Library and Information Technician
Turn your passion for research, literacy and information into a rewarding career.
- Many classes taught in a dedicated lab with hands-on practical exercises and assignments that simulate real work experience
- In-class activities are conducted within groups allowing students to build a network and learn from each other
- Pursue further studies in the Bachelor of Information Technology-Information Resource Management, a unique collaborative program between Algonquin College and Carleton University
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2024
No
Fall 2025
Yes
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Work Integrated Learning
The two-year Library and Information Technician Ontario College Diploma program provides you with a broad range of knowledge and experiences for the library and information management field.
This unique program teaches skills that deal with both technical and public service considerations. Technical services involve manual and automated operations related to collecting, processing and organizing material. Public services involve assisting or teaching clients in finding or using information resources....(read more)
Overview
Turn your passion for research, literacy and information into a rewarding career.
The two-year Library and Information Technician Ontario College Diploma program provides you with a broad range of knowledge and experiences for the library and information management field.
This unique program teaches skills that deal with both technical and public service considerations. Technical services involve manual and automated operations related to collecting, processing and organizing material. Public services involve assisting or teaching clients in finding or using information resources.
An emphasis on exposing students to the latest technologies, trends and developments in the library and information field enables students to graduate job-ready.
Benefit from small class sizes. Learn from professors with industry experience. Test your knowledge and skills through hands-on classroom activities and work field placements.
Field placements take place in:
- schools
- public, government, and academic libraries, or
- archives, records and information management organizations
Through field placements, you develop relevant industry connections, preparing you for work in the field.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Enjoy serving the public, working with teams and have good interpersonal skills.
- Have strong English communication skills, verbal and written.
- Possess a good general education and knowledge of current events.
- Are well-organized and have the ability to analyze information.
- Pay attention to detail and work with a high degree of accuracy.
- Are flexible, adaptable, self-motivated and work well independently.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
ENL1813S
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2001
Course Name:
Descriptive Cataloguing I
Course Description:
The catalogue is the main finding aid to the collection of the library. Students learn the basic principles and concepts of international st... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2002
Course Name:
Reference I
Course Description:
Learning to find information and support clients on how to use the library are important skills for library work. Students develop skills in... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2003
Course Name:
Introduction to Libraries
Course Description:
Libraries fulfil many roles in society, including supporting economic, social, recreational and educational needs. Students investigate the ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2025
Course Name:
Acquisitions
Course Description:
A library depends upon effective ordering of books, magazines and electronic resources to serve their clientele. Students practise procedure... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2026
Course Name:
Archives and Records Management
Course Description:
Students can find employment in a variety of information related fields, such as archives, records and information management departments. S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FLS3000
Course Name:
French as a Second Language Beginner I
Course Description:
Learning French is essential to understand and communicate in workplace environments. Students develop basic level abilities in reading, lis... + Read More
Hours:
48.0
Code:
FLS3001
Course Name:
French as a Second Language Beginner II
Course Description:
Success in bilingual postsecondary institutions and in the workplace rests upon good French language skills. Students increase reading, list... + Read More
Hours:
48.0
Code:
ENL0051
Course Name:
Readers' Advisory Services: Children and Youth
Course Description:
Literacy is an essential life-long skill that school and public libraries are uniquely positioned to help children and youth develop. Using ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2020
Course Name:
Client Services
Course Description:
Providing excellent customer service is an important aspect of library or information work. Students learn effective methods for helping cli... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2021
Course Name:
Descriptive Cataloguing II
Course Description:
Library collections hold a variety of materials in addition to publications in print. Students learn how to apply the basic cataloguing prin... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2022
Course Name:
Subject Analysis and Indexing
Course Description:
The catalogue provides access to the collection of a library by assigning subject headings to each of the cataloguing records. Students lear... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2023
Course Name:
Information Retrieval
Course Description:
Clients require up-to-date, reliable and often scholarly information, which can be found in online databases. Students learn how to best sea... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2024
Course Name:
Internet Applications
Course Description:
Libraries rely on Internet tools and resources to provide service to their clients and to communicate with their clients. Students learn how... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FLS3001
Course Name:
French as a Second Language Beginner II
Course Description:
Success in bilingual postsecondary institutions and in the workplace rests upon good French language skills. Students increase reading, list... + Read More
Hours:
48.0
Code:
FLS3002
Course Name:
French as a Second Language Beginner III
Course Description:
Clear and accurate communication skills in French lead to academic and career success. Students receive extensive feedback from instructors ... + Read More
Hours:
48.0
Code:
GED0440
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets the theme of Civic Life.Equivalencies: GEN2007 or GED5... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL0069
Course Name:
Professional Communication for Library Technicians
Course Description:
Communicating clearly to different audiences for different purposes is a skill required for success in the workplace. Students refine writin... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB2031
Course Name:
Introduction to Metadata
Course Description:
Library and Information Technicians use metadata to manage information resources. Students explore international standard metadata schemes, ... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2032
Course Name:
Dewey Decimal Classification
Course Description:
Classification provides access to the collection of the library through shelving the physical material by subject as indicated by the call n... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2033
Course Name:
Reference II: Special Topics
Course Description:
Learning to find information and support clients on how to use the library are important skills for library workers. Students build on thei... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2034
Course Name:
Emerging Library Technologies
Course Description:
Libraries use a variety of technology to retrieve, manage and organize digital content for their clients. Students develop transferable skil... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2035
Course Name:
Basics of Library Management
Course Description:
Libraries are organizations that require management of their staff and resources. Students investigate policies and procedures for budgeting... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2030
Course Name:
Field Work I
Course Description:
Employers look for library and information technicians who have relevant work experience and can apply their learning to the workplace. Thro... + Read More
Hours:
100.0
Code:
LIB2038
Course Name:
Directed Research Seminar
Course Description:
Libraries often use surveys, focus groups or other research methodologies to determine how well they are performing and serving their client... + Read More
Hours:
100.0
Code:
GED0440A
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
For this course, you will have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Your options will include courses ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL0053
Course Name:
Readers' Advisory Services: Adults
Course Description:
When searching for reading material, readers often require assistance from library staff. To help readers identify the reading experience th... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2042
Course Name:
Library of Congress Classification
Course Description:
For larger libraries, a different classification system is used to assist in the organization of the collection. Students apply the theoreti... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2043
Course Name:
Reference III: Science and Technology
Course Description:
Libraries provide support to many different subject areas, including science, medicine and technology. Students learn the different print an... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2044
Course Name:
Marketing
Course Description:
Library, archive, and information management organizations need to market their services and demonstrate their value, to their customers and... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2045
Course Name:
Library Software
Course Description:
Libraries rely on a computerized library system to handle the operations including cataloguing, circulation, and ordering material. Students... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Code:
LIB2047
Course Name:
Field Work II
Course Description:
Real-world experience provides an opportunity for students to consolidate their knowledge and skills and to enhance their career development... + Read More
Hours:
100.0
Code:
LIB2050
Course Name:
Cultural Artifact Appreciation
Course Description:
Understanding the history of books as cultural artifacts gives students a great appreciation of our heritage. Students explore aspects of ar... + Read More
Hours:
33.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Upon graduation, you may find work in a variety of settings, bringing your passion for literacy, research or information to benefit your co-workers, customers or stakeholders.
Whether it is helping children discover a passion for reading, or assisting a colleague with finding the exact information they need, the skills developed in this program can open up many different possibilities for a rewarding career.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Acquire, loan, borrow, and maintain book, serial and online collections, using procedures for bibliographic verification, vendor selection, order production, and fund management.
- Derive, edit and/or create catalogue records using internationally accepted cataloguing rules with MARC coding in national bibliographic utilities, and computer-based systems.
- Conduct reference interviews, analyze information requests in a variety of topic areas, provide instructional assistance, and perform searches using current, relevant and authoritative resources.
- Assess client needs and provide effective client service to distinct client groups in various library, archive or information management settings.
- Develop and prepare promotional materials, library programming, bibliographies, finding tools and reports using word processing and publishing programs.
- Design relational databases, web sites and use integrated library systems and other library related software according to current standards.
- Identify different types of libraries and topics related to library science such as the publishing industry, freedom of information, censorship and copyright.
- Recognize, identify and perform duties in an archive, records management or information management setting and apply metadata to online resources.
- Outline theories and practice of library management and apply skills in staff supervision, conducting primary research, marketing library services and budget preparation.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Books and supplies cost approximately $100 for the first year and $200 for the second year and can be purchased from the campus store.
- For more information visit www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Word processing and Windows Operating System skills are recommended prior to beginning the program.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English.
Police Records Check Documentation:
Though not an admission requirement, applicants must note important information listed below regarding Police Records Check program requirements.
Students must provide the College with a current Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS) prior to the deadline identified by the department and students are responsible for any associated costs. If this documentation is not submitted on time, students may not be placed and registration in the program will be jeopardized. If you register in the program without a clear PRCSVS and as a result are unable to participate in placement, you will not be able to graduate and will be asked to withdraw.
Field Placement Eligibility:
To be eligible for placement in your second year, you must submit proof of a PRCSVS, which will be retained on your departmental file and used only for purposes related to your placement. You will be required to disclose the contents of the PRCSVS, including all notations, to the placement agencies.
It is your responsibility to obtain the PRCSVS from your local Police Department prior to the deadline identified by your Department and to pay any associated costs. It may take a long time to obtain this documentation; please submit your application as early as possible. Should you require further information, contact the Program Coordinator.
Application Information
LIBRARY AND INFORMATION TECHNICIAN
Program Code 0440X01FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
The Library and Information Technician program consists of courses that are delivered in a variety of formats including face-to-face in a classroom, hybrid (combination of classroom and online learning) and fully online.
Class schedules vary from semester to semester and courses may be scheduled between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. Students participate in all three types of learning.
Students are strongly encouraged to improve their French language skills to maximize job opportunities, particularly those available in the Ottawa area which require bilingualism. Students are tested in the first week of classes and placed in the French course appropriate to their level. Students exceeding the program levels are granted exemptions as appropriate.
Students may apply for transfer of academic credits from Algonquin College (internal transfer) or from other institutions (external transfer). College Policies AA09 and AA10 apply to transfer of credits. For more information visit: https://www.algonquincollege.com/policies/.
Students may apply for credit by challenging courses using Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). College Policy AA06 applies to PLAR. Students pay a fee for each course they wish to be exempt from and, through either a portfolio or challenge examination, a PLAR may lead to the acceptance of work and life experience in lieu of taking certain courses. For more information visit: https://www.algonquincollege.com/plar/.
Library and Information Technicians are often in contact with the public and frequently engage with others in a team environment. As such, interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing are considered crucial skills for our graduates.
ACADEMIC PROBATION:
Students who have two or more F grades in a given term or whose term grade point average falls below 1.7 are considered to be on academic probation (Policy AA14 Grading System). This requires the student to meet with their academic advisor or coordinator to sign a learning contract which identifies the conditions which must be met to continue in the program. Students who do not meet the terms of their learning contract are withdrawn from the program.
Contact
Helena Merriam
Program Coordinator
Room B382a
Helena Merriam is a Professor and Coordinator of the Library and Information Technician Program at Algonquin College, and is responsible for curriculum development, teaching and day-to-day operations of the program. She has been a full time professor at Algonquin College since August 2006.
Prior to teaching at Algonquin, Helena has developed courses and taught at Seneca College and Mohawk College (1999-2006). Her previous work experience includes a solo librarian position at Human Resources Professionals Association of Ontario (1998-2000) where she was hired to set up a new library from scratch and operate it. Helena also has experience working at The Globe and Mail (1995-1998) conducting research for clients, designing and conducting training courses, and creating online clipping profiles for federal government clients. In addition, Helena worked as a consultant at the National Judicial Institute (2007-2009) to research and evaluate the online and physical library collection.
Helena Merriam has a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from the University of Western Ontario and a BA (hons) in English from the University of Manitoba. Helena is the recipient of two, Excellence in Teaching Awards, from the Algonquin College Student Association, awarded in 2008 and 2011, the Capital Educator’s Award in 2011, the 2012 NISOD Excellence Award and the President’s Star Award in 2015.
Erika Fyfe
Professor
Room B382b
Erika has a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from the University of Alberta.
As a former graduate of the Library and Information Technician Diploma from Algonquin College, Erika has over a decade of experience working for a number of federal government departments, a law firm, and a non-profit library vendor. While her work experience has focused on cataloguing, she also has experience in collection development and ILS systems administration.
Linda Pasquale
Professor
Room B382b
Linda Pasquale is a Professor in the Library and Information Technician Program at Algonquin College. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts (with Distinction) in Communication Studies and Marketing from Concordia University and her Master’s in Library and Information Studies from McGill University, where she was the recipient of the 2012-2013 Patricia Keir Award for academic excellence. Pasquale worked for over ten years in marketing and fundraising in the nonprofit sectors in Montreal and Toronto. Upon completing her graduate studies, she accepted a librarian position at the Regina Public Library. In 2016, Pasquale was selected to attend the Northern Exposure to Leadership Institute for future library leaders. Pasquale’s personal teaching philosophy is: I am not an expert, but a person with knowledge, experience, and an absolute love of my craft. The advice she always shares with her students is to strive for excellence, not perfection and to embrace mistakes as invaluable learning gifts.