The Academic Library Job Market: A Content Analysis Comparing Public and Technical Services

Abstract

Describes a study that analyzed the differences between 1,133 public and technical services positions described in job advertisements in 1988. Content analysis was used to determine differences in the levels of computer skills, foreign-language requirements, previous work experience, education requirements, and minimum salary offered. (20 references) (LRW);This study analyzes the differences between public and. technical services positions as described in job advertisements. Eleven hundred thirty-three jobs advertised by 480 institutions in 1988 were examined using content analysis to determine differences in the levels of computer skills, foreign-language requirements, previous work experience, educational requirements, and minimum salary offered. Analysis of the data included cross-tabulation and tests to determine statistical significance. Technical services position advertisements require more computer skills and previous work experience and are more than twice as likely to require foreign-language skills. Public services candidates are expected to have more advanced degrees. Minimum salaries advertised for the two groups are nearly equal for lower-level positions, but public services salaries rise faster as administrative responsibilities grow. These differences should be considered by persons preparing for or choosing a specialization.;This study analysed the differences between US public and technical services positions as described in job advertisements. 1,133 jobs advertised by 480 institutions in 1988 were examined using content analysis to determine differences in the levels of computer skills, foreign-language requirements, previous work experience, educational requirements, and minimum salary offered. Analysis of the data included cross-tabulation and tests to determine statistical significance. Technical services position advertisements require more computer skills and previous work experience and are more than twice as likely to require foreign-language skills. Public services candidates are expected to have more advanced degrees. Miniumum salaries advertised for the 2 groups are nearly equal for lower-level positions, but public services salaries rise faster as administrative responsibilities grow. Suggests that these differences should be considered by persons preparing for or choosing a specialisation. 00 Original abstract;