Library science is defined as a multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary field that involves the application of the perspectives, practices, and management tools to libraries. Also, a degree in this course of study includes the application of information technology and education to libraries. Individuals with this type of degree work in public and academic settings.
Four Indicators that a Library Science Degree is a Wise Course
There are four prime indicators that a person is well-suited to this type of degree, according to the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business. The first of these is a strong desire to engage in research. Librarians in public and academic settings are regularly called upon to undertake different types of research, particularly on behalf of patrons. Also, there are a notable number of librarians that are dedicated to nearly exclusively providing research services. Research librarians are found in both public and academic settings.
Another indicator that a person is a good fit for a library science degree and work in the field is a propensity for working with children and other cohorts. These include senior citizens. In simple terms, a person has a propensity for library science not only likes research and all things a library has to offer but also enjoys working with people.
At this juncture of the 21st century, a person interested in library science also needs to be tech-savvy. A great deal of the work of librarians today depends significantly on the use of an array of different technologies. This includes everything from digital databases to the lion’s share of research being conducted electronically, usually via the internet.
The final indicator that a person is well-suited for a degree in this area and a subsequent career is a commitment to community and academic development. In both a community and an academic setting, a library plays an important role. A professional in this field needs to be sincerely interested in programming designed to enhance a public or academic community or a specific element of one or another of those communities.
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Income with a Library Science Degree
At this juncture in time, the median income for a person with a library science degree is just over $59,000 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are about 135,000 positions in the United States for a person with a degree in this area. Most people have the job title of librarian.
As far as the future of this profession is concerned, the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that job growth over the coming decade will be about average. The Bureau estimates that about 8,500 new positions will be added to the field between this juncture in time and 2029.
Most schools offer a master’s degree or MLIS in this course of study, but not a bachelor’s degree. At present, there are about 50 institutions of higher learning that maintain an MLIS degree program. Several undergraduate degrees serve as appropriate precursors for a master’s degree in library science. These include an undergraduate degree in education.
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