Library courses can help you learn cataloging, reference services, information literacy, and digital resource management. You can build skills in research techniques, data organization, and community outreach. Many courses introduce tools like integrated library systems and online databases, that support managing collections and providing access to information.

University of Michigan
Skills you'll gain: Human Musculoskeletal System, Anatomy, Endocrinology, Pulmonology, Cardiology, Respiration, Gynecology, Hematology, Obstetrics And Gynecology, Orthopedics, Neurology, Urology, Nephrology, Kinesiology, Physiology, Medical Imaging, Sports Medicine, Biology, Medical Terminology, Cell Biology
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Digital pedagogy, Education Software and Technology, Learning Management Systems, digital literacy
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Retrieval-Augmented Generation, LLM Application, Generative AI, Large Language Modeling, Hugging Face, PyTorch (Machine Learning Library), Embeddings, Natural Language Processing
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Skills you'll gain: Data Sharing, Data Management, Data Storage, File Management, Data Security, Information Management, Data Strategy, Metadata Management, Records Management, Data Governance, Data Integrity, Data Literacy, Information Privacy, Version Control
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Debugging, C++ (Programming Language), Software Documentation, API Design, Program Development, Pseudocode, Software Architecture, Software Design, Maintainability, Computational Thinking, System Programming, Data Structures, Programming Principles, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Computer Programming, Generative AI Agents, Integrated Development Environments, Technical Documentation, Generative AI, Application Development
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization, Multimodal Prompts, Prompt Engineering, Data Presentation, Prompt Patterns, AI Enablement, AI Personalization, Generative AI, Email Automation, LLM Application, Data Analysis, Artificial Intelligence, Complex Problem Solving, Ideation, Business Correspondence, Report Writing, Solution Design, Critical Thinking, Document Management, Machine Learning
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Large Language Modeling, Generative AI, Retrieval-Augmented Generation, Generative Model Architectures, PyTorch (Machine Learning Library), Vector Databases, LLM Application, Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), Embeddings, Natural Language Processing, Hugging Face, Transfer Learning, Data Pipelines, Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), Text Mining, Data Ethics, Data Preprocessing, Artificial Intelligence, Performance Tuning
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Meta
Skills you'll gain: Jest (JavaScript Testing Framework), React.js, Web Development Tools, Web Applications, Event-Driven Programming, JavaScript Frameworks, Application Programming Interface (API), Application Development, UI Components, Unit Testing, Front-End Web Development, Software Design Patterns, Context Management, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Javascript, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Data Management
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

University of California, Davis
Skills you'll gain: Dashboard, Data Storytelling, Tableau Software, Data Presentation, Data Visualization, Advanced Analytics, Stakeholder Analysis, Interactive Data Visualization, Data Visualization Software, Data Literacy, Design Elements And Principles, Exploratory Data Analysis, Proposal Development, Data Ethics, Data Analysis, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Pivot Tables And Charts, Data Mapping, Tree Maps, Storyboarding
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Keras (Neural Network Library), Deep Learning, Transfer Learning, Artificial Neural Networks, Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), Convolutional Neural Networks, Image Analysis, Applied Machine Learning, Autoencoders, Classification And Regression Tree (CART), Regression Analysis, Network Architecture, Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning, Model Evaluation
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Meta
Skills you'll gain: Mobile Development, React.js, Web Applications, Event-Driven Programming, Application Development, UI Components, Front-End Web Development, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Javascript, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Data Management
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: C++ (Programming Language), Software Documentation, System Programming, Technical Documentation, Application Development, Maintainability, Data Structures, Generative AI, Application Performance Management, Algorithms, Scalability
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
A library is a collection of resources, including books, digital media, and other information sources, organized for use by the public or specific communities. Libraries play a crucial role in education, research, and community engagement, providing access to knowledge and fostering a love for reading and learning. They serve as safe spaces for individuals to explore new ideas, develop skills, and connect with others, making them essential for personal and professional growth.
A variety of job opportunities exist in the library field, catering to different interests and skill sets. Positions include librarians, library technicians, archivists, and information specialists. Librarians often manage collections, assist patrons in finding resources, and develop programs to promote literacy and learning. Library technicians support librarians by organizing materials and maintaining databases. Archivists focus on preserving historical documents and records, while information specialists help organizations manage and disseminate information effectively.
To thrive in the library field, several key skills are essential. Strong organizational skills are necessary for managing collections and resources. Communication skills are vital for assisting patrons and collaborating with colleagues. Familiarity with information technology is increasingly important, as many libraries utilize digital tools for cataloging and accessing resources. Additionally, critical thinking and research skills enable professionals to evaluate and curate information effectively, ensuring that users receive accurate and relevant support.
To learn about libraries, start by exploring online courses that cover foundational topics in library science. Look for courses that offer practical insights and skills relevant to your interests. Engage with community resources, such as local libraries, to gain hands-on experience and connect with professionals in the field. Additionally, consider joining online forums or groups focused on library science to share knowledge and learn from others.
Library courses typically cover a range of topics, including cataloging and classification, information retrieval, digital libraries, and user services. Other subjects may include library management, reference services, and the impact of technology on libraries. These courses aim to equip you with the skills needed to navigate the evolving landscape of information and support users effectively.
For training and upskilling employees in the library sector, courses that focus on practical skills and technology integration are particularly beneficial. Programs like the Adobe Content Creator Professional Certificate can enhance digital content skills, while courses on information technology and user interface design can prepare employees for modern library challenges. These courses help build a workforce that is adaptable and equipped to meet the needs of diverse communities.