Career Pathways
Library and information science
Library and information science is a dynamic field where professionals act as architects of knowledge, employing technology and organizational skills and enabling access to information across various platforms. Whether in traditional libraries or digital archives, these experts connect individuals with resources. As society becomes more reliant on information, these skills are invaluable to librarians and professionals in data management, research, and technology sectors, driving strategies that benefit both individuals and organizations.
Far-reaching impact
With the help of technology, librarians can consult globally and across time zones.
Desirable payscale
Half of library and information science professionals earn above the average U.S. median wage.
Knowledge sharing
Library professionals are key in spreading knowledge and information literacy.
David Mercer, Librarian and Graphic Designer
Listen as David Mercer, a Librarian and Graphic Designer, shares a must-have skill in the library and information science field.
And I would stress that for people first entering the field, you’re going to make mistakes because a key aspect of the field in information science is, it’s what they pay you for, processing large amounts of information. So it’s a certain skill set and a certain way of thinking. You have to be very comfortable with learning. Increasingly, into the 21st century, with information science, you have to be rather tech savvy. I’m thinking of some events such as girls that code. And also 3D printing is a big trend in libraries. One of the events I plan on attending is called computers and libraries. It’s a conference here. It’s for the most part located in Arlington, Virginia. I think being very comfortable with technology and then embracing the technological trends as they arrive. And you also want to be proactive in this area. Because if you don’t, it’s really difficult to remain relevant in the field.
Discover your career opportunities
A career in library and information science opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities where knowledge can be shared in diverse ways. Here are some roles accessible to candidates possessing this skill set.
| Entry level | Mid level | Senior level | Entrepreneurial |
|
| Academic Librarian |  | | ||
| Archives and Special Collections Librarian | | |||
| Data Curator | | |||
| Digital Content Manager | | |||
| Digital Preservation Specialist | | | ||
| Director of the Library, Academic | | |||
| Information Architect | | | ||
| Knowledge Management Specialist | | |||
| Public Librarian | | | ||
| Publishing Manager | | |||
| Rare Materials Curator | | | ||
| Records Manager | | | ||
| Research Analyst | | |||
| School Librarian | | | | |
| Taxonomist | | |||
| Library Manager | | |
Critical skills for librarians and information professionals include information literacy, adaptability to technological changes, effective communication, strong customer service, organizational abilities, proficiency with technology and databases, reference and research skills, problem-solving, cultural competence, and collaboration.
Irene Tirella, career expert at edX
Learn about topics in library and information science
Register for a course on edX to learn about a variety of topics within the library and information science industry.
How can I acquire library and information science skills and turn them into a career?
If you’re interested in pursuing your own career in library and information science, we recommend considering these steps:
Research is key in any career, and a career in library and information science is certainly no exception. Take advantage of all the information available, whether browsing the internet for job titles, listening to relevant podcasts, or getting connected to professionals in the areas or positions that interest you.
One key part of the research phase is networking. This simple step is often overlooked and undervalued but can significantly impact your career trajectory. To clarify your career goals and aspirations, you must talk with professionals about what the work looks like.
You open a door of opportunity in your career by reaching out to professionals in your targeted fields, positions, and companies. Connecting with library and information science professionals who could vouch for you and provide hard-to-find intel about the industries or organizations of interest is invaluable.
Check out our Networking guide and Networking outreach samples for help getting started.
To supplement your understanding of what others are doing professionally, gain clarity on your goals and aspirations. Ask yourself what it is about library and information science that interests you — the possibilities are endless.
As a library and information science professional, you will need transferable skills that will help you to serve diverse groups of people with various information needs. Below is a list of skills relevant to success in the field of library and information science.
Transferable skills
- Time management
- Social media savvy
- Customer service
- Data-driven
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication
- Organized
- Project management
- Quality-assurance
- Ethical responsibility
Library and information science-specific skills
- Library and cataloging
- People management
- Budget management
- Teaching
- Data storage
- Public relations
- Archiving
- Database administration
- Content development and management
- Research
There are many ways for you to learn library and information science skills. We recommend selecting a path that aligns best with your needs and learning style. Here are a few options to consider:
Self-education — If you are looking to learn asynchronously, informally, or casually, self-education is a great place to start. Many approaches to self-education support various career goals, budgets, learning styles, and time commitments. Here are some ways to self-educate in library and information science:
- Informal opportunities: Gain a greater understanding of the industry by reading. Explore books, articles, and even research papers to expand your knowledge and learn what’s happened or is happening in the field. In addition to reading, there are plenty of videos, podcasts, and other forms of multimedia that can teach you a thing or two about careers or work related to library and information science.
- Online Courses: If you prefer a more structured or socialized learning experience, online courses might be a good option. edX.org offers several instructor-led and self-paced courses that may be of interest.
Professional certifications — Adding professional certifications to your library and information science resume is a great way to learn new skills and refine existing ones. edX.org offers many certificate programs in the field of library and information science that may interest you.
Degree programs — To gain a deep understanding of library and information science, research and teaching methods, strategies for sharing knowledge, and user-interaction, a degree in library and information science may be a good choice for you. A degree will help you establish authority in the field and speak to various approaches within library and information science.
Interviewing for library and information science positions will likely rely on behavioral interviewing questions. These questions will ask about your behaviors in past scenarios as a way to gauge how you would react in future settings. Potential employers will want to know how you stay adaptable, manage tasks, and how you engage with clients.
Once you achieve your career goal, celebrate your success. The career journey is full of ups and downs; every victory deserves acknowledgment.
With that said, your journey doesn’t end here — it’s only just beginning. Give yourself grace and understand that careers are not linear. Here are some ways you could continue growing your library and information science skills.
Continued learning — Always make sure to reference our course catalog on edX.org for continued learning opportunities. Now that you’ve secured a career in library and information science, it never hurts to build upon industry knowledge or become a subject matter expert in areas that apply to your work, interests, or something in between.
Promotions — As you gain experience and exposure to the various facets in library and information science, you may find opportunities to advance your career. To position yourself well for promotions, you will need to stay up to date with library and information science topics and trends and develop leadership skills.
Senior librarian — Manage library staff and oversee specific departments in the library.
Library director — Responsible for the overall leadership and management of all aspects of the library. This includes strategic planning, budgeting and community engagement.
Chief information officer (CIO) — Oversees the management of library and broader information technology functions.
Regional manager — Manage regional resources and lead librarians within the region.
In today’s world, the information literacy and critical thinking skills that a librarian is trained in are very valuable skills to show others. Many people use information sources that have little credibility, and a librarian can help show people how to acquire information in a way that gives them a more balanced, reliable and researched understanding of whatever topics they are interested in.
Frank Pennetti, Librarian
What are my next steps?
Start learning now
Register for a course on edX to learn about a variety of topics within the field of library and information science.
Watch a session
Watch a relevant session on our Events Page to learn more about the industry and other professional’s experiences within it.
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