Are you passionate about information, organization, and helping others access knowledge? A career in library science might be your perfect path. In today’s digital age, pursuing a Library Science Degree Online offers a flexible and accessible route to enter this rewarding field. Whether you’re looking to advance your current career or embark on a new one, online programs provide the education and skills necessary to thrive in libraries, archives, information centers, and beyond.
Why Choose an Online Library Science Degree?
Opting for an online library science degree comes with numerous advantages, making it an increasingly popular choice for aspiring information professionals. Here are some key benefits:
- Flexibility and Convenience: Online programs are designed to fit around your life. Whether you’re a working professional, a parent, or have other commitments, the asynchronous nature of many online courses allows you to study at your own pace and on your own schedule. This flexibility is invaluable for those who need to balance education with other responsibilities.
- Accessibility: Online education removes geographical barriers. You can access top-quality library science programs from universities across the country and even internationally, without needing to relocate or commute. This opens up a wider range of program choices and specializations.
- Career Advancement: A library science degree can significantly enhance your career prospects in the information sector. Many positions, particularly in leadership roles or specialized areas, require a formal qualification. An online degree allows you to gain these credentials while continuing to work, making it a practical step for career progression.
- Diverse Program Options: The online learning environment now hosts a wide array of library science programs, from associate’s and bachelor’s degrees to certificates and even master’s level courses (though master’s are not listed here, remember to check ALA-accredited programs for those). This variety ensures you can find a program that aligns with your specific career goals and educational background.
- Developing Digital Skills: Studying online naturally enhances your digital literacy and technological skills, which are increasingly crucial in the modern library and information science field. You’ll become proficient in using online learning platforms, digital communication tools, and various software applications relevant to information management and dissemination.
Types of Online Library Science Degrees
Online library science programs are available at various levels, each catering to different career stages and aspirations:
- Associate’s Degree in Library Science Online: An associate’s degree provides a solid foundation in library operations and information services. These programs often prepare graduates for roles as library technicians or assistants in public libraries, school libraries, or community information centers. They typically cover basic cataloging, circulation, customer service, and information retrieval skills.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science Online: A bachelor’s degree in library science offers a more comprehensive education, delving deeper into information organization, research methodologies, and library management principles. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree can pursue roles with greater responsibilities in libraries, archives, corporate information centers, or government agencies. Some programs may also specialize in areas like information technology, digital librarianship, or information architecture.
- Certificate Programs in Library Science Online: Certificate programs are often shorter and more focused, providing specialized skills in a particular area of library science, such as library technology, children’s librarianship, or archival studies. These certificates can be valuable for career advancement, specialization, or for individuals who already have a degree in another field but wish to enter the library profession.
Finding the Right Online Library Science Program
Choosing the right online library science degree program is a significant decision. Consider these factors to make an informed choice:
- Accreditation: While the programs listed here are not ALA-accredited master’s programs (which are for advanced librarians), for associate’s and bachelor’s levels, look for regionally accredited institutions. Accreditation ensures the program meets quality standards and that your degree will be recognized by employers.
- Program Focus and Curriculum: Examine the program curriculum to ensure it aligns with your career interests. Some programs may emphasize technology, others public services, and some may have a broader focus. Consider the specific courses offered, the faculty expertise, and the program’s learning outcomes.
- Online Learning Format: Understand the program’s online learning format. Is it fully asynchronous, allowing you to study entirely at your own pace? Or does it include synchronous elements like live online classes or group projects? Choose a format that suits your learning style and schedule.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Online programs can vary in cost. Compare tuition fees, technology fees, and other expenses. Investigate available financial aid options, scholarships, and payment plans to make your education affordable.
- Location of the Institution (Consider Reputation and Networking): Even for online programs, the location of the university can sometimes matter. Institutions with strong reputations or established library science departments may offer better networking opportunities, alumni connections, or career services, even for online students. However, for many online programs, the focus is on accessibility, regardless of location.
Directory of Online Library Science Programs
Below is a directory of institutions offering Certificate, Associate, and Bachelor Degrees in Library Science and related fields. Please note: This list is based on the original information and may not be exhaustive. Program availability and online options can change. Always verify the most current program details directly with the institution. We have highlighted programs that explicitly mention online options for your convenience.
AL | AZ | CA | CO | CT | FL | GA | HI | ID | IL | IN | IA | KS KY | LA | ME | MD | MA | MI | MN | MS | MO | NE NH | NJ | NM | NY | NC | OH | OK | OR | PA | PR | RI | SC | TN | TX WA | WI | DC
Alabama
None
Arizona
Bachelor’s Degree
- University of Arizona – In-Person Program – Program offered: Undergraduate Minor in Information Resources and Library Science (IRLS) with a focus in Digital Information Studies, Tucson, AZ. (Note: This program is listed as in-person)
California
Associate Degree/Certificate Programs
- City College of San Francisco – Online Courses Available – Program(s) offered: Associate of Arts in Library Information Technology
- Cuesta College – Online Program Available – Program(s) offered: Associate of Science in Library/Information Technology; Certificate of Achievement in Library/Information Technology; Library Services to Children Certificate of Specialization; Searching and Researching Strategies Certificate of Specialization; Web Page Coding Certificate of Specialization
- Diablo Valley College – In-person program with hybrid and limited online courses available – Program(s) offered: Associate of Arts Degree in Library and Information Technology; Certificate of Achievement in Library and Information Technology (Note: Primarily in-person with limited online options)
- Fresno City College – Online program – Program(s) offered: Associate of Science in Library Technology and Information; Certificate of Achievement
- Palomar College – 100% Online program – Program(s) offered: Associate of Science in Library and Information Technology; Certificate of Achievement
- Pasadena City College – In-person program; Limited hybrid courses available – Program(s) offered: Library Technology Certificate Program; Digitization Skills Certificate Program (Note: Primarily in-person with limited hybrid options)
- Sacramento City College – Limited online courses available – Program(s) offered: Associate of Arts Degree in Library and Information Technology; Certificate of Achievement in Library and Information Technology (Note: Limited online options)
- San Bernardino Valley College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Library Technology Associate of Arts Degree; Library Technology Certificate (Note: In-person program)
- Santa Ana College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Associate of Arts Degree in Library Technology; Library Technology Certificate (Note: In-person program)
Bachelor’s Degree
- Ashford University – Online Program Available – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Arts in Library Science and Media, San Diego, CA. (Note: Ashford University is now the University of Arizona Global Campus)
Colorado
Associate Degree/Certificate Programs
- Pueblo Community College – Online Courses Available – Program(s) offered: Library Technician Associate of Applied Science Degree; Library Technician Certificate
Connecticut
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- Capital Community College – In-person program – Program(s) available: Associate in Science Degree in Social Service; Library Technical Assistant; Library Technical Assistant Certificate (Note: In-person program)
- Three Rivers Community College – Online program – Program(s) available: Certificate in Library Technology
Bachelor’s Degree
- Southern Connecticut State University – In-person program – Program(s) available: Bachelors of Science Information and Library Science major and minor programs, New Haven, CT. (Note: In-person program)
Florida
None
Georgia
None
Hawaii
None
Idaho
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- College of Southern Idaho – Program(s) Available: Associate of Arts degree in Library and Information Science (Note: Program details need to be checked for online availability)
Illinois
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- City Colleges of Chicago – Library Technical Assistant Program; Associate in Applied Science (Note: Program details need to be checked for online availability)
- College of Dupage – Online Program Available – Program(s) offered: Library and Information Technology, Associate in Applied Science; Library and Information Technology Certificate
- College of Lake County – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Library Marketing and Public Relations Associate of Applied Science; Library Marketing and Public Relations Associate of Applied Science; Library Technology Associate of Applied Science; Public Services Associate of Applied Science; Library Technical Assistant Certificate (Note: In-person program)
- Joliet Junior College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Library Technical Assistant Certificate of Completion (Note: In-person program)
- Waubonsee Community College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Library Technical Assistant Associate in Applied Science; Library Technical Assistant Certificate of Achievement, Certificate of Achievement (Note: In-person program)
- Wilbur Wright College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Library Technical Assistant Associate in Applied Science (Note: In-person program)
Indiana
None
Iowa
None
Kansas
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- Emporia State University – Program(s) offered: Archives Certificate (Note: Program details need to be checked for online availability)
Kentucky
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- Bluegrass Community & Technical College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Degree in Information Management Design, Library and Information Technology option (Note: In-person program)
Bachelor’s Degree
- Northern Kentucky University – Online program – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Science Library Informatics, Highland Heights, KY.
Louisiana
None
Maine
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- University of Maine at Augusta (Augusta, Bangor, and Center Campus) – Online courses offered – Program(s) offered: Associate of Science in Information and Library Services; Certificate in Library and Information Services
Bachelor’s Degree
- University of Maine – Distance Education – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Science in Information and Library Services, Augusta, ME. (Note: Distance Education likely implies online options)
Maryland
None
Massachusetts
None
Michigan
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- Oakland Community College – Online courses offered – Program(s) offered: Associate in Applied Science in Library Technician in Library Technician
Minnesota
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- Minneapolis Community & Technical College – Online Only – Program(s) offered: Associate of Applied Science in Library Information Technology; Technical Information Services Certificate, Public Information Services Certificate
Mississippi
Bachelor’s Degree
- University of Southern Mississippi – Online and In-person programs – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Arts in Library and Information Science, Hattiesburg, MS. (Note: Offers both Online and In-person options)
Missouri
None
Nebraska
Associate Degree/Certificate Programs
- Central Community College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Library and Information Services Certificate (Note: In-person program)
- Northeast Community College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Associate of Arts Degree in Library and Information Services (Note: In-person program)
Bachelor’s Degree
- University of Nebraska – Online program – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Science in Education degree with major in Library Science, Omaha, NB.
New Hampshire
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- White Mountains Community College – Online program – Program(s) offered: Library Technology Certificate Program
New Jersey
None
New Mexico
None
New York
None
North Carolina
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- Central Carolina Community College – Online only – Program(s) offered: Associate in Library and information technology; Library and information technology diploma; Library cataloging certificate; Library programs certificate; Library public services certificate; Library basics certificate; Certificate in library management
Bachelor’s Degree
- University of North Carolina – In-person Program – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Science in Information Science and minor in Information Systems, Chapel Hill, NC. (Note: In-person program)
Ohio
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- Belmont Technical College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Library paraprofessional degree (Note: In-person program)
Oklahoma
Associate Degree/Certificate Programs
- Rose State College – Online Program available – Program(s) offered: Library Technical Assistant Associate in Applied Science
Bachelor’s Degree
- University of Oklahoma – Online degree program – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Arts Information Studies, Norman, OK.
Oregon
Associate Degree/Certificate Programs
- Portland Community College – Limited online courses available – Program(s) offered: Library assistant certificate (Note: Limited online options)
Pennsylvania
Associate Degree/Certificate Programs
- Northampton Community College – Online Program Only – Program(s) offered: Associate Science in Humanities & Social Sciences: Library Technical Assistant
Bachelor’s Degree
- Kutztown University – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Science in Education (teaching program) in Library Science Bachelor of Science (non-teaching program) in Library Science, Kutztown, PA. (Note: Program details need to be checked for online availability)
Puerto Rico
None
Rhode Island
None
South Carolina
Bachelor’s Degree
- University of South Carolina – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Science in Information Science, Columbia, SC. (Note: In-person program)
Tennessee
None
Texas
Bachelor’s Degree
- University of Northern Texas – In-person and online program – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Science in Information Science, Denton, TX. (Note: Offers both In-person and Online options)
- The University of Texas at Austin – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Undergraduate minor in Information Studies, Austin, TX. (Note: In-person program)
Washington
Associate Degree/Certificate Program
- Central Washington University – Online program – Program(s) offered: Type B Certificate in Library and Information Science
- Highline Community College – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Public Services Certificate; Technical Services Certificate (Note: In-person program)
- Spokane Falls Community College – Online program available – Program(s) available: Associate of Applied Science in Library and Information Services; Library and Information Services Certificate
Bachelor’s Degree
- Central Washington University – Online program – Program(s) offered: Undergraduate Minor in Library and Information Science Undergraduate Minor in School Library Media Studies
- University of Washington – In-person program – Program(s) offered: Bachelor of Science in Informatics, Seattle, WA. (Note: In-person program)
Wisconsin
None
District of Columbia
None
Beyond the Degree: Career Paths in Library Science
A library science degree opens doors to a diverse range of fulfilling careers focused on information access, management, and preservation. While traditional library roles remain central, the field is evolving, offering opportunities in digital environments and various sectors. Some common career paths include:
- Librarian: Working in public, academic, school, or specialized libraries, librarians assist users with research, manage collections, develop programs, and provide information services.
- Archivist: Archivists preserve and manage historical records and documents, ensuring their accessibility for research and future generations.
- Information Manager: In corporate, government, or non-profit settings, information managers organize and oversee information resources to improve efficiency and knowledge sharing.
- Digital Librarian: Specializing in digital resources, digital librarians manage online collections, develop digital libraries, and ensure online information accessibility.
- Library Technician or Assistant: Providing essential support in libraries, technicians assist with circulation, cataloging, user services, and program delivery.
- Information Architect: Focusing on user experience, information architects design websites and information systems to be user-friendly and easily navigable.
- Data Curator: With the explosion of data, data curators manage and organize research data, ensuring its integrity and accessibility for researchers.
Conclusion
Choosing to pursue a library science degree online is a strategic step towards a dynamic and impactful career. The flexibility, accessibility, and diverse program options offered online make it possible for individuals from various backgrounds and circumstances to enter or advance in the information profession. Explore the directory of programs listed above, investigate the options that best align with your goals, and take the first step towards unlocking your potential in the world of library and information science. For a comprehensive list of ALA-accredited master’s programs in library and information studies, please refer to the Searchable Directory of ALA-Accredited Programs.
