Do librarians really need a four year degree to do the job? Why?
by 
Winter Rain
ANSWERS: 5
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Yes, at LEAST a four year degree. In NY, they have to have a Master's degree: 6 years! (Masters in Library Science.)
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If you want to annoy a current or prospective librarian, ask them why they need a degree to shelve books ;). Actually, there are a wide range of library jobs, some of which don't require a degree and are done by paraprofessionals. But the title of librarian is usually reserved for someone who has a masters degree in library and information science from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited institution. Many academic librarians have two masters degrees, one in LIS and another in their speciality discipline. Here's an ALA site that has descriptions of the duties of library employees at various levels: http://www.librarycareers.org/ala/hrdr/librarycareerssite/whatyouneedlibrarian.cfm
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A librarian is an information professional trained in library and information science. They are expected to know the contents of various books, as well as the location of information sources that are available. Their work title is sometimes called the Director of the library The term librarian is used often and incorrectly to refer to anyone who works in a library. The clerical staff that works in the library, under the direction of the librarian, are more properly called library clerks or library assistants. Modern librarians deal with information in many formats, including books, magazines, newspapers, audio recordings (both music recordings and audiobooks), video recordings, maps, photographs and other graphic material, bibliographic databases, and digital resources. Librarians often provide other information services, including computer provision and training, coordination of public programs, basic literacy education, and help with finding and using community resources.
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I takes a long while too learn the 'angry stare' and the 'ssssshhhHHHHHHHH' noise as well as the more advanced techniques such as, sneezing quitely, farting without scent etc...
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However, at the same time the support staff that work in the libraries have access to a 4 year degree program just to be called Support Staff. Go figure! Just to note - the American Library Association does not formally recognize nor accredit any undergraduate library degree in the United States. One last thing - Most Librarian jobs require the 6 years of training - not just NY. 4 yr bachelors & 2 years graduate MLS or similar degree.
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