Library Information Technology
Program description
MCTC's Library Information Technology (LIT) Program will equip you with the practical and conceptual skills needed to work in highly automated libraries and information agencies. Whether you seek your A.A.S. Degree in order to become a paraprofessional or transfer to a 4-year college, or if you would like to earn a certificate, MCTC’s LIT program will train you in the ethical, legal and professional frameworks for delivering library and information resources to communities. Both the degree and the certificates are offered in a fully online environment.
Program start and location
- This program is designed for a fall start; plan to apply to the college in the spring/early summer prior to when you wish to begin your studies.
- Courses required for the program meet online only. Required and optional electives may be offered in a variety of formats. For more information about your options, contact the Information Studies department coordinator.
Degree options and requirements
Library Information Technology A.A.S. Degree—60 credits
Technical Information Services Certificate—20 credits
Public Information Services Certificate—20 credits
Click here for program and course information.
What you will learn
- MCTC’s Library Information Technology program will equip you with the practical and conceptual skills needed to work in highly automated libraries and information agencies.
- The program will introduce you to integrated library systems, including library circulation, acquisitions, serials and information management systems and other computer applications unique to the industry.
- You will learn to efficiently search online databases and the Internet and provide effective user services, as well as build exposure to the various services and outreach that libraries of all types provide to their communities.
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Points of pride
- All required program courses are offered fully online; electives and general education courses are offered in online, hybrid, and face-to-face formats.
- When you complete the A.A.S degree, you automatically qualify to receive certification through the Minnesota Voluntary Certification Program for Library Employees.
- Courses are aligned with the American Library Association (ALA) Allied Profession Association Library Support Staff Certification Program competencies.
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Where you could work
- Libraries of all types
- Corporate and other special libraries
- Public libraries
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Potential job titles
- Paralibrarian
- Library Technician
- Library Assistant
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Occupational outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of librarians is expected to grow by 8 percent through 2018. One potential job growth area lies outside traditional settings; nontraditional librarian jobs include working as information brokers and working for private corporations, nonprofits and consulting firms. The BLS also notes that businesses are turning to librarians for their research and organizational skills and knowledge of computer databases and library automation systems. See the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos316.htm for the most current information on the national occupational outlook.
Beyond-the-classroom opportunities
While studying at MCTC’s LIT program, who will have an opportunity to do an internship at one of the many libraries located in the Twin Cities. Past students have done internships at the University of Minnesota’s Mintex, Minnesota Digital Library and Wilson Library, Macalester College, the University of St. Thomas, Hennepin County Library, Albert Lea Public Library, St. Paul Public Library, Quatrefoil Library and the Ohio Literacy Resource Center. There are also opportunities to participate in service learning projects.
Academy
This program is part of the Academy of Education and Public Services. Click here for more information.
Articulation Agreements, Common Course Outlines and Gainful Employment Information
Please contact the program dean for information about articulation agreements.
Click here for Common Course Outline information.
Click here for Gainful Employment information.
Community College Grads Out-earn Bachelor's Degree Holders
Nearly 30% of Americans with associate's degrees now make more than those with bachelor's degrees, according to Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce. In fact, other recent research in several states shows that, on average, community college graduates right out of school make more than graduates of four-year universities.
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