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Library Science: Careers in LIS

Careers in LIS

You may need help finding a job after you complete your degree. Organizations' websites are also a great place to look for topics for papers, since they list the most recent issues in the field.

On this page, you will find:

  • A listing of websites of common LIS organizations (left column)
  • Links to the Occupational Outlook Handbook and information about researching careers (right column)

Organization Web Sites

Consider membership in the following professional associations!

You can also search these sites for jobs.

 

Image of the painting The Bookworm

 

The Bookworm by Carl Spitzweg

What Can I Do With a Library Science Degree?

Here are links that talk about options available for people with MLS degrees.

Overview

Investigating Major Issues in Careers


 

A good way to find issues in your chosen career is to visit an association or organization website that focuses on your field.  There are professional and trade associations for almost every profession and industry.  Their purpose is to promote the profession, represent the interests of professional practictioners, and answer any queries from the public. 

  1. Go to Occupational Outlook HandbookThe Handbook includes information about your profession, education requirements, earnings, links to information about the job market in each state, and trade association information.
  2. Search for your career.
  3. Note: Scroll to the section on "Sources of Additional Information" to find professional or trade associations.

 

Finding Information about your chosen Profession


 

Browsing a Professional or Trade Organization Website


 

The professional/trade organization website can help you research current issues in your current profession and locate trade publications.

  • Finding Issues - Look for links labeled: News, Publications, Research, Topics, Frequently Asked Questions, and Press Releases.
  • Finding Publications - Look for links labeled: Publications
    • Trade Publications are sometimes provided for free via the association website.  If they are not provided for free, check to see if the library has a subscription.