In this Information
Age, the role of libraries in providing for the knowledge needs of all
sectors of the population is expanding. The changing needs of
information management in our society have sparked an increase demand for
the work of library and information specialists who can organize, manage,
and retrieve information from the vast storehouse that exists.
While
library and information centers retain their traditional study tables and
shelves full of books, increasingly they are being transformed into
computerized clearinghouses for the rapidly evolving information
technology. Electronic catalogs, on-line databases, CD-ROM products and
the Worldwide Web provide almost unlimited access to the information
people need for lifelong learning, and for both work and recreational
activities.
Employment
opportunities in libraries and throughout the rest of the information
management field are growing. Acquiring, organizing and preserving, and
providing access to the vast wealth of materials that exist in
increasingly automated environments are ongoing challenges. Those who
have strong skills in these areas will find themselves in great demand in
the job market.
Graduates
of the Library Science program are trained to be skilled information
specialists, and are prepared to enter the workforce in a variety of
settings and positions, including those found in public libraries and
school or academic libraries. They may also choose from the wide spectrum
of special library positions that are found in corporate, institutional,
and government information centers.
Besides
coursework leading to the associate degree, the program also offers
courses that fulfill the state requirement for the Library Media
Specialist Endorsement for those who have a New Mexico teaching certificate,
and a certificate of completion in library and information skills.
NOTE:
Both the certificate and the associate degree may be obtained entirely
online. All courses with the “LSC” prefix are available
only through online education.
