Are you interested in becoming a school librarian?
This comprehensive guide covers the job description, requirements, steps to become a librarian, salary and job outlook, and skills and resources for school librarians.
Learn about the qualifications and certifications you need to become a school librarian and the resources available to help you advance in your career.
This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about a career in school librarianship.
School Librarian Job Description and Common Tasks
School librarians are responsible for teaching students how to locate and check out books, assisting teachers in finding resources for lesson plans, and helping patrons use information retrieval systems.
Other tasks include maintaining collections, organizing materials, developing index databases, and acquiring new materials.
Librarians must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, advanced computer skills, and reading and problem-solving abilities.
Certification requirements vary by state, but many require a master’s degree in library science and teaching certification.
With the right qualifications and skills, school librarians can look forward to a rewarding career with an average job growth of 6% and advancement opportunities.
School Librarian Requirements and Certification
To become a school librarian, certification requirements vary by state. However, many require a master’s degree in library science and teaching certification. Public schools generally require certification, while private schools may not. Common courses include children’s literature, learning technologies, and library management.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in library science or a related subject
- Master’s degree program in library science
- Required tests for public school librarians
- License to work as a librarian in K-12 schools
Certification:
- Varies by state
- Public schools generally require certification
- Private schools may not
- Master’s degree in library science (MLS) is commonly required
Resources:
- American Association of School Librarians (AASL)
- School Libraries Association
- American Library Association (ALA) Accredited Programs
- Top School Library Blogs
Steps to Become a School Librarian
Completing the essential steps to become a school librarian often requires a considerable amount of time and effort. To qualify, individuals must typically earn a bachelor’s degree in a library science-related subject and then pursue a master’s degree program in library science. Depending on the state, a license may be needed to work in K-12 schools, and public schools may require certification.
Furthermore, joining organizations such as the ALA and AASL can provide professional development opportunities. Tests may also be required for public school librarians. Finally, it is important to stay informed on current trends to help ensure success.
With dedication and perseverance, individuals can become a school librarian and embark on a rewarding career.
School Librarian Salary and Job Outlook
Regularly staying informed of salary and job outlook data is essential for success as a school librarian. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), librarians in elementary and secondary schools earned a mean annual wage of $67,360 in 2022, while librarians in college and university libraries earned a mean annual salary of $69,020. Salary can vary widely based on library size and state. The BLS also reported average job growth for librarians at 6% from 2021 to 2031, with advancement opportunities to assistant director, library director, or specialist positions.
Benefits to School Librarians:
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Salary and Career Growth:
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High salaries
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Job growth
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Advancement opportunities
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Qualifications:
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Master’s degree in library science
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Certification requirements vary by state
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Teaching certification may or may not be required
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Skills and Resources:
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Organizational skills
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Communication and presentation skills
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Problem-solving skills
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Professional development resources
Skills and Resources for School Librarians
Librarians in schools need to develop a wide range of skills and have access to various resources to support their professional development. These skills include well-developed organizational skills, excellent communication and presentation skills, and sound problem-solving skills. Passion for helping people is also necessary. Moreover, staying up to date on current trends in literature is important. Resources like the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), School Libraries Association, and American Library Association (ALA) Accredited Programs can be helpful. Additionally, top school library blogs can provide valuable insights. A table summarizing these points is provided below.
| Skills | Resources |
|---|---|
| Organizational Skills | American Association of School Librarians (AASL) |
| Communication & Presentation Skills | School Libraries Association |
| Problem-solving Skills | American Library Association (ALA) Accredited Programs |
| Passion for Helping People | Top School Library Blogs |
| Staying Up to Date on Current Trends in Literature |
Conclusion
School librarianship is a rewarding and satisfying career choice that requires professional qualifications, specialized skills, and a passion for learning. Although certification requirements vary by state, a master’s degree in library science is typically required.
In 2022, school librarians could expect to earn a mean annual wage of $67,360, with job growth expected to average 6% from 2021 to 2031. With the right qualifications, resources, and dedication, aspiring school librarians can look forward to a successful career.
