PNNL

Abstract

Job advertisements for entry-level science/technology reference positions in academic libraries were analyzed for the period July - December of 2000. The ads were published in major library and higher education journals. Most job ads expected applicants to have an extensive list of qualifications. However, the six most frequently required qualifications were not science/technology specific. Science/technology specific qualifications, such as science/technology background and experience, were most often listed as preferred qualifications. The contact person of six different ads was asked to complete a survey to find out how well the pool of candidates for each position fulfilled required and preferred qualifications. Employers reported mixed results from searches, with most applicants not having all qualifications listed in the job ads.