Sex Structuring in Academic Libraries: Searching for Explanations

Abstract

Based on an analysis of survey data collected from a sample of 357 academic librarians, the study concludes that, even when professional characteristics are equal, women still do not hold administrative positions in proportion to their numbers. Using partial correlation, data analysis indicates that the apparent relationship between sex of respondent and library position is only slightly affected by covariation among four professionally relevant covariates. Of these four factors, educational attainment is most important in reducing the magnitude of the relationship between sex and type of library activity. It is further noted, however, that women who hold the doctorate are still less likely to hold administrative positions than men who hold either the doctorate or even the first master's degree as their highest degree. In light of study findings, an analytical framework to guide further research is presented.