Employment for librarians is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all careers through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). More librarians will be needed to manage operations and help patrons locate information as libraries provide additional activities and services to communities. Parents, especially, value the information their children can access through libraries.

The expanding use of computers to store and retrieve information and to handle routine operations will require that librarians have strong computer skills, and in some cases these tasks, once performed solely by librarians, can now be performed by other library staff members. The automation of libraries will in no way replace librarians, however; personal judgment and knowledge will still be needed in libraries. The DOL reports that "the increased availability of electronic information is also expected to increase the demand for librarians in research and special libraries, where patrons will need help sorting through the large amount of digital information."

Employment opportunities will also arise for librarians who have a background in information science and library automation. The rapidly expanding field of information management has created a demand for qualified people to set up and maintain information systems for private industry and consulting firms. Many companies are also establishing in-house reference libraries to assist in research work. Some have developed full lending library systems for employees.

Many librarians will find employment as trainers, customer representatives, and sales representatives for information database vendors. The expansion of the Internet will create new occupational opportunities for librarians—opportunities with such titles as database specialist, webmaster, Web developer, Internet trainer, Internet consultant, and Internet coordinator.

Through 2028, about 14,700 job openings will be available for librarians on an annual basis, according to the DOL. Many of these will be replacements for librarians who retire or pursue other occupations.

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