What Can You Do With a Library Science Degree?

College degrees in library science prepare graduates for careers in a variety of settings. Students learn to assess and organize information, catalog data, and distribute materials — all valuable skills that translate to varied industries. Graduates also gain computer, database, and technology training, which they can apply to roles in business or technology fields as well as academia and libraries.

Library science explores the principles, practices, and tools of information management. A library science program trains students to manage, organize, assess, and distribute books, periodicals, databases, and other reference materials. Individuals interested in working in a library can gain the necessary skills through a library or information science degree. Other professional options for library science graduates include nonprofit work, corporate data management, and archivist roles.

Why Get a Library Science Degree?

Library science degrees and certificates teach students how to collect, manage, and preserve information. Curricula vary by program, institution, and degree level. For example, associate degrees prepare learners for roles as library assistants and technicians, while bachelor’s programs train individuals to work in entry-level librarian positions. Certificate programs in library science also build the foundational skills relevant for library settings.

To become an actual librarian, individuals usually need a graduate degree in library and information science. Online master’s degrees in library science covers advanced aspects of library operations, information management, and information studies. Doctorates in library science allows students to specialize in areas like leadership, curation, archives, or health information and education.

We explore these degrees and programs in more detail below.

Before choosing a program, students should consider the accreditation status of a library science degree. Library science students should only consider schools with active, valid institutional accreditation.

Individual degrees can also hold programmatic accreditation. The accrediting body for library science is the American Library Association (ALA). Accreditation from ALA is a voluntary process that involves self- and peer evaluation of curricula, instruction, and program outcomes. Librarian jobs and other advanced roles typically require an ALA-accredited library science master’s degree.

College can be expensive, especially since costs keep rising. The National Center for Education Statistics reported the following nationwide average tuition rates for the 2021-22 school year:

For students who need help paying for their degrees, research financial aid options. Generally, you should prioritize funding sources like scholarships and grants, as these do not require repayment, while loans typically require repayment with interest.

Fill out your FAFSA application to determine your eligibility for financial aid. A filed FAFSA means you receive automatic consideration for the federal student funding programs for which you qualify, including grants and loans. We explore financial aid below.

Scholarships deliver one-time or renewable awards in the form of direct financial aid. Schools and organizations award scholarships on the basis of need, merit, or demographics. Winners don’t repay the funds they receive, which means scholarships can be competitive.

ALA’s scholarship program offers financial support to underrepresented groups and other qualified students in need of aid. ALA also maintains a directory of agencies and organizations that provide aid to library science program enrollees.

Grants are similar to scholarships, though they emphasize financial need more heavily. While grants specifically for library science students are rare, the Institute of Museum and Library Services runs funding programs specifically for indigenous, Black, and Latino/a applicants.

If scholarships, grants, gifts, and savings aren’t enough to meet your education expenses, consider federal student loans. Generally, all loans require repayment, but federal loans usually offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans.

As a last resort, look into student loans from private lenders. These are especially useful if you’re an international student and you don’t qualify for federal aid from the U.S. government. To reduce your debt, review all terms and conditions of loans closely, and keep your borrowing to a minimum.

Salaries for workers with library science degrees vary by career, education level, and location. We explore librarian and library-related careers and growth projections below:

Numerous groups and agencies offer specialized resources and assistance to library science students and professionals in the field. Organizations for library workers include:

Library science is the formal study of tools and systems for collecting, cataloging, organizing, regulating, and accessing library and information media. Schools offer library science degrees at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, beginning with associate degrees and progressing to doctorates. Some institutions also offer certificates in the field.

According to the NCES, 119 U.S. colleges offer library science degrees as of May 2024. Programs are available across the United States. You can also search for schools using ALA’s directory of accredited programs.

In general, a master of library and information science (MLIS) degree can maximize your career options and your earning potential. Many of the highest-paid library science careers prefer or require a master’s degree for entry or advancement. MLIS credentials can also help you stand out on the job market.

According to 2023 BLS data, librarians and library media specialists earn a median salary of $64,370 per year. The BLS also reports that library professionals at the 25th percentile of earnings made $50,930 per year, while those at the 75th percentile earned $80,980 per year.

Library science degrees take about as much time to complete as degrees in other fields. On a full-time study schedule, you can complete an associate degree in two years, a bachelor’s degree in four years, and an MLIS degree in two years. Doctoral programs usually take 3-5 years.