Library and Information Technology Diploma
UFV offers a four-semester Library and Information Technology diploma, available to complete on Campus in Abbotsford or remotely through distance education. The program includes technical courses in subjects required for work in libraries and information centres, and labs for learning to manage information through the use of computers. Graduates are qualified to work in a wide variety of situations, in all kinds of libraries and information centres.
Diploma graduates are usually termed “para- professional”, and generally work as library technicians, under the direction of a librarian or an information specialist. Library technicians are qualified to supervise the work of clerical workers and other library technicians.
The most effective library and information workers are interested not only in books but in non-print materials, and in the people who seek information services, educational materials, or recreational reading. Library and information workers require excellent interpersonal and communications skills and the ability to deal accurately with details.
Graduates of these programs must also be capable of using a variety of computer applications in performing tasks in libraries and information centres. An ongoing interest in learning for personal growth is essential for graduates. They must learn to cope with the many changes taking place in society, which is heavily dependent upon accurate and timely information for making informed decisions, both in business and in private life.
Program Timeline
The curriculum for the Library and Information Technology diploma program consists of a combination of academic and applied courses extending over four semesters for fulltime students. Students who enrol in the program on a part-time basis will typically extend this program over four years. If credit for some of the required arts/sciences or applied courses can be transferred from other post-secondary institutions, you may have a lighter course load, or take additional courses of your choice. At least 25% of credits for completion of the Library and Information Technology diploma program must have been earned at UFV in order for you to receive a diploma from this institution.
Program at a Glance
Currently, there are 21 regularly offered courses in the Library and Information Technology Program, 13 of which are considered "core" courses and are required. In addition, diploma students are required to take at least one other LIBIT elective and an additional 5-7 courses from other areas of study (including Computer Information Systems). The academic and applied courses listed specifically as requirements of the program have been selected to provide basic knowledge in a wide variety of subject areas, necessary for people who intend to work in libraries and information centres.
All students in the diploma program, regardless of option, will be required to take the core courses:
- LIBT 100 Introduction to Information Services
- LIBT 115 Descriptive Cataloguing Techniques
- LIBT 120 Introduction to Technical Services
- LIBT 130 Introduction to Classification Systems
- LIBT 135 Introduction to Subject Analysis
- LIBT 140 Introduction to Reference Services
- LIBT 145 Internet Information Retrieval
- LIBT 161 Work Place Site Visits
- LIBT 200 Information and Society
- LIBT 205 Supervision in Information Centres
- LIBT 220 Database Management and Software Implementation
- LIBT 240 Media in Information Centres
- LIBT 265 Work Experience Practicum
Click to download a program planning worksheet (General Option).
Within these parameters, students can specialize their studies by concentrating their electives in specific areas. These concentrations are:
Students can also supplement their academic education with a Co-op Option that bridges practical experience with classroom learning. This option provides students with opportunities for networking and building work experience.
For more details on courses, see the official calendar description.
