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Online Library Assistant Training Programs
Online Library Assistant Training Programs
Find information about online library assistant training programs, including certificate and degree options. Learn about program requirements, learning outcomes, job possibilities and salaries.
What Types of Online Library Training Programs Are Available?
If you want to become a library assistant, you can enroll in an online library technology or library information program. The most common programs offered in these subjects award certificates and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees. Some AAS programs are geared towards those already working at libraries so that they can advance their skills, but most programs will accept new students interested in beginning a career in library services.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Program Levels</b></td><td> Certificate, associate's degree</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td> Online programs are available; internships may be required at a local library</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Library circulation, human resources, reference services, library media services, library cataloging</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Possible Careers</b></td><td> Library assistant, library technician</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td>$37,010* (<i>for library technicians</i>)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-29)</b></td><td>4% decline* (<i>for all library technicians</i>)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---CanICompleteTheProgramEntirelyOnline">Can I Complete the Program Entirely Online?</h3><p>Courses for certificate and associate's degree programs in library assistance training can be completed online, but many programs require you to complete a supervised internship at your local library. These experiences allow you to gain hands-on practice filing books and interacting with patrons. Courses often are presented asynchronously, so that you can budget your time and complete assignments as your schedule permits. To participate properly in various online library training programs, you'll need a high-speed Internet connection, a compatible browser and antivirus software.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatWillTheProgramTeachMe">What Will the Program Teach Me?</h3><p>During a certificate or an associate's degree program, you'll learn how to help manage and check out library resources, as well as plan specific library programming events. You'll also develop your computer skills, since you often need to use library technologies to look up book titles and help patrons navigate the library's computer facilities. Common subjects covered include:
</p><ul><li>Library cataloging
</li><li>New library technologies
</li><li>Library circulation
</li><li>Children's interest sections
</li><li>Reference services
</li><li>Library media services
</li><li>Human resources
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatLibraryJobsCanIFind">What Library Jobs Can I Find?</h3><p>With your certificate or associate's degree in library services, you can become a library assistant or library technician at public, school and government libraries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), library technician and assistant positions were expected to decline 4% from 2019-2029. The BLS reported that job opportunities should be readily available, due to a steady turnover rate of library workers whose jobs must be continually filled.
</p><p>The BLS stated that library assistants made a median salary of $28,730 per year in 2020, and library technicians earned a median salary of approximately $37,010 annually.</p>
