Making connections while earning an MLIS

PurposeThis article discusses a collaboration with a non-profit organization conducted as part of the Real Learning Connections project at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. We discuss our experiences working with a non-profit partner from outside the university and the benefits gained from collaboration.Design/methodology/approachThis is a reflection based on the personal experiences of the authors as collaborators in the project.FindingsThrough our experience with the Real Learning Connections project, we 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/valueThis piece discusses the benefits of collaboration from the perspective of both an LIS student and a professional librarian, as well as considering the experiences of an external non-profit organization.