Librarian Degree

To secure a position as a librarian, individuals could benefit from the following:

• Earning a master’s or doctoral degree in library science or information science, preferably from a program accredited with the American Library Association
• Remaining up-to-date on advancements in information databases and data storage systems
• Getting licenses or certificates, particularly for professionals seeking positions at school and public libraries
• Participating in continuing education courses on developments in library sciences and information technology

Librarian Degrees

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most states require advanced licensing or certification for librarians working in public or school libraries. In addition, 20 states require school librarians to have either a master’s degree in library science (MLS) or a master’s degree in education.

Librarian Job Description

Librarians are generally responsible for maintaining information systems and collections of books, periodicals, online resources, audiovisual materials and more. They assist patrons with a variety of information requests, including locating and accessing specific materials.

Due to the increasing influence of technology on information storage, librarians may also need to demonstrate expert knowledge of online resources, information technology and related data storage systems. Some information specialists use such technology to develop or update collection catalogs, inventory systems and other key library resources.

Librarians work in a variety of settings, including:

• Private and public academic libraries
• Local, state and federal government libraries
• Legal, medical and other industry-specific information centers

Many librarians work standard 40-hour work weeks. However, some professionals employed by colleges, universities or private institutions may be required to work weekends, holidays or extended hours in order to meet their patrons’ scheduling needs.

Librarian Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 59 percent of librarians work in public or private educational institutions. In addition, around 27 percent are local government employees.

A librarian’s average annual salary is between $42,240 and $65,300. Professionals working in the top 10 percent of the industry’s wage scale earned around $81,130 annually.