Ask Simmons

Explore a Library Science Degree with a Technology Focus

A student standing in library stacks wearing a grad cap and peering over the top of an open book

Are you passionate about library science and technology? You can pursue both fields through a master's degree in library science with a technology concentration. 

These educational programs are available within the school of information at colleges throughout the United States.

Why combine information studies and technology?

The role of library professionals continues to evolve as the volume of available information grows at an accelerated rate. Librarians develop and maintain information systems for creation, storage, search, and retrieval, allowing access to the rising volume of information.

As a result, technology has become an important part of the library science profession. Developing technical skills with traditional information research methods will give you an advantage when competing for jobs.

With a master’s degree in library science with a technology concentration, you will develop an understanding of the major theories in information science. You will then learn how to apply them to specific research or in professional contexts. You will build skills, including programming knowledge, database design and application, usability, research methods, web development, and information architecture.

Jobs merging library science and technology

Your degree will prepare you to work in a variety of environments. After you graduate, you’ll be qualified for many jobs. The types of roles (and duties) you may pursue include:

  • Systems analysts: Analyze and improve organizational Information technology (IT) systems
  • Systems librarians: Manage and maintain library-based digital systems
  • Knowledge managers: Oversee organizational knowledge-sharing
  • Web content designers and managers: Create, design, and manage website content
  • Information architects: Structure and organize information for usability and user experience
  • Information behavior researchers: Study how people access and use information
  • IT managers: Lead IT teams and oversee technology
  • Database developers: Design and maintain databases
  • Digital collection managers: Manage digital assets and online collections

Library Science with Technology Concentration at Simmons

A student sits at a table in a library with an open book and a laptop

Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts, offers a (co-educational) full-time, flexible Master of Library and Information Science: Information Science and Technology Concentration, available on campus and online.

The program (36 credit hours) imparts the concepts and competencies needed for positions in a variety of information settings. Our dedicated faculty members are eager to mentor and support you every step of the way.

Simmons offers both online and face-to-face courses. Some of the classes include:

  • Technology for Information Professionals
  • Introduction to Programming
  • Information Organization

Simmons' Master's in Library and Information Science has an outstanding reputation for helping students secure internships.

Our Boston location opens opportunities for real-world experience. Our partners include IT companies, startups, libraries, archives, and historical sites.

We also have contacts across the country. We will work with you to ensure your experience meets your professional goals. Simmons also offers a doctoral degree program in library science.

Want to learn more about our (co-educational) flexible Master of Library and Information Science degree with an Information Science and Technology Concentration at Simmons?

Spotlight on our Students and Alums in Library Science and Technology

Image of the Simmons MCB exterior

Students Discuss Archival Internship in The Pilot

Students Emily Greco and James Kaeser recently concluded fall semester internships at the Archdiocese of Boston Archives. They shared their reflections about this unique experience in a published interview with The Pilot.


Photo of Alyssa Pacy and Sarah Yasuda

A Tale of Two Librarians: SLIS alumnae/i at Cambridge Public Library

Librarian Sarah Yasuda '20MS and Archivist Alyssa Pacy '06MS, '07MA reflect on how their studies at Simmons SLIS impacted their careers, the unique rewards of public library work, and the coolest items you can find in the Cambridge Public Library...


Publish Date

Author

Laura Pedulli