Library Science Course

“A room without a book is a body without a soul.” Have you ever read a book that completely changed your view of the world? A career in library science is just for an avid reader like you. Libraries play an important role in everyone’s lives but especially in a student’s life by providing them with books and reading material and computer resources on diverse subjects. However, you can only succeed in this career if you love books and reading with all your heart. To help you further in your research, this blog will walk you through various aspects of a Library Science course and the variety of career opportunities you can explore in this field.  

What is Library Science?

Library science is an interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary field that applies the practices, perspectives and tools of management, information technology, education and other areas to libraries. Library Science course provides students with an in-depth knowledge of managerial and administrative aspects of handling a library.

What do you Learn with a Library Science Degree?

Library science teaches how to preserve, prioritize and manage information on all types of media. Specializations in library science include studies in Digital Libraries, Archives and Records Management or School Libraries.

A degree in library science such as a Bachelors in Library Science will impart you with the intricate knowledge of the following:

• Information Retrieval
• Library Classification
• Archives Management
• Library Information and Society
• Library Cataloguing
• Library Information Technology
• Library Management and Information Centres

Archives Management
Archives Management is one of the most important aspects of working in a library. It deals with the maintenance, arrangement, description and retrieval of information. In a library science course, students are provided with an in-depth knowledge of registering, collecting and processing archival material. The course provides students with archival guides and other methodologies as well. 

Information Retrieval
Information Retrieval is the study of obtaining information from a large collection of data. This course will help you with various techniques and skills to retrieve data such as system indexing, information retrieval, storage compound, etc.

Library Cataloguing
Library Cataloguing is a process of listing information and data in the form of catalogues for helping readers browse through a range of books and materials. The Library Science course will help you learn different methods and tools for arranging information, data and books accordingly.

Check Out: Free Online Libraries

Top Colleges for Library Science Courses

Here are the top universities and colleges for Library Science course:

• University of Illinois
• University of Washington
• University of Liverpool
• University of North Carolina
• University of Glasgow
• University of London
• University of California
• St. John’s University
• Indiana University of Bloomington

Eligibility Criteria

Take a look at the general eligibility requirements you need to fulfil to pursue a Library Science Course:

• The candidate must have passed class 12^th from a recognized board with a minimum aggregate of 50%.
• A bachelor’s degree from a recognized institute with a minimum of 50% marks. (for postgraduate courses).
• If you wish to study abroad you will have to submit scores of English proficiency exams such as IELTS/TOEFL /PTE along with a Statement of Purpose and Letter of Recommendation.

What is the Scope of Library Science?

There are a variety of job opportunities that you can grab after completing your degree in library sciences-

Archivist
Archivists are responsible for assembling, cataloguing, preserving and managing collections of historical information. Archivists are required to work with a variety of public and private sector organizations.

Library Consultant
A library consultant advises administrators of public libraries by analysing their administrative policies, observing work procedures and reviewing data in order to determine the effectiveness of the library to the public.  

Cataloguer
Cataloguers are responsible for managing the catalogues of materials in a library. They prepare bibliographic and other item records for journals or other library materials. They are bound by library standards and guidelines when classifying documents.

Assistant Librarian
An assistant librarian works directly under the supervision of a senior librarian and helps to keep the library organized and efficient while assisting patrons as necessary. They typically assist patrons with checking materials in and out while locating materials.

Indexer
Indexer reviews a variety of documents and compiles indexes to make information searches easier. Basically, they put searchable lists or terms for all kinds of media, so users can easily find the information they need.

Skills Required

Here are the key skills required to make a successful career in Library Science

• Creativity
• Research Skills
• Adaptability
• Communication Skills
• Ability to manage staff
• Problem-solving skills
• Internet Familiarity
• Library Management Software Proficiency
• Attention to detail

We hope that this blog helped you gain valuable insights about the world of library science. Confused as to where to start from? Get in touch with Leverage Edu experts to get assistance in getting admission in your dream university in a course of your choice.  Sign up for a free session with us now!