Earn Your Bachelor of Library Science (BLS) Degree

To become a professional librarian, you’ll need to start by obtaining an undergraduate degree. While the American Library Association (ALA) recommends a Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MSIS) degree for professional librarians, most MLS programs require a bachelor’s degree for admission. Although not all schools offer bachelor’s degrees in Library Science, there are alternative undergraduate degrees that can help you get accepted into an MLS program later on.

• Obtaining a Bachelor of Library Science (BLS) degree is the first step toward a career in library science.
• An undergraduate degree is required for admission to most Master of Library Science (MLS) programs.
• Alternative bachelor’s degrees can be accepted for admission into MLS programs.
• Accreditation is important for Bachelor of Library Science programs.
• The curriculum in Bachelor of Library Science programs includes courses in library science and related subjects.

While most MLS programs require a bachelor’s degree for admission, they often accept students with any undergraduate degree. However, having a related degree can demonstrate your prior knowledge and education in the field of library science. Here are some alternative bachelor’s degrees that can be beneficial for those interested in working in libraries or pursuing a graduate degree in library science:

• Bachelor of Science in Library Science
• Bachelor of Arts in History
• Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts
• Bachelor of Science in Library and Information Science
• Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies
• Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
• Bachelor of Science in Library Informatics

While these degrees may not provide the same focused education as a Bachelor of Library Science degree, they can still provide valuable knowledge and skills that are applicable to library science. Each degree offers a unique perspective and can contribute to your understanding of library operations, information management, and research methods.

Having a diverse educational background can also make you a more versatile candidate, capable of adapting to the changing needs of the library profession.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree in one of these fields or a related discipline, it can serve as a strong foundation for pursuing a graduate degree in library science. However, it’s important to note that specific admission requirements may vary for each MLS program, so it’s recommended to research the prerequisites of the programs you’re interested in.

Continuing your education with a master’s degree in library science can open up even more opportunities for career advancement and specialization. In the next section, we will explore the process of pursuing a Master of Library Science (MLS) degree.

A Bachelor of Library Science program serves as an important educational pathway for individuals aspiring to work in the field of library science. While these programs may not be accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) like MLS programs, it is essential to ensure that the schools offering these programs have obtained recognized accreditation from agencies approved by the U.S. Department of Education.

Here are some of the accreditation agencies commonly associated with Bachelor of Library Science programs:

• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC)
• Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
• Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools (AARTS)
• Association of Theological Schools, The Commission on Accrediting (ATS)
• Distance Education Accreditation Commission (DEAC)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Accreditation by these agencies ensures that institutions offering Bachelor of Library Science programs uphold standards of excellence in education and adhere to good practices. It also provides prospective students with confidence in the quality and legitimacy of the programs they are considering.

Next, we will explore the curriculum and courses typically found in Bachelor of Library Science programs, further enhancing your understanding of this degree path.

When pursuing a Bachelor of Library Science degree, you can expect a diverse curriculum that encompasses various aspects of the library science field. This program offers a range of courses designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in your future career. From foundational subjects to specialized topics, here are some of the courses commonly found in a Bachelor of Library Science program:

1. Introduction to Library Science: This course provides an overview of the library profession, its history, values, and current trends. You’ll gain an understanding of the fundamental principles and practices of library science.
2. Children’s Literature and Education: Explore the world of children’s literature and learn how to promote literacy and support children’s reading habits. This course covers various genres, techniques for selecting and evaluating children’s books, and strategies for creating engaging educational programs for young readers.
3. Adult Library Services and Outreach: Discover strategies for providing information and services to adult library patrons. Topics may include reader’s advisory, reference services, community outreach, and programming for diverse adult populations.
4. Young Adult Literature and Education: Focus on literature and educational resources targeted at young adults. Learn about the unique needs and interests of teens and explore ways to foster their engagement with literature and information resources.
5. Research in Libraries and Information Science: Develop your research skills and learn about different research methodologies used in library and information science. This course will prepare you to conduct effective research and critically evaluate information sources.
6. Management of Information Resources: Gain an understanding of the organization, acquisition, and management of information resources in library settings. Learn about collection development, cataloging, classification, and preservation techniques.
7. Digital Libraries: Explore the digital landscape and its impact on libraries. This course covers topics such as digitization of library materials, digital preservation and archiving, electronic resources management, and user experience design for digital platforms.
8. Leadership and Management in Libraries: Learn about leadership theories, management principles, and ethical practices in library settings. Develop skills in team-building, decision-making, strategic planning, and advocacy for libraries.
9. Practicum/Internship: Apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout your program in a real-world library setting. This hands-on experience will allow you to work alongside experienced professionals, further developing your practical skills and understanding of library operations.
10. Bachelor of Science in Education – Library Science Option: Some programs offer a concentration or minor in Education, specifically tailored for those interested in teaching at the K-12 level. This option provides additional coursework in education theory, instructional design, and classroom management.

Here’s an example table showcasing the courses mentioned above and their respective descriptions:

Graduating with a Bachelor of Library Science degree opens up various career options. With this degree, you can pursue roles such as Library Associate, Library Assistant, Guest Services Manager, and Library Media Specialist.

As a Library Associate, you will provide valuable information services to library patrons. You will assist them in finding resources, conducting research, and navigating the library’s collection. Your expertise will help facilitate a positive library experience for users.

Library Assistants play a crucial role in organizing and maintaining library materials. You will be responsible for cataloging, shelving, and managing the overall accessibility of the library’s resources. Your attention to detail and organizational skills will ensure a well-functioning library environment.

Guest Services Managers oversee the overall operations of the library. You will oversee front desk services, coordinate programs and events, and manage a team of staff members. Your leadership and customer service skills will contribute to the success of the library’s daily operations.

Library Media Specialists focus on integrating technology and multimedia into the library. You will assist patrons in utilizing digital resources, creating engaging educational materials, and implementing innovative technology initiatives. Your expertise will enhance the library’s potential as a hub for information and digital literacy.

Working within different library settings, these career options allow you to make a meaningful impact in the community by fostering a love for learning, providing access to knowledge, and promoting literacy.

“Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life. Libraries change lives for the better.” – Sidney Sheldon

Continue reading to learn more about pursuing a Master of Library Science degree and the opportunities it can provide in the field of library science.

For those who want to advance their career and become professional librarians, pursuing a Master of Library Science (MLS) degree is a common next step. By earning an MLS degree, you can gain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in a library science career.

When considering MLS programs, it is recommended to choose a program that has received ALA accreditation. The American Library Association (ALA) accreditation ensures that the program has met certain standards of quality and prepares students for professional librarianship.

There are various Master of Library Science programs available, both in-person and online, offering different specializations and concentrations to cater to individual interests and goals. These programs cover a wide range of subjects, including information organization and retrieval, library management, research methods, and technology integration in libraries.

By pursuing an ALA-accredited Master of Library Science degree, you can enhance your knowledge, expand your professional network, and gain hands-on experience through internships and practicum opportunities. Graduates of MLS programs are well-prepared for various roles in library management, research, cataloging, collection development, and information technology.

Whether you aspire to work in academic libraries, public libraries, special libraries, or other information organizations, an MLS degree can open doors to diverse and rewarding career opportunities.

These are just a few examples of ALA-accredited Master of Library Science programs. To explore more options and find the program that aligns with your career goals, visit the American Library Association’s website for a comprehensive list of accredited programs. Take the next step towards becoming a master of library science and embark on a rewarding professional journey in the world of information and knowledge management.

Obtaining a Bachelor of Library Science (BLS) degree is the first step towards a fulfilling career in library science. This undergraduate program equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills required for entry-level positions in libraries. Whether you choose to pursue a master’s degree in Library Science or start working immediately, a BLS degree opens up a world of rewarding opportunities in the evolving field of information management.

With a BLS degree, you can begin your journey towards becoming a professional librarian and make a positive impact in the lives of library patrons. The degree provides a comprehensive understanding of library systems, information resources, and research methodologies, enabling you to effectively organize and maintain library collections, deliver exceptional information services to users, and contribute to the development of innovative library programs and initiatives.

Moreover, a BLS degree not only prepares you for a library career but also serves as a strong foundation for advanced studies in library science. Should you choose to pursue a Master of Library Science (MLS) or a related graduate degree, having a BLS degree will give you an edge in the competitive admissions process. It demonstrates your commitment to the field, your prior knowledge, and your readiness to excel in a graduate program.

In today’s digital age, the role of libraries and information professionals is rapidly evolving. The skills and expertise you acquire during your undergraduate studies will equip you to adapt to these changes and play a vital role in the information management landscape. Whether you aspire to work in academic, public, or special libraries, a Bachelor of Library Science degree can pave the way for a rewarding and impactful career dedicated to fostering knowledge and empowering communities through access to information.

• https://howtobecomealibrarian.com/bachelor-of-library-science/
• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/librarians.htm
• https://www.intelligent.com/best-online-library-science-bachelor-degree/