Five starsTrusted by 70,000+ Future Students

Subject guide

Library Science

If you are passionate about the role information plays in our society, consider a field that seamlessly merges technology, management, and education - Library Science. This field, as part of higher education, is far more than dust-laden bookshelves; it's about managing and analyzing data in our rapidly evolving digital world. With a degree in Library Science, you can usher in the future by revolutionizing how communities and institutions use information. This field offers you opportunities in a variety of settings including public libraries, educational institutions, government agencies, and research organizations. Your pursuit of higher education could just be the key to unlocking your potential and achieving your career goals.

Find school options
Library Science study and career guide

Library Science

If you're seeking to deepen your understanding, skills, and passion for organizing and managing information, then library science in higher education might be the perfect match for your educational needs and career aspirations. This multidisciplinary field allows you to explore the practices, perspectives, and tools provided by libraries and other types of information services. As well as equipping you for a variety of employment opportunities, it can also empower you as an information resource expert in today's information-rich environment. With dedication, your studies in library science can lead to fulfilling and impactful careers in academic, public, or specialized libraries, and beyond. Regardless of the path you choose, pursuing a degree in library science serves as a testament to your commitment to knowledge, the facilitation of access to information, and the empowerment of your community.

Explore this subject within Education & Teaching, Liberal Arts.

Library Science Program goals

The goal of studying a program in Library Science is to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in today's dynamic and digitally-driven information environment. This field of study provides a comprehensive understanding of how information is organized, accessed, and utilized, spanning a broad range of topics from traditional librarianship to cutting-edge information technology. Embarking on a Library Science program is about more than just learning how to manage libraries, it's about becoming a leader in managing and delivering vital information resources.

  • Acquiring and organizing library materials.
  • Implementing techniques for effective information retrieval.
  • Understanding the principles of information literacy.
  • Managing digital repositories of information.
  • Learning about the social and ethical implications of information systems.
Library Science Program goals illustration

What are the Student Learning Outcomes

Studying a program in Library Science makes it possible for you to gain comprehensive knowledge and understanding relating to information organization, research methods, and information technology. It prepares you for a variety of careers in both traditional librarianship and information management in various sectors. As you immerse yourself in this program, you will develop the essential skills and knowledge needed to manage, organize, and disseminate information effectively.

  • You will learn to organize and classify information in a systematic and logical manner, which will allow you to manage data efficiently.
  • You will be trained in utilizing the latest information technology tools and techniques to handle digital resources.
  • You will get the opportunity to gain a deep understanding of research methodologies, which will help in locating and evaluating required information.
  • You will develop essential communication and customer service skills, which are crucial in dealing with library patrons and other professionals in the field.
  • You will acquire a solid understanding of library management, including budgeting, staffing, and strategic planning, which will prepare you for leadership roles.
What are the Student Learning Outcomes illustration
Photo by This is Engeneering on Unsplash

What experience do I need to be able to apply for Library Science

You'll need a specific set of experiences to initiate a Library Science program. This field is all about managing and organizing information, so several skills and experiences are essential. If you're thinking of starting a Library Science program, it's beneficial to have shown a genuine interest in books, literature, and knowledge, along with solid skills in organization, management, and technology. It's also highly beneficial if you have prior experience in a library environment, whether through volunteering, internships, employment, or other relevant experiences.

  • Passion for knowledge, books, and literature.
  • Prior experience or active involvement in library environments.
  • Strong skills in organization and information management.
  • An understanding of digital technologies and their application in managing information.
  • Experience in customer service or public interaction, as libraries serve diverse communities.
What experience do I need to be able to apply for Library Science illustration

Library Science careers

Having a postgraduate degree in Library Science opens up a variety of career avenues beyond the conventional library setting. This degree equips you with the skills to organize, maintain, and disseminate information, making you an asset in numerous fields and industries. Many graduates find positions in academic institutions, government agencies, museums, and private corporations where their expertise in managing and circulating information is highly needed. With the digitalization of resources, there's also a growing demand for library scientists in tech-based roles, creating a new bridge between information science and technology.

  • Academic Librarian: Working in colleges, universities, and other educational institutions to support students and staff with research and information.
  • Public Librarian: Serving the local community, providing resources and organizing educational programs.
  • Corporate Librarian: Managing resources and information in a corporate setting.
  • Archivist: Working in museums, historical sites, or government agencies, preserving and cataloging important documents.
  • Information Analyst: Analyzing and organizing digital data for organizations.
  • Digital Librarian: Specializing in managing digital resources and databases for easy access to users.
  • Library and Information Science Educator: Teaching library science to future professionals in the field.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for librarians and library media specialists was $64,320 in May 2024. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,690, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $101,970.

Source

With a postgraduate degree in Library Science, you're equipped with a unique skill set perfect for numerous job roles. You could find yourself working as a librarian in public or academic libraries, managing information in public, private, or non-profit sectors. You might also have the chance to work as a records manager, information officer, or assistant librarian. Your expertise in organizing, preserving, and making data accessible is valued not just in traditional library settings, but also in fields like publishing, data services, and web content management. As a special library professional, you might help legal corporations, medical institutions, or financial firms to manage complex information banks. Based on your interests, you may even specialize in certain areas such as archive management, children’s librarianship or digital journalism. With a degree in Library Science, doors open to a varied and rewarding career.

Ready to compare Library Science programs?

Share your study preferences once. We’ll use them to find relevant school options.

Find school options