Librarians are keepers of knowledge.They organize information and make it accessible.Running public education programs, conducting research at top universities, teaching children to love reading, and managing library employees are just some of the responsibilities that librarians have.To find out more about the different aspects of library science, the educational path librarians must travel, and the final steps you need to take before earning the title of librarian, read on.
Step 1: Understand the meaning of library science.
The study of library science includes the preservation, archival, and dissemination of information.Many librarians have responsibilities that require expertise in all of them, so they can specialize in any one of these areas.The tasks that librarians might have are: cataloging items in a library's database, developing taxonomies to organize data, implementing new technologies to update the organization of old collections, and facilitating educational programs for students and the public.
Step 2: Know about different types of librarians.
Maybe you want to become a children's librarian or participate in the archival of scientific information.There are many different types of libraries, and librarians may have different responsibilities within them.Anyone can get a library card at public libraries.Public education programs promote literacy for adults and children.They provide the public with free access to information.Public libraries have librarians who serve as customer service agents, communicate with other libraries, and facilitate public programs.School libraries serve the function of providing children with the resources they need to receive a well-rounded education, and are an important part of grade schools and middle schools.School librarians help develop children's interest in reading and manage the library.College and university libraries have comprehensive collections that serve the needs of students pursuing higher education.There are separate buildings for a law library, a science library and an art library in academic libraries.Academic libraries have librarians who work at reference desks, catalog new materials, help students with complicated research projects, archive special materials and keep libraries operating as cutting edge purveyors of knowledge.Secondary degrees, such as a degree in law or science, are needed for qualified librarians at specialized libraries.
Step 3: Do you want to be a librarian?
Many people who love reading are interested in becoming a librarian, but the job requires more than just an appreciation of good books.Good librarians are passionate about finding the best way to organize knowledge.They want to make information accessible to those who need it.Many librarians say they pursued library science to share information with others.Librarians need to be technologically proficient with the ever-changing information technology landscape.The classes in coding are required in some library science programs.Some librarians don't interact with the public.Some librarians spend more time on certain tasks.Library science is still the right field for someone who doesn't feel passionate about education.
Step 4: Interviews can be conducted to learn more.
Whether it's a public, school, or academic library, contact the librarians to find out what interests you.You should arrange a meeting so that you can discuss librarianship with someone who has chosen that career.You will know what to expect if you ask the librarian about his or her specific job duties.Ask the person how he or she decided to become a librarian.Ask whichMLS programs he or she would recommend.
Step 5: You should get an undergraduate degree.
You need an undergrad degree to apply to an MLS program.English, Art History, Computer Science and other courses of study that require research and technology skills are common majors if you want to become a librarian.If you want to become a librarian, you may need a secondary degree in a specific field.If you want to apply to a master's program in your field, you'll need to take classes that cover the prerequisites.
Step 6: The Masters of Library Science are accredited by the American Library Association.
MLS programs can be found on the ALA website.There are descriptions of each accredited program in the directory.Before you apply, conduct a lot of research.Some of the programs focus on technology, others on the politics of information accessibility, and so on.Some programs require that you live on campus, while others do not.Double check if you find a program through a source other than the ALA website to make sure it is ALA accredited.Many libraries don't hire candidates with degrees from accredited schools.Some prestigious institutions offer programs that are not accredited by the ALA.If you are interested in information technology, but not necessarily in managing a library or other responsibilities, you may want to look into alternatives.
Step 7: Don't wait until you have a degree.
It is possible to gain experience in a library before you finish your MLS.You can apply for a job at a library.Many colleges hire students to work on reference desks.It is a good opportunity to find out if you want to pursue a career in library science.Students can get real world experience through internships at some libraries.If your library doesn't offer one, you should meet with the librarian to see if there is a way you can get involved.The Student Library Association is for students interested in information technology.If your school doesn't have a chapter, join it or start one.There is a network with librarians.Your volunteer work, part-time job, internship, or SLA chapter involvement are all opportunities to get to know librarians who can help you find a job down the line.Keep in touch after your internship ends, and express your enthusiasm for librarianship.
Step 8: When applying for jobs, find ways to stand out.
With funding for public and often academic libraries being cut, the library science field has become very competitive.It is not enough to have MLS and library experience to get a job.Don't say you love books in your resume or cover letter.The people in charge of hiring are looking for more interesting reasons why they should hire you.Tell us about the characteristics and experiences that make you perfect for the job.Tailor your resume and cover letter for each job you apply to.Mention the qualities that led you to apply for the job.Follow up with a thank you email.You can rely on the network of people you met in school, through internship and part-time jobs.It is a good idea to let people know you are looking for a job.
Step 9: You have to be willing to work your way up.
You may have to start at entry level even if you are qualified for a professional position.You can use the chance to get to know more people.There will be an opportunity for promotion once you prove yourself.