What Is an MLS Degree?
An MLS degree is a Master of Library Science. Sometimes called and MSIS (Master of Science in Information Science), MLS degrees are required for most librarian positions. Librarians working in academic settings are often required to attain a teaching certification as well.
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What Librarians Do
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Traditionally, librarians organize and catalog materials, and help people find and use information effectively. As technology changes, librarians must adapt to new ways of sorting, storing and accessing information. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, librarians are responsible for every aspect of a library, including acquiring new materials and administration.
MLS programs offer a variety of courses of study for students who want to specialize in one or more aspects of the profession. These courses include preservation, administration, reference, information technology, archives and cataloging. Many students take a variety of courses while working towards their degree to gain a more thorough understanding of the intricacies of the profession.
Accreditation
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The American Library Association accredits 62 MLS and MSIS programs in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. These programs meet ALA guidelines for educational quality. The accreditation stands as a standard for MLS programs.
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Program Length
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The length of an MLA program depends, in part, on course of study. Most MLS programs take one to two years to complete, full time. For some degree paths, like archives or preservation, additional coursework is required that extends the length of study, according to Indiana University.
Licensure
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Some states require librarians applying for jobs in public schools or local libraries, to acquire a state-mandated certification. The certification process involves a written exam and personal assessment. In some states, this process is voluntary, according to the American Library Association.
Requirements
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According to the University of Indiana, an MLS degree requires 36 hours of credit work. Required courses include Reference, Developing and Managing Library Collections, Collection Development and Management, Representation and Organization, Cataloging, Library Management, Academic Library Management, Public Library Management, Introduction to Research, Evaluation of Information Systems and Evaluation of Resources and Services.
Many different types of undergraduate degrees can be helpful for MLS students. Some of the most popular are literature, history, classics and languages, according to the University of Illinois.
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References
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