How to Become a Librarian : tips, tricks, and MLIS advice!

Summary

In this video, the creator shares their journey to becoming a librarian and offers advice on how others can follow a similar path. They emphasize the importance of having a genuine interest in community service, literacy, and helping others. The video also highlights the necessity of obtaining a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) and gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering. The creator discusses the diverse opportunities within the library field, from public libraries to archives, and encourages aspiring librarians to enjoy the process while planning for the future.

Takeaways

• 😀 Have a genuine interest in helping people beyond just a love for reading; librarians need to care about community building and supporting various literacy needs.
• 😀 Volunteering or working in a library before pursuing a career is a great way to gain hands-on experience and confirm if it’s the right path for you.
• 😀 Higher education is expensive, so it’s important to make sure you are committed to the librarian profession before diving into graduate school.
• 😀 A Master's in Library and Information Science (MLIS) is the gold standard for becoming a full-time librarian, so research the best programs, scholarships, and course loads for you.
• 😀 Keep an open mind when studying for your MLIS; it’s not just about traditional libraries, but can include archives, museums, and more specialized areas.
• 😀 Gaining experience while in grad school is key – consider working or volunteering in libraries to build a strong resume and gain valuable skills.
• 😀 The librarian field can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so having hands-on experience while in school will set you up for success after graduation.
• 😀 The job can be tough at times, but being a librarian is incredibly rewarding, and there's a lot of joy to be found in the profession.
• 😀 Start small, but always aim for growth: working part-time or volunteering can eventually turn into better opportunities with more hours and higher pay.
• 😀 If you’re passionate about libraries and community service, it’s a field worth pursuing. The rewards go beyond the job itself and offer a chance to make a meaningful impact.
• 😀 Don't be afraid to reflect on your experiences and adjust your plans as you go along. It’s important to make informed decisions for your career path.

Q & A

What is the first step in becoming a librarian, according to the speaker?

The first step is to have a genuine interest in helping others with their literacy needs, research, and other educational pursuits. This interest should go beyond just a love for reading.

Why is it important to work or volunteer in a library before pursuing a librarian career?

Working or volunteering in a library allows individuals to gain hands-on experience, ensuring they are making the right decision before committing to an expensive graduate degree like the MLIS.

What does the speaker think about pursuing an MLS or MLIS without prior library experience?

The speaker finds it surprising and somewhat risky for someone to pursue a Master's in Library and Information Science (MLS or MLIS) without first having worked in a library. They believe it is important to be certain about the career path before committing to higher education.

What does MLIS stand for, and why is it considered essential for becoming a full-time librarian?

MLIS stands for Master's in Library and Information Science. It is considered the gold standard for becoming a full-time librarian because it provides the necessary academic credentials and knowledge for the profession.

What advice does the speaker give about choosing the right school and course load for the MLIS degree?

The speaker advises doing thorough research to find the best school, scholarships, and course load that aligns with personal goals. It's important to consider various specializations, as library science can be applied in many fields beyond traditional libraries.

What are some different areas of library work mentioned in the video?

The speaker mentions a variety of library-related fields including public libraries, private libraries, archives, museums, and school libraries. These offer diverse career opportunities for individuals with an MLIS degree.

How did the speaker gain library experience while in graduate school?

The speaker worked as a library assistant in two public libraries before starting their graduate studies at Simmons University. This experience helped build their career and prepared them for a full-time position after graduation.

What is the advantage of gaining experience while still in grad school for a library career?

Gaining experience while still in grad school gives individuals a competitive edge when applying for jobs after graduation. It can lead to better job opportunities, higher pay, and more hours in the field.

Does the speaker think a career in librarianship is enjoyable?

Yes, the speaker expresses a lot of joy and fulfillment in their work as a librarian. They recommend the field, although they acknowledge there are challenges, which they plan to discuss in a separate video.

How does the speaker suggest approaching a career in librarianship for those interested in the field?

The speaker advises doing thorough research, gaining hands-on experience through work or volunteering, obtaining an MLIS degree, and maintaining a passion for community-building and service in the library setting.