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Hello everybody!
Hi I’m Danielle and I’m new to this group, this website in general. I’m in a career transition from retail/customer service to becoming a librarian working with teen/young adult services. I have no experience in working in libraries but I want to become one because I love books and reading and literacy and giving people the information to improve themselves. Any advice on making better career transitions?
KatFGB VIP - Sharing knowledge, providing support
2.22k
10/06/20 at 5PM UTC
HI Danielle and welcome to the group! If you want to be a librarian, you will need a Master's in Library and Information Science. If you don't have a BA, check into programs that might offer an accelerated/joint degree program so you won't have to spend as much time in school. There are plenty of online programs if you want to stay in your job while you get your degree. Take a look at various programs and see if the classes and career path sounds like it's something you want to do. If you're not sure that's the career path for you, volunteer at a library. It will give you insights into how the library works and you can get to know the librarians. It would be a great way to network with people already in the field. Talk to them and find out what they like about the job and what advice they have. You can also become a reading teacher (w/a BA in education or related coursework if you already have a degree) or work with at risk teens in community literacy programs. Those programs are always looking for volunteers, which is a good way to start and move up to a paid position. It sounds like you've got a lot of passion to help people, which is a great place to start from. Good luck!
Danielle PitterEditorial writer in NJ
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10/06/20 at 5:33PM UTC
Thanks! I actually already have a BA in Communications and Journalism, but I don't have the funds right now to get a Masters degree. I've been talking with local librarians and directors in my area via email and phone calls, and they have given me some great advice. I just wish more libraries and job positions were opening in my area, too. (I live in NJ.)
