We live in an information age. In many respects, our society has been transformed by technological advances in communication and the storage of information.

While emphasizing technical skills and information researching and gathering competencies, our program also values interpersonal skills. As often as possible we incorporate practical, on-site experiences into our curriculum; this means that students will be utilizing their local library and meeting local library staff. Using libraries as practical work sites serves as a complement to the online class instruction.

Program's Mission

The Library/Information Technology Program was approved by the State Chancellor's Office in 1966. Cuesta College has the distinction of being the first Community College in the State of California to offer a formal program in the training of library support personnel.

Purpose: To offer high quality vocational training for those working in the library field or seeking to enter the library field.

Objectives: To prepare students to solve client information problems by teaching them how to locate and evaluate information necessary for earning a living and leading a productive life.

Values: To promote the unrestricted access to information, an appreciation for the role of libraries in society, the efficient organization of information, and the development of interpersonal skills necessary to the library environment.

Interpersonal Interaction

Librarianship is a people-oriented occupation. No other career field is more vital to preserving our democratic rights than one that helps all individuals have free and unfettered access to the information they need to discharge their responsibilities as citizens, to earn a living and to lead a meaningful life. That is why both our faculty and our Advisory Committee of employers are committed to including human interaction and skill development in our program as well as facility in using the latest technology. As a result we require two one-day visits to the San Luis Obispo campus during the program. Typically, this will be the first and last semesters in which students are enrolled. We also build as much interactivity as possible into each course. We want to get to know our students and we want them to get to know us and to know their fellow students. A network of supportive professional colleagues can be as essential to success in this career field as is the acquisition of job related knowledge.

Program Tracks

The Library/Information Technology curriculum is designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful vocational career in the organizing and managing of information. It is offered in two academic programs. Students may chose the path leading to an Associate in Science Degree or one leading to a Certificate of Achievement. Both provide instruction in the skills and background needed to enter into or to gain advancement in an occupational setting.

Required and elective classes for the Certificate and Degree Program can be completed in an online modality.

View Library Information Technology Degrees and Certificates.

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