Shatford Library

Shatford Library

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Library Technology Certificate Program and Course information

Welcome to the Library Technician Program! We are very happy to welcome you to the world of library services and are interested in assisting you in attaining your educational goals. Careers in libraries, as well as Library Technician coursework, require basic skills in computer use (keyboarding, basic Windows navigation and applications skills.) Since this program focuses on developing your skills within the electronic environment, the program instructors have recommended this sequence of classes to ensure that you will have the skills and abilities you need to succeed in the program.

Earn a Certificate or an Associate Degree

Students who have already completed an Associate or Bachelor degree may choose to complete the 20 units required for the Certificate of Achievement as described in Program and Course Information

Students can also choose to pursue an Associate in Science degree in Library Technology by completing the 20-22 unit program, all general education requirements, and electives for a total of 60 units. Students are encouraged to consult the current PCC Catalog and meet with a PCC Counselor (see contact information below) to determine the specific requirements necessary for the Associate in Science degree.

Program Outcomes, Objectives and Goals

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

  1. Apply knowledge and skills gained through all required courses to perform library technician level tasks in various types of libraries
  2. Indentify and differentiate the roles and be able to perform job duties of technicians in a library organization.
  3. Experience and reflect on activities, problem-solving exercises and assignments simulating read job situations.
  4. Communicate clearly and effectively on the job, verbally, in writing and online (i.e. using word processing and e-mail)  

Program Objectives

  1. To provide skills for paraprofessional technicians in library and information services.
  2. To teach specialized public service skills 
    • courtesy and skill in addressing the information needs of diverse populations
    • skill in assisting patrons with their specific information needs
    •  skill in answering factual questions and locating resources for patrons
    •  background in information search and retrieval techniques
    •  proficiency in organizing and managing library collections.
  3. To teach skills and knowledge that support and complement the technical service arenas such as:
    • cataloging rules and classification techniques
    • skill in processing procedures for books, media and electronic resources
    • technical skills that support client information needs.
  4. To work with the employer community to enhance programs so that students have the skills they need to enter and thrive in the workplace.

 Program Goals

    1. To have students complete an integrated curriculum of Library technology along with related courses in Computer Science, English, Speech and other academic divisions.
    2. To have students integrate their library/information skills in the wider arena of the knowledge industry (e.g. web-based proficiencies including critical analysis of resources, searching, design and maintenance).
    3. To promote the employability of library technicians in the southern California area.

    Required Courses

    Program Courses - Library Technology Certificate Program

    This program requires a minimum of 20 units including eight required courses.

    List of Required Courses (20 units):

    •  Lib 1Basic Library Research Skills 1 unit
    • Lib 10A Internet and Web-Based Information Resources 1 unit
    • Lib 101 Introduction to Library Service for Paraprofessionals 3 units
    • Lib 102 Introduction to Reference and Information Services 3 units
    • Lib 103 Introduction to Circulation Services 3 units
    • Lib 104 Technical Services: Acquisitions, Serials and Processing 3 units
    • Lib 105A Cataloging Procedures in Online Environment 3 units
      and one of the 2 courses listed below:
      • BIT 25 Survey of Computer Technology in Business 3 units
      • or CIS 1 Introduction to Computers (3 units)

    Other Recommended Courses:

    • Lib 20 Independent Study (1 unit)
    • Lib 106 Library Field Practice (1 unit)
    • Lib 105B  Introduction to Classification and Subject Access (3 units)
    • Lib 10B  Advanced Internet and Web-Based Resources (1 unit)
    • Lib 111 Survival Skills for the Information Age (1/2 unit)
    • BIT 107  Business Software - Windows (1 unit)
    • Eng 59 Children's Literature (3 units)
    • Speech 10 Interpersonal Communication (3 units)
    • Speech 124 Books & Storytelling for Children (3 units) 

    Recommended Course Sequence

    Technology Skills

    Do you have the technology skills you need? (PDF)Technology Core Competencies for California Library Workers.

    Limited or no experience using a computer (or feel apprehensive using one)?

    You may also want to build your skills with the 1 unit class Business Information Technology BIT 107 Business Software. This will help you when you start the program but is not a requirement of the Library Technician certificate.

    BIT 107* Business Software – Windows (1 unit)
    Management of documents, electronic tasks, and work flow within the Windows operating environment. Concepts and terminology; end-user techniques for basic diagnostic and trouble-shooting procedures.

    Before you start into the Technician level courses (101-106)

    Consider taking the following basic skills courses that are required for the certificate:

    • Library 1 (one unit)
    • Library 10A (one unit)
    • And one of the two courses listed below:
      • BIT 25 Survey of Computer Technology in Business (3 units)
      • CIS 1 Introduction to Computers (3)

    The following classes are generally offered in the Fall semester:

    • Lib 101 Introduction to Library Service for Paraprofessionals (3 units)
    • Lib 103 Introduction to Circulation Services (3 units)
    • Lib 105A Cataloging procedures in the online environments. (Library 104 is a prerequisite).

    These classes are usually offered in the Spring semester:

    • Lib 102 Introduction to Reference and Information Services (3 units)
    • Lib 104 Technical Services: Acquisitions, Serials, and Processing (3 units)

    Winter and Summer offerings (6 week classes)

    Usually include Lib 1 and Lib 10A. This is also a good time to take the BIT 25 or CIS 1 classes. We have included a self-assessment that guides you to the resources you may need to find greater success in this program.

    Frequently Asked Questions (and answers!)

    You can also review and search the Library Technician Program’s Frequently Asked Questions webpage for additional answers to your questions about the program.

    Program Advisory Committee

     

    Please do not hesitate to call Krista Goguen (626 585-7832) for a brochure or more information about the program.

    Sincerely,
    Mary Ann Laun
    Assistant Dean, Library Services
    (626) 585-7833

    Krista Goguen
    Program Coordinator
    (626) 585-7832