An initiative to create a strong, diverse and future-ready library and information workforce
Our Vision
A diverse, valued and supported Library and Information Sector (LIS) workforce with the skills, knowledge and ethics needed to deliver quality library and information services that anticipate and meet the needs of the population.
Project status
The second consultation phase has now closed. Many thanks to everyone who submitted their feedback to us. You can find out more about the second consultation process and read the public submissions. There is a short summary of the feedback received in the second phase of consultation in a blog post, which is linked below.
Following the consultation process and feedback received, the Professional Pathways team will launch the Framework of skills, knowledge and ethics for the library and information services workforce shortly. Watch this space!
The Framework
The Professional Pathways draft framework is made up of three domains: Core Domains that include ethics and values, wider information contexts and sector and organisational contexts, Professional Knowledge Domains and Active Professionalism.
Draft Framework
The Professional pathways framework is made up of foundational domains that includes ethics and values, wider information contexts and sector and organisational contexts, professional knowledge domains and active professionalism.
Our Approach
Develop a framework of knowledge, skills and ethical behaviour
Develop a comprehensive framework of knowledge, skills and ethical behaviour that represents a sector-wide, whole-of-career resource, supporting the learning and development needs of all library and information professionals while recognising specific needs within areas of specialisation.
Developed the framework in consultation with people across the sector, and draw from the evidence in this report and ALIA’s foundation knowledge for entry-level library and information professionals.
Work with educators to strengthen accredited courses
Work with educators and the industry to strengthen the ALIA-accredited qualifications with specific attention to industry engagement, practical experience, and quality improvement.
Work with educators to better track the student cohort diversity measures and to attract and support talented students from diverse backgrounds.
Develop new professional pathways
In implementing the new framework consider new pathways into the profession, professional registration, and revalidation of professional status.
Work with educators and other partners to identify existing and potential CPD offerings which will integrate with the new framework.
Progress employer engagement strategy
Develop an employer engagement strategy to build a deeper appreciation of the importance and value of professionalism, continuing professional development, and the whole-of-career framework as implemented.
Dreams for the future of the LIS sector
Meet the Professional Pathways Advisory Board
Sara Altmann
Beatriz Aroche
Julie Barkman
Viv Barton
Kate Davis
Michael Gonzalez
Robyn Murfet
Kylie Poulton
Ann Ritchie
Sandra Ryan
Geoff Strempel
Philip Kent
Vicki McDonald
Diane Velasquez
Caitlin Wallace
Kirsten Thorpe
Meet the ALIA team
Trish Hepworth
Dr Gillian Hallam
External consultant
Dr Lyn Hay
External consultant
Dr Phoebe Weston-Evans
Quotes from focus group participants
Who is even a librarian in the 21st century?
One of the things that preoccupies me is diversity of the workforce: we talk so much about it but we find it very difficult to actually shift.
We want diversity of capability and experience; we need to strengthen the profession.
So how do we actually make it better and be proud of what we have to offer?