© dbv / Thomas Meyer

Studies in the professional field of library

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Library studies: bachelor's, master's, doctorate & academic service

Value-oriented studies with a wide range of options

Are you interested in people and media and want to champion democratic values? Then a degree in Library and Information Science might be just right for you. This professional field of library science qualifies experts who provide information to science and society and empower people with information and media literacy.

Requirements & personal interests

Requirements: Are you interested in studying library and information science and would like to know what the formal requirements are? Most degree programs do not have admission restrictions. Both a general and a subject-specific university entrance qualification entitle you to study. Alternatively, at some universities it is possible to gain admission with sufficient practical training and experience. At every university there are contact persons specifically for prospective students. You can find them on the study program pages.

Interessen: In der Berufswelt sind zudem Teamgeist, Serviceorientierung sowie ein Gespür für gesellschaftliche und technologische Trends gefragt. Eine Affinität zu IT und ein tiefes Verständnis für Strukturen von Daten und Texten sind von Vorteil.

Future prospects

The library and information career field not only opens up a promising future, but also offers an outstanding opportunity for qualified specialists, as the need for experts in this area is significantly greater than the current supply.

In public libraries, the areas of activity range from the acquisition and development of media to the promotion of language, reading, information and media skills. Cultural and program work as well as (media) management are also central tasks. In academic libraries, the activities include the acquisition and development of media, research data management, research-related services, the promotion of information literacy and the design of information infrastructures.

However, the sought-after expertise of information and communication specialists extends far beyond libraries and is also in demand in cultural and educational institutions, research institutions and companies in the information industry.

An outstanding feature of this professional field is its international networking. Your expertise is valued not only locally, but also globally. So if you are looking for a challenging, versatile and internationally oriented professional career, studying library and information science is exactly the right thing for you. Take advantage of this exciting opportunity and discover the wealth of opportunities that await you in this dynamic and future-oriented field!

Bachelor's degree full-time or part-time

A bachelor's degree in library and information science provides a comprehensive academic foundation for a career in information, documentation and knowledge. This first university-qualifying degree extends over a standard period of study of 6 or 7 semesters and qualifies graduates for senior service and equivalent salary groups in the public service, whereby public service employees benefit from stable employment relationships, attractive social benefits as well as clear and often good career prospects Benefit from work-life balance.

In Germany there are twelve state universities that offer bachelor's degree programs in this area.

Full-time bachelor's programs:

Bachelor's degree programs part-time/part-time:

Traineeship / traineeship

In most German federal states, training to become an academic librarian takes place through a two-year traineeship or traineeship and requires an already acquired master's degree, a university diploma, a master's degree or a state examination. During this time, prospective academic librarians receive both practical and theoretical training.

The practical parts of this training take place in a library, which allows the future librarians to gain valuable experience. At the same time, theoretical content is taught at the Humboldt University in Berlin or the Bavarian Library Academy (BAB) in Munich. The part-time master's degree program in Library and Information Science (MALIS) at TH Köln also qualifies students for higher service in libraries and other information institutions within and outside North Rhine-Westphalia.

 

Master's degree consecutively

If you have a bachelor's degree in a library or information science course, you have the opportunity to qualify for management and leadership roles in various areas with a master's degree. The standard period of study for consecutive master's programs (i.e. those based on a bachelor's degree in the same subject) is three or four semesters.

Consecutive master's degree programs:

Master's degree part-time / distance learning

Part-time master's programs are an ideal opportunity for professional development. Those returning to the field who would like to refresh their knowledge also benefit from these programs. The standard period of study is four semesters and can be completed parallel to your professional activity.

Part-time master's degree programs/distance learning:

Further education/certificate courses

A certificate course gives you the opportunity to specifically expand your knowledge and qualifications. These courses offer you a solid, practical foundation at university level, in addition to your existing training and professional experience. They are scientifically based and geared directly to the requirements of professional practice. Within clearly defined subject areas, certificate courses provide compact and up-to-date know-how in a manageable time frame, which you can immediately apply in your everyday working life. By successfully completing these courses, you will gain qualifications for specific subject areas while working, expand your career prospects, strengthen your professional profile in the library sector and invest in lifelong learning.

Further training/certificate courses:

promotion

A doctorate in library science is only possible at the Institute for Library and Information Science (IBI) at the Humboldt University of Berlin (HU Berlin). There are several locations to choose from for an information science doctorate, including Berlin, Darmstadt, Hildesheim, Konstanz, Regensburg and Cologne. The cross-university collaboration between professors from technical colleges and universities also enables cooperative doctorates at universities of applied sciences.

Further information on the subject of promotion:

Special forms of study

Short-Track-Studium: Das Short-Track-Studium Bibliothek und digitale Information ist ein spezielles Angebot für Fachangestellte für Medien- und Informationsdienste (FaMIs) der Fachrichtung Bibliothek, die ihre Ausbildung erfolgreich abgeschlossen haben. Es handelt sich dabei um ein um zwei Semester verkürztes Bachelorstudium, welches von der Hochschule der Medien (HdM) in Stuttgart sowie von der TH Köln angeboten wird und damit Fachkräften die Möglichkeit bietet, ihre berufliche Qualifikation weiter zu steigern. Hier bekommst Du weitere Informationen dazu.

Berufsbegleitendes / praxisbegleitendes Studium: Nähere Informationen dazu findest Du weiter oben.

Referendariat / Volontariat: Nähere Informationen dazu findest Du weiter oben.

Brückenkurs: Der Brückenkurs „Ankommen in der Bibliotheksarbeit in Deutschland“ richtet sich an Fachkräfte mit ausländischem bibliotheksbezogenem Studium oder Berufserfahrung, die Deutschkenntnisse auf mindestens B2-Niveau besitzen. Das Hauptziel des Brückenkurses ist es, den Einstieg in das Berufsfeld Bibliothek und Information in Deutschland zu erleichtern. Während des Kurses kannst Du Deine Qualifikationen an die Anforderungen des deutschen Bibliothekswesens anpassen, Dich mit den Arbeitsweisen und Standards vertraut machen und die notwendigen Fähigkeiten erwerben, um erfolgreich in deutschen Bibliotheken zu arbeiten. Der Brückenkurs bietet somit eine wichtige Unterstützung für einen erfolgreichen Start in die Bibliotheksarbeit in Deutschland. Hier bekommst Du weitere Informationen dazu.

tuition fee

Für die meisten Bachelor- und darauf aufbauenden Masterstudiengänge werden keine Studiengebühren erhoben. Allerdings fallen pro Semester Semesterbeiträge an, die Beiträge für das Studierendenwerk, die Studierendenvertretung AStA, das Semesterticket und Verwaltungsgebühren umfassen. Dies umfasst (Stand 2023) einen Betrag zwischen 100 und 400 Euro für sechs Monate. Zusätzlich entstehen Kosten für die Lebenshaltung, wie Miete, Lebensmittel, Freizeitaktivitäten, Hobbys und Telefon, die individuell variieren. Einen groben Überblick der durchschnittlich anfallenden Monatskosten für Leben und Wohnen kannst Du hier einsehen.

There are various options available to finance your studies, including BAföG, scholarships, student loans/education funds and loans. Choosing the right financing model depends on your personal situation.

One course of study, diverse content

Politics, law, ethics, marketing, communication, IT, pedagogy… More than just 1 degree

Practical course content & rapid direct entry into professional life

We value and support you with all your facets and special features

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Voices from our students

„
Für mich ist die Arbeit in einer Bibliothek ein absoluter Herzensberuf und ich kann mir keinen schöneren für mich vorstellen. Ich mag Menschen sehr und finde es toll, sie mit meiner Arbeit in den meisten Fällen glücklich und zufriedener zu machen. Das zeigt sich auch in der Dankbarkeit und Freude, die mir oft in meinem Beruf entgegengebracht wird.
Es ist vor allem ein Beruf für mich, der genau das ist, was ich daraus mache. Die Bibliotheksarbeit ist unheimlich vielfältig und hat genau so viele Facetten, wie ich bereit bin zu entwickeln und zu zeigen. Große Kernaufgaben wie die Leseförderung oder die Bestandsvermittlung werden durch meinen Input mit Leben gefüllt.

Stephanie Zeiner – Diplombibliothekarin, Leitung Fahrbibliothek Stuttgart

„
Bibliothekarin zu werden, war nach meinem Schulabschluss nicht mein ursprünglicher Traumberuf. Die Zufälle des Lebens haben mich zu dieser Studienwahl gebracht. Heute bin ich sehr dankbar dafür!
Anderen Menschen Bücher und Literatur näher zu bringen und für freien Zugang zu Wissen und Informationen zu sorgen, ist eine sehr zufriedenstellende Aufgabe.
Jeder Tag ist anders und bringt neue Situationen mit sich: Welche Anfragen kommen heute auf mich zu? Wie kann ich den Menschen heute weiterhelfen?
Was ich an meinem Beruf besonders schätze, ist die Vielfalt der Tätigkeiten von der Arbeit an der Ausleih-/Infotheke über den Bestandsaufbau, die Vermittlung von Medien- und Informationskompetenz bis hin zur Veranstaltungs- und Öffentlichkeitsarbeit.
Bibliotheken sind zukunftszugewandte Einrichtungen. Es gibt immer neue Projekte und es entwickeln sich neue Tätigkeitsfelder.

Kati Voltz – Bibliotheksleitung Stadtbücherei Feuchtwangen

„
At the beginning I thought that I was not able to work directly in direct contact with people. But after I started training and completed, I realized how much fun I enjoyed. It is incredibly valuable to practice such a varied but also routine profession. The exciting thing is to be confronted with different questions every day. No day is like the other, and you never know what new challenge is waiting for you, since everyone and every concern is individual.

Laura Schmidt - Fami City Library Andernach & currently in the Bachelor's degree in library and digital communication at TH Cologne

„
The Munich City Library not only serves as a wonderful place for people to linger and be inspired. It is also a special place to realize yourself in a professional context and to come into contact with nice people every day - be it in the team or with the diverse clientele.
There are also cross-departmental opportunities to introduce ideas and concepts into the entire system and get to know the full diversity of the city library.
I've been thinking for a long time that there are hardly any better places to work than this, whether in training, as a trained FaMI or as a qualified librarian.

György Kövesdi - FaMI Munich City Library & currently in distance learning for a bachelor's degree in library science at the FH Potsdam

„
In the Library and Information Management degree program, students are qualified to become critically thinking experts through the intensive supervision and support of teachers who are informed about current trends and developments in the professional field, who can react flexibly to changes and solve problems independently. This means we are fit for the future.

Student library and information management, HAW Hamburg

„
Inclusion, Gaming, New Adult, Book Tok or Tonies - all terms that didn't exist when I was studying (1992 - 1995)! A wide variety of tasks and challenges from team building to media selection, information service or organization of events in the midst of a constantly changing media world and with very different people of all ages in a very open, discussion-loving and multicultural urban society like Tübingen, which you can inspire through your personal commitment - that's what it does I still have as much fun as I did on the first day!

Sigrid Player - Team leader of the children's and youth library, Tübingen City Library

„
I think that the teachers taught us valuable content with a lot of enthusiasm, passion and a touch of pragmatism. Always with an eye on practice, they supported us in both student and private aspects. Studying was exciting, exciting and definitely worthwhile!

Sandra Rümmele – Graduate in Library and Information Management HAW Hamburg, Central Medical Library of the University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE)

„
What I particularly like about the Library and Information Management course is the close exchange with the teachers, which enables individual support, as well as the internship in the 3rd semester, which offers the opportunity to gain practical experience early on and incorporate it into further studies.

Student library and information management, HAW Hamburg

Application process for your studies

1.

Interests & Access

Interessierst Du Dich für ein Studium im bibliothekarischen Bereich? Überprüfe die spezifischen Voraussetzungen Deiner Wunschhochschule und informiere Dich bei Bedarf direkt bei der Zulassungsstelle. Wie Du auch ohne Abitur studierenkannst, erfährst Du hier. Und solltest Du einen ausländischen Schulabschluss haben, erkundige Dich beim Akademischen Auslandsamt oder International Office der Hochschule über die Voraussetzungen.

2.

University choice

There are many library courses and universities. It is often a challenge to maintain an overview. Check out our website and directly at the universities to find out more. Also consider whether a change of residence is an option for you and what specialization you are aiming for. Career advice and discussions with family and friends can be helpful in making the decision.

3.

Application & waiting times

Enrolling at a German university is a formal act. Deadlines and documents to be submitted must be strictly observed. Inquire about these details at the enrollment office of your desired university early on. The enrollment offices often also publish a schedule where you can see when you can expect an acceptance or rejection.

4.

Housing, financing, part-time job

Studienplatz erhalten? Herzlich willkommen in der Bibliothekscommunity! Nun geht es um die Klärung organisatorischer Fragen. Informiere Dich über staatliche Förderung wie BAföG oder über Stipendien bei verschiedenen Stiftungen und Einrichtungen. Für weitere Details zur Wohnungssuche, Freizeitaktivitäten und Nebenjobs schau gerne auf der Webseite Deiner zukünftigen Stadt oder Gemeinde nach.

FAQ Bib Studies

What are the entry requirements for studying library and information science?

To study library science, you typically need a general or subject-specific university entrance qualification. Some universities also accept applicants with relevant work experience. The program is usually not subject to admission restrictions, which gives you flexibility in choosing a university. Each university has contact persons specifically for prospective students. You can find their contact information on the program pages.

What tuition fees and costs apply?

There are generally no tuition fees for studying library and information science, neither for bachelor's nor for postgraduate master's courses. However, studying is not free. Semester contributions must be paid per semester, which consist of contributions for the student union, the AStA student representation, the semester ticket and administration fees.

Zu den Gesamtkosten eines Studium gehören zudem Lebenshaltungskosten und Ausgaben für den Studienbedarf. Die 22. Sozialerhebung von 2023 ergab durchschnittliche monatliche Kosten von 410 Euro für Miete, 198 Euro für Ernährung, 100 Euro für Gesundheit, 89 Euro für Mobilität, 65 Euro für Freizeit, Kultur und Sport, 46 Euro für Kleidung, 31 Euro für Telefon und Internet sowie 31 Euro für Lernmittel. Diese Kosten variieren je nach Hochschulstandort und Studienfach.

How is the library and information science course structured?

If you decide to study library and information science, the structure will be significantly influenced by whether it is a bachelor's degree, a traineeship or traineeship, or a postgraduate degree. All of these programs are designed to give you a comprehensive overview of the various potential fields of work and offer special opportunities for in-depth study.

The training places a clear focus on practical orientation and offers various models to integrate the practical aspects. Depending on the course offering, there is the option of completing the practical training either parallel to the theoretical studies or in successive blocks. These modalities can vary depending on the university.

In addition, it is always worth taking a look at the individual curriculum of the course of study. Here you can often find additional options that can meet your personal interests and professional goals.

How can I finance my studies?

There are various options available to you to finance your studies in library and information science.

BAföG: Eine Möglichkeit ist das BAföG, bei dem der Staat die erste Ausbildung fördert. Deine Berechtigung hängt von Einkommen, Vermögen, Alter und Staatsangehörigkeit bzw. aufenthaltsrechtlichem Status ab. Weitere Informationen findest Du hier.

Stipendien: Stipendien sind eine weitere Finanzierungsoption, und der Vorteil dabei ist, dass sie nicht zurückgezahlt werden müssen. Die Studienstiftung des Deutschen Volkes ist dabei das größte Begabtenförderungswerk. Es gibt auch spezielle Stipendien, wie das für Bahnbrecher:innen oder das Aufstiegsstipendium. In der e-fellows.net-Stipendien-Datenbank kannst Du nach weiteren Möglichkeiten suchen.

Darlehen / Studienkredit: Verschiedene Banken bieten Studienkredite an. Der Bildungskredit der Bundesregierung ist eine weitere Option. Der KfW-Studienkredit wird unabhängig vom Einkommen an staatlich anerkannten Hochschulen gefördert. Zusätzlich gibt es den Bildungsfond für Studierende mit guten Leistungen.

 

Jobben: Während des Semesters kannst Du bis zu 20 Stunden pro Woche jobben. EU-Studierende benötigen keine Arbeitserlaubnis, während Studierende aus Nicht-EU-Staaten und Kroatien bestimmte Beschränkungen haben. Nach dem Abschluss können internationale Studierende bis zu 18 Monate in Deutschland arbeiten. Es gibt auch die Blue Card EU für Absolvent:innen aus Nicht-EU-Staaten mit besonderen Fähigkeiten.

„Duale“ Studienmöglichkeiten: Vereinzelt schreiben Bibliotheken Stellen für ein „Duales“ Bachelorstudium aus oder für ein Referendariat / Volontariat mit Masterstudium. Auf diesen Stellen erhältst Du ein Ausbildungsentgelt. Halte nach diesen Stellenausschreibungen Ausschau auf BiblioJobs.

Where will I live during my studies?

Maybe you have to move for your studies and are therefore looking for a suitable apartment or room. The usual platforms for students to look for accommodation are ideal, as are the affordable dormitories offered by the student unions. Since these can be snapped up quickly due to high demand, it is advisable to start your search in good time. It could also be useful to pay attention to notices in universities, as, for example, shared apartments are looking for new residents or graduates want to pass on their apartment.

As soon as you can specify the start of your studies, it could also be advantageous to get in touch with the student groups in your department. There you have the opportunity to obtain valuable information about the areas in which students usually live, and you can specifically search for shared apartments. Also keep in mind that many students complete their studies in the summer and apartments or rooms become available. An early search can therefore be particularly useful in cities with a tight housing situation.

What is the difference between academic service and librarian?

In the public service, a distinction is made between the academic and the so-called “upscale” library service. Senior librarians usually have a bachelor's degree in the library field. For positions in “higher” or academic library service, at least a master’s degree is required. This can be a consecutive master's degree or a postgraduate master's degree in library/information science. Postgraduate here means that it builds on a first degree (bachelor's, master's, doctorate...) in another field of study. You can acquire such a degree as part of an MA-LIS course at the HU Berlin or the TH Cologne, possibly also as part of a library traineeship or traineeship.

What job prospects does a degree in library and information science offer?

Du hast mit einem Studium in Bibliotheks- und Informationswissenschaft vielfältige und zukunftssichere Jobperspektiven in wissenschaftlichen und öffentlichen Bibliotheken. Darüber hinaus bieten sich Karrierewege in Kultur- und Bildungseinrichtungen sowie Forschungseinrichtungen an. Hier bekommst Du einen aktuellen Überblick der offen Stellenangebote.

Here you will also find comprehensive information on the classification of employees in the library and information sector.

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© dbv / Thomas Meyer

© dbv / Thomas Meyer

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