Estamos Aquí: Latine Student Experiences in LIS Education

<span style="font-weight: 400;">According to the Department of Professional Employees, Latino/a/e librarians constitute about 11% of the total librarian population, despite representing over 19% of the U.S. population (Department for Professional Employees, n.d.; Pew Research Center, 2024). This disparity in representation is concerning when considering that a common critique of Librarianship is that it lacks diversity. Furthermore, population predictions are expecting the Latine community to increase to 28% of the total United States population by 2060 showing a clear need to develop a workforce that represents the growing diversity of library users (Census Bureau, 2018). This study seeks to address this issue by examining how Latine student experiences during LIS Education affects student success while seeking LIS degrees. Through a series of interviews with recent Latine graduates, this research project identifies areas where participants felt supported or underserved. The findings offer insights for LIS program administrators, highlighting key considerations for designing programs that foster Latine student success. The findings discuss ways library schools can support working students, improve sense of belonging, and provide relevant campus resources.</span>