Information & Library Sciences

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Background –

The main duties of Librarians or those who work in Library Sciences are to assist patrons in researching the information they need, teaching classes in how to navigate the library, instructing others how to evaluate reference materials, developing databases for the library and planning programs for different audiences (i.e. children’s group).

What salary could I expect to make in this position? $57,680*

What courses at GVSU may help me in my career? Discuss with your advisor which courses among those on this list, along with other courses not listed here, and would best serve your career goals.

  1. PSY 301 – Child Development
  2. PSY 355 – Psychology & Culture
  3. PSY 349 – Psychology Applied to Media
  4. PSY 357 – Psychology of Language
  5. PSY 360 – Social Psychology: Psychology’s View
  6. COM 275 – Foundations of Communications Research(has prerequisite)
  7. Minor in English (21 Credits)
image of the inside of a library

What skills may be applicable in this line of work? Excellent oral and written communication skills, interpersonal skills, attention to detail, computer skills (ability to learn new computer programs), and the ability to work independently or within a team on projects would all be important skills to have.

What additional education is required to work in this field? Receiving a Master’s degree in Library and Informational Sciences is generally required to work in this field. For more information on the American Library Association and accredited programs - https://www.ala.org

Employer Possibilities – During graduate study, those in this field will choose a specialization. Specializations will generally dictate where one will be hired. Examples include but are not limited to public or private libraries, academic libraries, archives, and digital libraries. 


*bls.gov (2017)



Page last modified November 30, 2018