Library & Information Technology

The library technician plays an important role on a library staff, occupying a position with a level of responsibility between that of a clerk and a librarian. Technicians support and assist librarians in the many services offered by libraries. They may direct the work of clerical staff, student assistants, other library technicians, and, under the direction of a librarian, may be responsible for a section or department in a library. Technicians may also be in charge of a small library. (CLA,1991. Pg. 6)

As a library technician you’ll possess excellent team work, communication and critical thinking skills. This program prepares you for a very interesting and satisfying career, one that requires an equal balance of people skills, advanced computer skills, attention to detail and love of learning. If you have a keen desire to help people then this program may be right for you.

• The availability of this program online has made it extremely popular with full and part-time students throughout Atlantic Canada.


• This is the only program in Atlantic Canada that follows the Canadian Library Association's Guidelines for the Education of Library Technicians. We emphasize the technical requirements of the job to ensure you are industry-ready at graduation. Then we give you hands-on practical experience by placing you in a work placement in a real industry environment.

• Technicians are employed in all types of libraries: academic (college and university), public, school and special (government, business, industry, the professions, etc.) They also work in library-related jobs such as records management and information processing. (CLA, 1991. Pg. 6) Guidelines for the Education of Technicians. (1991). Ottawa: Canadian Library Association.


• Related occupations include librarian (requires a Master's degree in Library Information Studies) and library clerk.

One of the aspects our graduates love most about their new careers is the ability to learn all about their new work environments. For example, one graduate who enjoyed science found a position at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography and thoroughly enjoyed learning all about that client's business. Another graduate with an artistic background found a position at NSCAD University. If you love learning, you'll love this career.

• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent, including Academic Grade 12 English.

You can complete the Library & Information Technology Diploma online. The time to complete a certificate or diploma program online will vary.

• This program is available for part-time study. You have the option to complete your program online or through a combination of courses delivered in-class and online.


• If you choose a part-time study option, you must still apply to the program and meet all the admission requirements. Once accepted, you will be referred to a Registrar at one of our campuses to discuss your learning plan and schedule.


• Tuition for part-time study option is calculated on a per course basis and is paid at the beginning of each semester.


• The time to complete a certificate or diploma program through part-time study will vary and depend on the schedule you choose and number of courses you complete each semester.

• Through NSCC's Recognizing Prior Learning (RPL) process, you may be able to earn credits from your past work experience, education and volunteer activities. Check with your campus for more details.


• Experience in a library, whether paid or as a volunteer, is considered beneficial to success in this program and applicants are encouraged to seek out these opportunities.


• Co-operative Education (Co-op) – This program is eligible for an optional Co-op credit course. Co-op provides an opportunity for paid employment between the first and second year of your program. Employers, as co-educators, provide learning opportunities beyond the bounds of the classroom giving you a well-rounded education enriched by practical application.