The mission of the American Library Association is to provide leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.

So why do you need a master's to be a librarian? Even if an information professional specializes in one aspect of librarianship, many librarians are expected to have a general knowledge of all aspects of the field. That's where an MLIS prepares you for any responsibilities you might assume as a librarian.

A master's degree in library science (MLS), preferably from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited program, is necessary for most librarian positions in most public, academic, and special libraries.

A librarian spends more than 60 percent of his or her day working with people, either library patrons or other staffers and back-office workers. Strong interpersonal skills are required for individuals who hope to succeed in this field.