Library Technology

Overview

The certificate in Library Technology provides training for paraprofessionals entering the field and additional education for those already employed.  Library technicians and library assistants work in all types of libraries and information centers, including public libraries, academic libraries, school libraries, and special libraries. Upon successful completion of the certificate, graduates are prepared for all aspects of library work, including circulation, reference, and technical services, with emphasis on current and emergent technologies. With a certificate in library technology, graduates are also prepared for non-library jobs, those requiring information-related services and skills, such as research, programming, internet, managerial, archival, information literacy, and more. The certificate includes a library internship whereby students can apply what they learn in the classroom to practical experience.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be prepared to:

1. Identify and apply the basic principles of:
   a. Reference and information services.
   b. Circulation, including collection management.
   c. Cataloging and classification systems.
   d. Acquisitions and collection development.
2. Apply the basic principles of quality customer service.
3. Identify and apply the ethics and values of the profession, including those inscribed in the Library Bill of Rights and the ALA Code of Ethics, as well as those associated with freedom of information, confidentiality of library records, and privacy issues.
4. Use effective communication skills to enhance approachability and to transmit information.
5. Demonstrate flexibility in adapting to new technology.
6. Assist and train users to operate public computing equipment and other library-related technologies.