Library Information Technology

Please select the award below to view the degree options and requirements in the college catalog.

• Library Information Technology A.A.S. Degree—60 credits
• Technical Information Services Certificate—20 credits
• Public Information Services Certificate—20 credits
• Course Descriptions & Outlines
• Transfer Agreements

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the social and ethical frameworks in which information is created, organized, distributed, used, and contested.
2. Critically engage the content of the discipline, which includes: analyzing information and knowledge as it relates to the demands of the profession; identifying relationships between learning elements and integrate them effectively; and building a sense of integrity and commitment to quality in how they regard information in personal and professional settings.
3. Conduct effective reference interviews, helping users define their information needs; instruct users in basic research procedures, including use of the library’s catalog, databases and web searching and locating materials in the library; use locally devel.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the general trends and developments in library/information technology and be able to apply this knowledge to specific functions within a library and information environment.
5. Use bibliographic utilities effectively; use the cataloging functions of integrated library systems; perform basic copy cataloging, including reviewing and editing cataloging records.

• Minneapolis College’s Library Information Technology program will equip you with the practical and conceptual skills needed to work in highly automated libraries and information agencies.
• The program will introduce you to integrated library systems, including library circulation, acquisitions, serials and information management systems and other computer applications unique to the industry.
• You will learn to efficiently search online databases and the Internet and provide effective user services, as well as build exposure to the various services and outreach that libraries of all types provide to their communities.
• You will also learn about ethical and legal issues related to information use and production and develop skills for critical thinking and moral reasoning.
• As part of the A.A.S. degree, you will have the opportunity to take special courses dealing with alternative media and other coursework, allowing you the flexibility to customize your degree to build expertise.
• As a capstone, you will participate in a semester-long internship.
• The A.A.S. degree is designed for those seeking a new career as a paraprofessional—and for anyone wishing to transfer elsewhere for a bachelor’s degree. The certificate awards are designed for individuals already working in libraries and information agencies who seek additional education and training.

While studying at Minneapolis College’s LIT program, you will have an opportunity to do an internship. Past students have done internships at the University of Minnesota’s Mintex, Minnesota Digital Library and Wilson Library, Macalester College, the University of St. Thomas, Hennepin County Library, Albert Lea Public Library, St. Paul Public Library, Quatrefoil Library and the Ohio Literacy Resource Center. There are also opportunities to participate in service learning projects.

• Library Information Technology Blog