Digital Library Studies Professor in Tennessee Career Overview

As a Digital Library Studies Professor, you play a vital role in the evolution of information management and accessibility in the digital age. Your responsibilities encompass both teaching and research, focusing on the ways digital technologies transform the landscape of libraries and information institutions.

  • You educate students on key concepts related to digital libraries, including digital curation, metadata standards, and information retrieval systems.
  • Your research contributions advance the understanding of digital information management practices, influencing how libraries adapt to technological changes.
  • You collaborate with faculty members across other disciplines, integrating digital library strategies into broader academic contexts and enhancing interdisciplinary scholarship.
  • You engage with the professional community through workshops, conferences, and publications, sharing insights and best practices that shape the future of library services.
  • Your role contributes to the development of future library leaders, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate and innovate within the digital information environment.

The position holds considerable importance as digital libraries become central to the way information is accessed and utilized. You are not only preparing students to meet the challenges of modern librarianship but also contributing to a more equitable and efficient information society.

Digital Library Studies Professor Salary in Tennessee

Annual Median: $66,420
Hourly Median: N/A

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Digital Library Studies Professor in Tennessee

To become a Digital Library Studies Professor, you typically need the following educational qualifications and training:

  • Master’s Degree: Most institutions require a master's degree, often in Library and Information Science (LIS), to teach at the collegiate level.

  • Relevant Degree Programs:

    • Archives and Archival Administration: A master’s degree in this field focuses on the management and preservation of historical documents and records, which can provide valuable insights into digital preservation practices.
    • Library and Information Science: A degree in LIS encompasses various aspects of library management, information organization, and technology integration, making it highly relevant for a career in digital library studies.
    • Library Science: This program covers the principles of library operation, technology, and information dissemination, forming a solid foundation for teaching about digital libraries.
    • Information Technology: A background in information technology can be beneficial to understand the technical infrastructure behind digital libraries and information systems.
    • Digital Humanities: A degree in digital humanities blends traditional humanities disciplines with digital tools, emphasizing the role of technology in the analysis and presentation of cultural materials.
  • Doctorate Degree: An earned Ph.D. in a relevant area, such as Library and Information Science, Digital Libraries, or a related field, is often preferred for those who wish to hold a professorial position, allowing you to engage in research and contribute to academic scholarly work.

  • Teaching Experience: While not formal education, obtaining teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant or in other educational roles can enhance your candidacy for a professor position.

  • Continuous Professional Development: Engaging in ongoing education through workshops, certifications, or additional coursework related to digital libraries and emerging technologies is recommended to stay current in the field and improve your qualifications.

Best Schools to become a Digital Library Studies Professor in Tennessee 2024

DeVry University-Illinois

Naperville, IL

In-State Tuition:$14,392
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,392
Admission Rate:43%
Graduation Rate:43%
Total Enrollment:26,384

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY

In-State Tuition:$9,875
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,875
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:44%
Total Enrollment:18,053

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC

In-State Tuition:$2,432
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,576
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:21,551

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA

In-State Tuition:$5,742
Out-of-State Tuition:$17,622
Admission Rate:77%
Graduation Rate:68%
Total Enrollment:35,751
Digital Library Studies Professor Job Description:
  • Teach courses in library science.
  • Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Digital Library Studies Professor Required Skills and Competencies in Tennessee

  • Expertise in Digital Librarianship: You should possess in-depth knowledge of digital library practices, including digital asset management, preservation techniques, and metadata standards.

  • Technological Proficiency: Familiarity with content management systems, library software, and emerging digital technologies is essential. You must be comfortable using tools for digitization, data organization, and digital rights management.

  • Research Skills: Strong analytical abilities will help you conduct significant research in library sciences. You should be adept at evaluating digital information and developing new frameworks for understanding digital resources.

  • Teaching Ability: You need to effectively communicate complex concepts in an engaging manner. Your teaching should accommodate diverse learning styles and encourage critical thinking among students.

  • Curriculum Development: Skills in designing and implementing educational programs that meet the evolving needs of digital library studies are necessary. You should be able to create course materials that reflect current trends and technologies in the field.

  • Collaboration and Networking: Building and maintaining professional relationships with colleagues, other educators, and industry stakeholders will facilitate the sharing of resources and collaborative initiatives.

  • Adaptability to Change: The digital landscape is constantly evolving. Being open to adopting new technologies, methodologies, and pedagogical approaches will enhance your effectiveness as an educator in this dynamic environment.

  • Communication Skills: You will need strong verbal and written communication skills to convey ideas clearly and persuasively, whether in the classroom, in publications, or at professional conferences.

  • Critical Thinking: The ability to assess information critically and solve complex problems related to digital libraries is vital. You should be able to guide students in developing these analytical skills.

  • Commitment to Lifelong Learning: Staying abreast of new developments in the field of digital library studies through continuous professional development will enhance your teaching and research capabilities.

Job Duties for Digital Library Studies Professors

  • Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and present findings in professional journals, books, electronic media, or at professional conferences.

  • Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.

  • Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, giving presentations at conferences, and serving on committees in professional associations.

Technologies and Skills Used by Digital Library Studies Professors

Data base user interface and query software

  • Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud EC2
  • MySQL

Library software

  • EBSCO Information Services Academic Search Premier
  • Ulrichsweb

Word processing software

  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Word

Basic Skills

  • Reading work related information
  • Talking to others

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Digital Library Studies Professor in Tennessee

The landscape for Digital Library Studies Professors in Tennessee reflects a dynamic intersection of technological advancements and educational demands. As digital resources become integral to libraries and educational institutions, the evolution of this field presents unique opportunities.

  • Demand: There is a noticeable increase in the need for Digital Library Studies Professors, prompted by the shift towards digital resources in libraries and academic institutions. With more libraries embracing digital collections and services, institutions are keen to hire professionals who can accommodate this shift and educate future librarians and information professionals.

  • Growth Potential: The trend towards digital information management is expected to continue growing, leading to more opportunities in higher education and beyond. As libraries expand their digital interfaces and archives, the number of programs focused on digital curation, digital archives, and information science will likely increase. This creates a robust environment for Digital Library Studies Professors to advance their careers and participate in program development.

  • Geographical Hotspots: In Tennessee, there are several key areas where job opportunities for Digital Library Studies Professors are particularly strong:

    • Nashville: Home to several prominent universities, including Vanderbilt University and Tennessee State University, Nashville is a hub for digital library studies programs. The presence of state government and numerous cultural institutions also creates additional demand for related educational roles.
    • Knoxville: The University of Tennessee in Knoxville offers various programs related to library and information science, promoting a need for professors specialized in digital library studies.
    • Memphis: With institutions like the University of Memphis and several community organizations focusing on digital access and archiving, Memphis stands out as another important location for educators in this field.
    • Chattanooga: Emerging initiatives in digital literacy and technology integration within education in the Chattanooga area support potential growth in academic opportunities related to digital library studies.

Opportunities may also arise through partnerships with local libraries and community colleges looking to enhance their digital offerings and staff training. Engaging in collaborations or contributing to community initiatives can further enhance your professional footprint in the field.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Digital Library Studies Professor in Tennessee

  • American Library Association (ALA)
    Explore resources, publications, and professional development opportunities tailored for library professionals.
    American Library Association

  • Association for Library and Information Science Education (ALISE)
    Access research, publications, and the latest developments in library and information science education.
    ALISE

  • Library and Information Technology Association (LITA)
    Discover trends in library technology, webinars, and networking opportunities for information professionals.
    LITA

  • Digital Library Federation (DLF)
    Learn about digital library initiatives, projects, and collaborative efforts in the digital library community.
    Digital Library Federation

  • Society for American Archivists (SAA)
    Review guidelines, standards, and resources for those interested in archival studies and digital preservation.
    Society for American Archivists

  • International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
    Stay updated on global library trends, guidelines, and resources affecting libraries and information services.
    IFLA

  • Open Education Resources (OER) Commons
    Find teaching resources and materials related to digital libraries and information sciences.
    OER Commons

  • Digital Curation Centre (DCC)
    Access resources and training materials on data curation and digital preservation practices.
    Digital Curation Centre

  • The Library of Congress
    Utilize digital collections, resources, and educational materials related to libraries and information management.
    Library of Congress

  • Tennessee Library Association (TLA)
    Stay informed about local events, networking opportunities, and resources specific to library professionals in Tennessee.
    Tennessee Library Association

  • Guide to Digital Preservation and Archiving
    Review comprehensive guidelines and best practices for the preservation of digital information.
    Preserving Digital History

  • Educause
    Investigate resources focused on higher education technology, innovations, and digital library practices.
    Educause

  • Coursera
    Find online courses related to digital libraries, archival studies, and information science, offered by various universities.
    Coursera

  • ResearchGate
    Connect with other researchers, access scholarly articles, and participate in discussions within the field of digital library studies.
    ResearchGate

These resources provide valuable insights and information that can enhance your knowledge and skills as you pursue a career as a Digital Library Studies Professor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Digital Library Studies Professor in Tennessee

  • What does a Digital Library Studies Professor do?
    A Digital Library Studies Professor teaches courses related to digital libraries, information organization, digital content management, and emerging technologies. They also engage in research, publish scholarly articles, and contribute to the advancement of digital library practices.

  • What qualifications are necessary to become a Digital Library Studies Professor?
    Typically, you need a Ph.D. in Library and Information Science, Information Studies, or a related field. Relevant teaching experience and a strong publication record in the field are also important for securing a faculty position.

  • Is prior experience in digital libraries required for this role?
    Yes, having experience in digital libraries, whether through professional practice or research, is beneficial. Familiarity with digital repository systems, metadata standards, and information retrieval technologies will strengthen your candidacy.

  • What are the common career paths for Digital Library Studies Professors?
    Many professors advance to administrative roles within academic institutions, such as department chairs or deans. Others may focus on research and become thought leaders or consultants in the field of digital library studies.

  • Where can I find job opportunities as a Digital Library Studies Professor in Tennessee?
    Job opportunities are often posted on academic websites, university human resources pages, and specialized job boards like HigherEdJobs, Chronicle of Higher Education, and other education-focused platforms.

  • What skills are essential for success in this profession?
    Key skills include strong communication, research capabilities, knowledge of digital technologies, data management, and a thorough understanding of information policy and ethics.

  • Are there any professional organizations I should consider joining?
    Yes, organizations such as the American Library Association (ALA), Association for Library and Information Science Education (ALISE), and the Digital Library Federation (DLF) can provide networking opportunities, resources, and support for your career growth.

  • What is the average salary for a Digital Library Studies Professor in Tennessee?
    Salaries can vary widely depending on the institution and level of experience, but as of recent data, the average salary ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Institutions affiliated with research may offer higher compensation.

  • How important is research in this field?
    Research is a significant component of a Digital Library Studies Professor’s career. Engaging in research not only enhances your understanding of the field but also contributes to your value as an educator and professional.

  • What are the typical working conditions for a Digital Library Studies Professor?
    Most professors work in academic settings, which typically involve a combination of teaching, research, and service responsibilities. Office hours, classroom teaching, and collaborative projects with students or colleagues are common.

  • Can I teach online courses as a Digital Library Studies Professor?
    Yes, many institutions offer online programs in library and information science, providing opportunities to teach courses remotely. Familiarity with online teaching platforms and instructional design is beneficial in this context.