How to Become a Librarian – MLS, MLIS, Certification, & Career

In your search for a career, if you have wondered how to become a librarian, you are in the right place! This unique and rewarding career attracts people who like to work with people, are organized, and love research. Librarians ensure that people can access the information they need to be successful in their search for answers. They also help people find books, movies, music, and other sources of entertainment. For more information on how to become a librarian, keep reading!

Article Navigation: Steps to Become a Librarian | Education for Librarians | Library Degrees | State Certification & Licenses | Career Information | Benefits of Becoming a Librarian | Conclusion

How to Become a Librarian: The Steps

So, you want to become a librarian? It’s a great career choice. But what does it take to become a librarian? Let’s find out.

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

   In order to become a librarian, you will need a bachelor’s degree to start. While a major in library studies is ideal, any bachelor’s degree will do. This is particularly good news for career changers. Students often major in education or general studies to obtain a well-rounded education. After that, they concentrate their studies in library science.

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   • University of Southern Mississippi Bachelor of Science in Library & Information Science
   • University of Maine at Augusta Bachelor of Science in Information & Library Science
   • University of Nebraska at Omaha Bachelor of Science in Education in Library Science

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2. Pursue a Master’s Degree in a Library Science Program

   After earning your bachelor’s degree, you must then pursue a master’s in library science. Master of Library Science (MLS) programs focus on the history and development of libraries. These programs also study the best practices for librarianship. Preferably, students will seek out an ALA-accredited MLS program. The course work typically includes:

   -Information organization
   -Bibliographic instruction
   -Online searching techniques
   -Cataloging and classification
   -Management of libraries

   An MLS is more beneficial than a Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) for two types of students. Firstly, it’s the preferred degree for students who want to continue on to doctoral studies. Secondly, it’s a great degree for those who plan on teaching at a post-secondary level.

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   • St. John's University Master of Science in Library & Information Science
   • University of West Alabama Master of Education in Library Media
   • East Central University Master of Education in Library Media

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3. Specialize with Certifications and Licenses

   Even though you’ve earned your degrees, there’s one more step before you can become a librarian. You must now earn your state’s certifications or licenses. Typically, the requirements for certification or licensure differ between states. However, almost all librarians must pass the ALA’s “Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education.” Earning this certification means that you are prepared to work as a librarian.

   The other certification offered through the ALA is the Library Support Staff Certification.This certification, also known as the LSSC, is designed to prepare people for a deeper understanding of all functions of a library. Ideal candidates are library support staff who want to boost their knowledge and skills. Recipients of an LSSC will gain proficiency in subjects like Technology, Communication & Teamwork, plus Foundations of Library Services. They can choose from electives like Youth Services, Adult Reader’s Advisory Services, or Cataloging.

How to Become a Librarian in Texas

In Texas, there are certain steps to become a librarian. First, a bachelor’s degree then master’s degree are necessary. Although the bachelor’s degree can be in any field, the master’s must be in library science or library information science. The American Library Association (ALA) is the premier accreditation organization for these graduate degrees.

Texas residents who wish to work as school librarians can follow a different route. Firstly, they need two years of teaching experience. Next, they must get a master’s degree in school librarianship. The AASL (American Association of School Librarians) should recognize the program. Additionally, the CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation) needs to accredit the program. Finally, candidates must pass the Texas Examination of Educator Standards or Praxis II Media Content test.

How to Become a Librarian in California

Similarly to librarians in Texas, people interested in becoming a librarian in California need to meet librarian education requirements. They must have a master’s degree in library science (MLS) or a library information science (MLIS). Their bachelor’s degree may be of any discipline. However, both must be from accredited institutions, and ALA accredited schools are ideal.

There are additional requirements to be a librarian at a school in California. You must have a bachelor’s degree and a teaching credential. In addition, they must complete a Teacher Librarian Services Credential program, meet a basic skills requirement, and hold an English learner authorization. Future school librarians may also consider a post baccalaureate degree. This would either be a MLS degree or a master’s degree with an emphasis in school librarianship. The latter must be recognized by the AASL (American Association of School Librarians). Additionally, the  CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation) must accredit the program.

What Education is Needed to Become a Librarian?

Librarian degree requirements are consistent across the country. Qualified candidates for librarian positions have a bachelor’s degree in any field plus a master’s degree. Most librarian jobs in most public, academic, and special libraries require a MLS or MLIS. These degrees are best from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited program. Nowadays, it’s possible to even get a master’s in library science online. At schools, librarian requirements include either a master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree. They also must hold a teaching credential for the state where they work. It is important to research the school librarian requirements by state, as not all are equal. On the other hand, library support staff positions may not require a degree. In fact, applicants with just a high school diploma or GED can apply for library assistant roles.

Choosing an ALA-Accredited Program

Most employers demand an ALA-accredited master’s degree to work on a professional level in libraries. Graduating from an ALA-accredited institution improves job mobility and offers more flexibility. As you research how to be a librarian, the ALA offers many resources to help. In fact, it has a complete directory of accredited programs. This directory has both library science degrees online and in person. Here, you can find the best undergraduate degree for library science or masters that fits your career goals.

When looking at ALA-accredited schools, it’s important to ask yourself some questions before choosing a library degree. Ask, what kind of library job do I want? What are the certification requirements for librarians in the state I want to work in? What size library do I want to work in? For example, rural libraries may have fewer job applicants, thus the requirements may be more lenient. The ALA also provides an extensive guide to different library professions.

Why Do You Need a Degree to Be a Librarian?

Being a librarian is more than just renting out books. Their job is more complex than what meets the eye. Librarian qualifications are wide-ranging. Their duties require a large scope of skills from bookkeeping, management, researching, communication, and teaching. The role of a librarian is vital. You are a gatekeeper for knowledge, creativity, and ideas. Thus, librarians typically have an extensive educational background.

How Many Years of College to Be a Librarian?

Becoming a librarian requires both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. The time needed to complete both steps depends on each individual. It’s possible to complete undergraduate studies in four years. Subsequently, a graduate degree in MLIS or MLS might take one or two years to finish. Therefore, it takes full time students approximately 5-6 years to complete the education required to become a librarian. However, students who study part-time take longer to complete the education requirements.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Librarian?

The price to become a librarian depends on multiple factors. It depends on whether you’re paying in-state or out-of-state tuition. Another indicator of price is whether you’re studying at a private or public school. These factors are important to consider when looking at how to be a librarian. A bachelor’s degree may range from $8,000 to $60,000 per year. Tuition for a master’s degree has a similar variation in cost.

What Degrees Are Best If You Want to Become a Librarian?

Master’s in Library Sciences

A MLS is an interdisciplinary field of study concerning the collection, organization, management, preservation, and prioritization of books and other informative materials in libraries. It borrows tools from versatile domains, including management, information technology, and education. For this purpose, it is also related to various subfields such as documentation science, bibliography, information management, knowledge management, etc. This degree is generally a prerequisite for a professional librarian position in a public or private library.

Master’s in Library and Information Science

A library science degree online is for those who want to work with the more technical or scientific aspects of information and how it is cataloged. Students learn to work with information as a strategic asset. MLIS brings library studies into the realm of science and technology. With your degree in MLIS, you can work to improve the link between people with a query and the data that holds their answer. In short, a Master in Library and Information Science offers students contemporary coursework to keep up with technology.

Graduates find careers as data curators, data analysts, user experience designers, or information architects. As a matter of fact, many organizations seek employees who can help them manage and analyze information and data. However, many jobs, in addition to an MLIS degree, require some certification, which students can complete after earning this degree.

The Difference Between MLS and MLIS Programs

The Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) is a master’s degree closely related to MLS. Although, MLS is the older of the two programs of study. The “I” in MILS represents the growing technology of information. This addition reflects the need for modernity in libraries and concerning studies. Both programs are eligible for ALA accreditation, and they may even have the same courses, graduation requirements, and admissions. However, the type of program determines the degree name.

State Certification & Licenses for Librarians

There are many librarian certifications. As a matter of fact, each state has its own certifications and licensing program for librarians. For example, Nevada offers a Certified Public Librarian program for people without an MLS degree. Similarly, Wisconsin has a Public Librarian certification for people with a bachelor’s degree with a minor in library science. In fact, librarians seeking skills to work in a specialized setting have no shortage of certification opportunities. 

Another certification is for librarian supervisors. They may attend a Certified Public Library Administrator Program. Although candidates must have three years of supervisor experience to qualify. This certification is ALA certified. Completion of this program both increases career outcomes and deepens one’s professional knowledge as well as increases a librarian’s quality of service. 

Special Certifications

Certification, in any field, attests that the holder possesses a specified set of skills and knowledge. With a certificate, you can show a potential employer your worth. Hence, the pursuit of a certificate shows your dedication and commitment to your profession. 

• ALA-APA Certified Public Library Administrator Program

  This certification is offered by the ALA Allied Professional Association. It is for public librarians with an MLS degree and at least three years of supervisory experience. They can apply for the Public Library Administrator Program (CPLA) through the ALA-APA. The application requires a fee and official transcripts. Candidates must complete four core courses and three electives to earn this certification. The benefits of holding this certificate include:

  -Increased education and professional development
  -Advancement to a higher position
  -Improved job opportunities due to increased professional expertise
  -Acquisition of the latest advances in library management

• Library Support Staff Certification

  This is another certification offered by the ALA-APA. The Library Support Staff Certification (LSSC) allows library staff who do not hold an MLIS or MLS an opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills. With this certificate, you can show your ability to be an asset to your employer. Candidates do not need any college education to apply, but they must have work experience in a library. The program consists of three core competencies and four elective competencies.

• Consumer Health Information Specialization

  This certification is great for medical librarians. It provides you skills needed to provide quality consumer health information. Health information professionals benefit from this course.

• Digital Archivist Specialization (DAS)

  This program prepares archivists with skills to appraise, capture, and be a provider of electronic records. It also makes you an expert at preserving digital collections.

• Certified Information Professional (CIP)

  This certification provides written proof of a librarian’s information management skills. This requires an exam. Recipients of this certification demonstrate an expertise in areas like records management, data protection, and also digital preservation.

A Career as a Librarian

Who is a Librarian?

At first sight, a librarian is an individual who manages information within a library. Sure, we see them helping people look up a book title, but they are so much more. A librarian is someone who wants to provide service to those in need. They are driven to improve people’s lives by supporting them in research, education, and discovery. In addition, they are the gatekeeper of knowledge for their community. They are excellent writers, speakers, critical thinkers, and listeners. They’re experts in research and finding information. Deep down, they love learning and helping others.

Types of Librarians

What Do They Do?

The role of a librarian is to  work with individuals, groups, and organizations in various settings. These can include public, academic, school, special, and corporate libraries. What a librarian does can be broken down into three categories: Technical Services and Cataloging, Public Services, and Archival Work and Maintenance.

• Technical Services & Cataloging

  In detail, a librarian is responsible for managing and organizing library materials. This includes books, magazines, newspapers, sound recordings, videos, computer software, and other electronic resources. With the explosion of the internet, the world’s knowledge base has grown exponentially. Librarians lead the way in organizing this information for easy access. As libraries provide more and more services to make sense of more data, the tasks they perform also increase. In addition, a librarian may also be responsible for teaching classes on information literacy. Librarians also:

  -Organize books and library materials
  -Help library patrons conduct research
  -Maintain existing media collections
  -Catalog resources for education or entertainment

• Public Services

  They also work to provide reference services and readers’ advisory services. It’s a chance to help people find the information they need and to promote reading and learning. Additionally, some read to children. Librarians promote learning through special programs.

• Archival Work & Maintenance

  Libraries require many different people to run successfully, with librarians in the lead roles. Some of these individuals might not work directly at the front desk. Instead, they budget, manage, and supervise the personnel and library materials within a library. Others may spend most of their time researching new materials coming into the building. They may conduct research as well. The profession of librarianship has evolved, but its fundamental goals remain the same. Librarians help people find and use information to meet their needs and interests.

Where Do They Work?

Librarians often work in an environment conducive to research. Potential places of employment include a library, media center, or other academic facilities. In what used to be traditional school libraries, many schools now provide a hybrid gathering space for students called media centers. In addition to books, media centers also provide access to WIFI, computers, and digital resources. They are areas for students to study, do homework, research topics, and work on projects. Librarians who work there often carry the title of “media specialist.” They support teachers in curriculum development and help students with their learning needs. Librarians also connect students to technology like computers.

Other academic spaces where librarians work are museums, hospitals, law firms, and businesses. These are considered special libraries. Primary tasks in these environments will vary. At a museum, for example, qualifications to be a librarian may be unique. They can work in archives, collection development, or help digitize fragile research materials. Whereas, medical librarians work in hospitals or medical libraries. They analyze information with the purpose of advancing patient care. They help make medical research, publications, and education accessible. Regardless of where they work, most librarians and library media specialists work on the floor with visitors, behind the circulation desk, or in offices. Some have personal offices, but those in small libraries frequently share a workplace with others.

• Public Library

  A public library is a space for education and self-improvement. It is formed by a local government, so typically its employees are considered civil servants. It is publicly funded via taxes, donors, and grants. A public library is a valuable community resource for gathering information.

  It is a collection of resources ranging from books, magazines, movies, music, newspapers, and digital collections that the general public can access without paying. Members may borrow books for free and return them later. They offer free or affordable educational programs for people of all ages. For example, one might find a story time event for children and a lecture series for adults in the same facility. The purpose of a public library is to serve everyone.

• Private Library

  Conversely, a private library is meant to serve either a limited group of people or even just a single individual. If they are used exclusively for certain organizations like private businesses or government agencies, then they fall under the specialized library category. The owner of a private library will decide on the size, focus, and access to its resources. For example, a hospital or law firm may have a private library that is only available to its staff.

  Another form of private library is a membership library. These are available to the general public for a fee. They are funded through subscriptions. Members not only have access to library material, but also to events like film screenings, book readings, special speaker series and more. As well as being centers for learning, membership libraries strive to be cultural hubs. Their intention is to create a meeting place for thinkers.

• Corporate Library

  Similar to a private library, a corporate library is not available to the general public. These are special libraries designed by and exclusively serve its parent organization. They are information centers, training facilities, and research databases for employees of that particular corporation. In other words, they benefit only the parent organization. These facilities are unique because their educational tools are aligned with the goals of the company. It carries specialized information with the intention of supporting the corporation.

• Traveling Librarians

  Some positions require travel to various places, including schools, government buildings, businesses, and areas of natural or cultural significance. Being a librarian means you are a resource for knowledge. Both general and specialized, librarians are therefore in strong demand in many industries. Today you can find medical librarians, law librarians, corporate librarians, school librarians, and government librarians.

  Much of a librarian’s potential travel will depend on partnerships and community programs their facility has. For example, some libraries offer bookmobiles or mobile libraries. These are typically converted buses or camper vans. They partner with schools and visit them, so kids can find fun books to read. These are excellent for rural areas where libraries are hard to access. They may be operated by a librarian or librarian assistant.

  For example, librarians who work in youth services may travel between libraries. Certain programs like Storytime may be organized by one partner library. This means that a member of the organizing library would run the program at other locations.

Work Schedules

Librarians and library media specialists hold a wide range of job titles and work full time. Public and academic librarians can work part-time. College and public libraries may require weekend and late-night shifts in facilities with extended hours. Work within a corporate library generally follows regular business hours. Those who work in secondary education have the same working conditions as teachers, including summers off.

Skills Needed to Become a Librarian

There are several skills that an individual needs to become a librarian. These skills include research, information literacy, communication, and management.

• Research and Information Literacy

  The primary skill that a librarian needs is research and information literacy. Librarians are experts in both library catalogs, databases, bookshelves, etc. This includes knowing how to find what they need on the internet. Librarians understand that there are different sources (academic journal articles vs. news articles, for example). They know how to critically evaluate sources for accuracy, relevance, and bias. They also understand the principles of copyright and fair use.

  To become a librarian, you need to find information and understand it well enough to teach others. This includes summarizing research findings, analyzing data, and creating bibliographies. Online databases hold the information that you will manage. Even if you are not working in IT or technology, you will need basic computer skills. Almost every librarian job requires some computer skills. Many libraries use library-specific databases to help people find books, do research, and more. Finally, librarians also need to be able to use technology effectively. This includes everything from using a library catalog on the computer to finding and evaluating information online.

• Communication

  Librarians also need strong communication skills. They need to communicate with patrons with a wide range of literacy levels. Librarians must be able to explain complex concepts in easy-to-understand language. Many librarians work in public and need to interact with different people throughout their workday. That means that they should always be approachable, well-mannered, and pleasant to deal with. They also need to work effectively as part of a team. This includes working with other librarians in their library or collaborating with other departments on a larger project. Librarians also need to write well, both for reports and to publicize the library’s work. Overall, librarians need to be comfortable speaking in front of groups. This may be giving presentations at conferences or doing book talks with children. Strong communication skills allow librarians to effectively use technology and work as part of a team.

• Management

  Finally, librarians also need to have strong management skills. This includes the ability to manage a budget and assess the needs of the library. They must allocate time for various projects and deal with difficult patrons or staff members when issues arise. Librarians need to manage their money and pay staff, vendors, etc. That means they should have knowledge of accounting and budgeting. Libraries are not just places where information is stored and accessed but also community hubs. Librarians need to direct the various aspects of running a library to provide the best possible service to their patrons. During your library studies, you can hone these skills by taking elective courses or even workshops outside of class time. An advisor at your school can also help you decide on the best route to take for certification or licensure in your state.

How Much Do They Make?

The average salary for a librarian, as of May 2021, was $61,190 per year. The lowest librarian salary was less than $37,300 per year. This accounts for the bottom 10% of librarian salaries. On the other hand, the top 10% made more than $97,870 each year. As mentioned earlier, a librarian career can take multitudes of different paths. Below are the median salaries for a few of these positions.

• Technical service librarian ($52,000 per year)
• Cataloger ($37,000 per year)
• Systems librarian ($60,000 per year)
• Digital asset manager ($59,500 per year)
• Special Librarians, for example a Law Librarian ($66,086 per year)

Advancement Opportunities

Librarians can achieve higher positions within libraries. Advancement for librarians might include library director, department head, or other roles that require more responsibility than a regular staff member. Librarians should check with each library to see what opportunities are available. Otherwise, some of the areas a librarian can specialize in include user services, technical services, acquisitions, collections, administration, and data. The above positions comprise popular positions that a librarian can look into to further their career. By advancing their skills and keeping up with the latest technology, librarians can maintain a successful career in their field.

Benefits of Becoming a Librarian

There are many benefits of becoming a librarian such as good pay, stable work, interaction with people, lifelong studies, and updated technology.

• Good Pay

  Librarians earn a decent salary. Most librarians make around $60,000 per year. The money you make as a librarian can also depend on the level of education. For example, librarians with a master’s degree often make more money than those with only a bachelor’s degree.

• Stable Work

  Librarians usually have stable jobs. This means that you can count on work as a librarian for many years. Many opportunities for advancement exist for librarians. So, if you are looking for a career that will allow you to move up the ladder over time, then becoming a librarian may be a good career choice.

• Interactions with People

  Librarians have the opportunity to work with people from all walks of life. This is a great way to meet new people and learn about different cultures. Librarians also help others in the line of duty. For many workers, the quest to help others is a driving force in their choice of careers as they want to make a difference.

• Lifelong Studies

  Librarians work with books and information every day. Consequently, the continual exposure of new information helps you connect your patrons with this knowledge. In conclusion, you will stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the world of libraries.

• Updated Technology

  The majority of libraries use the latest technology. Librarians have the opportunity to learn about this new technology and use it in their work.

In conclusion, there are many benefits to becoming a librarian. If you want a career that allows you to make a difference in the world and stay up-to-date on the latest technology, then becoming a librarian may be the perfect choice for you.

Ready to Become a Librarian?

With in-depth knowledge of how to become a librarian, you can take the steps needed to launch you towards a promising future as a librarian. The growing need for trained professionals in this field makes it an easy choice to pursue a career as a librarian. The employment outlook shines bright. To meet the demands of employers, higher education institutions have created degree programs designed specifically for the profession. Whether you have an undergraduate degree in library science or not, there are many graduate programs to choose from that will qualify you for the promising work as a librarian.