Abstract
Allied professionals comprise a significant portion of the law library workforce, yet their experiences and career pathways are often overlooked in discussions about the profession’s future. This article presents findings from a survey examining how allied professionals pursue professional development, upskilling, and career mobility. While respondents demonstrated a strong commitment to growth, opportunities varied widely and were often limited by institutional support. The authors discuss the survey findings, explore the implications for the profession, and offer recommendations for better supporting allied professionals and recognizing their essential contributions to law librarianship. This is the first in a two-part series.
Document Type
Article
Publication Information
118 Law Library Journal 255-286 (2026)
Repository Citation
Ryan, Sarah E.; Ball, Mads; Pearcy, Agnes G.; Quinones, Diana; and Smith, Dawn L., "Allied Professionals in (Academic) Law Libraries, Part I: Evolving Roles, Skills, and Professional Development Needs" (2026). Library Staff Publications. 160.
https://scholarship.law.wm.edu/libpubs/160