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Libraries are magical places filled with endless adventure. Shelf after shelf lined with titles and stories just waiting to transport you to a different time and place.
But is the wonder of the library fading in light of ebooks and Kindles? According to a recent survey, the answer is no.
Young and old readers alike are still drawn to the comforting feel of a printed book in their hands. Which is good news if you’re considering a librarian career.
What is the outlook for librarians in a world filled with technological advances? Let’s take a look.
Librarian Job Description
When you hear the word “librarian”, what comes to mind? A sweet, old lady with glasses standing behind the counter at your local elementary school — patiently explaining the Dewey Decimal System?
Not only is this a slightly out-dated vision but it’s also inaccurate. Most people don’t realize what skills and education are required to pursue a librarian career.
The position’s main requirements include:
- Find information and conduct research
- Assist patrons and students
- File, categorize, and organize resources
- Assembling and indexing databases
- Technical services
Librarians can work in several different fields including academic, private, government, or medical. And most positions require a master’s degree in library science.
This degree can also open up doors to countless other careers, as explained by USC MMLIS. But if you plan to stick to the librarian career path, there are a few things you should know.
Where Can a Librarian Career Take Me?
If you always dreamed of being a librarian, you’ve probably asked yourself several questions. Things like how much money can I make and will I find stable work? Keep reading to discover the answers.
Job Growth Predictions
Prospective librarians everywhere can take a collective sigh of relief. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, librarian careers can expect impressive job growth in the coming years.
While most other occupations will see a seven percent growth, librarian careers may see as much as nine percent. Thanks (at least in part) to communities and academic organizations relying on libraries for useful information that can’t be accessed elsewhere.
One way advancements in technology are actually boosting librarian careers is the increase in the use and amount of electronic information available. Students and other academics need help navigating databases, scholarly journals, and reputable online resources.
One thing to keep an eye on is both municipal government and educational budget cuts, which may limit job growth.
Salary
The first question people ask when deciding on a career path is: how much money can I make?
The median annual wage for a librarian with a master’s degree is $58,500, which hovers right around the national average. Many librarians seek additional certifications in things like teaching. Additional education could mean more pay, depending on your position.
Don’t Ditch Your Librarian Dreams
Don’t let the introduction of technology and ebooks scare you off your librarian career path. If you love research and love helping people, becoming a librarian might be the perfect profession for you.
Ready to nail that job? Check out this post on sharpening your interview skills.
