Library Science Professor Career: What You Need to Know

Library Science Professor Career Video

Library science is an evolving discipline that merges traditional librarianship with emerging technologies and information science. At the forefront of this field are library science professors, who educate future librarians, conduct research, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in archival studies, digital curation, and information systems. If you're passionate about education, information organization, and helping others access knowledge, a career as a library science professor may be your ideal choice.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about pursuing this career—from daily responsibilities and work environment to salary expectations and long-term outlook. You'll also find tools like the Free Career Fit Test™ to help determine if this path aligns with your strengths and aspirations.

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What Does a Library Science Professor Do?

Library science professors educate future librarians and information professionals by teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in library and information science (LIS). Their instruction spans foundational and emerging topics, including cataloging and classification, metadata creation, information retrieval, digital archiving, information ethics, and the role of libraries in society. Many also explore cutting-edge subjects, such as data curation, AI in libraries, and digital literacy.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching and Curriculum Development: Design, update, and deliver course materials tailored to current LIS standards and technologies. Courses may focus on subjects like digital preservation, user experience in libraries, or managing library systems and services.
Research and Scholarly Publication: Conduct academic research in areas such as information behavior, knowledge organization, or library technology. Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, present at academic conferences, and contribute to the broader LIS body of knowledge.
Student Mentorship and Advising: Guide students through their academic and professional development. This includes supervising master’s theses, doctoral dissertations, and advising on internships or career opportunities.
Academic and Professional Service: Serve on departmental, college, or university committees. Participate in curriculum review panels, faculty governance, and accreditation efforts.
Continuing Education and Professional Development: Stay informed about advances in library science and higher education pedagogy through workshops, conferences, and membership in professional associations.

Library science professors play a pivotal role in shaping the LIS field, balancing their time between instruction, research, student engagement, and academic leadership.

What Is the Working Environment for a Library Science Professor?

Library science professors typically work in colleges and universities, particularly those offering programs in library and information science.

Typical Workplaces

Academic Institutions: Most professors work in the classrooms and offices of universities or colleges.
Online Education Platforms: With the rise of distance learning, many also teach remotely.
Libraries and Research Institutes: Some collaborate with or work part-time in academic libraries.

Work Conditions

Hours: The role is typically full-time with regular working hours, although research and grading may occasionally require evenings or weekends.
Pace: Professors experience a mix of structured schedules (teaching) and self-directed time (research and writing).
Interaction: This is a people-focused role that involves students, fellow faculty members, and industry professionals.

Professors often enjoy autonomy and intellectual stimulation but may face pressure to publish or secure research funding.

How Do You Become a Library Science Professor?

Step-by-Step Path

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Most begin with a bachelor's degree in a related field like English, education, or information science.
Pursue a Master’s in Library Science (MLS or MLIS): Accredited by the American Library Association (ALA), this is the essential qualification for a career in librarianship.
Gain Professional Experience: Work as a librarian, archivist, or in information management to gain practical insights.
Earn a Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. or Ed.D.): A doctoral degree is usually required for tenure-track positions in academia.
Build a Research Portfolio: Publish research in scholarly journals and present at conferences.
Apply for Faculty Roles: Look for roles at universities with LIS programs. Postdoctoral fellowships may help bridge into academia.

Helpful Links

American Library Association Accreditation
iSchools Directory – A global consortium of information schools

What Is the Salary of a Library Science Professor?

The average annual salary for postsecondary library science teachers in the U.S. is approximately $80,840, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, this can vary depending on experience, academic rank, and the type of institution.

Assistant Professors: $60,000–$75,000
Associate Professors: $75,000–$90,000
Full Professors: $90,000–$120,000

What Is the Labor Market for a Library Science Professor?

The job outlook for library science professors remains steady but competitive due to limited faculty openings and increasing interest in academia.

Job Growth: According to the BLS, postsecondary teaching jobs are projected to grow 8% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations.
Factors Influencing Demand: Growth in online education, retirements, and the expansion of LIS programs contribute to new opportunities.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Being a Library Science Professor?

Pros

Intellectual Fulfillment: Engage in meaningful research and teaching.
Job Stability (Tenure Track): Tenure offers job security and academic freedom.
Work-Life Balance: Flexible scheduling compared to corporate roles.
Impactful Work: Shape the next generation of librarians and information scientists.

Cons

Long Educational Path: Requires a doctorate, which takes time and financial investment.
Competitive Market: Academic roles, especially tenure-track positions, are in high demand.
Research Pressure: High expectations for publishing and grant acquisition.
Lower Entry-Level Salaries: Assistant professors may start at modest earnings relative to investment in education.

What Are the Careers Related to Being a Library Science Professor?

Here are several careers closely related to that of a library science professor, with links to O*NET’s detailed job descriptions:

Librarian

Librarians manage collections of information resources and assist patrons in locating materials and utilizing library services. They often specialize in areas like academic, public, or special libraries.

Archivist

Archivists appraise, organize, preserve, and provide access to historical documents and records. They play a critical role in maintaining valuable cultural and organizational information.

Curator

Curators manage museum or library collections, developing exhibitions and programs to educate the public. Their work often involves research and the acquisition of new artifacts or materials.

Instructional Coordinator

Instructional coordinators develop educational content and training materials, often focusing on curriculum improvements and teaching methods. They may work closely with faculty to enhance instructional quality.

Postsecondary Education Administrator

These administrators oversee academic programs and student services at colleges and universities. They manage faculty affairs, budgeting, and policy implementation within educational institutions.

Education Administrator, Postsecondary

Similar to the above, these professionals plan, direct, and coordinate academic departments and programs, ensuring compliance with educational standards and regulations.

Library Science Professor – A Social Career Path

A Library Science Professor aligns with the Social–Investigative–Conventional personality types in the Holland Code (RIASEC) system. This framework helps you understand how your natural strengths and interests match a career’s core activities. You can discover your personal three-letter Holland Code by taking the Free Career Fit Test™.

People with Social traits thrive in this profession because teaching, mentoring, and supporting students are central responsibilities. As a Library Science Professor, you help future librarians, archivists, and information professionals develop the skills they need in cataloging, information organization, digital literacy, research methods, and user services. Guiding students, leading discussions, and fostering academic growth are key parts of the job.

Investigative individuals excel in this field because it draws heavily on analytical thinking, research, and intellectual curiosity. Library Science Professors study information systems, metadata, digital archives, human–information interaction, and emerging technologies in knowledge management. They engage in scholarly research and contribute to the evolution of library and information science.

Conventional qualities also play an important role, as this field emphasizes structure, organization, accuracy, and adherence to standards. Professionals in this area work with classification systems, indexing, policies, and best practices that require precision and a strong attention to detail.

This career is ideal for individuals who enjoy helping others learn, are fascinated by information systems and knowledge organization, and appreciate structured, detail-oriented work. It offers the chance to teach, conduct research, and shape the future of how information is accessed, preserved, and managed across diverse communities.

List of Holland Social Careers

Below are many more social careers. Additionally, see our article, Finding the Right Career for Your Social Personality.

To determine which careers best fit you, take a career test such as the Career Fit Test™.

What Types of Jobs Can a Library Science Professor Pursue?

A library science professor can leverage their academic training and experience to pursue various roles within academia, libraries, and information management fields, such as:

Tenure-Track or Tenured Faculty Positions: Teaching, research, and service roles at universities or colleges offering library and information science programs.
Academic Administration: Roles such as department chair, program director, or dean, with a focus on curriculum development and faculty support.
Researcher or Scholar: Conducting advanced studies in information science, digital libraries, or archival science, often funded by grants.
Consultant or Trainer: Advising libraries, educational institutions, or corporations on information management, digital archiving, or knowledge organization.
Library Director or Manager: Leading public, academic, or special libraries, applying leadership skills developed in educational settings.
Educational Content Developer: Creating instructional materials or online courses related to library science or information technology.

These job types reflect the professor’s expertise in teaching, research, leadership, and subject-matter knowledge, opening doors beyond traditional faculty roles, such as online course development or interdisciplinary programs.

What Websites Are Best for Finding a Library Science Professor Job?

Recommended Job Boards

HigherEdJobs – Specializes in faculty and administrative positions.
Chronicle of Higher Education Jobs – Leading academic job board.
ALA JobLIST – Focused on librarian and LIS faculty roles.
Inside Higher Ed Careers – Features faculty roles and academic administration listings.
AcademicCareers.com – Global academic jobs, including library science.

These sites allow you to filter for roles by discipline, tenure status, and geographic region.

How Do I Know If I Should Be a Library Science Professor?

Choosing a career in academia—especially one that blends teaching, research, and information science—requires a deep understanding of your interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Here are two proven strategies to help you evaluate whether becoming a Library Science Professor is right for you:

Take a Career Aptitude Test

One of the most effective ways to assess your fit for this profession is by taking a career aptitude test like the Free Career Fit Test™.

This comprehensive tool includes three core assessments:

Career Test – Helps you uncover what fields naturally attract your attention and motivation.
Career Aptitude Assessment – Matches your skills and strengths with compatible career paths, including those in teaching, research, and information science.
Personality Trait Quiz – Aligns your values, personality, and work preferences with potential roles in academia or beyond.

With the Career Fit Test™ Premium Report, you’ll receive a detailed analysis of your:

Top career matches
Innate talents and abilities
Preferred work environments

This insight empowers you to discover your professional calling and find a path that truly resonates with who you are—one where you can thrive as a Library Science Professor or determine a better-aligned career option.

Try Informational Interviewing

Another practical step is to conduct informational interviews with current or retired Library Science Professors. These conversations provide real-life perspectives that no test or textbook can offer.

Ask about:

A typical workday and schedule
Their most rewarding experiences and biggest challenges
What they wish they had known before entering the field
Tips for breaking into academia and advancing your career

These firsthand insights will help you assess whether the realities of the role align with your expectations and professional aspirations.

How Can I Learn More About a Career as a Library Science Professor?

ONET & Professional Associations

These resources provide career statistics, professional development opportunities, and networking platforms.

Conclusion

Becoming a Library Science Professor is a career path that blends intellectual rigor, a passion for knowledge, and a commitment to shaping the future of libraries and information science. It requires advanced education, ongoing research, and the ability to mentor and inspire students. While the journey may be demanding, the rewards—both personal and professional—can be significant.

If you're drawn to the idea of teaching, conducting scholarly research, and contributing to the evolution of libraries in the digital age, this could be the right profession for you.

To determine if this path truly aligns with your strengths and values, take the Free Career Fit Test. This insightful career test includes:

A career interest inventory
An aptitude and skills assessment
A personality traits quiz

The Premium Report will help you uncover your best-fit careers, understand your natural strengths, and identify the environments where you can thrive—empowering you to pursue meaningful work you’ll love.

How to Become a Library Science Professor: Is it the Right Career for You?