August 2, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press Contact:
Elizabeth Holtan, eholtan@imls.gov
202-653-4630

IMLS Reports Describe Shared Digital Library Infrastructures and Formal Education in Library and Information Science

Washington, DC—New reports by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) summarize two major library stakeholder meetings IMLS held in fall 2017 on digital infrastructures and initiatives in libraries and on formal education for library and archives practitioners.

Developed with input from a wide variety of community stakeholders, the reports provide useful information for library and archives professionals, library and information science educators, and anyone with an interest in IMLS funding activities in these areas.

“We are continuously listening to the communities we serve to better understand their priorities and concerns,” said Robin Dale, IMLS Deputy Director for Libraries. “These reports reflect important conversations around how we can work together to advance digital infrastructures and initiatives and strengthen formal library and information science education.”

National Digital Infrastructures and Initiatives describes discussions at the NDP at Three meeting, held in October 2017. The report includes forum participants' reflections on the past several years of IMLS funding for digital infrastructures, as well as perspectives on how IMLS can continue to support digital initiatives with the greatest potential for national impact and sustainability. Applicants to the National Digital Infrastructures and Initiatives project category of the National Leadership Grants for Libraries Program and Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program are encouraged to reference this report when developing their applications.

Positioning Library and Information Science Graduate Programs for 21st Century Practice analyzes issues and themes from the discussions at a meeting in November 2017. The report includes discussions on diversity in the library profession; 21st century skills, expertise, and competencies; alternative models and barriers to graduate education; and how IMLS and the field can move forward based on these considerations and lessons learned. Applicants to the Master’s-level or Doctoral-level categories of the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program are encouraged to reference this report when developing their applications.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.