Values
The core values of the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Library and Information Studies are rooted in the ethics and best practices of professional education and of library and information service. Because means affect ends, the same values that shape our goals and educational outcomes also shape our practices.
GSLIS graduate Darshell Silva helps a student at the Urban Collaborative Accelerated Program Library
Service and Social Responsibility
As a profession, librarians and information specialists serve the public good, striving to provide the highest level of service to all. GSLIS faculty and staff model this through our commitment to high quality in our service to students, the profession, and society. This commitment is supported by our use of knowledge gained through systematic learning outcomes assessment to strengthen our programs.
Diversity
As a profession, we value our nation's diversity and strive to reflect it by providing a full spectrum of resources and services to the individuals and communities we serve. The GSLIS community is multicultural and international, and its members model respect for the dignity of all.
Ethics and Intellectual Freedom
As a profession, we are committed to promoting the free flow and ethical handling of information and to upholding the principles of intellectual freedom. The GSLIS faculty maintains a culture of respect, in which independent inquiry and free speech flourish.
Access
Libraries and information services have archival, educational, and research functions. As a profession, we preserve the symbolic records of human thought and knowledge, organize this heritage for use, and provide equitable access to all. The GSLIS, originally founded to serve New England, makes affordable LIS education widely accessible through a mix of face-to-face courses in three states and online courses.
Literacy and Learning
As a profession, we promote life-long learning by working with a wide range of institutions and organizations. GSLIS prepares students for service in all types of libraries and information services, and maintains significant program strength in information literacy and instructional design.
Emerging and Advanced Technology
As a proactive profession, we use emerging technologies to preserve, organize, and communicate knowledge and information. The GSLIS prepares students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for leadership roles in a rapidly changing profession.
Collegiality and Professionalism
We are a highly collegial profession. The GSLIS encourages student participation in professional associations. Faculty members model service to the School, the College, the University, and professional associations at the local, state, regional, national, and international levels.
Research and Leadership
Our faculty are committed to providing leadership for our profession through the generation and dissemination of new knowledge, the innovative application of existing knowledge to meet society's needs, and the articulation of new conceptual frameworks. We involve our students and graduates in our research and service activities to prepare them to become leaders who will move our profession forward.
