I’d love to work in a library, but I’m not sure how realistic it would be for me to get a masters degree in information and library sciences at this point in my life. Other than Library Technician, what other jobs are there in libraries? What specific education/training do librarians’ assistants need? Is there anything in the library for someone with a 3-year BA?
(If it’s relevant, I live in Ontario. )
Thanks so much!
I work in a public library, and there’s lots of work you can do with out a degree. I work the circulation desk and also do shelving. I have to agree with another poster, not very good pay
The Canadian Library Association provides a good overview of library career options here: http://www.cla.ca/careers/connect.htm
You can get a good idea of salaries and expectations from Library specific job boards such as: http://www.libraryjobs.ca/page/home.aspx http://www.fis.utoronto.ca/component/opt… http://www.lisjobs.com/nonus.htm
However, if you want a good job you will need to get your MLIS because there is a lot of competition and very few really good opportunities. It also depends on which sector you want to work for: academic, public, corporate… Try asking for a few hours of volunteer work at your local public library. It will give you the opportunity to see more of what goes on behind the scenes and whether the career change will be worth it for you. Libraries are full of people with a passion for information and learning, which can make them very social and rewarding places to work. Just don’t do it for the money, because you will be disappointed.
…and it’s never too late to go back to University, if it’s the only way to get what you really want. I got my MLIS in ‘99 and now I’m back again, doing my MBA.
I work in an academic library in the US. There are many people working here who do not have an MLS. Many pursue one either at nearby institutions or on-line while they work here to be qualified for better positions. If you can use a library well, you might find you are able to get work helping others in a library, particularly a public library. Depending upon your educational background, you may be able to find work in a corporate library (for example, some chemical companies hire people to help with library research to free up their lab people to do bench work). Elementary and secondary schools usually hire teachers (often with additional courses on school media) for their libraries. Good luck!
There are lots of library jobs – in the last fortnight i have applied for 5 different ones in my local area – bad pay though
Might be worth looking here….http://www.lisjobs.com/nonus.htm