Library Librarians Information Find Science Patrons Degree Needed

Librarians help people find information from many sources. Most librarians, such as those in public and "academic" (school or college) libraries, maintain library "collections" (materials) and do other work as needed to keep the library running.

In small libraries, librarians are often responsible for many or all aspects of library "operations" (the daily activities and service provided). They may manage a "staff" (group of workers) of library assistants. In larger libraries, librarians usually focus on a specific area, such as helping users or "overseeing" (supervising) technology, while others focus on specific areas of knowledge, such as science or literature.

Librarians often help "patrons" (users of services) find the information they need. They listen to what patrons are looking for and help them research the subject using both "electronic" (computer-based) and "print" (paper-based) resources. Librarians also teach patrons how to use library resources to find information on their own. This may include familiarizing patrons with "catalogs" (listings or files organized for easy finding) of print materials, helping them access and search "digital" (electronic) libraries, or educating them on "Internet search techniques" (how to find information on the Internet).

Most librarians need a "master's degree" (two-year degree after completing one's bachelor's degree) in library science. A bachelor's degree is needed to enter a graduate program in library science, but any undergraduate "major" (focus of study) is accepted.

Colleges and universities have different names for their library science programs. They are often called Master's in Library Science (MLS) programs but sometimes have other names, such as Master of Information Studies or Master of Library and Information Studies. Many colleges offer library science programs, but, as of 2011, only 56 programs in the United States were "accredited" (given official recognition or permission) by the American Library Association. A degree from an accredited program may lead to better job opportunities.