College to Career in Library & Information Technology
The degree programs in Library & Information Technology are designed to provide students with the paraprofessional skills needed to support the effective functioning of a library or other information intensive organization. Trained library personnel must respond to the rapid national surge in information technology, and the Library & Information Technology program provides relevant courses to assist students in acquiring this evolving knowledge and the skills necessary to become effective and well-informed members of a library team. Associate of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in Library & Information Technology are available at UMA.
Transferable Skills & Competencies
Graduates of the Library & Information Technology program have well-developed computer, organizational, and communication skills. These and other related skills serve our students well as they prepare for careers in libraries and other information intensive organizations. A sampling of representative skills and abilities follow:
Technical
- Using reference tools, print and online
- Applying computer knowledge
- Using the internet
- Searching databases
- Using original sources
- Informing/explaining/teaching
Communication
- Speaking effectively to groups/individuals
- Raising funds
- Listening and questioning skills
- Conveying ideas systematically
- Writing clearly
Organization
- Cataloging/record keeping
- Paying attention to detail
- Categorizing data
- Compiling data
- Working independently
- Working as a team
Research & Analysis
- Developing budgets
- Handling acquisitions/purchasing
- Evaluating options
- Assessing needs and interests
Careers
The selected list that follows offers a glimpse of the diverse career possibilities for UMA Library & Information Technology majors. For some occupations listed below, additional training may be required.
Library Services
- Librarian*
- Library Assistant
- School Librarian*
- Catalog Librarian*
- Bibliographer
- Reference Librarian*
- Archivist
Business
- Real Estate Office Clerk
- Used Book Store Manager
- Video Store Manager
- Insurance Claims Clerk
- Travel Agent
- Hotel Concierge
- Administrative Assistant
- Office Manager
Public Service/Education
- Dispatcher
- Legislative Assistant
- Legal Assistant
- Lobbyist
- Teacher's Aide
- Registrar
- Researcher
- Media Specialist*
Communications
- Proofreader
- Circulation Manager
- Editor
- Clipping Service Owner
- Information Specialist
- Indexer
- Information Broker
*Baccalaureate or graduate level study is generally required for these occupations.
For More Information
College of Natural & Social Sciences
Phone: 621-3275 or 1-877-UMA-1234, ext. 3275
Program Coordinators: Jean Thomas
621-3341 or 1-888-850-5379
Academic & Career Advising Center
Phone:621-3149 or 1-877-UMA-1234, ext. 3149
Admissions & Records Office
Phone: 621-3465 or 1-877-UMA-1234, ext. 3465
TTY# 1-800-316-3600
Web site: www.uma.edu
Related website(s):
American Library Association: www.ala.org