Bravo, Amy!
I, too, am proud to call myself a law librarian, even though many in the
profession may think otherwise, due to my lack of that "Green Card" into
the Masters in Library Science world. I, instead, have my Master's in
Legal Studies, a degree that I felt was more appropriate to my legal
reference and research abilities. While I was taking courses in Torts,
the Trial Process, Comparative Law, etc., colleagues in Library Science
programs were taking Children's Literature and other courses designed for
more general library paths.
There can be no denying that understanding the workings of library
operations is essential to anyone working in today's law libraries. I
have been in large firm libraries as well as court libraries, and feel
confident that my abilities are as beneficial to my library's patrons as
anyone holding that MLS.
I echo the idea to create some sort of certification program through AALL.
I would be first in line to "take the test." There should be no "us" and
"them" in our ranks. All of us employed as law library professionals,
whatever our titles, should work together for recognition of our
dedication to our craft.
I've been very fortunate in my law library career to be associated with
many outstanding law librarians who did not see my lack of an MLS as a
negative. I have even been lucky enough to serve as a Chapter President.
For years, I have heard this debate since joining AALL, and have even
submitted proposals for programs to address this topic at the Annual
Meetings. This ongoing debate confirms my thinking that this would be an
important topic to address.
Just my two cents to add to the discussion.
Anne Morrison
Assistant Law Librarian
Prince George's County Circuit Court
Upper Marlboro, Maryland
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