Library and Information Technology

If you you enjoy working in a library setting and have an interest in technology, you should consider enrolling in the Library and Information Technology (LIT) program. Students in this program enjoy assisting others and utilizing computer technology.

The LIT program is suitable for those seeking entry-level employment in either public or private libraries. The curriculum is also ideal for current paraprofessional and professional library employees who seek specialized training in new technologies.

Graduates of the LIT program are generally employed in either library technical services or public services and utilize technical expertise to assist in either library operations or client services.

As a specialist in library technical services, graduates of the LIT program work in cataloging, requisitioning of library materials, or collection management. In the public service sector, graduates assist clients with locating needed materials and provide reference services.

Graduates are employed in libraries, media and learning resource centers, and with other organizations engaged in library-related activities. They are prepared for jobs with any organization that uses technology to process, manage, and communicate information.

The CCCC Library and Information Technology program is the only one of its kind in North Carolina and one of only four like it in the United States. The program was developed in cooperation with library professionals across the state and nation ensuring that the focus of providing staff development needs is preserved.

The program is offered totally via distance education meaning that a student may earn an Associate Degree in Library and Information Technology, a diploma, or one of five certificates by using the Internet in your own home or at your workplace. As a distance education program, students from across the United States are utilizing this unique and flexible learning environment.

Highly specialized instruction is led by an outstanding faculty of professional librarians and teachers. All members of the faculty have a minimum of an advanced degree, all with an earned Master's Degree in Library Science and some with an earned Doctorate Degree in the field.

The curriculum continues to be refined with the assistance of an active and diverse Advisory Committee. The committee includes professional librarians from public and private institutions including community colleges, public school systems and major state universities.

Subject matter covered in the LIT program includes information resources and services, acquisitions and collection management, cataloging and classifying, library program development, electronic databases, public services operations, and library operations and maintenance. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on technology courses including computer applications, the Internet, operating systems, PC diagnostics and configurations, web development tools, and networking.

When do I have to come to the CCCC campus?

Library and Information Technology students are not required to come to a CCCC campus at any time. Procedures are in place for submitting assignments and taking exams, student advising, course registration and payment, bookstore purchases, and course orientation.

Do I have to take all of the courses for this program through CCCC?

All of the library-related courses must be taken online through CCCC. Other courses in the program may be taken from CCCC through Distance Education or may be taken from a community college of the student's choice.

How do Library and Info Technology students and instructors communicate?

Using communication tools within the online learning management system, Blackboard, a strong emphasis is placed on participation in the library-related courses. Students are assigned specific topics to discuss and classmates and instructors respond. There is some flexibility in when and how students participate, but definite requirements need to be met. The requirements are clearly outlined by instructors. In addition, students and instructors communicate through email and by telephone.

How much work is involved in the library related courses?

Although there is some flexibility in online courses, students should not expect them to be easier than courses in a traditional classroom setting. For example, there are definite due dates and expectations for assignments. As with all college courses, students should expect to spend, on average, two hours per week for each course's semester hour credit. Therefore, if a course is a 3 semester hour credit course, students can expect to spend 6 hours per week in course preparation.

What Students Learn

Students successfully completing the Library and Information Technology Program will be able to:

• Communicate appropriately orally and in writing
• Demonstrate knowledge of library work through oral and written topical assignments and examinations
• Orally and through writing, describe library public services and technical services using oral and visual print and electronic presentations, as required
• Manage print and electronic library resources
• Apply problem-solving skills.
• Effectively communicate knowledge of library and information technology concepts, issues, and services in a variety of written formats.

Please Note:
Curriculum guides are for students enrolled during the current academic year. Students enrolled in a previous academic year should visit the Program Evaluation link in Self-Service to find the required list of courses for graduation. For assistance, consult your advisor.