Library Science
Libraries today do much more than lend books – they embrace new technologies. Libraries serve as media centers with CD-ROMS, electronic books, Internet access, videotapes, computer programs and other research materials. The study of library science involves knowing how to match all types of resources with clients' information needs.
Why study library science?
- In a world where great value is placed on information access and management, there is an increased demand for skills in research and information retrieval and producing and using informational and instructional materials.
- Prepare for library or archivist work in universities, local government, public libraries, schools, non-profit groups or publishing companies.
- In addition to library work, the skills you gain in information storage and retrieval will be beneficial for a career in the legal sector, in taxation work, in marketing, personnel, teaching, accounting, general administration or in software design and information management for the banking industry.
- Completion of the UW-Eau Claire library science liberal arts minor prepares you for mid-level public library positions, with some opportunities also available in academic and special libraries.
- Completion of the library science teaching minor prepares you for Wisconsin licensure endorsement as 902 K-12 initial instructional library media specialists.
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Learn about the advantages of studying library science at UW-Eau Claire. |
Career options
- Work as a school library media specialist in a public school, teaching students and staff to use information resources.
- Work in a public library, cataloguing materials, locating information for the general public, assisting them with recreational reading or sharing literature with children.
- Work as a special librarian for a commercial, medical, technical or industrial organization. Tasks include acquiring, organizing and distributing information.
- Work at a college or university library. Tasks may include instructing staff and students on the use of library resources and assisting them in searches using on-line databases.
- Work as an information officer for an organization. Responsibilities may include doing research, keeping up with policy trends and changes, and communicating information to staff members.
Undergraduate programs
The UW-Eau Claire department of foundations of education offers:
Minors
- Library Science – liberal arts
- Library Science – teaching
NOTE: Students considering a library science minor should consult with faculty in the department for further information and assistance in planning.
Course work
The department of foundations of education offers courses in the following areas:
- Library science and media education: these courses (i.e. Developing Library Skills, Developing Media Collections, Reference, Children's and Young Adult Literature, etc.) prepare students for entry-level positions in libraries and media centers.
- Educational and media technology: these courses deal with using and creating media and technology for teaching.
- Foundations of education: these courses deal with the study of social forces, institutions and human relations that undergird formal education.
High school preparation
- Students should enjoy being responsible and helping others as well as having a wide range of interests.
- Students considering a minor in library science are encouraged to do well in English, history, speech and science classes. Proficiency in a foreign language is highly desirable.
- All students who enroll at UW-Eau Claire are required to have a minimum of 17 college preparatory units including:
– 4 years of English (at least 3 composition and literature)
– 2 years of a single foreign language
– 3 years of math (algebra, geometry, 1 advanced college preparatory math)
– 3 years of natural science
– 3 years of social science (1 must be world or American history)
– 2 additional units in the areas already mentioned or other academic areas
For more information
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