The Diploma of Library and Information Services provides a qualification for students interested in careers in library work. By completing this course, students will obtain all underpinning skills and knowledge requirements enhancing employment opportunities in librarianship.
Successful completion of the Diploma of Library and Information Services entitles graduates to be recognised by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) as a Library Technician. They become eligible for membership in its association and members can use the post-nominal ALIATec.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Diploma in Library and Information Services will be qualified for a career as library technicians, assistants and information services paraprofessionals.
Pathways/Articulation and pathways/Career pathways etc
TAFE courses can be credited towards your OUA degree
Many OUA courses provide pathways through the qualifications needed to develop your career from TAFE Diplomas through to undergraduate Bachelors degrees and then on to the postgraduate qualifications: Graduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Your TAFE qualification may provide you with the eligibility to apply for a higher level course or can provide you with unit exemptions and credit towards your university degree.
Eligibility
Pre-requisite entry
Entry into the Level 1 Units in this course requires a basic level of English and Maths (for example Year 10 B Grade or Year 12 C grade). International students need an IELTS score of 5.5.
To enrol in the Level 1 units you need to complete the enrolment registration form (see link below) or contact an OUA Student Advisor. New students must complete all Level 1 units before progressing to Level 2 units.
Certificate IV and Diploma of Library Information Services entry
The entry requirement for the Certificate IV in Library and Information Services is completion of the Level 1 units. The entry requirement for the Diploma of Library and Information Services qualification is completion of the Certificate IV units.
This entry requirement can also be met if you are able to provide evidence of equivalent competency through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
How to Apply
Level 1 Library and Information Services units are open to all students.
Direct entry into the higher level units is restricted. Students are required to apply using the restricted course application form below and have their eligibility assessed by Central Institute of Technology.
Applications for the Certificate IV and Diploma of Library Information Services are due two weeks before the close of enrolment.
CIT_VET_Course_Application_Form
(PDF, 172 KB)
PDF applications should be emailed to: apply@open.edu.au or faxed to: +61 3 8628 2989.
Assessment
There are no invigilated exams in this course. All assessment is by online submission of assignments and quizzes, plus participation in online discussions and presentations.
Award Requirements
To qualify for the Diploma of Library and Information Services students must complete 14 core and elective units of study.
Please note: Students must complete the Certificate IV pre-requisite units in Level 2 prior to commencing study in the Diploma of Library and Information Services.
Exit Points
Students who do not want to complete all units required for the Diploma of Library and Information Services may apply to Central Institute of Technology for the exit award of Certificate IV in Library/Information Services after completion of all Level 2 units.
Recommended Study Pattern
(Applicable for existing library workers)
If you are an existing library worker and would like to develop the skills you have in either the area you are working in or an area in your library you would like to work in, follow the recommended study pattern as outlined in the table below.
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Industry Area
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Units
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Acquisitions & Collection Development
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3→9→14
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Digital Media
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4→10
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Information Literacy
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1→7→8→11
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Circulation & Collection Maintenance
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1→2→11→13
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Cataloguing
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2→5→12
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Management
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6 (can stand alone)
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Students can enrol in any unit provided they have met the prerequisites or entry requirements for that unit.
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New students are recommended to complete all units in Levels 1 before progressing to Level 2 units.