Can Experience as a High School Librarian Qualify for College Librarian Positions?

Working at a library, particularly as a high school librarian, may provide valuable experience but is it enough to qualify for a position as a college librarian? This article aims to explore the differences between these roles, the essential qualifications needed, and how one's previous experience can contribute towards a career in college librarianship.

The Importance of an MLS for Library Roles

While experience in a library, even if it's high school level, can provide a solid foundation for a future in librarianship, the most crucial qualification for most library positions is a Master's in Library Science (MLS).

Librarian Roles Beyond a High School Setting

Earning an MLS is essential for working in academic or college libraries. This degree, often obtained from an ALA-accredited program, prepares graduates for roles that involve a complex array of responsibilities.

College librarians, for instance, face unique challenges compared to their high school counterparts. The job typically involves various administrative tasks, such as collection management, research training, staff supervision, and teaching. While high school librarians might handle some of these duties, the research component is much more specialized and intensive. These tasks require a deep understanding of academic research and the ability to guide students through extensive research projects.

Specialization in Higher Education Libraries

At a college or university, the scale of the operation is significantly larger. For example, at a university with around 7,500 students, there are 8 librarians, each supporting multiple subjects or departments and maintaining an extensive collection of resources. This requires not only knowledge in specific areas but also the ability to keep up with the latest research trends and technologies.

Additionally, many college librarians pursue a second master's degree in a relevant subject area to complement their research guidance. Large university library systems often have separate libraries for different academic departments, which adds another layer of specialization and complexity.

Potential for High School Librarian Experience in Higher Education

Having experience as a high school librarian can be advantageous in some cases, especially for very small colleges or universities. However, for the majority of academic librarian positions, the professional requirements are much higher.

One key difference is the depth of research required. College students often need more extensive and intricate research guidance than high school students. Many college students require significant assistance from librarians to navigate complex research projects, which is a significant part of the job.

Another crucial distinction is the operational schedule of higher education libraries. They typically operate over a much longer and more consistent schedule, with more diverse responsibilities, including front desk coverage, shelving, and work-study supervision. Professional librarians in higher education must provide much more oversight and support than librarians in high schools.

High school libraries also have limited resources compared to college libraries, including fewer foreign language materials and a smaller range of academic resources. College librarians need to be equipped to deal with a broader spectrum of library resources and materials.

Steps Towards a Career in College Librarianship

For those aspiring to become college librarians, it is highly recommended to gain additional experience in academic settings. One potential step is to secure part-time or internship experience at nearby colleges or universities with their library systems. This can provide valuable hands-on training and a better understanding of the specific responsibilities in a college library environment.

Lastly, obtaining an MLS is a priority and an essential requirement for academic librarianship. Building a strong academic library background, whether through further education or experience, is key to a successful career in this field.