If you are an absolute book fanatic and cannot think of a life without books, then getting a professional degree in library science can take your proclivity to great professional heights. Library science has evolved over the years to emerge as one of the most sophisticated branches of study. Today’s digital libraries and online databases stand in stark contrast to the outlandish archival library traditions of the past, thanks to new technological advancements and modern breakthroughs. Individuals interested to pursue a career in library science, however, should obtain a graduate degree in library science to initiate their career. Here is a short overview on courses in library science. Read on to know more on it.
Courses In Library Science
Course Details
Eligibility
You do not really need to be a bookworm to qualify for a career in library science. Just a basic affinity for learning and love for books is good enough to get you a place in library science. If the library is your hub and books your best friends, then getting a bachelors degree in library science can put you in your rightful place. The minimum educational prerequisite for undergraduate programs in library science is a high school diploma. However, candidates striving for a master’s degree in library science should complete their bachelors degree and should have impressive test scores together with computer skills to get a breakthrough. Students aspiring for a doctoral library science program should be a graduate and should boast of an exceptional score track to crack the admission.
Details Of The Course Curriculum
A degree in library science prepares the candidates to deal with the workings of a modern-day library. The coursework is designed to furnish the students with a deep understanding of modern library tools, procedures and management of information. The coursework usually focuses on:
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Literature studies
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Basic computer programs
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Database types and functions
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Resource management tools and strategies
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Library administration procedures
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Media selection and purchasing
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Organizational methods for library materials
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Teaching methods for librarians
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Library services
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Library collections and resources
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Information and the public
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Teaching library information science
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Advanced research methods
Specialization
The domain of library science is a rapidly burgeoning territory with technological advances fast replacing the archival systems of card catalogs and more. With digital libraries, online databases and other hi-tech advancements fast creeping into this field, the scope of library science has just widened. Students aiming for a masters degree in library science can opt to specialize in areas like:
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Acquisitions
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Cataloguing
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Bibliography
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Reference
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Special collections
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Administration
Skills Required
As the job of a librarian includes employing the latest information technology to help library patrons with their research and keeping the library up-to-date, they must possess a deep knowledge on a wide variety of scholarly subjects. Apart from that, they should be abreast with the latest trends in publishing, computers, and the media in order to keep their collection up-to-date. Other key skills required for this job are exceptional organizational skills, a probing mind, and a thorough nature. Apart from that, a librarian should be well read with a deep desire for more knowledge and a fondness for newer studies.
Career Prospects
The career prospects are simply enormous for aspiring librarians. With the internet and other technological breakthroughs making their way into the domain of library science, the prospects for wannabe librarians has become bigger and broader than ever. A degree in library science can land you in a career in public library, college library or even university library. There is also humongous scope and need for librarians in information centers or libraries maintained by government agencies, law firms, corporations, museums, medical centers, religious organizations, and research laboratories.
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Emporia State University, Kansas
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Clarion University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania
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Central Institute of Library Science, Andhra Pradesh
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College of St Catherine, Minnesota
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St. John's University, New York
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Middle Tennessee State University, Tennessee
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Charles Sturt University, Australia
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Department of Library Science & Documentation, Rajasthan
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University of North Texas, Texas
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Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington
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Old Dominion University, Norfolk
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S H P T School of Library Science, Maharashtra
