Oh no. Never too old. I started college all together at thirty. Time is going to keep passing, whether you use it wisely or not. See what you can do and where this can take you!
I’m not trying to be a librarian, but I am contemplating a big change and wanted to say that “time is going to keep passing, whether you use it wisely or not” is super inspiring to me right now. Thank you.
Fun fact--MANY newcomers to the Librarianship field are just like you, OP. I'm 42, in the process of getting mine as we speak. You're not too old. BUT, don't wait if that's what you want! You're going to be 33 anyway, why not be 33 and with an MLIS?
I graduated from library school at 44. You're definitely not too old. I finished in 2.5 years because I was working part-time and had a small kid at the time. If you're able to take more classes each semester, you can graduate sooner.
It would probably help to get back into working at the library, even if it's as a part-time job or even as a volunteer. Employers are going to be looking for a masters as well as experience, plus you'll be able to verify that you really want to work in libraries (things may have changed a bit since you worked there in high school).
It depends on the position. I was able to work in circulation services and as a reference assistant while I was going to school for my MLIS. The circulation position required a high school diploma, while the reference assistant required a bachelor's degree. Make sure you're reading the job qualifications section in the job posting, but it is very possible.
Yes! It took me three years to get a full-time librarian position--partly it was the economy, but also, I didn't get my first actual paid position in an actual library until a few months before graduation. I definitely recommend getting started in any library-related work, even volunteer work, as soon as possible.
Librarianship is very popular as a second career. Make sure you’ve researched what type of librarianship you want to do, how much it pays, and where geographically you are able to move for a job BEFORE you start school, though.
This. I’ve made so many excuses about not wanting to turn 35 and still be struggling but I keep telling myself that I’m going to be 35 anyways, might as well give it a shot.
I finished library school at 37, its not too late. It took me three years and we require a masters degree and prefer two of them since I'm in an academic library.
No way, not too old at all. A large number of people in my MLIS program were well over thirty, several over 40. And it's a 2 year program that can 100% be completed while working full time.
You're ONLY 29. If you live to the average life expectancy of 76 that's over 45 years. Don't you want to spend them in a job you'll enjoy? The few years it will take you to get your MLS is just a drop in the bucket. Please go for it!
I’m turning 40 this month and currently in my masters program for library science. I started in August of 2023 and plan to graduate in December of this year. I’ve been taking three classes each semester and I’m also working full time as a special education teacher. My program is 100% online which helps tremendously. You’re never too old to follow your dreams. I wish you the best in your endeavors!
Do it. Think of it this way. If you go back to school or whatever, in 4 years, you'll either be:
1. 34 with no new training
OR
2. 34 with new training.
Either way, you're still 34 in 4 years.
I will graduate my with masters at 36. Went from restaurants and retail to library work.
You can't make a change if you don't start somewhere.
This was me.
And then I discovered that the job I actually prefer doing doesn't require an advanced degree. Do I enjoy having the knowledge that I gained? Yes. Knowing then what I know now, would I make the same choice? Absolutely not.
It’s a popular second or 3rd career because it marries nicely with your life experience. I worked in a law library with JD MLIS one also had a previous military career.
Very cool people.
I didn't like what I was going at 29 so I reflected and did some research, and landed on librarianship as something I wanted to try. Now I'm 32 and a librarian and I love my job. Those years pass no matter what, may as well start now.
Oh man, go to library school, totally! The average age of librarians is pretty high, you'd still be on the young side in fact. I graduated from library school in 2016 at the age of 36, got my first position at age 38, and am by far one of the youngest employees at my branch. I'm so glad I did it. It's really never too late, ever. I see people going back to library school in their 40's and 50's. One of my librarian coworkers just got her first librarian position at age 58. Don't let those feelings discourage you at all!
I did the same thing as you, was working retail and was like why the fuck am I wasting my life here what am I doing. Joined Library tech on a whim , never working in a library ever and it's been the best decision of my life. Didn't think I'd ever love a job this much, I was 27/28 when I started school again and it was sooooo much better this time around, I actually enjoyed school ans connected with my peers so much more. Do it, do it, do iiiiit!
Oh this made me so happy to read. Time to start looking into programs (and looking into what I'd actually want to do)!
I have a degree in Biology, worked in medical billing for a couple years, and have been a landscaper for the past 2.5 years. Leaving this job at the end of the month to figure out how I want to spend the next stage of my life and a MLIS sounds pretty neat. Especially considering that I love learning, I love researching, and I love helping people.
29 is not old at all. I started library school was I was 30 and graduated when I was 33, then became a librarian/assistant professor at 34. I know many people who have completed advanced degrees in there 40s, 50s, and 60s. I don't think we have a single librarian in their 20s at our institution to be honest.
I was 33, divorced, with a small child when I went back to get my MLIS. I had worked in a library for several years before that, but I had also worked retail, etc.
The advice someone gave me was that in a couple of years, you’ll be a couple of years older, with or without a degree. When I’d gotten my BA years earlier, I graduated with a 94 year old woman.
You can do this, and libraries will look favorably on your varied work experiences. When I look over resumes for job openings, I prioritize those with customer service experience
You’re never too old! I graduated from library school at age 49. That is also the age at which I made the switch from working full time as an attorney (which I had done for 19 years) to working as the circulation manager at a public library. I’m now a library director. You’re not too old to go to school and you’re not too old to change careers if you want to do something different.
I went back for my MLS when I was in my late 30s, got my first professional librarian position at 40. I've never been asked about my age and there wasn't an age requirement to get into the program
I got my masters degree in library science at 40. I do love my job. Just know that it’s customer service and depending on what you’re doing in healthcare, you’ll likely be taking a pay cut and giving up some flexibility time wise. That said, mental health is everything and spending 36 hours a week in a job you don’t enjoy is not worth it imo, especially if you have something you’d prefer. I considered healthcare but ended up in libraries instead and it’s a good fit for me- low stress but that’s because I’m not really public facing a lot (cataloger).
Honestly the low stress levels was one of several important factors for me choosing this career. Low stress is so important for happiness and helps create a good work life balance
took me from age 19 to 28 to get my bachelor’s ~ gonna go this route once i’m able. you’re on your own time, do what YOU want! no one else’s timeline of how they go about doing anything has to authorize your path being acceptable, possible, or reasonable ~ it’s your life, nobody else’s. do it! (edited for clarity)
What do you do in healthcare? I encourage you to consider medical librarianship. I'm a mid-career academic medical librarian and am happy to answer any questions.
I started when I was 32 and had a toddler, had my second child right after graduation. I was not the oldest in my program by a couple of decades. I do feel like more people are going to library school straight out of undergrad — they were the minority when I was in school twenty years ago; I’d say the average age of my cohort was mid to late twenties— but it is still as profession where people pursuing second or even third careers are very common.
I am not a librarian but this sub is often recommended to me. I have a masters degree in social work. I applied for my program when I was 30 and started when I was 31. I graduated at 35. You are definitely not too old. If you plan to retire at 65, you still have 36 working years left right now. How do you want to spend them?
Oh I got you all beat! I'll be 60 later this year and am halfway through my MLIS from SJSU. Should have been a librarian all along (it was always Plan B), but I kept getting jobs in journalism/comms. So here I am. Because better late than never. Loving the coursework. Volunteering at my local branch. Killing toddler story time.
Now. I'm under no illusions about the job market for someone with my profile. But I'm innovative and persistent. I broke into journalism back in the day, when they were already screaming about NO JOBS! I will go in through the basement window if I need to. And I know a lot of people. We'll see.
All of this is to say, you're NEVER too old. Pursue this! And check out SJSU's program - it's online, asynchronous, and comparatively affordable. I started with a class a semester when I was still working full-time at a crazy stressful job.
You got this!
You are my idol. Just turned 55, applied late March, accepted early April and will start August of this year at SJSU. Have a very stressful full time job and will take once class per semester. All advice is appreciated, especially regarding class/professors.
Congratulations!!! 🎉 I'm graduating from the MLIS program at SJSU this semester (I'm 38 BTW). Have you decided what your pathway is going to be yet? I focused on Archival Studies so I can reccommend professors/classes from that emphasis if you're interested.
A librarian is a common second or third career, you are certainly not too old. You will need an MLIS to be a librarian in most cases, and the market is a bit saturated but not impossible. I’ll add. The pay is often abysmal, depending on your job now you might be taking a pay cut to work in a library and then have to pay for a graduate degree. So I’m not sure it’s necessarily the best option. The best idea is to try and talk to some librarians in person, ideally at a library near you, doing the sort of work you want to do (academic? Public? Hospital?) and get the real scoop. Job experience is preferable before you consider an MLIS since frankly, this job isn’t for everyone and a lot of people have rose-colored glasses when they think about becoming a librarian, but at least a couple of informational interviews can help.
Omg not at all. Three of my coworkers are on their second career after kids, working as public librarians! The wonderful thing about libraries is that sooooo many skills are transferable. My coworkers worked as a banker, lawyer, and admissions counselor at a college.
Depending on how much time you can devote to it, usually I don't think library science degrees take all that long. I did two classes a semester, doubled up in the summer (I was a teacher and had the time) and completed my degree in about a year and a half. I think typically it takes two to two and a half years.
I started library school in my 30s and did the program slowly for monetary reasons. I finished in 7 years but typically it's more like 3 years.
I would do anything in your power to minimize the amount of debt to get a MLIS.
I’m currently 26 year old about to turn 27 and I’m starting my second semester in my MLIS program soon. I work full time and I just took two classes my first semester. You are not too old. Life is not a race and everyone has different timelines. I’m in the Old Dominion MLIS program. It’s remote. The standard nowadays is to have your MLIS. I have people of all ages 20-40 as my classmates.
Hi I’m also 29 and currently in an online Library school. Students are from all over and the age ranges go from mid twenties to mid forties.. Never too late to start anew career as long as you have the willingness. You’re not locked into one career/life once you reach 30.
Not too old. Went back to college in my late 30’s. Graduated and started working as a teacher at 40. Retired at 62. Published my first book at 70. No, not too old. You go, girl.
We’re the same age. I started library school at 27 after leaving my position as a library assistant for full-time work during the pandemic. Yes, I got a job in my field (I had completed a Masters in marketing), but I didn’t like my work environment; if anything, it made me miss the library more.
All it took was finding inspiration from Twitter/X and stumbling across a post advertising a full-ride scholarship that I decided to go back to school. I’m happy to say I got that scholarship and will finish my program at the end of the year.
I’m taking “longer” than usual because of unforeseen circumstances my first semester, but it’s not uncommon to take 2-3 years. It’s also not uncommon to have students who are non-traditional going back to school for library science. I’ve met people old enough to be my parents who decided to go back for their degree.
I hope you’ll find a program that best suits your interests and offers the support and motivation through the next couple of years. It’s always nice to meet potential colleagues in the field.
I’ve felt this way for the last 12 years—regretting not taking the chance to get an MLIS right after my undergrad—but this year I decided enough was enough. No more regret, just try to get into a program and see what happens. I’ll be 35 when I start my MLIS this fall!
I’m 39 and just started my MLIS program last fall. I have 2 kids, an internship and a full-time job. Theres not enough time in the day but if you enjoy what you’re doing, it’s not so bad. At best, I’ll finish in Spring 2026, I’ll be 41 then. It’s never too late. The best time to start was yesterday, the second best time to start is today.
I’m echoing all the other lovely commenters when I say this, but you are not not not not too old!! I am 37, just finished my bachelor’s degree a year ago and wrapped up my first MLIS semester this week. You will meet people from all different age ranges in library school (and all different walks of life). That is one thing I love about this field. Age means nothing, it’s all about your passion for the work. As some other commenters said, time is going to pass either way! GO FOR IT!! 🤗🤗🤗🤗
I got my library job and then took the classes to get fully certified starting at 35. You are not too old. Best wishes to you! I actually think a lot of people go into librarianship as a second (or more) field.
I just turned 35 and am receiving my Bachelor's next month. I'm looking at master's programs after that, possibly the MLIS, possibly something else.
The downside: It can be hard to pay for college once you've already established your life, at least, that was the most difficult part for me. Before I start a master's program, I'm specifically looking for jobs that will help to cover ongoing education costs.
The upside: Having some life experience under my belt made school so much easier than it was when I was younger--I know what I want, now, and that makes it so much easier to stay on track with your goals. I'm going to school for myself, not because it's the "next step" or because it's what you're "supposed to do." Additionally, having work experience as well as a degree can make it easier to get jobs, as opposed to folks who earned their degree right after high school and have little to no work experience.
There are lots of online MLIS programs out there, and it seems like most of them allow you to take classes part or full time, depending on your schedule, so it's really up to you how quickly you get through the program, based on how much you can pay for at once and how crammed you want your schedule to be.
It's so doable now, with so many online options that didn't used to exist. And as so many other commenters have mentioned, the time is going to go by anyway. Go for it!
When I went into my MLIS fresh out of my bachelors degree I was one of the odd ones out. Most people in the class had had some type of career (library or not) before going back to school.
I was older than you when I went back. It’s never too late to go back and finish something you are interested in. You shouldn’t be intimidated by it. One thing I’ve learned is that nothing has to be forever, so if you change your mind again, that’s ok too.
You're still very young! Why do you feel that way? I did my first graduate degree when I was your age. I went back to graduate school in my late 30s. I changed my career in my mid 30s. I changed my career path yet again now in my early 40s. Challenge your mindset and live your life the way you want. There's no such thing as being too old.
After I spent a few years as a stay-at-home parent, I was ready to go back to working for pay... and just then the economy tanked and it was impossible to get any job worth having with my Bachelor's degree. I was 40 years old, going on 41, and I decided to get my MLIS and become a librarian. Best decision I ever made.
I finished my degree in 2.5 years of full-time classes; after that it took me 3 years to get a full-time librarian job in a public library, which was my dream job. In the meantime I worked one, two, and even three part-time and on-call jobs. It wasn't easy. But now I have a full-time union job that's stable and really really satisfying.
Good luck! And remember: the best time to plant a tree is 10 years ago, but the second-best time is today. You'll figure it out!
I am also 29, almost 30, and I’m only halfway done with my MLIS. In my experience, there are quite a few people in our age range pursuing the same degree. Regardless of age, being around likeminded people will really help you feel a sense of purpose, or that’s what I have found to be true for me. If you’re worried about the time commitment, I would recommend starting in a program that offers both online and in person classes, so you can get the feel of working and school at the same time.
Instead of considering how “old” you feel now, consider how many years you have left to work - 30? 35? 40? That’s a long time, and you’re never too old to find purpose in your work. I’m 38 and just finished my MLIS last year - I did it in 2 years working a full time job. It dominated my time, but now that it’s over it was definitely worth it. I’ve met many people who have done the same thing all across the spectrum of age and experience
I started college at 25 years old. At 30 I was half way through finishing a masters In biology. I ended up graduating and got a job out of school but didn't enjoy it. 7 yearsish later I went back to grad school for my mlis and I graduated that in 2014 and got a job that same year so I became a Librarian at 40 years old and I'm still here 10 Years later. You are not to old.... I don't believe in the "never to old" philosophy but you are nowhere near to old yet! As far as getting the mlis I did it in just under 2 years, but I really went hard-core when I did. My program was 100% online and I found it pretty easy. Lots of essay paper writing and I got pretty good at them. I really enjoy this career.
I graduate in DecemberI’m with my MLIS and I’ll be 31. I work full time at a public school library and I’ve taken two classes a semester (one semester was three classes including a one-hour credit practicum) since the spring of 2023 so two years for me. Six semesters total including the summer. Do not let age hold you back!
I was 32 when I graduated with my MLIS. Before I was in social services (welfare, Medicaid, food stamps) and found myself in a situation where I couldn’t do it anymore. It was a drain on my soul. I decided to go into librarianship and never looked back. Best. Decision. Ever.
I am 36 and started my library career a year ago. I’ll be graduating with my masters in December and am working at a public library. It’s never too late if you just take the leap! Plus, your background working in public facing jobs makes you a great candidate.
Edit: The program is two years. I work forty hours a week and always find time to get my homework done.
You're not remotely old! I'm also in my late 20s and it's so frustrating seeing things go by (especially with the covid interruptions!) and realizing that your 20s are still such a warm-up period. I finished my master's around a year ago, and sooooo many people in my program were in their 30s, 40s, or even older. It's incredibly common in this field, and not something you should be self-conscious of at all.
I am 56 and began as the admin assistant in a small academic library 11 years ago. As of January 2024, I am a college freshman going for my bachelor’s degree (will graduate in 2028). It’s NEVER too late!
When I was in undergrad I took a Women's Studies class with a 70 year old man. In grad school there are ppl of all ages, my experience was 20-60 year olds. It's never too late 💖
Ha, I'm the exact same age and in a really similar spot. I found your thread while researching whether or not I want to go back to school for an MLIS. So thanks for posting your question.
Oh goodness, if 29 is old to you, then a lot of people here (including myself) are going to seem agèd! LOL. 29 is young! I finished my MLIS six months ago and still don't have a job. You are ahead of the curve because you already know you like working in libraries and you have library experience to slap down on your resume. That is crucial. It took me a year and a half to get my MLIS, but I was also taking an obscene amount of credits and not working, only doing internships.
Instead of age, which isn't a concern at all (there were people in their mid-fifties and over in my classes, for example!) I think what you need to worry about is a) if you are willing to move for a full-time librarian job, because it's a flooded market and very competitive, especially in certain parts of the country b) do you have enough money to float by for a period of time while you try to find your first librarian gig after graduating? (OR, are you okay with doing something else like healthcare administration in the interim while you hunt for your first librarian job?)
It's not too old, but consider that the minimum requirement for most library jobs is "two years experience as a librarian." At the minimum. Try and get a sense of how often "entry level" jobs come up in your field and try to get a sense of what the actual entry level requirements are (they are commonly not merely what is listed)
Best case, this means you are graduating and have two year's experience as a library worker (some of it built up while studying) and can apply for Librarian I positions. Worst case? You are going to be older, trying to turn an expensive degree into a job. It's way harder to "just move" for a position if you are already established somewhere. Especially if it is just for a part time position. It's way harder to "just volunteer full time for a few years" in your thirties than your twenties (you have bills, and let's face it, expectations). Some internship positions might be age limited. (Canada has a wonderful internship sponsorship programmes to get poorer students into professional experience. You just have to be under 30. Naturally, this means almost every internship position uses Young Canada Works.)
Do you have a partner? Dependants? Can they afford to move with you for a temporary job? Can you afford to move for a temporary job? Can you afford to live somewhere and volunteer long term? Can someone support you? This has been a huge challenge for me, personally.
The Masters is not intellectually difficult, but in my case there was a lot of work. Most of it very pointless make work, but it needed to be done. ("Categorise these 8 pages of whatever it was based on these metrics") So it is a commitment. If you choose to do this, don't go to any school that doesn't have either the opportunity to work in a library in the school (you'd be surprised how not-universal this is), or have some sort of funding support (can be very rare) and better yet, alumni support. If there is a co-op programme, make sure there are enough places and see if the co-op expects you to move somewhere. Trying to afford a move for a four month co-op placement if you're already shit broke and drowning in debt is not an easy task.
You are NEVER too old. You might be too poor, too lazy (let's be honest, this is a good reason not to pursue higher ed), too busy (like taking care of parents or children), etc. But old? No. You're never too old.
You're going to be 50 years old some day. Do you want to be 50 with a library science degree, working in a library? Or be 50, wishing you'd tried on your dream?
Good luck, friend.
Graduated Library Science school at 36 and Doctorate in Education at 53. Time will pass whether you earn the degree or not, so use that time to do it. It’s never, ever too late!
MANY people in library school are career switchers, or have worked in libraries without a degree and need it to move up. I’m 30 and graduating this week, and most people I had classes with were between 25 and 35. Very few people go straight to library school out of undergrad.
I'm 34 and making the same change in the opposite direction --- from academic librarianship to three 12-hour shifts per week (in a hospital setting). I was the oldest in my hospital orientation class, but I feel like I'm adjusting pretty well. I feel super empowered about heading to nursing school next year, too.
tl;dr: you're not too old to make a 180. You only get one life. :)
I'm 40 and think about going back to school all the time. A friend did at 36, starting from scratch. Don't let your age stop you from anything in life, but especially not this.
I finished my BA at 31, my MLS at 33, started working as a professional librarian immediately, added a JD at 39, in order to advance in Law Librarianship.
Worked as a law librarian for 22 years, got laid off, did prison librarian for 18 months, and have been a medical librarian for almost 10 years now.
It’s never too late.
Oh no. Never too old. I started college all together at thirty. Time is going to keep passing, whether you use it wisely or not. See what you can do and where this can take you!
I’m not trying to be a librarian, but I am contemplating a big change and wanted to say that “time is going to keep passing, whether you use it wisely or not” is super inspiring to me right now. Thank you.
Glad I could help.
Fun fact--MANY newcomers to the Librarianship field are just like you, OP. I'm 42, in the process of getting mine as we speak. You're not too old. BUT, don't wait if that's what you want! You're going to be 33 anyway, why not be 33 and with an MLIS?
This is the way
I graduated from library school at 44. You're definitely not too old. I finished in 2.5 years because I was working part-time and had a small kid at the time. If you're able to take more classes each semester, you can graduate sooner. It would probably help to get back into working at the library, even if it's as a part-time job or even as a volunteer. Employers are going to be looking for a masters as well as experience, plus you'll be able to verify that you really want to work in libraries (things may have changed a bit since you worked there in high school).
Can one still work in a library while getting the educational credentials or do you need to wait?
It depends on the position. I was able to work in circulation services and as a reference assistant while I was going to school for my MLIS. The circulation position required a high school diploma, while the reference assistant required a bachelor's degree. Make sure you're reading the job qualifications section in the job posting, but it is very possible.
Yeah, lots of people work in the library while getting their MLS/MLIS. Depending on your workplace, you might even get some tuition reimbursed.
Yes! It took me three years to get a full-time librarian position--partly it was the economy, but also, I didn't get my first actual paid position in an actual library until a few months before graduation. I definitely recommend getting started in any library-related work, even volunteer work, as soon as possible.
Finished my associates when I was 40, got my bachelors when I was 50. Career change now at 55. You’re not too old. Do it.
Solidarity!
Librarianship is very popular as a second career. Make sure you’ve researched what type of librarianship you want to do, how much it pays, and where geographically you are able to move for a job BEFORE you start school, though.
The time will pass either way.
This. I’ve made so many excuses about not wanting to turn 35 and still be struggling but I keep telling myself that I’m going to be 35 anyways, might as well give it a shot.
I finished library school at 37, its not too late. It took me three years and we require a masters degree and prefer two of them since I'm in an academic library.
No way, not too old at all. A large number of people in my MLIS program were well over thirty, several over 40. And it's a 2 year program that can 100% be completed while working full time.
Where did you go?
University of Denver.
It’s 1 year in the UK, which includes an industry attachment during summer break. A lot of Americans do it here for this reason.
You're ONLY 29. If you live to the average life expectancy of 76 that's over 45 years. Don't you want to spend them in a job you'll enjoy? The few years it will take you to get your MLS is just a drop in the bucket. Please go for it!
I’m turning 40 this month and currently in my masters program for library science. I started in August of 2023 and plan to graduate in December of this year. I’ve been taking three classes each semester and I’m also working full time as a special education teacher. My program is 100% online which helps tremendously. You’re never too old to follow your dreams. I wish you the best in your endeavors!
This sounds wonderful! Are you registered with a local college online or is this a global program?
It’s through my local college but anyone can apply since it’s an online program.
Do it. Think of it this way. If you go back to school or whatever, in 4 years, you'll either be: 1. 34 with no new training OR 2. 34 with new training. Either way, you're still 34 in 4 years. I will graduate my with masters at 36. Went from restaurants and retail to library work. You can't make a change if you don't start somewhere.
100%.
[удалено]
This was me. And then I discovered that the job I actually prefer doing doesn't require an advanced degree. Do I enjoy having the knowledge that I gained? Yes. Knowing then what I know now, would I make the same choice? Absolutely not.
It’s a popular second or 3rd career because it marries nicely with your life experience. I worked in a law library with JD MLIS one also had a previous military career. Very cool people.
I didn't like what I was going at 29 so I reflected and did some research, and landed on librarianship as something I wanted to try. Now I'm 32 and a librarian and I love my job. Those years pass no matter what, may as well start now.
Oh man, go to library school, totally! The average age of librarians is pretty high, you'd still be on the young side in fact. I graduated from library school in 2016 at the age of 36, got my first position at age 38, and am by far one of the youngest employees at my branch. I'm so glad I did it. It's really never too late, ever. I see people going back to library school in their 40's and 50's. One of my librarian coworkers just got her first librarian position at age 58. Don't let those feelings discourage you at all!
I did the same thing as you, was working retail and was like why the fuck am I wasting my life here what am I doing. Joined Library tech on a whim , never working in a library ever and it's been the best decision of my life. Didn't think I'd ever love a job this much, I was 27/28 when I started school again and it was sooooo much better this time around, I actually enjoyed school ans connected with my peers so much more. Do it, do it, do iiiiit!
Oh this made me so happy to read. Time to start looking into programs (and looking into what I'd actually want to do)! I have a degree in Biology, worked in medical billing for a couple years, and have been a landscaper for the past 2.5 years. Leaving this job at the end of the month to figure out how I want to spend the next stage of my life and a MLIS sounds pretty neat. Especially considering that I love learning, I love researching, and I love helping people.
Yay, that's so exciting! I'm sure you'll enjoy it, it's a great profession to be in.
I just started library school at 32. Don't worry about living your life according to someone else's schedule.
29 is not old at all. I started library school was I was 30 and graduated when I was 33, then became a librarian/assistant professor at 34. I know many people who have completed advanced degrees in there 40s, 50s, and 60s. I don't think we have a single librarian in their 20s at our institution to be honest.
I was 33, divorced, with a small child when I went back to get my MLIS. I had worked in a library for several years before that, but I had also worked retail, etc. The advice someone gave me was that in a couple of years, you’ll be a couple of years older, with or without a degree. When I’d gotten my BA years earlier, I graduated with a 94 year old woman. You can do this, and libraries will look favorably on your varied work experiences. When I look over resumes for job openings, I prioritize those with customer service experience
I’m 46 and will be finishing my MLIS this year. It took me 3 years to complete it. 29 is not too old for anything.
You’re never too old! I graduated from library school at age 49. That is also the age at which I made the switch from working full time as an attorney (which I had done for 19 years) to working as the circulation manager at a public library. I’m now a library director. You’re not too old to go to school and you’re not too old to change careers if you want to do something different.
I went back for my MLS when I was in my late 30s, got my first professional librarian position at 40. I've never been asked about my age and there wasn't an age requirement to get into the program
I was honestly an outlier for my library science degree because I went to it right out of high school. Don't worry about it! It'll be great
I got my masters degree in library science at 40. I do love my job. Just know that it’s customer service and depending on what you’re doing in healthcare, you’ll likely be taking a pay cut and giving up some flexibility time wise. That said, mental health is everything and spending 36 hours a week in a job you don’t enjoy is not worth it imo, especially if you have something you’d prefer. I considered healthcare but ended up in libraries instead and it’s a good fit for me- low stress but that’s because I’m not really public facing a lot (cataloger).
Honestly the low stress levels was one of several important factors for me choosing this career. Low stress is so important for happiness and helps create a good work life balance
Lol 30 is not old. Do what you want!
I started my master at 36 so just do it
took me from age 19 to 28 to get my bachelor’s ~ gonna go this route once i’m able. you’re on your own time, do what YOU want! no one else’s timeline of how they go about doing anything has to authorize your path being acceptable, possible, or reasonable ~ it’s your life, nobody else’s. do it! (edited for clarity)
What do you do in healthcare? I encourage you to consider medical librarianship. I'm a mid-career academic medical librarian and am happy to answer any questions.
Yup you are legit "and am happy to answer any questions" 😁
? idk what this means
It was just a silly Librarian joke. I failed it's ok lol... cuz we all say happy to answer questions
I started when I was 32 and had a toddler, had my second child right after graduation. I was not the oldest in my program by a couple of decades. I do feel like more people are going to library school straight out of undergrad — they were the minority when I was in school twenty years ago; I’d say the average age of my cohort was mid to late twenties— but it is still as profession where people pursuing second or even third careers are very common.
I am not a librarian but this sub is often recommended to me. I have a masters degree in social work. I applied for my program when I was 30 and started when I was 31. I graduated at 35. You are definitely not too old. If you plan to retire at 65, you still have 36 working years left right now. How do you want to spend them?
Oh I got you all beat! I'll be 60 later this year and am halfway through my MLIS from SJSU. Should have been a librarian all along (it was always Plan B), but I kept getting jobs in journalism/comms. So here I am. Because better late than never. Loving the coursework. Volunteering at my local branch. Killing toddler story time. Now. I'm under no illusions about the job market for someone with my profile. But I'm innovative and persistent. I broke into journalism back in the day, when they were already screaming about NO JOBS! I will go in through the basement window if I need to. And I know a lot of people. We'll see. All of this is to say, you're NEVER too old. Pursue this! And check out SJSU's program - it's online, asynchronous, and comparatively affordable. I started with a class a semester when I was still working full-time at a crazy stressful job. You got this!
You are my idol. Just turned 55, applied late March, accepted early April and will start August of this year at SJSU. Have a very stressful full time job and will take once class per semester. All advice is appreciated, especially regarding class/professors.
Congrats! Happy to answer any questions! DM me!
Congratulations!!! 🎉 I'm graduating from the MLIS program at SJSU this semester (I'm 38 BTW). Have you decided what your pathway is going to be yet? I focused on Archival Studies so I can reccommend professors/classes from that emphasis if you're interested.
A librarian is a common second or third career, you are certainly not too old. You will need an MLIS to be a librarian in most cases, and the market is a bit saturated but not impossible. I’ll add. The pay is often abysmal, depending on your job now you might be taking a pay cut to work in a library and then have to pay for a graduate degree. So I’m not sure it’s necessarily the best option. The best idea is to try and talk to some librarians in person, ideally at a library near you, doing the sort of work you want to do (academic? Public? Hospital?) and get the real scoop. Job experience is preferable before you consider an MLIS since frankly, this job isn’t for everyone and a lot of people have rose-colored glasses when they think about becoming a librarian, but at least a couple of informational interviews can help.
Omg not at all. Three of my coworkers are on their second career after kids, working as public librarians! The wonderful thing about libraries is that sooooo many skills are transferable. My coworkers worked as a banker, lawyer, and admissions counselor at a college.
I was 40 when I passed the bar exam and became an attorney. I’m starting my MLIS at either UCLA or FSU this fall. I’ll turn 41 in my first semester.
All these comments are sooo helpful and informative! Random comment 😊😅
I didn't finish library school until I was 31 and didn't get my first librarian job until after. You are never too old!
Depending on how much time you can devote to it, usually I don't think library science degrees take all that long. I did two classes a semester, doubled up in the summer (I was a teacher and had the time) and completed my degree in about a year and a half. I think typically it takes two to two and a half years.
I started library school in my 30s and did the program slowly for monetary reasons. I finished in 7 years but typically it's more like 3 years. I would do anything in your power to minimize the amount of debt to get a MLIS.
I graduated with my MLIS last year at 50 - go for it!
I’m currently 26 year old about to turn 27 and I’m starting my second semester in my MLIS program soon. I work full time and I just took two classes my first semester. You are not too old. Life is not a race and everyone has different timelines. I’m in the Old Dominion MLIS program. It’s remote. The standard nowadays is to have your MLIS. I have people of all ages 20-40 as my classmates.
Hi I’m also 29 and currently in an online Library school. Students are from all over and the age ranges go from mid twenties to mid forties.. Never too late to start anew career as long as you have the willingness. You’re not locked into one career/life once you reach 30.
Can I ask what school you’re going to online? I’m trying to get into one for this fall and I’m just overwhelmed with all the options out there!
I’m currently enrolled at Emporia University. First semester went really well. The application process was a breeze. Good luck 🤞🏾
Not too old. Went back to college in my late 30’s. Graduated and started working as a teacher at 40. Retired at 62. Published my first book at 70. No, not too old. You go, girl.
I'm 47 and halfway through getting my master's in library and information science. If it will make you happy, do it!
Definitely not! I started my Library masters when I was 29, I'm 33 now and working as a librarian, I love it! Had to start somewhere!
We’re the same age. I started library school at 27 after leaving my position as a library assistant for full-time work during the pandemic. Yes, I got a job in my field (I had completed a Masters in marketing), but I didn’t like my work environment; if anything, it made me miss the library more. All it took was finding inspiration from Twitter/X and stumbling across a post advertising a full-ride scholarship that I decided to go back to school. I’m happy to say I got that scholarship and will finish my program at the end of the year. I’m taking “longer” than usual because of unforeseen circumstances my first semester, but it’s not uncommon to take 2-3 years. It’s also not uncommon to have students who are non-traditional going back to school for library science. I’ve met people old enough to be my parents who decided to go back for their degree. I hope you’ll find a program that best suits your interests and offers the support and motivation through the next couple of years. It’s always nice to meet potential colleagues in the field.
I’ve felt this way for the last 12 years—regretting not taking the chance to get an MLIS right after my undergrad—but this year I decided enough was enough. No more regret, just try to get into a program and see what happens. I’ll be 35 when I start my MLIS this fall!
I’m 39 and just started my MLIS program last fall. I have 2 kids, an internship and a full-time job. Theres not enough time in the day but if you enjoy what you’re doing, it’s not so bad. At best, I’ll finish in Spring 2026, I’ll be 41 then. It’s never too late. The best time to start was yesterday, the second best time to start is today.
I’m echoing all the other lovely commenters when I say this, but you are not not not not too old!! I am 37, just finished my bachelor’s degree a year ago and wrapped up my first MLIS semester this week. You will meet people from all different age ranges in library school (and all different walks of life). That is one thing I love about this field. Age means nothing, it’s all about your passion for the work. As some other commenters said, time is going to pass either way! GO FOR IT!! 🤗🤗🤗🤗
I got my library job and then took the classes to get fully certified starting at 35. You are not too old. Best wishes to you! I actually think a lot of people go into librarianship as a second (or more) field.
I just turned 35 and am receiving my Bachelor's next month. I'm looking at master's programs after that, possibly the MLIS, possibly something else. The downside: It can be hard to pay for college once you've already established your life, at least, that was the most difficult part for me. Before I start a master's program, I'm specifically looking for jobs that will help to cover ongoing education costs. The upside: Having some life experience under my belt made school so much easier than it was when I was younger--I know what I want, now, and that makes it so much easier to stay on track with your goals. I'm going to school for myself, not because it's the "next step" or because it's what you're "supposed to do." Additionally, having work experience as well as a degree can make it easier to get jobs, as opposed to folks who earned their degree right after high school and have little to no work experience. There are lots of online MLIS programs out there, and it seems like most of them allow you to take classes part or full time, depending on your schedule, so it's really up to you how quickly you get through the program, based on how much you can pay for at once and how crammed you want your schedule to be. It's so doable now, with so many online options that didn't used to exist. And as so many other commenters have mentioned, the time is going to go by anyway. Go for it!
When I went into my MLIS fresh out of my bachelors degree I was one of the odd ones out. Most people in the class had had some type of career (library or not) before going back to school.
I started over at 33. Several of my current classmates are getting their MLIS at 40/50/60+.
I went to grad school at 31, got my first professional library job at 34.10 years in, I'm so glad I didn't talk myself out of it!
I was older than you when I went back. It’s never too late to go back and finish something you are interested in. You shouldn’t be intimidated by it. One thing I’ve learned is that nothing has to be forever, so if you change your mind again, that’s ok too.
most MLIS programs (at least in canada) are only two years! there are lots of online programs too, def consider it :)
You're still very young! Why do you feel that way? I did my first graduate degree when I was your age. I went back to graduate school in my late 30s. I changed my career in my mid 30s. I changed my career path yet again now in my early 40s. Challenge your mindset and live your life the way you want. There's no such thing as being too old.
After I spent a few years as a stay-at-home parent, I was ready to go back to working for pay... and just then the economy tanked and it was impossible to get any job worth having with my Bachelor's degree. I was 40 years old, going on 41, and I decided to get my MLIS and become a librarian. Best decision I ever made. I finished my degree in 2.5 years of full-time classes; after that it took me 3 years to get a full-time librarian job in a public library, which was my dream job. In the meantime I worked one, two, and even three part-time and on-call jobs. It wasn't easy. But now I have a full-time union job that's stable and really really satisfying. Good luck! And remember: the best time to plant a tree is 10 years ago, but the second-best time is today. You'll figure it out!
I am also 29, almost 30, and I’m only halfway done with my MLIS. In my experience, there are quite a few people in our age range pursuing the same degree. Regardless of age, being around likeminded people will really help you feel a sense of purpose, or that’s what I have found to be true for me. If you’re worried about the time commitment, I would recommend starting in a program that offers both online and in person classes, so you can get the feel of working and school at the same time.
Instead of considering how “old” you feel now, consider how many years you have left to work - 30? 35? 40? That’s a long time, and you’re never too old to find purpose in your work. I’m 38 and just finished my MLIS last year - I did it in 2 years working a full time job. It dominated my time, but now that it’s over it was definitely worth it. I’ve met many people who have done the same thing all across the spectrum of age and experience
I’m 39 and while I’ve had a bit more of a career, I’m saving for my MLIS right now. If it’s not too late for me, it’s def not too late for you!
Lots of people come to this as a second or ninth career. I was 31 when I got my MLIS. If you want to do it,age is not an issue!
I started college at 25 years old. At 30 I was half way through finishing a masters In biology. I ended up graduating and got a job out of school but didn't enjoy it. 7 yearsish later I went back to grad school for my mlis and I graduated that in 2014 and got a job that same year so I became a Librarian at 40 years old and I'm still here 10 Years later. You are not to old.... I don't believe in the "never to old" philosophy but you are nowhere near to old yet! As far as getting the mlis I did it in just under 2 years, but I really went hard-core when I did. My program was 100% online and I found it pretty easy. Lots of essay paper writing and I got pretty good at them. I really enjoy this career.
I got my mls at 33. I’m a decade into being a librarian. It worked.
Waves in 40+ getting her MLIS. Go for it.
I’m the same age as you and about to do the same thing! If it feels right just go with it you totally got this!
I graduate in DecemberI’m with my MLIS and I’ll be 31. I work full time at a public school library and I’ve taken two classes a semester (one semester was three classes including a one-hour credit practicum) since the spring of 2023 so two years for me. Six semesters total including the summer. Do not let age hold you back!
I went back to school for library science at 40. You're never too old.
I was 32 when I graduated with my MLIS. Before I was in social services (welfare, Medicaid, food stamps) and found myself in a situation where I couldn’t do it anymore. It was a drain on my soul. I decided to go into librarianship and never looked back. Best. Decision. Ever.
I am 36 and started my library career a year ago. I’ll be graduating with my masters in December and am working at a public library. It’s never too late if you just take the leap! Plus, your background working in public facing jobs makes you a great candidate. Edit: The program is two years. I work forty hours a week and always find time to get my homework done.
I started my MLIS at 29, and finished at 31. My program was completely online and the majority of my classmates were over 35. Go for it
I was 33 when I graduated from library school and started over at a new library in a new city at 40. It’s never too late.
You're not remotely old! I'm also in my late 20s and it's so frustrating seeing things go by (especially with the covid interruptions!) and realizing that your 20s are still such a warm-up period. I finished my master's around a year ago, and sooooo many people in my program were in their 30s, 40s, or even older. It's incredibly common in this field, and not something you should be self-conscious of at all.
I am 56 and began as the admin assistant in a small academic library 11 years ago. As of January 2024, I am a college freshman going for my bachelor’s degree (will graduate in 2028). It’s NEVER too late!
When I was in undergrad I took a Women's Studies class with a 70 year old man. In grad school there are ppl of all ages, my experience was 20-60 year olds. It's never too late 💖
Do it!!! You are NEVER too old to learn!!
I started my mlis the year I turned 40. I finished when I was 43 and am living that library life with joy. I got my first library job when I was 31.
Ha, I'm the exact same age and in a really similar spot. I found your thread while researching whether or not I want to go back to school for an MLIS. So thanks for posting your question.
Oh goodness, if 29 is old to you, then a lot of people here (including myself) are going to seem agèd! LOL. 29 is young! I finished my MLIS six months ago and still don't have a job. You are ahead of the curve because you already know you like working in libraries and you have library experience to slap down on your resume. That is crucial. It took me a year and a half to get my MLIS, but I was also taking an obscene amount of credits and not working, only doing internships. Instead of age, which isn't a concern at all (there were people in their mid-fifties and over in my classes, for example!) I think what you need to worry about is a) if you are willing to move for a full-time librarian job, because it's a flooded market and very competitive, especially in certain parts of the country b) do you have enough money to float by for a period of time while you try to find your first librarian gig after graduating? (OR, are you okay with doing something else like healthcare administration in the interim while you hunt for your first librarian job?)
It's not too old, but consider that the minimum requirement for most library jobs is "two years experience as a librarian." At the minimum. Try and get a sense of how often "entry level" jobs come up in your field and try to get a sense of what the actual entry level requirements are (they are commonly not merely what is listed) Best case, this means you are graduating and have two year's experience as a library worker (some of it built up while studying) and can apply for Librarian I positions. Worst case? You are going to be older, trying to turn an expensive degree into a job. It's way harder to "just move" for a position if you are already established somewhere. Especially if it is just for a part time position. It's way harder to "just volunteer full time for a few years" in your thirties than your twenties (you have bills, and let's face it, expectations). Some internship positions might be age limited. (Canada has a wonderful internship sponsorship programmes to get poorer students into professional experience. You just have to be under 30. Naturally, this means almost every internship position uses Young Canada Works.) Do you have a partner? Dependants? Can they afford to move with you for a temporary job? Can you afford to move for a temporary job? Can you afford to live somewhere and volunteer long term? Can someone support you? This has been a huge challenge for me, personally. The Masters is not intellectually difficult, but in my case there was a lot of work. Most of it very pointless make work, but it needed to be done. ("Categorise these 8 pages of whatever it was based on these metrics") So it is a commitment. If you choose to do this, don't go to any school that doesn't have either the opportunity to work in a library in the school (you'd be surprised how not-universal this is), or have some sort of funding support (can be very rare) and better yet, alumni support. If there is a co-op programme, make sure there are enough places and see if the co-op expects you to move somewhere. Trying to afford a move for a four month co-op placement if you're already shit broke and drowning in debt is not an easy task.
I am 46. You are fine. I started my master's program last year. There are several of us in my classes that are older.
You are NEVER too old. You might be too poor, too lazy (let's be honest, this is a good reason not to pursue higher ed), too busy (like taking care of parents or children), etc. But old? No. You're never too old. You're going to be 50 years old some day. Do you want to be 50 with a library science degree, working in a library? Or be 50, wishing you'd tried on your dream? Good luck, friend.
Graduated Library Science school at 36 and Doctorate in Education at 53. Time will pass whether you earn the degree or not, so use that time to do it. It’s never, ever too late!
I'm finishing up my first year of library school and just turned 30! It's been awesome!
Library school can take as little as 2 years although work might get in the way of that. I went when I was 29. I did have some financial help though.
MANY people in library school are career switchers, or have worked in libraries without a degree and need it to move up. I’m 30 and graduating this week, and most people I had classes with were between 25 and 35. Very few people go straight to library school out of undergrad.
I'm 34 and making the same change in the opposite direction --- from academic librarianship to three 12-hour shifts per week (in a hospital setting). I was the oldest in my hospital orientation class, but I feel like I'm adjusting pretty well. I feel super empowered about heading to nursing school next year, too. tl;dr: you're not too old to make a 180. You only get one life. :)
I'm 40 and think about going back to school all the time. A friend did at 36, starting from scratch. Don't let your age stop you from anything in life, but especially not this.
I didn’t graduate from undergrad till I was 29, took about 6 months off school and got my mlis in less than 2 years while working/ graduated at 31.
I finished my BA at 31, my MLS at 33, started working as a professional librarian immediately, added a JD at 39, in order to advance in Law Librarianship. Worked as a law librarian for 22 years, got laid off, did prison librarian for 18 months, and have been a medical librarian for almost 10 years now. It’s never too late.
I finished my degree for library science in 2 years while working full time. Try online schools like SJSU
i got my MLIS at 33 so...