Librarians

The job of librarian has come a long way from Marion the Librarian who got her job because she owned all the books!  Today's librarian is as likely to be a man as a woman and will have at least a Master's degree in Library Science.  Many have other advanced or professional degrees.

This is a field with great potential as many current librarians belong to the Boomer generation and will be retiring within the next decade, vacating many positions across the country.

Because our traditional concept of a library as a simple repository of paper records and books has morphed into the more comprehensive one of a data retrieval center using up-to-date technology, it is necessary for today's librarian to be well versed in all forms of data storage and their use.  Wooden card catalogs have been replaced with computer terminals.  It is the rare library that does not have online access from a bank of computers for the use of its patrons.  This service is so popular that many people make the local library their first stop when traveling to catch up on email and research local activities.

Many librarians in large institutions never even work with the public but spend their time behind the scenes, cataloging, making acquisitions, handling inter-library loan programs, and managing staff and development programs. However, those who are in charge of smaller town and school libraries must wear many hats, frequently with only the help of a few part-time library assistants.

Because librarians spend a significant portion of time at their desks or in front of computer terminals, e eyestrain and headaches can be a problem.  Correct posture, taking frequent breaks, and insisting on good lighting can go a long way to eliminate or lessen this problem.   The satisfaction realized from successfully helping a patron complete their project can be exhilarating but sometimes this joy comes at a price.  Working under a deadline with a patron is taxing and can be exhausting. In smaller libraries the librarian may not have enough staff to do all the heavy lifting and re-shelving books can be tiring, especially when having to lug ladders around.

Nearly all libraries now require a a Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS).  The Federal Government accepts this degree or the equivalent in education and experience.  While many colleges and universities offer the MLS degree, employers frequently give preference to those graduates of the approximately 56 institutions accredited by the American Library Association.  Entry into am MLS program usually requires a bachelor’s degree but there are not usually not any subject requirements.  However, it would seem wise to take a degree in English or computer sciences if one is planning a career as a modern librarian.

The pay range for librarians with their MLS range from a low of $40K annually to a high of $75K.  Many librarians are members of unions or covered under the teacher's union contract.