Page 55 - DLIS006_INFORMATION SOURCES AND SERVICES

Information Sources and Services

Notes 3.5.1 Training, Other Qualifications and Advancement

A master’s degree in library science (MLS) is necessary for librarian positions in most public,
academic, and special libraries, and in some school libraries. The Federal Government requires
an MLS or the equivalent in education and experience. Many colleges and universities offer MLS
programs, but employers often prefer graduates of the approximately 50 schools accredited by
the American Library Association. Most MLS programs require a bachelor’s degree; any liberal
arts major are appropriate.
Most MLS programs take 1 year to complete; others take 2. A typical graduate program includes
courses in the foundations of library and information science, including the history of books
and printing, intellectual freedom and censorship, and the role of libraries and information in
society. Other basic courses cover material selection and processing, the organization of
information, reference tools and strategies, and user services. Courses are adapted to educate
librarians to use new resources brought about by advancing technology such as on-line reference
systems, Internet search methods, and automated circulation systems. Course options can include
resources for children or young adults; classification, cataloguing, indexing, and abstracting;
library administration; and library automation. Computer related course work is an increasingly
important part of an MLS degree.
An MLS provides general preparation for library work, but some individuals specialize in a
particular area such as reference, technical services, or children’s services. A Ph.D. degree in
library and information science is advantageous for a college teaching position, or a top
administrative job in a college or university library or large library system. In special libraries,
an MLS is also usually required. In addition, most special librarians supplement their education
with knowledge of the subject specialization, sometimes earning a master’s, doctoral, or
professional degree in the subject. Subject specializations include medicine, law, business,
engineering, and the natural and social sciences. For example, a librarian working for a law firm
may also be a licensed attorney, holding both library science and law degrees. In some jobs,
knowledge of a foreign language is needed.
State certification requirements for public school librarians vary widely. Most States require
school librarians, often called library media specialists, to be certified as teachers and have
courses in library science. In some cases, an MLS, perhaps with a library media specialization, or
a master’s in education with a specialty in school library media or educational media, is needed.
Some States require certification of public librarians employed in municipal, county, or regional
library systems. Librarians participate in continuing training once they are on the job to keep
abreast of new information systems brought about by changing technology. Experienced
librarians can advance to administrative positions, such as department head, library director, or
chief information officer.

3.5.2 Job Outlook

Slower than average employment growth, coupled with an increasing number of MLS graduates,
will result in more applicants competing for fewer jobs. However, because MLS programs
increasingly focus on computer skills, graduates will be qualified for other, computer-related
occupations. Applicants for librarian jobs in large metropolitan areas, where most graduates
prefer to work, will face competition; those willing to work in rural areas should have better job
prospects. Some job openings for librarians will stem from projected slower than average
employment growth through 2008. Replacement needs will account for more job openings over
the next decade, as some librarians reach retirement age.
The increasing use of computerized information storage and retrieval systems could contribute
to slow growth in the demand for librarians. Computerized systems make cataloguing easier,

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