Question:
Dear Guidance Counselor,
Do you need a college degree to become a librarian? Would it be the same degree necessary to become a teacher since the jobs are similar? I think this would be a good occupation for me and am trying to figure out where to start. Also, please let me know if I have an online education options. Thanks so much, Amy
Answer:
Dear Amy,
Thank you for your questions. A librarian is a great job for someone who is passionate about reading and books. Typically librarians read a lot so that they can recommend books and order new materials. Some librarians may even be asked to keep up with the latest literature and follow best-seller lists. Librarians may also help patrons with research, assist in locating specific reference materials, manage library budgets, classify resources, create and organize databases, and plan and implement different library programs and events. Sound like something you’d enjoy?
Employment options for librarians
There are different types of library jobs including:
- School librarian: They may work at the elementary, middle or high school level. They help students locate books and materials, as well as assist with technology. Some school librarians may teach literature lessons to students of different grade levels and help teachers plan language arts lessons.
- Government librarian: These librarians may be employed by the government and work in various government institutions. They often help government employees collect data and research.
- Technical service librarian: These librarians work more behind the scenes instead of with the public. They organize materials and information and prepare items for use.
- Administrative service librarian: These librarians are responsible for managing libraries. Duties may include staffing, fundraising and budgeting.
- Law and medical librarians: This type of librarian assists those in the law or health fields with locating and organizing research materials.
Training to work as a librarian
The education requirements to become a librarian may vary based on what type of institution you work in and what type of librarian you’d like to become. It is typically required that most librarians have bachelor’s degree in any area and then move on to earning a master’s degree in library sciences (MLS) or library and information studies. It is also helpful to have a strong technology background, especially if you are interested in working in a school library. Some states require that school librarians have a teaching license in addition to a MLS degree since teaching may occur.
As of 2011 there were 56 library science programs that were nationally accredited by the American Library Association. As you begin researching schools and programs you’ll find that there are several online education program options in library sciences. Accreditation, program details, and degree requirements are things you should inquire about within the different schools you are considering. For a person who holds a bachelor’s degree already, a MLS program should take around two years to complete. I recommend getting in touch with an enrollment counselor at schools you are interested in to ask any questions you might have.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statics (BLS), employment of librarians is expected to grow 7 percent between 2010 and 2020. This percentage is slower than the average for all jobs and may be largely due to budget cuts and an increased availability of electronic information. Earning an MLS degree from an accredited program, however, may give you the best chances of employment in a tight job market.
I wish you the best of luck on your journey towards becoming a librarian!