This post first appeared on 12/17/2013. A second follow up with Ms. Hawkins will post in just a few minutes.
Amber Hawkins took the original survey in January 2013. Her responses appeared earlier today, as Be more forthcoming about requirements
Your Background and Situation
How long has it been since you got your library degree?
I will be, hopefully, receiving it this month.
How many years of library work experience do you have?
In public libraries, 6.5 years. With digital libraries/repositories, 3.5 years.
How many years of work experience outside of libraries do you have?
Around two, total. This experience was gathered while working at the library.
How old are you?
28
What’s your current work situation?
Currently wrapping up my MLIS and working full time as a government contractor on a digital repository.
Are you volunteering anywhere?
No.
Your Job Hunt
How long have you been job hunting at this point?
I haven’t been looking since June. I decided to focus on finishing my degree before applying anymore.
What kinds of jobs are you currently applying for?
I would like to go back to a public library or start at an academic library, either in a pre-management or low-level management position.
Approximately how many positions have you applied to?
Prior to June 2013, I had applied at around 10 places.
Approximately how many interviews have you gone on?
Since March 2012, I have not gone to or had any interviews at all.
How do you prepare for interviews?
In the past, when I’ve gotten an interview, I try to learn about the place I’ll be working and anticipate the type of questions that may be asked.
Have you traveled for interviews? If so, who paid?
In the past, I have traveled to them and I paid.
Have you declined any offers?
No.
What do you think is the biggest obstacle in your job hunt? How are you working to overcome it?
My location. I live in a location with few positions open besides part-time. It would be easier to move to a different location. Once I am finished with my schooling, I will be actively saving to move to a different place.
Have there been any major changes in your job hunting strategy? Are you doing anything differently than from when we last heard from you?
I’m not currently looking, but my friends have been telling me about positions in their areas.
State of the Job Market
Has job hunting been a positive or negative experience, for the most part?
Mostly negative.
Would you change your answer to “what’s the secret to getting hired”?
No, I would not.
If you took the Job Hunter’s Survey some time in the last year and are interested in doing a follow-up, even anonymously, please contact me at hiringlibrarians AT gmail.
Hiring Librarians 