Librarian Colleges

Librarians often receive a Master's of Library Science from an accredited college.

The world of library science is constantly evolving, but there are still some basics that all librarians need to know.

Typically, librarians learn these basics in a Master's of Library Science (MLS) degree program, which is necessary to work as a librarian in nearly all public and academic libraries. Public school librarians are the exception to this rule, although these librarians are still required to meet state-specific guidelines regarding their training and education.

Training to Become a Librarian

The MLS degree is typically a one-year master’s degree program that teaches potential librarians the basics of working in the library setting and – if they choose – a more in-depth look at one of the librarian specializations – user services, technical services and administrative services. However, while an MLS degree is required for many full librarian positions, you don't need to hold an MLS to work in a library.

Large libraries generally have a variety of positions on their staff that don’t require a degree of any sort.

If you're still in high school or are working on your undergraduate degree, you may be able to apply to work as a library page. These are part-time positions that involve doing basic library grunt work – shelving books, applying library bar codes and other stickers to new materials, filing records, and other general tasks. These positions are not internships – you will be paid for your work while you gain experience that will serve you well once you complete your librarian education.

Associate librarians also typically don't need to hold MLS degrees, although they do need to have bachelor’s degrees. Often, the only difference between associate librarians and full librarians is the salary, although in larger libraries, associate librarians are more often assigned to the circulation desk to help customers. One of the great benefits associated with associate librarian positions is that many libraries will pay part or all of an associate librarian’s tuition if he or she decides to pursue an MLS degree.

In addition to the MLS program, some libraries – especially public school libraries – require their librarians to be licensed. These licenses are given by the state, and the requirements differ depending on where you live. In 14 states, a public school librarian needs to hold either a MLS or a master’s degree in education with a focus in library studies. Nearly half of all states require public school librarians to have their teaching certificates. Some states have comprehensive exams that must be passed, while others do not. Clearly, the guidelines can greatly vary from state to state, so it's important to check with the state you plan to work in before you decide which educational path to pursue.

In addition to an MLS degree and a license, librarians working in special settings like law or medical libraries may need additional education. For example, a librarian working in the law library of a major university may need a J.D. degree to enter the field. Outside of education, it helps to have a passion for books and for helping people, a good sense of organization, and the ability to multi-task in a busy library setting. Good computer skills are also a must, since even user services librarians have to use computers to check in and out books. If you aren't naturally proficient in these areas, it's a good idea to practice in other jobs or volunteer experiences before taking a job as a librarian.

Related Librarian Career Articles: