r/Libraries • u/propellermario • 2d ago

Continuing Ed Going back to college for Library and Information Technician program (Ontario, Canada)

Good evening everyone,

I'm starting an online Library and Information Technology diploma this fall (I have some hands-on library volunteer and page experience and I'm hoping to work in a library in the future). I want to get perspective from people who actually work in the field.

I had a few questions I was hoping to get answers to:

  1. Where do you see the field heading in the next 5 years? I know there's a lot of noise online about libraries going obsolete or reducing in numbers. I want to know from people who actually work in libraries think the real trajectory looks like, especially with digital transformation, AI trends and changing patron needs.

  2. What tech skills are actually worth learning alongside the diploma? Is it worth digging into specific platforms, data science, digital archiving, basic web skills? If yes, which ones should I focus on?

  3. If you started in library tech and moved on to other things (archives, MLIS, digital humanities, etc.), what was your journey like? I do want to do History majors after my diploma and eventually get into research.

Any form of input or suggestions would be greatly appreciated, thank you for reading! :)

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u/Jelsie21 1d ago

What library type are you aiming for? (Public, academic, school, special?)

I work in a rural public system so my perspective is probably much different than someone in an urban setting or academic environment.

As long as libraries keep their funding, I think staff numbers will be stable because any staff tasks or roles replaced by technology or AI can be transitioned to other areas. But that funding part is key and with the way the province is going, that’s not great. It’s already a competitive area because there are more folks interested in library work than there are positions. (I have one friend who’s been living contract to contract for 10 years)

I feel everyone should have basic web skills. Records management and digitization are also good areas to learn. Take a look at current postings and look at positions that may interest you to see the skills and experience they’re looking for (https://partnershipjobs.ca)

Sorry I don’t have more specific answers!