Librarians protect and spread culture. They organize information and develop new and creative ways to make it accessible to others using the latest technology. Depending on the specialization chosen, they have different types of responsibilities. They can, in fact, deal with public cultural programs, with books from university libraries, with the transmission of the love of reading to children or with the management of various employees. Read on to find out how to become one.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Part One: The Field of Library Science
Step 1. Understand what library science defines, which includes library management, information storage, storage and dissemination, information technology development, and research
Librarians may specialize in one or more areas and, in any case, have a general idea about each of them. Here are some typical tasks:
- Cataloging of elements in the database of a library.
- Development of taxonomies to organize data.
- Implementation of new technologies to update the organization of old collections.
- Use of search skills to locate books.
- Facilitation of cultural programs for students and the public.
- Management of other employees in a library.
- Maintaining a library collection by updating the order of books and introducing new sources and texts.
Step 2. There are different types of librarians, from those for children to those who aspire to participate in archival and scientific information
Each branch is characterized by certain responsibilities.
- Public libraries are open to anyone wishing to borrow books. They are characterized by community cultural programs aimed at promoting adult and children's literature and play an important role in providing free access to information. Public librarians also take care of customer service, updating collections, communicating with other libraries and facilitating public programs.
- School libraries should perform the function of providing cultural resources to younger students. Librarians like this teach research skills to younger children and encourage them to read and find their way around a library for themselves.
- Academic librarians work in universities and are often specialized in certain subjects, such as law, science, art, etc. They work in contact with the public, catalog new materials, help students with complicated research projects, archive special texts and update collections. People in this profession often have a degree in the main discipline that the library deals with.
Step 3. Do you have what it takes to become a librarian?
Many people love to read and are attracted to this job, which, however, requires much more: not only a passion for knowledge, but also for finding the best way to organize it. They are dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of culture.
- Many librarians describe their decision to enter this profession as a vocation to share knowledge with others.
- Nowadays, a good librarian should also be a computer enthusiast. Some science library programs require coding knowledge.
- Not all librarians interact with the public, some spend more time in archives and cataloging, so you don't necessarily want to share.
Step 4. Get in touch with some librarians to find out more
Reach out to professionals from various industries and ask them any questions you have in mind.
- Ask about their responsibilities to know what to expect.
- Ask why they decided to do this job and what traits a librarian should have.
- Ask which masters they recommend.
Method 2 of 3: Second Part: Educational Requirements
Step 1. You can be a graduate of any discipline you wish
Later, you will need to specialize according to the type of librarian you want to become.
Step 2. Get a master's degree in Library, Archival and Research Methodology
- Be well informed about what you will study: each program is unique; some focus on technology, while others on the accessibility of information policy.
- Some masters can be taken online.
Method 3 of 3: Part Three: Becoming a Librarian
Step 1. Don't wait until graduation:
start gaining experience while you study. Offer to do an internship at the university or public library. Some institutions also have paid internships.
This volunteer or paid work is also an opportunity to network with other librarians. At the end of your studies, they may help you find a job. Express your enthusiasm, ask questions, and don't lose sight of these people after the experience
Step 2. Finding a job won't be easy, so make sure you stand out
If you are experienced, the chances of getting caught will increase exponentially.
- Don't say you “love books” in your resume and cover letter. In this competitive environment you will have to find more compelling reasons to draw attention to yourself. Describe your experiences and skills in detail.
- Always personalize your resume and cover letter. Mention specific qualities and positions held in each institution. Show your enthusiasm.
- Use the network of people you meet at university, during internships and part-time jobs. Let everyone know that you are looking for work and be open to various positions.
Step 3. Sometimes the qualifications are not enough:
at first you may have a less than prestigious role. Use every opportunity offered to you to get to know more people and familiarize yourself with the environment. Once you have proven your skills, there will be no shortage of promotion opportunities.
Advice
- If you want to work in a public library, you will also need to have experience in the customer care industry.
- When looking for a job, go to all the libraries of your interest, even if they have no vacancies: leave your CV anyway.
