New Cataloger Preparedness: Interviews With New Professionals in Academic Libraries

This study presents the results of interviews with twenty-two new professional catalogers in their first professional positions in an academic library. Interview questions focus on library education experiences, comfort with the theory and practice of cataloging, and overall level of preparedness provided by the master of library science (MLS) or equivalent degree. Interview results place great importance on practica, internships, or other practical experience during library education. The availability of more and better cataloging classes was also emphasized. Many interview respondents were unenthusiastic in their descriptions of the level of preparedness provided by the MLS.