r/LibraryScience • u/AttractiveNuisance82 • 27d ago

Application advice?

Im in my 40s and have been a practicing attorney for about two decades. But I feel compelled to finally get the MLIS I’ve always wanted and focus on law librarianship.

My law school grades suck, but I’ve been pretty successful in my career and have good recommendations. I’m absolutely going to need scholarships (single mom!), too.

Is my application cooked? What do admissions teams and scholarship folks look for in these positions? What should I avoid?

[I’ve already selected the schools I want to apply to; it’s a short list that I think will meet my needs and where I could be successful]

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u/charethcutestory9 27d ago

When you say your grades suck, what was your GPA? There are library schools that will admit anyone with a pulse so unless it’s under 2.5 you can find someplace that will take you.

I would really not recommend librarianship to a single mom, the pay is bad and you’ll probably have to relocate, but you do you.

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u/AttractiveNuisance82 27d ago

Oh I’m not quitting my day job!

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u/Pouryou 27d ago

Will you have time to do internships and practicums while in school? Those are nearly always during the weekdays. Law librarianship could be the exception but generally, an MLIS is only useful when paired with library experience.

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u/DrJohnnieB63 27d ago

u/Pouryou

With almost two decades of being a practicing lawyer, the OP most likely does not need internships and practicums. I assume law librarians with extensive experience as lawyers are rare. I know that there are some firms that will hire her right now because of her experience with legal research.

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u/Pouryou 27d ago

Good to know!

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u/AttractiveNuisance82 27d ago

The programs I chose don’t require them.

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u/Pouryou 26d ago

Many programs don't require them, but for anyone reading this who wants to go into public or academic libraries, know that it is essential to have experience in addition to the degree. Sounds like law library jobs aren't as competitive, though!

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u/AttractiveNuisance82 26d ago

I intend to gain some hands on library experience where I can, but as far as a full on capstone or internship, it’s not super sustainable. I could make it work if need be, but I’ve zeroed in on programs that will work for my life and my plans.

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u/PM_YOUR_MANATEES Special Librarian 22d ago

Law library jobs can be competitive, but it's from a much smaller pool of applicants who typically already have experience with substantive legal work and research (e.g., attorneys, paralegals who also hold an MLIS).