5 answers
Janice
Student
Hondo, Texas
2
Questions
Asked
2434 views
If I want to work at a library, what are my best options so that I have a better chance at getting the job?
I really want to work at a library, but don't know how to be considered a top candidate for hiring. #librarian #library #bookstore
5 answers
Jodi Cecchi, HBA, MLIS
Research Manager, Research & Insights - PwC Canada
10
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Jodi’s Answer
There are many types of libraries and you haven't specified which type you are interested in (i.e. public library, academic library (college/university), school library (elementary/high school), special libraries (including government, business/corporate, legal libraries), etc. You also haven't specified what position you are interested in at the library. I am going to assume you want to be a "librarian" in which case a Master of Library Science degree is needed. You can start here looking for schools where you can go to obtain your Masters:
http://www.ala.org/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/directory
Once you know what position you want, gear your education to that position and volunteer in the type of library you are most interested in. Volunteer experience or even junior experience always helps!
Good luck!
http://www.ala.org/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/directory
Once you know what position you want, gear your education to that position and volunteer in the type of library you are most interested in. Volunteer experience or even junior experience always helps!
Good luck!
C T
Library Aide
1
Answer
Oakland, California
Updated
C’s Answer
Hi Janice,
I was just curious on what experiences do you have? Your educational level? Are you currently in the Masters program??
Volunteering at a library can be a good start. I started as a volunteer in high school for 3 years. At first it was to fulfill a high school graduation requirement but I really loved volunteering at the public library. During college, I also gained experience working at a bookstore at my college. I was the "bookpuller" organizing books based on class number and helping students find those books in the store based on course number.
You need to understand what are the roles/job titles in the library (such as Librarians, Library Assistants, Library Aides/Clerks/Page, etc.) and also, where you are interested in working at: public libraries, school libraries, college libraries, museums, law libraries, etc. There are job descriptions available online where you can better learn what the library you are applying is expecting.
Public Libraries usually hire people who graduated high school and the job position you could apply for is Library Aide, Library Page, or Library Clerk. A few years of experience and/or a bachelors in any study, you could move up and apply for Library Assistant. This depends on the job description and requirements of the library system you are applying for. As for a job as a librarian, depends on what your focus is. A Masters in Library Information Science is required for some systems and for others, years of experience can make up for that. Mind you, not all library system requirements are the same. Reading and understanding the job description is important.
I had noticed a lot of people go into the Masters of Library Science Program, but don't have any volunteer experience. It is quite difficult to get your foot in the door to work in a public library. People I know that are currently working in the library as aides would tell me not to get a masters in the Library Science. The struggle is real. A lot of MLIS Program graduates are desperate enough to get their foot in the door by applying for a position as a library aide/page/clerk. Some even work there long enough for a librarian position to open up.
What would give one a fighting chance to get hired? It depends. I work in the Bay Area as a part-time Aide. Even with my experience, its difficult to get hired. What gave me a fighting chance was that I spoke a second language, I had volunteer experience, and a good cover letter that best represents me. I had a coworker, it took her 2 tries to get hired even though she spoke a second language (that is on demand), and have experience. Due to high level of applicants, libraries filter people out based on experience and their test score on the exam they give. When I started out as a temporary part-timer, I did not need to take the exam. When I pursued a permanent part-time or full-time, I had to take the civil service exam.
If you choose to stick with this long term and go into the Masters Program, I highly recommend that you do an internship at any library of your focus or choosing. Get to learn a bit more about the library profession as it is not all about "free time reading at the library."
I was just curious on what experiences do you have? Your educational level? Are you currently in the Masters program??
Volunteering at a library can be a good start. I started as a volunteer in high school for 3 years. At first it was to fulfill a high school graduation requirement but I really loved volunteering at the public library. During college, I also gained experience working at a bookstore at my college. I was the "bookpuller" organizing books based on class number and helping students find those books in the store based on course number.
You need to understand what are the roles/job titles in the library (such as Librarians, Library Assistants, Library Aides/Clerks/Page, etc.) and also, where you are interested in working at: public libraries, school libraries, college libraries, museums, law libraries, etc. There are job descriptions available online where you can better learn what the library you are applying is expecting.
Public Libraries usually hire people who graduated high school and the job position you could apply for is Library Aide, Library Page, or Library Clerk. A few years of experience and/or a bachelors in any study, you could move up and apply for Library Assistant. This depends on the job description and requirements of the library system you are applying for. As for a job as a librarian, depends on what your focus is. A Masters in Library Information Science is required for some systems and for others, years of experience can make up for that. Mind you, not all library system requirements are the same. Reading and understanding the job description is important.
I had noticed a lot of people go into the Masters of Library Science Program, but don't have any volunteer experience. It is quite difficult to get your foot in the door to work in a public library. People I know that are currently working in the library as aides would tell me not to get a masters in the Library Science. The struggle is real. A lot of MLIS Program graduates are desperate enough to get their foot in the door by applying for a position as a library aide/page/clerk. Some even work there long enough for a librarian position to open up.
What would give one a fighting chance to get hired? It depends. I work in the Bay Area as a part-time Aide. Even with my experience, its difficult to get hired. What gave me a fighting chance was that I spoke a second language, I had volunteer experience, and a good cover letter that best represents me. I had a coworker, it took her 2 tries to get hired even though she spoke a second language (that is on demand), and have experience. Due to high level of applicants, libraries filter people out based on experience and their test score on the exam they give. When I started out as a temporary part-timer, I did not need to take the exam. When I pursued a permanent part-time or full-time, I had to take the civil service exam.
If you choose to stick with this long term and go into the Masters Program, I highly recommend that you do an internship at any library of your focus or choosing. Get to learn a bit more about the library profession as it is not all about "free time reading at the library."
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Janice,
Research and Education
To increase your chances of getting a library job, having the right qualifications and skills is essential. Here are some steps you can take to become a top candidate for a library position:
1. Education and Qualifications:
Earn a Degree in Library Science: Consider pursuing a library or information science degree. Many libraries require candidates to have a master’s degree in library science (MLS) from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited program.
Gain Relevant Experience: Look for opportunities to gain experience working in libraries, such as internships, volunteering, or part-time positions. This will help you develop the necessary skills and knowledge required for library work.
2. Develop Key Skills:
Information Management Skills: Libraries require professionals who can effectively organize and manage information resources. Develop skills in cataloging, classification systems, and information retrieval.
Communication Skills: Strong communication skills are essential for interacting with patrons, colleagues, and stakeholders. Practice effective written and verbal communication.
Technological Proficiency: Libraries increasingly rely on technology for various tasks. Familiarize yourself with library management systems, digital resources, and other relevant technologies.
3. Specialize Your Knowledge:
Subject Specialization: Consider specializing in a particular subject area or field of interest within librarianship. Having expertise in a specific area can make you stand out as a candidate.
Additional Certifications: Pursue additional certifications or training programs that align with the specific requirements of the library job you are interested in.
4. Networking and Professional Development:
Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of library associations such as the American Library Association (ALA) or state-level library associations. Networking with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights and opportunities.
Attend Conferences and Workshops: Participate in conferences, workshops, and seminars related to libraries and information science to stay updated on industry trends and expand your knowledge.
5. Tailor Your Application:
Customize Your Resume: Highlight your relevant education, experience, skills, and achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the library position.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Craft a personalized cover letter that showcases your passion for libraries and explains why you are the ideal candidate for the job.
By following these steps and continuously improving your qualifications and skills, you can enhance your chances of securing a job at a library.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Library Association (ALA): The ALA is one of the most prominent professional organizations for librarians in the United States. Their website provides valuable resources on education requirements, career development, and industry standards.
Library Journal: Library Journal is a respected publication that covers news, trends, and best practices in the library field. Their articles offer insights into current issues facing libraries and librarianship.
Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC): ALSC is a division of the ALA dedicated to children’s librarianship. Their resources can be beneficial if you are interested in pursuing a career focused on serving young patrons in libraries.
These sources were consulted to ensure accuracy and reliability in providing guidance on how to become a top candidate for working at a library.
God Bless You,
JC.
Research and Education
To increase your chances of getting a library job, having the right qualifications and skills is essential. Here are some steps you can take to become a top candidate for a library position:
1. Education and Qualifications:
Earn a Degree in Library Science: Consider pursuing a library or information science degree. Many libraries require candidates to have a master’s degree in library science (MLS) from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited program.
Gain Relevant Experience: Look for opportunities to gain experience working in libraries, such as internships, volunteering, or part-time positions. This will help you develop the necessary skills and knowledge required for library work.
2. Develop Key Skills:
Information Management Skills: Libraries require professionals who can effectively organize and manage information resources. Develop skills in cataloging, classification systems, and information retrieval.
Communication Skills: Strong communication skills are essential for interacting with patrons, colleagues, and stakeholders. Practice effective written and verbal communication.
Technological Proficiency: Libraries increasingly rely on technology for various tasks. Familiarize yourself with library management systems, digital resources, and other relevant technologies.
3. Specialize Your Knowledge:
Subject Specialization: Consider specializing in a particular subject area or field of interest within librarianship. Having expertise in a specific area can make you stand out as a candidate.
Additional Certifications: Pursue additional certifications or training programs that align with the specific requirements of the library job you are interested in.
4. Networking and Professional Development:
Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of library associations such as the American Library Association (ALA) or state-level library associations. Networking with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights and opportunities.
Attend Conferences and Workshops: Participate in conferences, workshops, and seminars related to libraries and information science to stay updated on industry trends and expand your knowledge.
5. Tailor Your Application:
Customize Your Resume: Highlight your relevant education, experience, skills, and achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the library position.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Craft a personalized cover letter that showcases your passion for libraries and explains why you are the ideal candidate for the job.
By following these steps and continuously improving your qualifications and skills, you can enhance your chances of securing a job at a library.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Library Association (ALA): The ALA is one of the most prominent professional organizations for librarians in the United States. Their website provides valuable resources on education requirements, career development, and industry standards.
Library Journal: Library Journal is a respected publication that covers news, trends, and best practices in the library field. Their articles offer insights into current issues facing libraries and librarianship.
Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC): ALSC is a division of the ALA dedicated to children’s librarianship. Their resources can be beneficial if you are interested in pursuing a career focused on serving young patrons in libraries.
These sources were consulted to ensure accuracy and reliability in providing guidance on how to become a top candidate for working at a library.
God Bless You,
JC.
Dhanesh T
From Bangalore
40
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Dhanesh’s Answer
You will need to know the Dewey decimal system. They will test you on that in the interview. Also there is library clerk where you check out books. You will need to know stuff like excel , word. They will test you on your knowledge.
Other jobs are library assistant and Librarian. You can get a bachelors degree and be a library assistant. To be a Librarian you have to have your masters degree.
Rebecca Greer
Young Adult Librarian
3
Answers
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Honestly one of the best ways to get started is to either intern or volunteer at a library. It both lets you know if that's what you want to do and it gives you experience when you go to seek a job.
If you want to be a librarian you will need to go to Library School and get a Master's Degree in Library Science. You need to make sure the school is ALA (American Library Association) accredited in order for your degree to be accepted. If you go to the ALA Website you can get a list of accredited schools.
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