PCC Library Technology Certificate Programs

LIBRARY TECHNOLOGY CERTIFICATE PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Preparation for entry-level Library Technician positions in all types of libraries. Hands-on instruction in library operations, library service principles, and essential workplace skill to succeed in the library workplace.

---

REQUIRED COURSES & SAMPLE SCHEDULE

---

FALL

LIB 001 - COLLEGE RESEARCH SKILLS (1 unit)
Course Description:

Fundamentals of college-level research using academic and online research tools. Focus on planning, developing effective search strategies, critical evaluation of information, and documentation of sources following standard citation styles.  Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

Student Learning Outcomes (SLO):

1. Formulate effective strategies to access, evaluate and cite information appropriate for their identified research need.

 

BIT 025 - SURVEY OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY IN BUSINESS (3 units) (OR BIT 106 OR CIS 010)

Course Description:

Survey of Business information systems and technology, networking, e-commerce, ethics and security, systems hardware and software components, and commonly used business software applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, graphics, and database management. Applications of these concepts and methods through hands-on projects developing computer-based solutions to business
problems. Transfer Credit: CSU. *C-ID: BUS 140

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs):

1. Demonstrate an understanding of how networks of hardware, software, and communication technologies interact to create the foundation for productivity and efficiency in an organization or for an individual.
2. Compare software to determine the most appropriate applications and tools to accomplish a task in an organizational setting or for personal use.
3. Research and analyze how computer technology can solve problems in society and in the workplace.

 

LIB 101 - INTRODUCTION TO LIBRARY SERVICES FOR SUPPORT STAFF (3 units)

Course Description:
Characteristics of the main types of libraries with a focus on tools and terminology of library services and the role of library support staff in library operations. Library principles, service philosophy, and issues related to library services are also covered. For students interested in working in library support staff roles, but open to all students.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs):

1. Compare/contrast the general characteristics and staffing of the main types of libraries.
2. Evaluate common library principles and issues related to library services.
3. Analyze the communication, customer services and technology skills required for library support staff positions.

 

LIB 104 - INTRODUCTION TO LIBRARY TECHNICAL SERVICES (3 units)
Fundamentals of library technical services with a focus on the tools and skills needed for library acquisitions and processing library materials. Issues related to collection development policies and access to library materials are also covered. For students interested in working in library support staff roles, but open to all students. 

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs):

1. Apply basic library technical services resources and processes to properly manage library materials.
2. Explain organizational, ethical, and legal issues related to library technical services.

---

SPRING

LIB 102 - INTRODUCTION TO REFERENCE SERVICES (3 units)

Course Description:                

Basic tools, techniques and philosophy of library reference services with a focus on reference interview skills and effective search techniques for assisting library users with basic reference and research inquiries. Social and ethical issues related to reference services policies and patron privacy are also covered. For students interested in working in library support staff roles, but open to all students. Prerequisite: Enrollment in or completion of LIB 001. 

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs):

1. Synthesize basic reference service principles, tools, techniques, and communication strategies to assist library patrons in meeting their information needs.
2. Analyze basic principles, policies, philosophy, and ethical issues of library reference service.

 

LIB 103 - INTRODUCTION TO LIBRARY ACCESS SERVICES (3 units)

Course Description:
Library circulation and access services with a focus on customer service, online circulation systems, and the organization and maintenance of library collections. Issues related to access services policies and patron privacy are also covered. For students interested in working in library support staff roles, but open to all students. 

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs):

1. Synthesize techniques, procedures, and customer service strategies to complete library access services functions and transactions. 
2. Analyze library policies and legal and ethical issues related to patron access, patron privacy, library security, and copyright.

 

LIB 105 - DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGING PROCEDURES

Course Description:
Basic principles of descriptive cataloging with a focus on the tools and skills needed for copy cataloging using national standards and common bibliographic utilities. Includes an overview of the basic principles of subject classification and issues related to bibliographic and authority control in online catalogs. For students interested in working in library support staff roles, but open to all students. Prerequisite: Lib 104

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs):

1. Demonstrate descriptive cataloging procedures by accurately analyzing and enhancing Machine Readable Cataloging Records (MARC) in a bibliographic database.
2. Critique issues related to the need for bibliographic and authority control in online catalogs.
    

 

 

Students can also pursue an Associate in Science Degree in Library Technology by completing the 19-unit Certificate along with Associate in Science Degree requirements, plus electives, for a total of 60 units. Students are encouraged to meet with a PCC Counselor to discuss their academic goals to determine the specific requirements and the type of Associate degree to pursue.