---

Goals & Objectives

The Master of Library Science degree program in public and school librarianship at Appalachian State University has as its goals and objectives:

A. To offer a graduate program that prepares graduates to provide library and information technology services in public libraries and K-12 school library media centers.

Graduates will be able to:

1. Articulate the theories, principles and practices, including both current as well as emerging trends, related to library and information science and related technologies.
2. Identify and assist in meeting the information and technology needs of library clientele served.
3. Identify and implement effective uses of library and information technology media.
4. Perform functions required for the efficient operation of public libraries and school library media centers
5. Relate the concept of intellectual freedom and information access in both a physical and intellectual context to the functions and services of modern libraries and media centers.
6. Relate professional ethics to employment and administrative practices.
7. Identify, engage in, and apply research related to information and technology problems in public and school library settings.

B. To provide a graduate program that emphasizes the interdependency of all libraries and other types of information agencies in meeting the information needs of citizens in a democratic society.

Graduates will be able to:

1. Articulate the rationale for library networking among all types of libraries.
2. Communicate to the public the benefits of cooperative ventures to public and school library media centers and other kinds of libraries.
3. Experience via the Internet, NC Live, and NC Wise Owl and similar information networks and databases the benefits of library cooperation to both library clientele and professional staff and to educate library users and the public on their effective and responsible use.

C. To inculcate in graduates an understanding of both the opportunities and responsibilities for professional involvement and leadership.

Graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate commitment to professional growth and development by planning and participating in programs for librarians and school library media specialists through professional associations and continuing education programs, including those which could enhance professional and cooperative relationships with other types of information professionals.
2. Identify and select professional associations with which to affiliate for professional development and leadership opportunities within the profession.
3. Articulate a philosophy related to their own professional practice and career growth.

D. To assist in fulfilling the mission of the Reich College of Education and Appalachian State University, faculty and graduates will:

1. Participate in deliberations related to the operations of the Library Science Program, the Department, the College, and the University as a community of learning.
2. Engage in professional activities that further the mission of the University to the region being served.