Library Technology Certificate

Please note that as of July 1, 2023, all program information should be accessed through the CT State Community College Catalog. Specific program information on this page may no longer be accurate beyond this date.
Overview

Three Rivers offers a fully online, 27-credit certificate in Library Technology that is recognized by the American Library Association and is the only one of its kind in New England! The program ensures that today’s students gain the knowledge they need to work successfully in 21st century libraries. It prepares individuals for employment in library positions that do not require a graduate degree in library science and is highly regarded in the library community. With 100% online courses and flexible scheduling options, this is the perfect program for anyone who wants to start a library career or broaden their library technology skill set!

Library technology support staff are involved in all library operations and the training our graduates receive prepares them to perform a wide range of library skills and services. Employment of library support staff is expected to grow by 9 percent from 2016 to 2026.

Program Structure

As it is 100% online, you can take courses from anywhere. Library Technology online courses are three credits and held during traditional 15-week semesters. However, students may condense their work into 12, 13, or 14 weeks upon agreement with their professor.

Students who enter the program with extensive experience in library public services and/or cataloging may consider taking the one-credit Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) course that supports extensive portfolio development. The portfolio is submitted for consideration in lieu of taking LIB K101 – Introduction to Library Public Services or LIB K116 – Cataloging and Classification. Learn more about the Assessment of Prior Learning here.

Tuition

Residents of Massachusetts, New York and Rhode Island are eligible to take courses at the Connecticut in-state tuition rates. Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont residents receive reduced out-of-state tuition rates through the New England Board of Higher Education program. Learn more about Three Rivers tuition and fees.

Certification

The Library Support Staff Certification Program (LSSC) from the American Library Association – Allied Professional Association (ALA-APA) recognizes Three Rivers Community College as one of the few national academic providers of approved Library Technology courses for support staff. Graduates of the Three Rivers Community College Library Technology Certificate program receive ALA-LSSC certification. Students who complete the Library Technology certificate at Three Rivers demonstrate nationally accepted competencies of library service and operations. Our graduates are employed in numerous libraries across Connecticut and New England.

Consider the Library Technology Certificate if you are a:

  • Current library support staff member – Have you gone as far as your skills will allow you to go? Are you ready for more responsibility, more knowledge, more respect, and more opportunities to advance? This is the program for you.
  • Library volunteer or library lover interested in moving into a paid library position  – Three Rivers will give you the technical skills and resume boost you need to turn your passion into a career.
  • Student or career changer considering an MLS or other professional library degree – If you’re interested in libraries but not ready to commit to a full graduate program yet, start with Three Rivers and see if librarianship is for you.
  • Library media specialist who went through the Alternate Route program – If you want additional library technology training to complement your teaching skills – and the flexibility to take classes online and any time – this is the program for you.
  • Library director or manager – If you want to enable your support staff to improve their skills, knowledge and abilities, steer them toward Three Rivers – and watch as they bring new energy and ideas back to your library.

Special Opportunities

Students who opt to continue on to an Associate degree in General Studies or Liberal Arts and Sciences may apply Library Technology courses to fulfill some electives in their plan of study.

Career Options

There is an increased demand for skilled library paraprofessionals. Paraprofessionals perform a variety of duties in public services and technical support areas. Careers are available at:

  • Public libraries
  • Academic libraries
  • Government libraries
  • Public School media centers
  • Private school libraries
  • Corporate libraries
  • Law Firm libraries
  • Special libraries

Career Options

Because you are interested in the Library Technology Certificate, you might want to look at these programs, too.

English Studies, A.A. – CSCU Pathway Transfer Degree
General Studies, A.S.
Liberal Arts and Sciences, A.A.

General Studies Certificate

Courses & Outcomes
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Faculty

See below for a list of all full-time Department Faculty. Please note that not all listed faculty may teach courses related to this specific degree or certificate program.

PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Marie Shaw
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