Library Technology Certificate of Achievement

Program Description

The Library Technology certificate trains students for careers in libraries or information management using print media as well as technology. The program is designed to prepare individuals for entry level employment in a public, school, academic, or special library or an information center.

The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program.  Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway.  It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.

Division

Academic Success and Learning Services

Department

Library Technology

Career and Academic Pathway (CAP)

Public Service, Culture, Society

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Utilize the correct technology and media for library services.

  2. Classify library materials in a variety of library environments such as schools, specialized, public and academic.

  3. Apply the fundamentals of public services and technical services.

  4. Describe the purposes, processes, and goals of the different departments within a library, including technical, public, and reference services.

Program Map

GE General Education
O Available Online
Program Requirement
P Program Prerequisites

1st Semester

9 units
LIB 064
Introduction to Library Services

This course is an introduction to the philosophy of library services and the history and types of libraries. The class covers the relationship of a library to the community it serves, especially in terms of typical library services and programs. Finally, the library in the online environment and the organizational structure of libraries are considered.

Course Details:

LIB 070
Library Technology and Computer Services
This class is an introduction to the application and integration of automation systems and computer in libraries. Students will be exposed to a variety of computer applications, including online public access catalogs and automated circulation systems. This course provides an overview of a wide variety of computer services and issues within a library setting ranging from public access, social media, cyber security and emerging technologies.

Course Details:

  1. Departmental Advisory: READ 015
  2. Departmental Advisory: LIB 064
LIB 110
Information Literacy and Research
This is an introductory course covering the skills needed to effectively access library and online information sources, to critically evaluate the information retrieved, and to practice ethical behavior in regard to information technology.

Course Details:

  1. Departmental Advisory: READ 015

2nd Semester

11 units
LIB 065
Public Services

This course is an introduction to the public services provided by modern libraries. Topics include library customer service guidelines and skills; equity, diversity, and inclusion; organization, circulation, and materials; programs and series; intellectual freedom and censorship; safety; and careers. 

Course Details:

  1. Departmental Advisory: LIB 064
  2. Departmental Advisory: READ 015
LIB 066
Acquisitions
This course is an introduction to acquisitions practices in the modern library. Topics include needs assessment; collection management; selection of print and online resources; acquisitions processes; weeding/deselection of materials; ethics; preservation; legal and safety issues in libraries; and intellectual freedom.

Course Details:

  1. Departmental Advisory: READ 015
LIB 067
Cataloging and Classification
This course is an introduction to descriptive and subject cataloging, classification of materials using the Dewey Decimal and Library of Congress systems, preparation of MARC computer database records, and use of electronic bibliographic utilities.

Course Details:

  1. Prerequisite: LIB 064
    2. or
  2. Corequisite: LIB 064
LIB 071
Youth Services and Programs
This course explores age appropriate library services and programing for youth in public and school libraries.

Course Details:

  1. Prerequisite: READ 015

3rd Semester

5-8 units
LIB 098
Library Technology Work Experience
Supervised training, in the form of on the job employment that will enhance the student's knowledge in the selected field of study. The student's major and job must match. For paid work, 75 hours = 1 unit; for volunteer work, 60 hours = 1 unit. Students may earn a total of 16 units toward graduation in Work Experience 098 courses. See department for specific guidelines. 

Course Details:

LIB 063
Survey of Literature for Library Technicians
This course is an introductory study of Readers' Advisory work as performed in public, academic, and school libraries. It offers a practical study of popular literature and literary genres, interpersonal skills, and interview techniques needed to become successful in recommending specific titles and/or authors to library patrons based on parameters such as reading interests,  age groups, and reading levels. 

Course Details:

  1. Departmental Advisory: READ 015
  2. Prerequisite: LIB 064
  3. Corequisite: LIB 064
LIB 062
Care and Repair of Library Materials
This course provides the basic, hands-on techniques used in the binding, repair, and care of printed library materials.

Course Details: