How to Break into Library Work (without an MLIS)

We see it all the time.

Perhaps you’re someone who goes to the library frequently, dreaming of a day where you, too, can sit behind a desk and assist your fellow patrons with their next read.

Maybe you’re a teacher who wants to pivot into librarianship, fostering the next generation with skills on literacy, empathy, and research.

You could be a student, trying to finish your undergrad (or maybe you already have) and you’re considering an MLIS but want hands-on library experience.

No matter the situation (and there are many more than these), your conundrums may be similar. How do I start? How does someone without an Masters of Library and Information Science (MLIS, or its variants–to include but not limited to MLS, MIS, and the like) get a job in the library?

The truth is, there is no one perfect way to break into it. But we do commend you for wanting to start! If you do decide to pursue that MLIS, with library work experience under your belt, you’ll be ahead of the game and competitive when it comes down to interviewing for librarian positions down the road. But let’s start off some deeper truths:

• Just like other fields, the jobs may not be plentiful in comparison to the number of applicants. This is dependent upon your area, but keep in mind that you may need to expand your search geographically to increase your chance of success.
• You’ll have to start with lower wage positions (not to say that it gets THAT much better once you have your MLIS, hyuk hyuk). Volunteer work, if available and if you can spare that time and labor, can certainly give you first-hand experience in libraries. For others, positions that are most common include student assistant roles (typically reserved for those enrolled in school/classes), pages/clerks, or various degrees of the library assistant role.

So with those realities in mind, here are some tips to help you get started!

Tighten up the resume. You will need to have an updated resume with a clean, simple design. Although pretty, try to leave out anything that may become unreadable by your AI overlords. This includes pictures, symbols that aren’t bullet points, and custom formatting (think Canva templates) that may get things lost in translation.

Need a resume template? Check this one out!

Depending on the type of library (more on that below), you’ll want to highlight key skills that are favorable for library positions. Attention to detail, customer service and de-escalation techniques, and even research skills will catch the attention of the human that finally reads your resume once it passes the vibe check.

Figure out where you’d like to work. Keeping in mind the area in which you’ll be searching for your starting position, it’s always a good idea to know what kinds of libraries exist and which you’re particularly interested in working in down the line! Types of libraries include public, academic, school, corporate, law, and even special libraries like those servicing government entities. It helps to not be too picky for the sake of getting your foot in the door, but gaining experience in the library of your choosing will allow you to interact in that environment and see if it’s a good fit for you.

Networking! It’s true–job hunting is a lot about who you know. If not already, become more involved in your community libraries and learn more about the people who work there. Joining professional organizations can help connect you to library workers all over the country. If volunteering, let your supervisor know that you have an interest in librarianship. It may spur a mentorship that will carry you through your journey.

Be lucky. Hey, I had to sprinkle a lil more truth in here. A lot us simply fell into library work in one way or another. Being in the right place at the right time certainly helps.

Above all, be consistent! You may not land that dream job at first interview, but keep trying. Tweak your resume where need be, hone your interviewing skills, and be prepared to simply be yourself. If you have a passion for libraries, they’re more likely to take a chance on you! Experience not necessary. And I’ll let you in on a secret–most of us came into the field having to learn the ropes.

Go forth, future MLIS wielder! The search can be daunting, but the reward could be on the horizon.

Need interviewing tips? Check this out!

Cheat Sheet for Interviews