Education > Library Schools

Library Schools

Library schools go by many different names - Library & Information Science, Information Studies, Information Resources, Informatics and more. And offer a variety of degrees: MLS (Master of Library Science), MLIS (Master of Library and Information Science), MIS (Master of Information Science) and others. Just make sure the schools you are considering are accredited by the ALA (American Library Association).

When picking a school consider:

• Location Are you limited geographically? On-campus or distance learning or combination of both?
• Fields of Study Do you want to specialize in a particular area? The Library Journal Directory of Library Schools highlights the major programs at each school. (Explore the Careers section to find out more about different types of library jobs.)
• Costs Do you need financial aid? (and who doesn't!) Look at each schools requirements. Also check out scholarship opportunities.
• Requirements Make sure you check on admission requirements and testing requirements. Is the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) required?

New York State Library & Information Science Programs

• Long Island University - Palmer School of Library & Information Science
• Pratt Institute - School of Library & Information Science
• Queens College - Graduate School of Library & Information Studies
• St. John's University - Division of Library & Information Science
• Syracuse University - School of Information Studies
• University at Albany - Dept. of Information Studies
• University at Buffalo - Dept. of Library & Information Studies

Other School Information

• American Library Association list of accredited schools - US and Canada
• Library Journal Directory of Library Schools - Quick summary of schools and their specialties.
• Get your degree online!
• Guidelines for Choosing a Master's Program in Library & Information Studies - Advice from ALA (American Library Association)

Specific Fields of Study

• ALA - Accredited Graduate Program in Library Science with Law Library Classes or Joint MLS/JD Classes - Handy guide to help you pick a library school program.
• Recognized School Library Media Education Programs
• Rare Books & Manuscripts

Make Connections

• Librarian Wannabes
  Yahoo discussion group designed to help up and coming librarians through the trials of graduate school and new jobs.
• Library Grrrls!
  "Do you work in a library or just look like you do? Are you currently enduring the tortures of Library School? This is a grrrl (but bois are wlcome, too) focused arena for discussing library work issues, women's evolving roles in libraries, and general library bitching or exalting."
• NewLib-L
  NEWLIB-L listserv has over 1300 subscribers from all over the world, from every aspect of librarianship, and at every stage in a librarian's career.

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