organisational and community needs to design and deliver appropriate library and information services
- facilitate the creation, organisation and dissemination of new knowledge
- search for, critically evaluate and use information in diverse formats and locations
- develop leadership and management strategies related to the information industry.
JACK HELMS Fellow graduate Jack Helms is looking forward to starting work in the industry, with a goal of working in his local library. He says he has always been passionate about reading, having taught himself to read from a very young age. He also has his own book reviewing website where he reviews children and young adult books with the aim of encouraging reluctant male readers. Jack says the most valuable study skill he learned during his degree was ensuring he thought carefully about tutors’ comments when completing assignments. Time management was also an important skill, with Jack managing his study workload by ensuring he set time aside each day to complete course work. On the future of the Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums (GLAM) sector, he says he hopes children will still read books rather than solely reading through screens. “Even though we have modern conveniences such as easily accessible eBooks, the tradtional printed word is still present and as popular as ever in our libraries. I grew up reading from a page instead of a screen, and I want the children of the future to be able to share that experience too,” says Jack. One resource he found valuable when studying is the Crash Course series published by Libraries Unlimited. The book series covers everything from library services for different age groups to using new technology such as RFID and eBooks in libraries. |
DONNA LE MARQUAND School library manager Donna Le Marquand has also graduated with the BLIS and is looking forward to attending her graduation ceremony in 2022. Initially starting her study journey with Open Polytechnic by completing the Level 5 and 6 diplomas in Library and Information Studies, her passion for study was ignited, leading her to carry on and undertake the degree programme. “It was a 13-year journey, but I am delighted and proud to have completed this degree at the age of 51, the same year my youngest child graduated.” Already working in the sector ? while she completed her studies, Donna has held diverse roles including assistant librarian for a medical publishing company, then 10 years working in special libraries, followed by a stint with the National Library of New Zealand. She has also worked as a school librarian in a primary school, a large high school and (currently) an intermediate school. |
Donna says she has enjoyed her degree studies. “The courses are relevant and interesting. They have taken me on a professional and personal journey. Te Ao Māori in the Information Environment course included a noho marae stay. I really enjoyed this experience and the opportunity to meet other learners face-to-face.”
Since graduating, Donna has been working as a library manager in a large intermediate school in Auckland. Her role includes the purchasing and processing of all new material, supporting student learning by helping them find information and teaching them research skills. She also supports reading engagement which involves book talks, library displays, competitions, reading challenges, running a book club, and organising an annual Book Week.
If you would like to find out more about the Library and Information Studies courses the Open Polytechnic offers, checkout: https://bit.ly/3zSgy2z
Since graduating, Donna has been working as a library manager in a large intermediate school in Auckland. Her role includes the purchasing and processing of all new material, supporting student learning by helping them find information and teaching them research skills. She also supports reading engagement which involves book talks, library displays, competitions, reading challenges, running a book club, and organising an annual Book Week.
If you would like to find out more about the Library and Information Studies courses the Open Polytechnic offers, checkout: https://bit.ly/3zSgy2z
Did you know recent graduates automatically qualify to apply for RLIANZA?
Victoria University of Wellington Master of Library and Information Studies and Open Polytechnic qualifications are recognised by the LIANZA Professional Registration Board as meeting the LIANZA Professional Registration Bodies of Knowledge (BoKs). Graduates who are LIANZA members just need to pay the initial application fee of $57.50 and submit an application form with a copy of their qualification to become professionally registered. You then start collecting professional evidence over the next three years in order to revalidate. RLIANZA shows your peers and employers that you have demonstrated a commitment to professional standards, and to developing and enhancing competence.
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Victoria University of Wellington Master of Library and Information Studies and Open Polytechnic qualifications are recognised by the LIANZA Professional Registration Board as meeting the LIANZA Professional Registration Bodies of Knowledge (BoKs). Graduates who are LIANZA members just need to pay the initial application fee of $57.50 and submit an application form with a copy of their qualification to become professionally registered. You then start collecting professional evidence over the next three years in order to revalidate. RLIANZA shows your peers and employers that you have demonstrated a commitment to professional standards, and to developing and enhancing competence.
READ MORE >