I've always wanted to get my credentials to be a librarian. I'm assuming you have to have a master's degree to do so. Do any of you know of any great programs that I could enroll in to become a librarian? What about online learning as well? Thank you.
Since being a librarian has so much to do with technology these days, as we are often referred to as Library Media Specialists, many degree programs are offered online or in a hybrid format. What state are you in?
It all depends on your state. I'm halfway through my program in Louisiana. If I only did the certification, it would've been 18 hrs., but I decided to do the masters with certification, so it's 36 hrs. But 9 of those are electives. Because I have to commute 40 miles each way to grad school, I would rather do online, but after taking a few classes, I quickly realized online wouldn't have been as effective. Good luck!
My online program for Library Media Education was far superior to those of my other degrees...it was extremely effective, so I suppose it depends upon the actual program and professors.
exactly what online programs are you all referring to? can you still attend if you live in a different state, becuase it is online. I am looking for a good program too.
I don't believe you HAVE to have a Master's. Each state has different qualifications as well as each University. Sometimes you don't even need a degree at all! At least in my district you don't as it is now a paraprofessional position....
Yes. Some teachers can get the position with just certification, but most media/ librarians hold a Masters in my state, and yes, they do require it. I am at the beginning of a masters program, its hard work but i think wil lbe all worth it!
My program was a Hybrid (3 face to face meetings and the rest online per class) not completely online.
In TN, you have to have a Master's but check on the requirements for your state. I did Saturdays for 1 1/2 years + some summer classes to get my degree. Not easy, but totally worth it!
That's how it's going in my district too. They are trying to cut costs, so when librarians leave or retire, they fill the job with a para. I'm afraid that's how a lot of districts are going right now due to budget cuts and the economy.
That makes me really sad. Librarians can be great teachers. They are more than book shelving machines. Schools that don't see it this way are losing out on a great resource.
degree I got my MLS through the University of North Texas. It was mostly online. I got the school librarian certification in addition to my Master's. No library job though, we've got a library "aide" instead.
My boyfriend is an Electronic Services Librarian. He has his Masters in Library and Information Science. He works at the college level though.
