The new librarian's roadmap: at the crossroads of expectation and reality

Abstract

This article considers the challenging formative years of a new librarian’s career and presents some typical career trajectories, particularly in Australian libraries. Its focus primarily relates to common misconceptions and struggles that new librarians might encounter, as they may not realise that these experiences are commonplace. Key topics include library qualifications, entering the workforce, job application processes, and common work experience pitfalls. This paper suggests that challenging experiences are better shared, considered, and expected. 

This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis Group in The Australian Library Journal on 15 September 2016, available online:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00049670.2016.1233599

The author has given permission for this accepted manuscript to be made available.