Making connections while earning an MLIS

Purpose This purpose of this paper is to discuss a collaboration with a non-profit organization conducted as part of the Real Learning Connections project at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. The authors discuss their experiences working with a non-profit partner from outside the university and the benefits gained from collaboration. Design/methodology/approach This is a reflection based on the personal experiences of the authors as collaborators in the project. Findings Through their experience with the Real Learning Connections project, the authors found that collaborating with a non-profit organization provides a unique opportunity for library school students to learn practical skills while also providing value to the non-profit organization in the form of expertise in information services. Originality/value This piece discusses the benefits of collaboration from the perspective of both an Library and Information Studies (LIS) student and a professional librarian, as well as considering the experiences of an external non-profit organization.