Illinois Library Information Specialist Endorsement Test

[Mary E Collins]

Any suggestions on the best way to prepare for the LIS endorsement test in Illinois?

Thanks!

[Trish Ambrosio]

I too am anxiously awaiting replies for this thread...  I need to get mine overwith.

Thanks!

[Mary E Collins]

Hi Trish,

I took the test today and was quite shocked on what was on it  and more importantly what wasn't on it! There were ZERO questions on MARC records, OPAC, cataloging, book awards, the BIG 6, state standards, or Dewey Decimal classifications. Every question was subjective and ended with "which is the best or what would you do first?" so all opinion questions. If I had a good lawyer I could argue all my answers were correct. Most questions had 2 of the 4 choices that were good choices. Sometimes 3 good choices and it was up to you to decide which was the best choice. The only advice I can give you is to make sure you are clear on which reference material is best for which type of research (periodical vs encyclopedia vs almanac, etc). There were questions on library room arrangement, which resources to provide teachers, the best way to advocate for the library, the best way to build relationships with the community, and how much help to give students who are doing research.

Good luck!