Academic Librarians and the PhD

Abstract

The appropriate credentials for academic librarians have always been contentious. Is the MLS/MLIS adequate? Are additional subject master’s degrees required? The increasing importance of teaching and research as part of the obligations and responsibilities of academic librarianship suggest that advanced degrees are more significant than ever. If academic librarians are faculty, should their preparation and qualifications not match those of their colleagues? The role of the PhD as a key credential will be explored.