Academic librarian : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, qualifications in the following subjects may increase your chances of success:

• librarianship;
• information science/management;
• language studies;
• computing.

Many institutions require applicants to have either a specific information management qualification or good experience in the field.

Vacancies for subject librarians will require specific academic subject area knowledge, and applicants will need to have a relevant degree in that subject area or be able to demonstrate a strong interest.

It is not possible to enter professional posts with an HND only.

Library assistant posts are open to non-graduates with a minimum of five GCSEs (A-C), although many applicants will have higher qualifications. Some library assistant posts may ask for an HND (no specific HND is usually sought, but a computing subject may be an advantage).

A postgraduate diploma or MA/MSc in Librarianship or Information Management/Science, accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) , is essential unless your first degree is in information management. See the CILIP website for a list of courses. These postgraduate courses usually require significant experience of up to a year within a library environment. This is often gained within more junior and temporary positions. The CILIP website also has an annual directory of graduate training opportunities in a variety of library and information services. These are intended to provide the necessary experience for entry to postgraduate courses.

Pre-entry experience in at least one library or information environment is usually required.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• good interpersonal, communication and presentation skills - supporting students' learning is an increasingly important part of the job;
• IT skills - academic libraries are highly computerised, so expertise with databases, the internet, online searching and web editing is vital;
• flexibility - the work is changing rapidly as more information becomes available in electronic format and a greater emphasis is placed on supporting students' learning;
• an appreciation of the pressures and demands within the academic work environment.

It is important to demonstrate your motivation by gaining relevant experience as early as possible. Search for pre-course experience in a wide range of libraries, not just academic ones or those in the CILIP scheme. Part-time or voluntary work in a library or information setting before graduating is a good start. Course funding is normally available from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) , but it is in short supply. Competition is tough for pre-course training posts, postgraduate courses and first professional posts, so be prepared to be flexible about geographical location.

Overseas qualifications are accepted if they are recognised by the CILIP. Qualifications from Australia, Canada and the USA are usually acceptable, as CILIP has a reciprocal agreement with professional associations in those countries. Qualifications from EU member states are also acceptable provided they are at degree level.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.