Library Science: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Library Science encompasses the systematic study of information organization, management, and access within diverse institutional and digital environments. This interdisciplinary field prepares professionals to design, maintain, and innovate information systems that support research, education, and public service across libraries, archives, museums, and technology-driven organizations.
- Information Organization and Classification: The principles and practices for structuring data and resources using standardized systems such as Dewey Decimal, Library of Congress, and metadata schemas to ensure efficient retrieval.
- Information Technology in Libraries: The integration of digital tools, databases, and emerging technologies to manage collections, deliver services, and enhance user experiences in modern library environments.
- Research and Information Literacy: Strategies for teaching users how to locate, evaluate, and ethically use information, supporting academic success and informed decision-making across disciplines.
- Archival and Records Management: Techniques for preserving, organizing, and providing access to historical documents, digital records, and institutional archives with attention to authenticity and long-term sustainability.
- Library Administration and Leadership: Core competencies in budgeting, staffing, policy development, strategic planning, and ethical governance essential for managing library operations and driving institutional change.
- Digital Curation and Preservation: Methods for maintaining the integrity and accessibility of digital content over time, including format migration, digital rights management, and disaster recovery planning.
Library Science Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Library Science Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Library Science degrees, including . 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.
Career salary data is not available for this program.
Top Universities for Library Science by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 9 institutions offering Library Science 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 is found at University of California (UCLA), Los Angeles (73 graduates), University of Central Arkansas (UCA) (38 graduates), Long Island University (LIU) (15 graduates), University of Washington (UW), Seattle Campus (8 graduates), and Marshall University (5 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 145 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 California (UCLA) |
Master's
|
73 | Los Angeles, California | Public | ucla.edu |
University of Central Arkansas (UCA) |
Master's
|
38 | Conway, Arkansas | Public | uca.edu |
Long Island University (LIU) |
Master's
|
15 | Brookville, New York | Private | liu.edu |
University of Washington (UW) |
Master's
|
8 | Seattle, Washington | Public | washington.edu |
Marshall University |
Postbac Cert.
|
5 | Huntington, West Virginia | Public | marshall.edu |
Oakland Community College (OCC) |
Associate's
|
3 | Auburn Hills, Michigan | Public | oaklandcc.edu |
Dominican University |
Master's
|
1 | River Forest, Illinois | Private | dom.edu |
Emporia State University (ESU) |
Postbac Cert.
|
1 | Emporia, Kansas | Public | emporia.edu |
Pratt Institute |
Postbac Cert.
|
1 | Brooklyn, New York | Private | pratt.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Library Science programs
Which universities have the largest Library Science programs?
Currently 9 accredited institutions offer Library Science degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of California (UCLA), Los Angeles (73 graduates), University of Central Arkansas (UCA) (38 graduates), and Long Island University (LIU) (15 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 growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 322 in 2010 to 145 in 2023-24. This represents a 55% 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.
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