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Conclusion

I began the Masters of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program within a year of starting as an information services assistant at a public library. The flexibility of the asynchronous coursework combined with working full-time in the field allowed for my academic and professional development to work in tandem, influencing my professional growth. In addition to this, I was actively engaged in my learning; through my discussion posts and assignments, I was able to draw from my experiences as they were happening. Conversely, I was also able to apply techniques, skills, and theories that I had been learning in the MLIS program to the responsibilities and duties at my public library position, which helped me to improve the quality of programs and services for patrons.

I quickly discovered that many of my classmates were also working professionals from various information and information-adjacent positions. We would often share experiences and knowledge with one another in class discussions and group assignments. This, I think, highlights the often understated potential for MLIS study to be influential, collaborative, and innovative across the library and information field. Such an environment establishes the foundation for a vibrant and supportive community of information professionals, fostering connections that extend beyond the classroom and into our respective workplaces.

My passion for enhancing public library services through data-driven initiatives has been a driving force in my academic journey. Bringing data services to public libraries has been one of my primary motivations for pursuing an MLIS and continues to be influential in my career. At the start of my MLIS studies, I saw what I believed to be a substantial opportunity to grow data services in public libraries, both in terms of data literacy resources and programming, as well as collaboration with other local, state, and federal institutions on open data initiatives. For this reason, my coursework in the MLIS program primarily followed the data science pathway and also corresponded with the Digital Assets Certificate in Data Analytics and Data-Driven Decision Making, which I plan on receiving in addition to the MLIS.

Moving forward, I plan to take the focus, skills, and drive for data services that I developed throughout my study in the MLIS program at San Jose State and seek opportunities in both public and academic libraries, as well as foundations and consortia. I am particularly interested in leveraging my emerging specialization in order to aid organizations in improving data management, accessibility, and literacy regardless of where I find myself positioned in the future. I look forward to applying my skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the field of library and information science.

Affirmation

  • All introductory, reflective, and evidentiary work submitted is mine alone (except where indicated as a group or team project), and has been prepared solely by me.

  • I am protecting the privacy of the contents of my e-Portfolio by password protecting it or by sharing the URL only with my e-portfolio advisor.

  • Before making my e-portfolio public I will respect the privacy of others by removing mention in this e-Portfolio of information that could lead to the identity of individuals (team members in group projects, internship supervisors, interviewees, etc.) and institutions.

  • Matt Mckinley, 4/2025