Library Science and Administration: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Library Science and Administration prepares professionals to manage, organize, and provide access to information resources in diverse settings. This interdisciplinary field combines principles of information science, technology, and organizational leadership to support effective knowledge dissemination and user engagement.
- Information Organization and Cataloging: Develops systems for classifying, indexing, and retrieving information using standards like MARC and Dewey Decimal Classification.
- Library Management and Administration: Focuses on operational strategies, budgeting, staffing, and policy development for libraries of all types.
- Information Technology in Libraries: Explores digital tools, databases, metadata standards, and emerging technologies that enhance access and service delivery.
- Research Methods and Data Literacy: Builds skills in evaluating, analyzing, and applying research data to support evidence-based decision-making.
- Information Ethics and Intellectual Freedom: Addresses legal, moral, and social responsibilities related to privacy, copyright, and equitable access to information.
- User Services and Outreach: Trains professionals in designing inclusive programs, supporting diverse user needs, and fostering community engagement.
Library Science and Administration Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Library Science and Administration Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Library Science and Administration degrees, including Librarians and Media Collections Specialists. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 131,830 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Librarians and Media Collections Specialists 25-4022 | $64,320 | $38,920 - $100,880 | 131,830 | $30.92 |
Library Science and Administration Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $46,570 in Idaho to $94,400 in Washington—a 103% difference. The highest-paying states include Washington, District of Columbia, and California. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 131,830 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Library Science and Administration by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Library Science and Administration programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Library Science and Administration is found at University of Puerto Rico (UPR), Rio Piedras (1 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 1 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Puerto Rico (UPR) |
Post-Master's
|
1 | San Juan, Puerto Rico | Public | uprrp.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Library Science and Administration programs
How much can I earn with a Library Science and Administration degree?
Salaries for Library Science and Administration graduates vary by role and location. Librarians and Media Collections Specialists earn a median of $64,320 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Washington average $94,400 compared to $46,570 in Idaho. Approximately 131,830 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Library Science and Administration programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Library Science and Administration degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of Puerto Rico (UPR), Rio Piedras (1 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Library Science and Administration growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 3 in 2010 to 1 in 2023-24. This represents a 67% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Library Science and Administration degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Librarians and Media Collections Specialists. Related occupations employ approximately 131,830 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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