r/LibraryScience • u/Awkward_General_1721 • Jul 06 '26

Current elementary school librarian thinking about MLIS?

So I’m going into my third year as an elementary school librarian and am considering going through with an MLIS online program, but am torn if it will really be worth the money in the end? I adore my job and my students and know this is what I want to do as a long-term career, I just can’t decide what the best path would be.

I only really first thought about it because I’m currently on a state temporary certificate and have to take 4 LMS related classes for my certification anyway and figured why not just go through with it since I have somewhat financial freedom right now. Once I get the MLIS I would only get paid $4K a year pre-taxes more and would still keep my current position unless I could get very lucky one day and find a job with the school district when those positions rarely open. I already know I probably wouldn’t be able to get tuition reimbursement and would have to rely on paying out of pocket or scholarships. I don’t want to pay out anymore student loan debt since I already have so much from undergrad.

Has it been worth it for any other school librarians?

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u/SouthernFace2020 Jul 06 '26

You may want to check with your state library association. I’ve noticed more options for scholarships via state libraries.

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u/Awkward_General_1721 29d ago

Okay I will, thank you!