If you’re a law student or recent graduate exploring alternative career paths beyond traditional legal practice, have you considered law librarianship? This JD-advantage profession offers a unique blend of legal expertise, research skills, and scholarly engagement, making it a great career path for those who love working with information and helping others navigate the complex world of legal resources.
What’s a law librarian?
Law librarians are experts in legal information, typically working in law firms, law schools, courts, or other governmental agencies. Their roles encompass a wide range of activities, including conducting legal research, assessing the accuracy and reliability of sources, educating and training users, writing, managing resources, and acquiring and organizing library materials. You’ve probably seen the Muse Law librarians at the reference desk or in the classroom, but there is much more work that happens “behind the scenes!”
If exploring this career, make sure to check out the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL), a nationwide professional association for law librarians and other legal information professionals. AALL’s website offers plenty of information and resources about the career field, master’s programs, job opportunities—you name it!
How do I become a law librarian?
If law librarianship piques your interest, start by exploring Master of Library Science programs across the country. Several are fully online and asynchronous. Additionally, some programs may even allow you to transfer course credits from your time in law school toward your master’s degree.
Take a look at the handout below on law librarianship careers for more information. Additionally, the librarians in the Muse Law Library are always happy to share their journey into librarianship, discuss what they love about their careers, and answer any questions you may have.
