Being a librarian is working in a professional field, it’s not something you can walk into and get hired. So, certainly, there are some requirements to fill. Thus, do you need a masters to work in a library?
If you want to work in a library, you will need some basic knowledge about how libraries work. So, you will need a masters degree in library science (MLIS) to be eligible to work there. However, some library work positions may not require an MLIS degree.
Why Do You Need A Masters To Be A Librarian?
If you are asking, why do librarians need a masters, the answer is quite simple. When you want to work in a professional setting, you will need some qualifications. Therefore, if you want to work in a library as a librarian, you must obtain the qualification through the MLIS degree.
Specialized training is a must when you want to excel in any position. Thus, the MLIS/MLS program is an identification of your qualifications as a librarian. However, you will need to look at some areas before you know whether the position you are applying for requires an MLIS degree or not.
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- Type of position: different types of library positions have different requirements. Thus, you need to check your desired position and ensure whether it requires any specific degree.
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- State requirements: like different positions, different states also have different requirements for a librarian. For example, Michigan requires a masters degree for big libraries with the capacity to serve 25,000 or more.
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- Size of library: depending on the size and capacity, different libraries may have different requirements. Some librarians offer immediate hiring due to the urgency without a masters degree. But some big libraries may not accept that.
What Exactly Is A Masters In Library Science?
Library and information science is a field focused on learning how information is created, managed, accessed, and transmitted. The whole subject focuses on years of research and findings. Do You Need A Masters To Work In A Library? The answer is given Below.
The whole point of having this degree is to know ways how to access information, research, organize, and evaluate as efficiently as possible. This degree is crucial for librarians as the learnings are exactly what they apply in their work environment.
How Hard Is It To Become A Librarian?
While we can’t call it straight-up easy, this is not as hard as achieving some other degrees. In fact, people who enjoy the tasks will say that the process is quite enjoyable. Typically, these masters programs last around 2 years, where students can choose what interests them and stick to it.
Another point is, that many programs don’t have any mandator thesis or comprehensive exams which often makes for a less hectic path to graduation. As the recruiters look more at the experiences while hiring, becoming a librarian is easy if you have related field experience.
Also, you can study online and choose other flexibilities depending on the program. Overall, we have to say that the process of being a librarian is way easier than many other professions.
Is Librarianship A Good Career For Me?
This is a question that you have to ask yourself. The whole thing depends on how much you like to help people, your organizational skills, and your curiosity to learn new things.
If you think that you can handle the responsibilities and dive into the endless ocean of knowledge, the career will be the right option for you.
More To Know About Requirements To Work In A Library
How do I become a school librarian in New York?
A Master of Science in Library Science is required to work as a school librarian in NYC. There are several entry points into certification that even individuals with less extensive qualifications may take advantage of. New York is home to several degree programs in library and information science that can help you get certified.
Where is the best place to be a librarian?
Stockton, California, Reno, Nevada, and Anchorage, Alaska are the top three locations in the United States for librarians in terms of average wage and job availability per capita. Librarians can find great professional success and advancement chances in these places.
How many school librarians are there in the US?
Research conducted in 2021 found that the number of school librarians in the US fell from 52,545 in 2009 to 42,279 in 2019, representing a 19.5% decrease. School librarians are severely underrepresented in districts serving minority and low-income kids, as well as in rural and Hispanic areas.
Wrapping Up
Now that you know the qualifications to be a librarian, hopefully, you can pursue your career with more confidence. The MLIS or MLS degree will open new opportunities for you. So, the best bet is to complete the degree and go for your dream of being a librarian.