Langara College’s Library & Information Technology Program gives graduates access to a wide variety of jobs in both hands-on interaction with people and in behind-the-scenes technical services. The library field is for those who love working with the public, organizing information, and are committed to lifelong learning.

Our two-year (four term) Library & Information Technology Diploma Program is recognized across Canada and has been developed in accordance with the Canadian Library Association Guidelines for the Education of Library Technicians in Canada.

The Library & Information Technology Program provides students with a solid foundation in core library technical skills while keeping pace with new trends in technology. Graduates are highly skilled in using today’s essential computer programs as well as specialized library management software. Students learn how to catalogue, maintain, and retrieve print, digital and audiovisual resources as well as specialized media including film, microfiche, maps and photographs. They also develop effective searching strategies for library catalogues, databases, and the World Wide Web.

Library technicians are in demand and enjoy an exceptionally high employment rate. Our graduates work in public libraries, academic, school or special libraries such as medical, law, corporate and government collections.

Library technicians hold supervisory positions or work co-operatively with librarians and other professionals to manage information resources – from helping people retrieve information and materials, to records management for technology-based businesses.

The Library & Information Technology Program has maintained its currency and competitiveness amid rapid technological advancement. Students in this career program pursue either a General Academic or Technology Stream option. The Technology Stream option includes courses in information systems and network fundamentals. Graduates of both streams are known for their excellent computer skills and commitment to lifelong learning.

The Library & Information Technology Program accomodates distance learners through the Flexible Participation Option. The standard program also makes selected courses available online. Both Program options accommodate students' previous education and work experience. Transfer credits are accepted for equivalent courses, and flexible assessment is available for core library studies.

Students come to the program from various socio-cultural and age groups. They carry with them varying forms of educational achievements and professional backgrounds which gather together as they meet many challenges put forth by their instructors and fellow students.

Library & Information Technology students learn about:

• library history and new directions
• information storage and retrieval
• reference and readers' services
• acquisitions and technical services
• subject analysis and classification
• MARC coding and cataloguing for print and other media
• business computer applications

Graduates of the Library & Information Technology Program are well prepared for library jobs through extensive field work, which is an essential component of this diploma program. During their course of study, students visit nearly every type of library and explore a variety of options—including non-traditional roles—to find their own niche.