Program Description

Libraries are constantly evolving in their delivery and management of information. Library and Information Technicians have the knowledge and practical skills needed to perform in today’s evolving library environment. Combining theory and hands-on practice, students will learn to acquire, organize, produce, retrieve and disseminate information in print and electronic formats. Led by experienced librarians, this program will help prepare you for employment in academic, public, school and special libraries and other information service settings.

This program is a recognized, preeminent online library education program in Canada. Current or previous work or volunteer experience in a library/information setting is encouraged, but not required. Taught online and taken on a part-time or full-time basis, participants have the opportunity to complete their diploma with flexibility. Some courses have final exams that may be written in person; however, we will assist with arranging external proctoring if needed.

During program completion, students will complete four Library Option courses, enabling them to customize their education to focus on specific topics of interest within the library/information field, including records management, archives, government information, school libraries and multimedia. Students will also complete two in-person field placements that can be completed in a wide range of library settings.

If you choose full-time delivery, you will complete this program in four semesters (1.5 years). If you choose part-time delivery, we recommend you complete this program in approximately 2-4 years.

Courses in this program cost approximately $300 to $600 each. Textbooks are an additional cost if required. Many courses require the use of Microsoft Office software that is available to Mohawk College students through our IT Department.

Interested in learning more about this program?
Register for the next information session!

Potential and in-progress students must be aware that many agencies accepting placement students require a current Vulnerable Sector Check (police check). You may also require proof of Health Canada approved vaccinations. Students are strongly encouraged to review placement expectations by visiting our Library and Information Technician Field Placement Information webpage

Additional Details

Admission and Registration

You must be accepted into the program prior to registering for courses. Intakes are available every Fall, Winter, and Spring.

Application Process:

Admission Requirements:

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) OR equivalent (Mohawk Academic Upgrading, GED) OR Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older)
  • A pass in Grade 12 English, C or U or equivalent

All applicants submitting academic history completed outside of Canada must provide confirmation of equivalency to an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. This can be coordinated through one of the following:

If you do not meet the academic eligibility requirements for this program, you may request a Pre-Admission test. You can request a Pre-Admission Test, request an update on your OCAS application, or request assistance with the application process by contacting our Admissions Team at coach@mohawkcollege.ca. Applicants are encouraged to check their email and OCAS accounts regularly for updates on their application.

Recommended Requirements:

  • Experience in a library setting is recommended, but not required
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
    • If you struggle with communications or your first language is not English, you are encouraged to explore upgrading options available through our Applied Communications Centre.
  • Basic computer skills.
    • Be familiar with basic computer skills (word processing, email-based systems) prior to considering this program. To upgrade computer skills, consider an introductory 'Computer Basics' course or a Learning Support Centre workshop before applying.

Financial Assistance

green checkmark OSAP funding may be available. Learn more about Financial Assistance Options for Continuing Education Students. This program has additional awards available to graduating students. Recipients of these awards are determined by the college and will be notified in the spring following their graduation. 

Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcomes outline what graduates need to know, and be able to do, after they complete a program.

Review the Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU) program learning outcomes.

Opportunities

Academic Opportunities

Mohawk Pathways offers a diverse range of programs to further your studies. Equivalences and/or course exemptions may apply. Prerequisite courses and/or minimum averages may be required. Our internal pathways map (PDF) demonstrates how completion of this program can lead to future education choices. For example, graduates will be eligible for:

Graduates can further their education through the Libraries and Digital Technologies Certificate.

Visit Pathways and Credit Transfer for degree completion opportunities outside of Ontario or visit ontransfer.ca to view opportunities at other colleges or universities within Ontario.

Career Opportunities

Industries of Employment

  • Public libraries and regional library services.
  • Libraries and resource centres serving colleges, universities, elementary and secondary schools and school boards.
  • Special libraries, such as those found in law offices, hospitals, corporations and government departments and agencies.
  • Bibliographic utilities, online and library system vendors and electronic publishers.
  • Information services industry.
  • Cultural and non-profit organizations.

For details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, visit the Government of Canada Job Bank (opens in new window).

Next Steps

Wait for your Offer of Admission through OCAS. Once accepted into the program, you will receive a Welcome Email from Mohawk College with further information on registering for courses.

Field Placement / Clinical

During the program, you are required to complete two in-person field placements. Students are strongly encouraged to review placement expectations by visiting our Library and Information Technician Field Placement Student Information webpage. 

Host Libraries can learn more about our placement requirements and expectations by visiting our Library and Information Technician Field Placement Host Library Information webpage. 

Additional Information

This diploma program requires the completion of two General Elective courses. Students are encouraged to view current General Elective courses offered through Continuing Education by visiting our General Elective Course Search webpage. Students must review the General Elective Restriction List webpage prior to registering for General Elective courses as each program has specific courses that cannot be taken as General Electives. For more information on General Electives and the General Elective Restriction List, please email gened@mohawkcollege.ca or visit the General Education Elective webpage.

Faculty Bios

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

College Resources

Program Contact

Continuing Education
Education and Library Studies
Email Us
1-844-767-6871

Completion Requirement

28 Course(s)

library technician standing in front of book stacks

 

Students who began the program prior to September 2023 with a completion date no later than December 2026, must follow the previous Program of Studies (opens in new window).

If you began the program prior to September 2023 and will not have completed by December 2026 the changes may impact program completion. Email celibrary@mohawkcollege.ca for more information.

The Program of Studies below applies to students starting the program September 2023. 

Click on the course names to view current availability. A selection of courses will be offered each term. Visit our course schedule page for a tentative list of future offerings and information on General Electives.

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