To work as a library director, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in library science, at least ten years of experience as a librarian, and the ability to demonstrate strong management and leadership skills. The specific requirements for becoming a library director will often be determined by the type and size of library you wish to direct. If you want to be the director of a major academic library, for example, you’ll almost always need a long history of working in academic libraries in addition to your academic credentials. Jobs for library directors are typically advertised in trade publications, library job boards, and on the libraries’ own websites. Professional librarian conferences are also excellent places to network and learn about new job opportunities, such as library director vacancies.
Basic educational requirements for becoming a professional librarian differ by country. Librarians in the United States are typically required to have a master’s degree in library science. Librarians in the United Kingdom can have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in library science. A bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or postgraduate diploma in library science are all available to Australian librarians. Academic librarians may be required to have a second postgraduate degree in a field other than librarianship, and primary and secondary school librarians may be required to have a teaching certificate.
If you want to be a library director, you’ll need to have at least the standard educational credentials for librarians in your jurisdiction, though many library boards or academic institutions may require you to have additional degrees before promoting you to higher levels of management. Some large libraries, for example, may require you to have a doctorate in library science as well as a second degree in business administration or nonprofit management. If you don’t want to get another degree, you should take continuing education courses on a regular basis to improve your information science skills, as well as your leadership, administration, and management skills. These classes are frequently offered through online programs, library science schools, and industry conventions and conferences.
As your library career progresses, look for positions with more responsibilities that will eventually allow you to supervise other employees. Within your library and professional organizations, you should also serve on committees and engage in other leadership activities. Keep an eye on the job openings in your field and continue to look for more challenging positions that will help you advance in your career as a library director. If you can relocate, it can also be beneficial, especially if you live in an area with few libraries. Finally, work to maintain and expand your professional network so that you can be approached about library directorship positions.