By Peter Fairbrother on Wednesday, May 23, 2001 - 02:14 pm:
I've read in the recent LA Record that another undergradute information and library studies course is set to close, partly because there aren't sufficient numbers applying to make running the course viable.
With other library schools facing similar problems, does Bob recognise that the reason why people aren't choosing to study librarianship is because of the association of information/ library work with traditionally low pay?
Bob - you've stated that you plan to commission research in the field of low pay and working conditions. Will such research actively involve the membership of the association? Can you tell us more about the objectives of the research?
Additionally, can you provide a timescale for the implementation of activities that you've recently outlined to deal with the problem of low pay within the profession?
By Bob McKee on Thursday, May 24, 2001 - 12:37 pm:
Thanks, Peter. The position with undergraduate courses is something we're looking at; and I'll be discussing this with the "library schools" (as we still tend to call them) and other relevant parties in the near future. I'll be able to announce more detail on the research and on the overall timetable of actions after the Policy & Resources Committee meeting next week.
Thanks again.