Can You Teach With A Phd In Library And Information Science?

A PhD in Library and Information Science doesn’t just qualify you to teach—it lets you redefine how people engage with information. I know someone who teaches high school students research skills part-time while working as a university archivist. Their dual role shows how adaptable the degree is. You could specialize in youth services and teach children’s literature, or focus on digital preservation and lead workshops for aspiring tech librarians.

What’s cool is the range of institutions you can work with. Community colleges often need instructors for certificate programs in library tech, while research universities might want someone to teach doctoral seminars on information policy. The degree’s interdisciplinary nature means you can collaborate with faculty in computer science, education, or even public health, depending on your research interests.

Plus, online education has created demand for experts who can design courses about information literacy or database management. If you love teaching but want flexibility, this could be a great fit.

Having a PhD in Library and Information Science opens doors to teaching in ways people might not expect. Beyond traditional library science programs, you could teach in disciplines like data science, knowledge management, or even digital humanities. I’ve seen professors with this background design courses on metadata, user experience research, or rare book curation. The versatility of the degree means you aren’t limited to one path.

One aspect I find exciting is the opportunity to bridge theory and practice. For instance, you could teach future librarians how to navigate ethical dilemmas in information access or lead workshops on emerging technologies like AI in libraries. Some graduates even transition into corporate training roles, helping businesses manage knowledge systems effectively.

If you’re passionate about research, this PhD also positions you to mentor students in academic writing or grant-funded projects. The key is leveraging your unique expertise to fill gaps in curricula, whether that’s in a university, online course platform, or professional development setting.

I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of education and library science. With a PhD in Library and Information Science, you absolutely can teach, especially in higher education. Many universities hire faculty with this degree to teach courses in information organization, digital libraries, or research methods. My friend who graduated with this degree now teaches at a community college, focusing on information literacy and archival studies. The field is broad, so your expertise could align with teaching roles in library science programs, or even crossover into education technology departments. It’s not just about being a librarian—it’s about shaping how future professionals understand and use information.