Changing employment patterns: An Australian experience

This paper reports the results of a survey of the employment experiences of graduates of the Library and Information Studies (LIS) programs at the University of New South Wales from the years 1997 to 2001. Data were gathered about position titles and the major functions of these positions. Whilst t he bulk of the positions were in libraries and information centres and had titles reflecting this, there were also positions which indicated less mainstream library and information activities. Investigation of the major functions performed revealed that some traditional LIS ones were well represented, while others were less widespread. Some functions associated with innovations in information technology had increased over the five years covered. The data showed that those performing some of the newer functions and those in less traditionally titled positions were generally better remunerated.