What Types of Jobs are Available with a Master’s in Library Science?

There are many types of jobs available with a Master's in Library Science. Below introduces five of the most common jobs available with this diverse degree.

Resource: Top 30 Affordable Online Master's in Library Science Degree Programs

Librarian – Public

Librarians coordinate and perform professional librarian services for the public. They usually specialize in an area like outreach, publicity, reference, technology, collections and public relations. Some manage internal services and programs for specific populations like children, teens, adults, seniors and non-English speakers. Those who work at the reference desk will perform advanced searches for research materials. Some public librarians focus on getting to know patrons and the community as well as possible to understand their needs and preferences. Most librarians assist patrons in the location and selection of target reading, resource and media materials.

Library Director – Public

Public library directors are responsible for reader advisory tools, interlibrary loans programs and online public access catalogs. They work with database administrators to maintain various computer databases. They may train new librarians how to access, search and use the databases. They conduct community outreach programs on behalf of the library. They give presentations to schools, organizations and community groups regarding library services. They represent the library at board, city commission and neighborhood association meetings. Library directors oversee marketing activities and review brochures, website updates, social media posts, email newsletters and other information before publication.

Librarian – Private

Private librarians work in universities, corporations, research centers and private foundations. They are responsible for providing reference, research and literacy instruction to internal clients. They assist staff and patrons in the development of research and technology skills. They may teach students how to use and access the new integrated catalog, or they may oversee the repair and maintenance of library AV equipment. Some will supervise the processing, repair and binding of internal library materials. These libraries may write and disseminate library emails, updates and newsletters. They may supervise student workers in the shelving and inventory of library materials. They will develop and maintain library operations manuals and attend meetings and workshops.

Technology Access Manager

Technology access managers lead community teams and centers in public libraries and non-profit organizations. They coordinate system-wide efforts to promote and enhance technology access, awareness and training. They lead program planning, development and assessment activities. They formulate and spearhead the budget, strategic and operational initiatives. They examine and propose target staffing levels, structures and scheduling to best deliver successful technology access and training to clients. They evaluate technology training needs and existing competencies of staff in order to develop and coordinate training and evaluation. They cultivate and maintain strong relationships with the community and fellow organizations.

Library Archivist

Library archivists may work in private and non-profit organizations that store audio, film, print and other media files. They are responsible for all aspects of historical archives and related museum programs. The archivist's mission is to preserve, organize and share information with clients and the public. For example, those who work in the field of health care will handle patient care, education and research conducted by health care organizations. Those who work in the film industry will catalog and manage massive data warehouses of digital archives. Some archiving experts will analyze and maintain collections of books, periodicals, newspapers and other print formats. Archivists need to have training in archives management or information science.

There are many more jobs available to those with a Master's in Library Science. Explore more library related occupations at the Bureau of Labor Statistic's website.