Library and Information Technology

Program Overview

Today’s library technologist is tech-savvy, socially engaged and passionate about life-long learning. It’s a great career for anyone interested in literacy, learning and innovation.

Library techs are in demand—because libraries have become the go-to place for everything from traditional books to e-books, multi-media and online resources.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic's two-year Library and Information Technology diploma program has been developed in accordance with the Canadian Library Association Guidelines to address ongoing advances in technology and changing library user needs. Offered at our Saskatoon campus, the program prepares you to support librarians in any type of library—or to manage day-to-day operations on your own in a small library.

You’ll take a variety of introductory academic courses to familiarize yourself with a wide variety of subjects, from world history to literature. You’ll discuss the impact of new technologies, the political and economic factors impacting information sharing, the benefits and risks of digital storage, and more. Through lectures, labs and hands-on projects, you’ll develop knowledge and skills in:

acquisitions, circulation and interlibrary loans
archives and records management
computer-based and traditional library management
database searching and reference research
descriptive and subject cataloguing
programming and public relations
reader assistance
website design and social media

Q & A Sessions

Library technologists get asked a lot of questions. Your assignments reflect the kind of requests you might get, and you’ll learn to use a wide range of resources to find answers.

In-Library Practicums

Work experience is an integral part of your learning. You’ll participate in 2 three-week practicums, one in a Saskatoon public library, one in another community library. It’s a chance to apply theory to practice, and class projects to a real working environment.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

The potential job market for library technologists is bigger and broader than many know. There are career opportunities in municipal public libraries, regional public libraries, northern libraries and the Saskatchewan Provincial Library. There are also jobs in university, polytechnical and regional colleges, public and separate school divisions, health regions, government departments, archives, research centres and private businesses.

You could work on the front line helping library users or behind the scenes in a technical capacity. Although a diploma does not qualify you as a librarian, it does open doors to working in supervisory or managerial roles in library service units or small libraries.

For more information, contact the Student Employment Services at the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus nearest you.

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
Library Clerk	Library Assistants and Clerks (1451)	$26,000 - $52,000
Library Assistant	Library Assistants and Clerks (1451)	$26,000 - $52,000
Library Technician	Library and Public Archive Technicians (5211)	$28,800 - $85,400

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): August every second year

This program has one intake every second year (even numbered years only).

Length: 72 weeks:

Year 1 - 36 weeks; Year 2 - 36 weeks

Locations

Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Grade 12 with a minimum 60% average in English Language Arts A30 and English Language Arts B30
English Language Requirement

Note

Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search during the first term of the program. At the discretion of the work experience agency/school, you may be declined access to a work experience based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search. The cost of the Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search is your responsibility.

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

253 Reading
247 Writing
4 Writeplacer

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

$5,900

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

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Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COMM 291

Interpersonal Communications

You will develop employability skills through the study of interpersonal communications theory and applications in the workplace. Learning outcomes include the importance of self-awareness and self-esteem, perception problems, verbal and nonverbal messages, and listening skills, creating positive communication climates and resolving interpersonal conflict.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 103, COMM 112, COMM 135, COMM 155, COMM 160, COMM 291CE, COMM 381, HUMR 182, HUMR 186, JOBS 190, NEPS 114, NURS 114, NURS 163
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery

COMP 170

Basic Computer Operation

You will be introduced to the basics of computer concepts. Topics you will study include computer components, hardware and software, working in a graphical user interface, file management, word processing and the Internet. The general skills you learn in this course will prepare you for further courses such as word processing, spreadsheets and presentation graphics.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): COAP 342, COMP 170CE, COMP 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Independent Study, Lecture/Lab, Online, Online - Individual, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

COMP 171

Introduction to Microsoft Word

Your studies will introduce you to basic word processing skills such as creating, editing and formatting documents, building tables, using templates and applying styles.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): CKEY 187, COAP 196, COAP 343, COMP 120, COMP 154, COMP 171CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

COMP 173

Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint and Web Publishing

Your studies will introduce you to basic skills in the use of PowerPoint software for designing, editing and delivering presentations. You will learn the fundamentals of web publishing for simple web page development.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): COAP 138, COAP 196, COMP 120, COMP 173CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

COMP 174

Introduction to Microsoft Excel 1

You will study the basic features of Excel. You will learn to create workbooks, format spreadsheet elements, manipulate multiple worksheets, create simple charts and use simple formulas and functions.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): COAP 117, COAP 138, COAP 197, COAP 344, COMP 120, COMP 174CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

HIST 280

World History

You will study major patterns of change and continuity from 1450 to the 21st Century. You will learn to interpret change and historical causation, which will increase your ability to perform comparative analysis. You will focus on forces that cut across societies globally, and relate these forces to current issues in politics, economics, religion, gender and culture.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

LIB 182

Borrower and Outreach Services

You will examine the image created by staff and facilities in various types of libraries. You will review and evaluate circulation processes, routines and policies. You will examine print and online reserve collections in academic and school libraries. Theory and practice will help you learn how to handle interlibrary loans as a borrower and as a lender. You will also examine difficult situations and evaluate outreach services.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 192

Introduction to Information Resources

You will be introduced to reference service and general information resources: including dictionaries, encyclopedias, ready reference and indexes. You will utilize the information search process to search these print and non-print resources.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s):
Equivalent Course(s): LIB 192CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 196

Introduction to Cataloguing

You will look at the functions of technical services in libraries. You will describe the purpose and use of library catalogues and create original and/or derived records for an automated library catalogue using Resource Description and Access (RDA) and Machine Readable Cataloguing (MARC).
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): ORTN 190(concurrent)
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIT 190

Literature and Composition 1

You will examine representative works from each of the four major genres of poetry, short fiction, the novel and drama with examples coming from non-Canadian (British, Commonwealth, European in translation and American) literature in English. You will become familiar with critical vocabulary to discuss and evaluate works from each genre. You will receive instruction and practice in effective writing. Effective organization, college-level research skills and the effective use of language, sentences and paragraphs in creating clear writing will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 48.0
Equivalent Course(s): LIT 190CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

ORTN 190

Introduction to Library Service

You will examine various library organizational structures, personnel descriptions and duties, and materials and services to specific patrons. Library and Archives Canada, other major Canadian libraries, the Saskatchewan library system and other library partnerships will be discussed.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): ORTN 190CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

WORK 194

Introductory Work Experience

You will be placed in a Saskatoon library to become better acquainted with day to day operations of a library. Assignments will vary and will be dependent upon the library but will be within your educational experience.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ORTN 190(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): PRAC 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Online, Prior Learning, Work Experience - Group, Work Experience -Individual

Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CDNS 280

Canadian Government

You will become familiar with the history of the Canadian government and system of parliament (including the constitution from 1867 to present). You will learn the broad principles of government and parliament. This includes the concepts of executive federalism and responsible government.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

COMM 113

Applied Communications

You will apply oral, written and interpersonal skills needed for successful communication at the library, and specifically with clients. You will receive instruction and practice in effective writing. You will also use job search skills and produce job search documents.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): COMM 291
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 192
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 191

Readers' Services

Focusing on school and public libraries, you will examine the roles and functions of readers' advisors. You will study fiction reference sources, readers' advisory interviews, genre types and representative examples, and a variety of fiction promotion techniques.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): LIB 191CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 194

Introduction to Archives and Records Management

You will be introduced to the field of archives and records management, including an overview of archival principles. You will discuss the functions of archival and records management programs and how they inter-relate. You will receive a broad orientation to work in archival and records management systems.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ORTN 190
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 197

General Information Resources

You will examine information resources in biography in library science and in the publishing trade. You will examine library and publishing trade bibliographies and evaluative guides to reference collections. You will use both print and electronic resources.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): LIB 192
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 199

Subject Cataloguing

In your continuing study of the organization of library materials, you will assign Dewey Decimal classification numbers, Library of Congress subject headings, and Library of Congress classification numbers to library materials. You will construct records for monographs for an online catalogue with complete descriptive and subject cataloguing (original and/or derived).
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): LIB 196
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIT 182

Children's Materials and Services

You will discuss the history of children's literature and become familiar with representative works of contemporary children's material in fiction and non fiction in print and non print format. You will examine the criteria used to select children's material for school and public libraries. Promotion of children's material will be discussed.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): LIT 182CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIT 191

Literature and Composition 2

Building on the skills gained in Literature and Composition 1, you will continue to examine representative works in English poetry, short fiction, novels and drama, categorizing them into the major periods of world literature. You will construct literary analysis using appropriate terms and concepts, with emphasis on well-thought-out arguments.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 48.0
Prerequisites(s): LIT 190
Equivalent Course(s): LIT 191CE, LIT 280
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

Semester 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

WORK 285

Work Experience 1

You will participate in a three week supervised work placement in a library. The tasks assigned will be typical of a library technician and within your educational experience. Depending on the hours of the particular library, you may experience shift and weekend work. You may choose a location in or out of Saskatoon.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 105.0
Prerequisites(s): WORK 194, LIB 196
Equivalent Course(s): PRAC 111
Potential Learning Method(s): Online, Work Experience - Group, Work Experience -Individual

Semester 4

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COMP 176

Introduction to Microsoft Access 1

Your studies will focus on the basic features of Microsoft Access. You will create simple tables, queries, forms and reports. You will also modify database elements such as fields and records.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): CDBM 190, COAP 138, COAP 197, COAP 345, COMP 120, COMP 176CE, COMP 284
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Online - Individual, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

LIB 289

Digital Technologies

You will evaluate social networking strategies and application used by various types of libraries. You will explore current issues in information technology applications in libraries. You will explore various assistive technologies and alternate formats available to patrons.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ORTN 190, COMP 170
Equivalent Course(s): COAP 292
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

LIB 290

Descriptive and Subject Cataloguing: Nonbook Materials and Electronic Resources

Building on your knowledge of traditional descriptive and subject cataloguing, you will create bibliographic records for non-book materials such as DVDs, e-books, video games, compact discs, pictures, and print/electronic serials.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): LIB 199
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 291

Information Resources: Social Sciences

You will evaluate information sources in the social sciences including business, commerce and law, education, health sciences, government reference sources, sport and recreation, history and geography. You will use both print and electronic resources.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): LIB 197
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIT 290

Canadian Literature Survey 1

You will study representative works from each of the four major genres, poetry, drama, short fiction and the novel, with examples coming from Canadian literature in English. Specifically, you will examine works written in the Canadian Colonial and National periods. You will also examine works by First Nations authors. You will demonstrate knowledge of critical vocabulary, critically discussing and evaluating works from each genre and period.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGL 101
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

MGMT 282

Library Management - Theory and Practice

You will focus on the principles of management with particular emphasis upon the role of the technician as supervisor within school, public, academic and special libraries. Management styles, planning, staff selection, supervision, and leadership styles, motivation, evaluation and budgeting will be covered. You will be expected to integrate the theoretical framework with practical applications through case studies, readings, simulations and class discussion.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ORTN 190
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

NAST 290

Indigenous Studies 1

You will examine historical events that have impacted First Nations, Inuit and Metis people in Canada with a goal to understanding contemporary issues. You will explore the role Indigenous people have played in the development of Canadian society, including their struggles to preserve their cultures and inherent rights.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

PRPL 284

Public Relations and Programming

You will examine ways of marketing the library to the community. You will discuss current topics relating to programming for the entire community. Planning and executing visual displays and programs will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): PRPL 180, PRPL 284CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

PSYC 190

Introduction to Psychology 1

You will study mental processes and behaviour. These include theoretical approaches, history and methods of study as well as major research findings within various subfields of psychology including sensation and perception, consciousness, learning and memory
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 48.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

Semester 5

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CKEY 188

Word Processing

You will learn to prepare a variety of documents relative to their field of study while expanding their expertise in using more advanced Microsoft Word features.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 193

Current Trends in Libraries

You will investigate and discuss the impact of current trends on the delivery of information and services within libraries.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ORTN 190
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 282

Storytelling for all Ages

You will examine the role storytelling has in the development of literacy skills and look at family literacy programs. You will prepare and present literature using a variety of methods. You will plan, prepare and present a story time program applicable for your chosen age group.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ORTN 190
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 292

Acquisitions and Collections Development

You will examine collection development policies and collection management functions. You will examine all parts of the acquisitions process. Topics you will study include selection, ordering, receiving, weeding, and mending of materials.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ORTN 190(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIB 293

Information Resources: Humanities and Science and Technology

You will evaluate information sources in the humanities and in science and technology including religion, mythology and philosophy, fine and performing arts, literature, Indigenous topics and natural sciences and technology.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): LIB 291
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIT 183

Young Adults' Materials and Services

You will examine the physical, social, emotional and intellectual factors that influence teen reading/viewing habits and the criteria for selecting materials for teens. You will be exposed to a variety of fiction genres, various methods of presentation, and the major trends and issues regarding services for teens in public and school libraries
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): LIT 183CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

LIT 291

Canadian Literature Survey 2

Building on your knowledge and skills from Canadian Literature Survey 1, you will employ critical vocabulary in order to analyze representative works from the genres of poetry, drama, short fiction and the novel in Canadian literature in English. Specifically, you will examine works written in the Canadian Modern and Contemporary periods. You will also examine works by Saskatchewan writers. You will demonstrate advanced research and literary analysis skills.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): LIT 290
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

NAST 291

Indigenous Studies 2

You will focus on the contemporary issues impacting First Nations, Inuit and Metis people in Canada. You will explore the role Aboriginal peoples have played in the securing of Aboriginal rights and their ongoing efforts of decolonization.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

PSYC 290

Introduction to Psychology 2

You will study mental processes and behaviour. These include major research findings within various subfields of psychology including cognition, motivation, development, personality and psychological disorders.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 48.0
Prerequisites(s): PSYC 190
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

Semester 6

Code

Name/Description

Credits

WORK 286

Work Experience 2

You will participate in a three week supervised work placement in a library. You will use your previous library experience and additional classroom theory in a library setting where you will perform typical library technician duties at an advanced level. Depending on the hours of the particular library, you may experience shift or weekend work. Depending on your location for WORK 285, this may be required to be a library outside of Saskatoon.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 105.0
Prerequisites(s): WORK 285, LIB 290
Equivalent Course(s): PRAC 112
Potential Learning Method(s): Online, Work Experience - Group, Work Experience -Individual

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. See links below to more information about PLAR and detailed PLAR candidate guides for courses in this program.

Candidate Guide
Candidate Guide for Math and Science courses
- (e.g., APHY, CALC, CHEM, MAT, MATH, PHYS, STAT, etc.)
Candidate Guide for Communication and Social Science courses
- (e.g., COM, COMM, ENGL, PSYC, SOCI, etc.)
More about PLAR

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.

Transfer credit options vary over time; this information is subject to change. Transfer credit options for this program include:

transfer of 60 credit units toward a Bachelor of Professional Arts degree in Communication Studies at Athabasca University
transfer of 27 credit units toward a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Regina
transfer of 6 credit units toward a Bachelor of Education degree at the University of Regina
transfer of 15 credit units toward a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Saskatchewan
transfer of 15 credit units toward a Bachelor of Education degree at the University of Saskatchewan

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. You don't have to be a brainiac to receive a student award. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

More about scholarships

Additional Information

Application Form

Part-Time Delivery

Part-time students may take the following courses prior to admission, but must apply and be accepted to the program thereafter, in order to graduate and receive a credential: LIB 191, LIB 192, LIT 182, LIT 183, ORTN 190, PRPL 284.

View the program page for a complete list of courses and additional information.

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