The degree programs in Information and Library Services 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 Information and Library Services 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 Information and Library Services are available at UMA.
Transferable Skills & Competencies
Graduates of the Information and Library Services 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 Information and Library Services 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