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The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) currently works with [library and information science] LIS educators to shape quality contemporary courses in library and information science, and offers a range of professional development opportunities. ALIA is investigating the issues with which LIS educators, employers and students are currently grappling to define the future of LIS education. This initiative is being approached from the perspective of 'what does good look like' and comparing this vision with current circumstances to identify ways to move from that position to an ideal one by 2025.

This issues paper represents the first stage of this project. It is based on conversations with educators, sector focus groups, and discussions with employers and other stakeholders. The themes identified are: (1) pathways to becoming a library and information professional; (2) suitability of LIS education; and (3) employer engagement. From these themes, the paper then identifies 10 desirable characteristics for a LIS sector with a strong professional status. This paper was followed by a survey of the sector to gain further insight into the issues (November 2019-February 2020). Stage three comprised scenario exploration sessions with educators and employers (November 2019-April 2020). This work was to have been followed by an ALIA Education Summit, the publication of a draft LIS education strategy and action plan. This work has now been delayed due to the coronavirus [COVID-19] pandemic.

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In November 2019, the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) published 'The future of LIS education issues paper' [available in VOCEDplus at TD/TNC 141.589] to inform a sector-wide discussion about the current state of professional education: the needs going forward, and the challenges faced in trying to identify and deliver the best outcome. Following the publication of the issues paper, ALIA carried out a survey of members, which elicited 352 responses from students, professionals, educators and employers. ALIA sought submissions and feedback from important stakeholder groups including National and State Libraries Australia, heads of capital city public libraries, Library Technician educators, and university library senior teams. This activity was to have led to an industry Education Summit, which was delayed by the coronavirus [COVID-19] pandemic. This paper provides a summary of the themes which emerged during the consultation with the sector at the start of the year which has enabled work to start on three possible future scenarios. The aim is to present the scenarios to participants at the LIS Education Summit, which has been rescheduled to coincide with ALIA Information Online 2021, in February 2021.

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