The Library and Information Technology program at College of DuPage provides fundamental and advanced education and practice that will enable you to enter the workforce as library technical assistants.
Students will gain knowledge in a broad range of library and information technology topics including acquisition of materials, cataloging and classification, librarianship, library technology, public service and reference and information.
The program at combines classroom lectures, hands-on exercises and field trips. An active advisory committee of local librarians assures that coursework reflects the needs of library employers in the area. A required library practicum will also provide you with crucial hands-on experience.
Determine Your Path
In addition to museums, hospitals, businesses, and public libraries, librarians also work in colleges, universities, and schools.
Whether you are preparing for a career as a library technical assistant or as a librarian, planning to transfer to a four-year college or university or updating your skills, COD has the right program for you.
- Dedicated instructors with years of practical industry experience, certification and licensing.
- Instruction in top-notch facilities on state-of-the-art equipment.
- Flexible schedules with day, evening and online learning.
- Practical, hands-on experience as well as classroom-based studies.
- Articulated transfer agreements that provide students an affordable educational option with seamless transfers to prestigious universities.
- An active advisory committee of local librarians that ensures the coursework reflects the needs of library employers in the area.
- A program that has been approved by the American Library Association in core competencies for Library Support Staff Certification.
- An interactive LTA Club, exclusively for library and information technology students to visit local libraries, share job search strategies and more.
Watch a video to learn more about Library and Information Technology.
Library and Information Technology, A.A.S.
The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Library and Information Technology program prepares students for paraprofessional levels of library service. Courses are designed for students with no previous library experience, for those returning to the workforce, or those upgrading skills. Graduates of the program are prepared for the Library Support Staff Certification (LSSC). The LSSC Program is accredited by the American Library Association-Allied Professional Association (ALA-APA). This degree requires a minimum of 64 credits in program requirements, electives and general education in the courses listed below.
Library and Information Technology, Certificate
The Library and Information Technology certificate prepares students for paraprofessional levels of library service. Courses are designed for students with no library experience, for those returning to the workforce, or those upgrading skills. Upon completion of the certificate students have fulfilled proficiency required for the Library Support Staff Certification (LSSC). The LSSC Program is accredited by the American Library Association-Allied Professional Association (ALA-APA). This certificate requires 30 credits in the courses listed below and is stackable into the AAS in Library and Information Technology.
COD Stories
"For anyone considering College of DuPage, never think it’s too late.” - Angelina Kregg
Angelina's COD StoryCOD Stories
"The program allows me the flexibility to continue working part-time at the library while still providing me a high-quality education that I need to be successful in my new job.” - Amanda Hunhoff-Sepulveda
Amanda's COD StoryGet Started Today
The first step to getting started in library and information technology is to apply for admission.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree or certificate that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
Library and Information Technology Program graduates will learn:
- A fundamental understanding of the philosophy and values of librarianship.
- An understanding of "types" of libraries, their similarities and differences, and the services that they provide.
- The ability to train others to use the library's resources.
- An understanding of the overall marketing program of the library and their role in contributing to this.
- An understanding of the Library Bill of Rights including privacy and security issues.
- A positive, professional attitude and professional image.
- An understanding of the mission of their organization.
- An awareness of various professional associations, what they do, and how they interface.
- An understanding of the functions of the departments and services in a library such as Public Services and Technical Services.
College of DuPage partners with several four-year institutions to help students seamlessly complete a bachelor’s degree in library and information technology. Students can connect with Transfer Services for personalized guidance on transfer opportunities.
For more information about Transfer Pathways, visit the College of DuPage Catalog. The pathway outlines a typical two-year course plan for completing an AA or AS degree before transferring to a four-year program. Course requirements vary by institution, so consult your faculty or academic advisor for specific guidance.
Articulation Agreements
College of DuPage maintains transfer agreements with many colleges and universities to ensure a smooth transition toward a bachelor’s degree. These agreements often include a defined course sequence. Students should regularly meet with a faculty member or the Counseling and Advising office to stay on track.Transfer Guides
Beyond articulation agreements and guaranteed admission programs, College of DuPage courses transfer to many other institutions. Transfer Guides help students select COD courses that meet prerequisites for specific majors and include details such as contact information, major requirements, general education requirements, and transfer policies.Career Information
Explore careers based on your interest, location and salary range or view top occupations by income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your frequently asked questions regarding the Library and Information Technology program.
All library and information technology students must take Library and Information Technology 1101, "Introduction to Libraries in the Information Age" if you want to complete the program and receive a certificate or a degree. This course is the prerequisite for all other library and information technology courses. It provides the necessary introduction to libraries and library materials.
Library and Information Technology 1820 courses are "Selected Topics in Librarianship." These courses are offered on an irregular basis and cover a wide variety of subjects.
Half of the students enrolled in the Library and Information Technology program have a bachelor's degree. Some students in the program also have master's degrees. If you already have earned your degree, you will still find the program challenging and interesting.
