April 1, 2009
What degree is required to become a elementary/high school librarian?
Can you answer BrittneyVonnie's question about degrees?:
I am a current college student working on a major of English Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts degree, and I'm wondering what the next steps I'll need to take to become a librarian. I would be happy just being a librarian, but my real hope is to work in a school.
I am also planning to follow with a master's in Library Science. Am I going on the right path, or do you think there will be other education I'll need, like a teaching degree?
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I am a current college student working on a major of English Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts degree, and I'm wondering what the next steps I'll need to take to become a librarian. I would be happy just being a librarian, but my real hope is to work in a school.
I am also planning to follow with a master's in Library Science. Am I going on the right path, or do you think there will be other education I'll need, like a teaching degree?
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Comments on What degree is required to become a elementary/high school librarian? »
yep-you're fine
you are good but to be a librarian you must have a PhD
Well in Canada, you have to be class room teacher for at least 5 years before you can take additional qualifications in library science. You can't go wrong with a master's in library science. It depends on your jurisdiction some require School Librarianship Qualifications. Also check to make sure you don't need to also be a qualified teacher first.
In the United States, the master's in Library Science is the entry degree for librarians. I have worked in both public and academic libraries and for professional positions your application is not even considered if you don't have an MLS/MLIS/MIS.
Having said that, most libraries have "non-professional" or "paraprofessional" positions that do not require a master's. And the requirements for school librarians or "media specialists" vary widely from state to state. In some states only a certification program is required for school librarians — in those cases no MLS is required, though I can't imagine it could hurt your chances. Never having worked as a school librarian I know very little about these programs.
Talk to someone at a library school about your plans, and they will help you make the decisions most appropriate for your career. And good luck!