How to Get a Librarian Job

To become a librarian, you will need a bachelor's degree at minimum.

You may have noticed a quiet librarian sitting behind the desk at your local library and thought, "What a boring job." This thought is far from the truth. Most librarians are very well educated men and women, and their responsibilities include far more than sitting behind a desk and telling everyone to be quiet. Librarians manage the library, conduct research, catalogue and organize numerous documents and information, and help people to find information. If you have a love for research and for reading books, a librarian job may be a dream job for you.

Instructions

1. Enroll in college and select a major in library science or a related field such as English, literature or history. Although most libraries require a four-year degree from an accredited university, most librarians will enter their profession with a Master of Library Science (MLS) degree. Larger employers, such as larger metropolitan city libraries and archives, may only accept applicants with an MLS.

2. Obtain a teacher certification while in college if you're wanting to become a librarian in a school system. According to the website Educhoices, half of all the U.S. states require a teacher certification for librarians to work in a school. Some libraries will also require a teacher certification from job applicants if the library and its staff provide public services and educational programs in conjunction with school activities.

3. Contact your state's department of labor or the individual library at which you are wanting to work and inquire about any certification or training that is required. Most states require a certification to work in public libraries, but these requirements will vary from state to state. Also, some may require an internship or an observed training period prior to employment.

4. Obtain any further education, training or certifications that you need to be employed at a library in your state and municipality. Also, complete any required internships or experiential training.

5. Prepare your resume, polish your interviewing skills, and apply to your target libraries.

Tips & Warnings

• Ensure that you dress professionally for any interview or appointment when looking for a job. A clean appearance reflects positively with prospective employers.

References

• Library Journal: How to Become a Librarian
• Career Tool-Kits: How to Become a Librarian
• Degreefinders: How to Become a Librarian
• EduChoices: Librarian: How to Become a Librarian

Resources

• American Library Association: Education and Careers