How To Become A Librarian In South Africa & Subjects Needed

Are you looking for a way to become a Librarian in South Africa and you don’t know the subjects needed or even universities in South Africa where you can undergo the course? If yes, then this informative article is for you. You will be given detailed information about how to become a Librarian in South Africa, Universities and Subjects Needed.

What Does A Librarian Do?

Librarians (also referred to as information professionals) design, develop and manage collections of recorded material and the delivery of information services to users. Library collections can include books, magazines, computer games and software, photographs, journals, maps, microfilms, CDs, e-books, and other digital information.

Many librarians work with the public, while others work behind the scenes in technical support and acquisitions or in administration. They may also work in specialist libraries, including corporate, legal, medical, or school libraries.

The tasks and duties of librarians may include the following: select, classify and index library and information resources; develop, manage and digitize collections; assist users to identify or interpret information; conduct training programmes to assist library users; communicate and conduct library services through websites and social media; train and supervise staff; create and maintain databases; develop relationships with communities, such as faculty, not-for-profit organisations, learning providers, authors, and publishers; plan and select computer systems for the library.

What Qualifications Do I Need?

Some librarians begin their career by getting a job as a library assistant and doing work-based training, though the advancement of information technology has increased the need for formal qualifications.

Most librarians do a diploma or a degree in library and information science and gain the necessary practical experience by working in a library or other appropriate place.

A National Senior Certificate that meets the requirements for a diploma or degree course is a prerequisite for attending a programme at a university or college. Graduates can register as a member of the Library and Information Association of South Africa once qualified.

What Subjects Do I Need?

Contact each institution for their specific requirements, but these subjects are recommended:

• Mathematics
• Languages
• Computer Applications Technology

Where Can I Study?

UNISA

• Bachelor of Information Science
• www.unisa.ac.za

University of the Western Cape

• Bachelor of Library and Information Science
• www.uwc.ac.za

University of KwaZulu-Natal

• Bachelor of Library and Information Science
• www.ukzn.ac.za

Durban University of Technology

• National Diploma: Library and Information Studies
• www.dut.ac.za

University of Zululand

• Bachelor of Library and Information Science; Diploma: Specialised Education (School Library Science)
• www.uzulu.ac.za

University of Cape Town

• Bachelor of Information Systems
• www.uct.ac.za

University of Pretoria

• Bachelor of Information Science
• www.up.ac.za

University of Stellenbosch

• Bachelor of Information Science
• www.sun.ac.za

Tshwane University of Technology

• National Diploma: Library and Information Studies
• www.tut.ac.za

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