Is becoming a music librarian right for me?
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How to become a Music Librarian
Becoming a music librarian involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience in library and information science, as well as specialized knowledge and skills in music. Here are the general steps you can take to pursue a career as a music librarian:
- Earn a Bachelor's Degree: Start by earning a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. While there is no single required major, most aspiring music librarians study music or music theory to build a strong foundation. Coursework in library science, information science, or related fields can also be useful preparation for graduate school.
- Attend Library School: Apply to and attend an accredited graduate program in library and information science (LIS) to earn a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a similar degree. Many programs allow you to take electives or concentrations in music librarianship, cataloging and metadata, archival studies, or digital libraries, which will prepare you for specialized roles.
- Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships, practicum experiences, or part-time jobs in libraries or archives with music collections to gain hands-on experience. Practical training helps you develop skills in cataloging, reference, collection management, and user services, while also giving you valuable networking opportunities in the profession.
- Specialize in Music Librarianship: Take advantage of opportunities to specialize through coursework, workshops, conferences, and professional development focused on music. Join professional organizations such as the Music Library Association (MLA) or the International Association of Music Libraries (IAML) to access resources, publications, and networking events tailored to music librarianship.
- Consider Additional Credentials: While formal certifications are not required, some music librarians pursue advanced study or additional credentials in related areas. Examples include certificates in archival studies, digital libraries, or metadata standards offered by universities or professional organizations. These programs can enhance your qualifications and strengthen your expertise in areas like preservation, cataloging, or digital librarianship.
- Network and Build Relationships: Connect with other music librarians and professionals through conferences, workshops, seminars, and online forums. Building relationships with mentors, colleagues, and professional groups can provide guidance, advice, and support as you move forward in your career.
- Apply for Positions: Begin your job search by applying for entry-level positions, internships, or fellowships in music libraries, academic libraries, performing arts institutions, public libraries, or archives with music collections. Tailor your application materials to highlight your education, experience, and passion for both music and librarianship.
Certifications
In music librarianship, there are no required professional certifications, but additional training can help strengthen your expertise and career prospects. Some examples include:
- Certificates in Archival Studies: Offered by universities or professional organizations such as the Academy of Certified Archivists, these programs help develop skills for managing archival collections of music manuscripts, recordings, and historical documents.
- Digital Libraries Certificates: Specialized programs in digital librarianship, digitization techniques, and digital preservation strategies are useful for librarians managing electronic music collections.
- Metadata and Cataloging Standards Training: Training in standards such as MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) and RDA (Resource Description and Access) is especially valuable for music librarians involved in cataloging and metadata management.
Associations
Several professional associations support music librarians by providing resources, training, and networking opportunities:
- Music Library Association (MLA): The primary professional organization for music librarians in the United States, offering conferences, publications, and advocacy for the profession.
- International Association of Music Libraries, Archives and Documentation Centres (IAML): A global organization that connects music librarians and promotes access to music collections worldwide.
- Society of American Archivists (SAA): Provides resources and training for librarians and archivists working with archival music collections.
- American Library Association (ALA): Offers broader professional development and networking opportunities for all librarians, including those with a music focus.