University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries Magazine | Page 20

Training for the Future
By Genesha Murray
ISIP Spring Graduate

20 | LIBRARIES Fall 2015

The University of Wisconsin Madison–
Libraries are planting seeds in the
information-specialist soil with the
Information Specialist Internship Program
(ISIP).
ISIP, which began in 2006 at the UW–
Madison Libraries, offers undergraduate
students the opportunity to gain a wide
variety of information science skills. It also
allows them to observe and practice in the
broad base of professions that can grow from
these skills.
Upon acceptance, the position contracts for
two years of experiential work. The first year
and a half aims at offering broad exposure
to the foundations of information science.
The final quarter of the program helps
interns fine-tune their skills by matching
their personal and professional interests and
capabilities with positions in the libraries
that are more targeted.
ISIP came about as librarians and
administration felt the need to do more
to address a lack of diversity in the field
of librarianship and information science.
Information specialists include librarians,
data managers, educators, researchers, public
administrators, and more.
College Library Director Carrie Kruse
explained how the program fits into the
larger goal of inclusivity and diversification in
the information profession.
“We want to make sure we have a
welcoming and inclusive environment in
libraries,” Kruse explains. “Ensuring diverse
experiences are brought to the table allow us
to explore discussions about how we develop
our polices and practices.”

“The community around ISIP
gave me a group ofprofessionals
who were supportive of my
growth as