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You may think that attending school to become a librarian involves no more than learning how to find books, but the field actually requires much, much more.
In fact, to become a full librarian in a public library, you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree and a master’s degree in library and information science – an MLIS or MLS degree, depending on the program.
Learning to Become a Librarian
| Getting in to an MLIS program – like any master’s degree program – requires a bachelor’s degree. And while there's no specific undergraduate major required to enter these programs, English and computer degrees tend to be the most useful degrees. When evaluating potential schools, be aware that although there are a number of different library science programs, not all of them are accredited by the American Library Association. Graduating from one of these ALA accredited programs opens many more doors after graduation than a degree from a program that is not accredited. |
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It usually takes one year to complete a MLIS program, although some of these degrees may take two years. In this program, you'll learn how to select materials, how information in a library is organized, the different research methods used by librarians, and the customer service aspects of the field. Students in these programs will also take computer classes and learn how to quickly and efficiently search for information on the internet.
Librarians who plan to work in larger metropolitan areas may be able to specialize in certain aspects of library work. Therefore, in addition to these general courses, these librarians may take classes in children’s or young adult librarian work, cataloguing, special collections work, or library administration. In addition, because of the importance of information gathering and technology to the field, some MLIS programs allow students to enroll in concurrent degree programs and earn both a library science degree and an information technology degree.
Finally, some librarians may choose to specialize even more in a particular area of library science by pursuing a Ph. D. in the field. Of course, these degrees aren't necessary for most librarians – doctorate degrees are most useful for librarians who plan to work or teach at a college or run large libraries or even library systems. Librarians who wish to work in the law libraries of major universities may also need to attend law school to earn their J.D. degree.
Library science is one of those areas in which new advancements and technologies are continuously being introduced. Because of this, librarians often need to participate in continuing education classes just to stay current. There are also a large number of librarian conferences held around the world each year that give librarians the chance to network and share information – many librarians attend at least one of these conferences every year.
Selecting a school for your library science degree can actually be easier than finding a good school for many other degrees, since there aren't a huge number of library science programs out there. Chances are, unless you live near one of the top library science schools, you’ll end up traveling to complete your degree. When selecting an MLIS program, be certain the school is ALA-accredited. Also look at what specializations the programs offer and – if it interests you – whether or not you have the option of earning a second master’s in information technology while working on your MLIS.
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