This two-year diploma program provides students with the knowledge and skills required to carry out the tasks normally performed in two main functional areas of libraries and information resource centres: technical and public services.

Below you will find a series of questions that people commonly ask about the program. The questions have been organized under several different headings that appear as you scroll down the page.

If you have a question that is not answered on this page contact the program coordinator, Helena Merriam , by phone at (613) 727-4723 ext 5338 or by e-mail.

How do I apply to the Library and Information Technician Program?
Information about completing your application appears on the college Admissions page.

Who should apply for this program?
If you have an interest in helping people find information, in performing research, or in acquiring, classifiying and cataloguing information, then this is the program for you. Ability to think logically and to pay attention to detail is required. Graduates work in educational, public, and special libraries including government, hospital, law and business libraries. They may also be employed in other environments which require research, classification and computer skills.

Are there any additional tests I have to take in order to qualify for admission to the Library and Information Technician program?
While many of our students have postsecondary education, a grade 12 diploma or its equivalent is required. It is highly recommended that you have keyboarding and basic word processing skills, as well as some previous library experience. ESL students will also be given an English test.

When will I know if I have been accepted into the Library and Information Technician Program?
Dates for offers of admission to be sent to applicants appear on the college Admissions page.

I have completed some University and/or Community College courses. Will I get credit for any of my previous course work?
If you have course work that you believe is relevant to the L.I.T. program you may receive exemptions for some courses. English courses and Canadian history or politics courses in particular are relevant. You may also receive credit for General Education courses in levels three and four. Please review the program curriculum and determine which of the courses you think you may qualify to be exempted from. Prior university work or college work will only be considered.  When you have a list of potential exemptions contact the coordinator of the L.I.T. program and make an appointment to review your information.

I have completed some L.I.T. courses through the Continuing Education program at Algonquin College. Will I receive credit for these courses in the full-time day program?
Yes, the courses offered in the CE and full-time day program are equivalent.

Can I transfer from the CE program to the full-time program?
You may apply to attend the second semester of the full-time day program which begins in January each year only if you have completed all first semester courses. Most first semester courses are prerequisites for higher level courses. You may also apply to attend the third or fourth semester if you have completed all courses up to that level. Acceptance will depend on space available.

Can I attend course in the day program on a part-time basis?
While we may occasionally make an exception for someone to attend a specific class on an individual basis, you must be a full-time student to attend the day program.

How many people are accepted into the program each September?
Due to recent field demand the program quota has been increased from 35 to 40. Your chances of being accepted into the program are excellent if you apply by the equal consideration date. Apply today

How much is tuition for the program?
Tuition costs are outlined on the fees page in the registrar's webpage.

How much do text books cost?
Text book costs are outlined on the program curriculum pages under the title Fees and Expenses.

How do I apply for financial assistance?
Information about student assistance is contained on the Financial Assistance page of the Algonquin site.

What field placements are included in the program?
The L.I.T. program provides students with two three-week placements the third and fourth semesters as well as a 35 hour volunteer placement in the first semester. We offer a wide range of placement choices in a variety of settings. 

Can I get a job in the field while I am in the program?
Currently some students in the program work in the field while in the program. A variety of part time, permanent and summer jobs are posted on our L.I.T. bulletin board as well as on the Employment Services job postings board.

What kinds of jobs are available when I graduate?
Graduates of the program find employment in public, school and special libraries as well as in a variety of associations and businesses.

What is the job placement rate for graduates of this program?
According to our latest college graduate survey, 100% of graduates are working.

What is the average salary earned by graduates of the program?
Again according to our official survey, our graduates make an average starting salary of approximately $33,000.

Does Algonquin have a residence on campus?
One residence is now open and a second residence is about to be completed.

How do I find a place to live off-campus?
The housing referral service offers support to those applicants looking for off campus housing.

Where can I find out more about the city?
Ottawa.com is a recently launched web site with extensive information about living in the National Capital Region.

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