MLIS+: Mentored Library Fellowship

San José State University (SJSU) College of Information, Data and Society School of Information (iSchool) and the SJSU MLK Library are committed to addressing the critical need for well-qualified, diverse library professionals through a work experience fellowship for students in the MLIS program: MLIS+: Mentored Library Fellowship for Success.

This innovative, extended-length paid fellowship program is designed to equip MLIS students with the practical experience and mentorship necessary to thrive in their post-graduate careers. By immersing students in real-world library environments and providing them with mentorship, MLIS+ will not only enhance their professional readiness but also bring fresh perspectives and skills to the libraries they serve.

Students will benefit from the fellowship in the following ways:

The MLIS+ Fellowship program will offer longer-term, paid work experiences with structured mentorship, accessible to MLIS students, whether in-person or virtually. The program aims to equip students with the skills and experience necessary for successful careers in academic libraries while providing library organizations with access to a well-prepared pool of future professionals.

Fellows will get valuable library work experience, which will make them more competitive in their job searches after graduation.

• Opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. 
• Assigned to a mentor, an experienced professional, who will enrich the student’s learning experience.

A key component of MLIS+ is the formal mentoring provided by both the library supervisor and the program coordinator, which is essential for ensuring student readiness and success. Mentorship will involve regular interactions with library supervisors, offering opportunities to develop professional skills, engage in library operations, and receive career guidance. Additionally, the program coordinator will facilitate informal mentoring through virtual meetups, group discussions, and opportunities for students to present their work (e.g., poster sessions, webcasts), fostering a supportive cohort experience.

Hosting libraries will benefit from the fellowship in the following ways:

• Work with talented MLIS students who will contribute to your library operations and enrich your library with new energy and ideas. 

• Get access to a well-prepared pool of future professionals

New graduates need opportunities to get hands-on training to enter the field, and MLIS students also benefit from mentorship experiences. These experiences provide invaluable opportunities for students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, build professional networks, and receive guidance from experienced professionals — aiding their transition into the workforce.

Pairing mentorship opportunities with experiential programs enhances the professional readiness of LIS graduates, particularly helping them to “…experience the professional culture, build confidence, receive job-seeking advice, and perform the work of academic librarians…”

Eligibility

MLIS+ applicants must: be matriculated in the SJSU iSchool MLIS program and have successfully completed INFO 200; have at least 18 months remaining before graduation; and, submit an essay outlining their intended career path in academic libraries. Accepted students will work up to 15 hours per week for 18 months as paid fellows at the SJSU MLK Library, either in person or virtually, depending on the Fellowship opportunity and the student’s location. 

How to Apply

• CV or resume: A current and complete CV that includes your earned educational degrees and relevant professional experience
• Letter: 1,000 words describing your enthusiasm for librarianship, relevant academic and professional experience, why you are a strong candidate for the Fellowship, and your future career goals.
• Evidence of successful completion of INFO 200 (or date when you expect to complete INFO 200).
• Recommendation letters: two letters of recommendation from faculty and/or professionals who have knowledge of your academic or professional abilities.
• Transcripts (copies) for all earned degrees, with GPA indicated. Official transcripts are not needed at this stage. Do not send transcripts for courses taken if no degree was earned.