Certificate of Achievement (Transcripted): Library Technology

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Certificate in a timely manner. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

The certificate curriculum in library technology is designed to successfully prepare students for employment above the beginning level as paraprofessionals in school, public, special, or academic libraries. Course content covers terminology, organization, procedures, standards, and practices. Entry-level positions are available in this field as library technical assistants, library assistants, library technicians, and library media technicians. To receive a Certificate in Library Technology, a grade of “C,” or better is required for each major course. 

Apply knowledge and skills gained through all required courses to perform library technician level tasks in various types of libraries and settings.

Identify and differentiate library technicianroles and be able to perform the job duties of technicians in a library or information management organization.

Prepare for employment above the beginning level as paraprofessionals in school, public, special, or academic libraries.

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

Comprehensive Education Plan: You are required to meet with a counselor for a comprehensive educational plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor in your first semester.

First Semester

9 units
LIBR 101
Introduction to Library Technology
This course provides an introduction to libraries as a career field with particular emphasis on the role of the library technician in various types of library settings. It also provides an overview of library collections, history, organization, staffing, services, terminology, and electronic online resources.
    LIBR 054
    Children's Library Services
    Course explores standard library procedures and practices as they are adapted to a children's library situation. Each student has practice evaluating materials and using various methods for sharing literature with children, e.g. reading aloud, storytimes, displays, and bibliographies.
    *Fall Course Only
      LIBR 102
      Information Sources for Paraprofessionals: Tools and Techniques
      An introduction to information sources in both print and electronic formats. Includes a basic theoretical and practical exploration of the nature and types of information in selected subject fields. Builds skills in information searching and in the evaluation of information and information sources.
      *Fall Course Only

        Second Semester

        9 units
        LIBR 110
        Library Technical Services
        Survey of library technical services, exploring philosophies, ethics, policies, and procedures. Emphasis on materials acquisitions processes and workflows; cataloging and classification principles and rules (MARC, RDA, LC and Dewey Classification systems, and LC Subject Headings); metadata and its impact on user experience; and the future of technical services.
        *Spring Course Only
          LIBR 122
          Library Public Services
          Exploration of library public services with special emphasis placed on a variety of issues as they relate to the circulation of library materials, the delivery of reference services, the use of the Internet and full-text databases for reference, and the preparation and delivery of library programs.
          *Spring Course Only
            BA 179
            Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
            Build professional technology skills by learning Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint in one comprehensive course. Create, edit, format, and integrate documents, spreadsheets, and presentations using current business standards. Apply skills to real-world projects such as reports, budgets, and presentations that improve productivity and workplace success. Use AI tools (e.g., Microsoft Copilot) to generate content, analyze data, and design slides more efficiently. Includes MOS certification exams in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, earning three industry-recognized credentials valued by employers.