How do I get library experience without an MLIS degree?

It is great that you see the importance of working in a library and gaining experience prior to enrolling in a graduate program. The more experience you have prior to receiving your MLIS, the easier and less stressful it will be for you to find gainful employment after graduation. Since your goal at this point is to get library experience, you would do well to look at Library Clerk or Library Assistant positions in a special library.

These jobs generally require a BA. Employment with a law library, biotech or another type of special corporate library would provide the strongest experience, upon which you can easily build, with a better salary than a public or academic library, in the least amount of time. Employment in a special library will will enhance your application to a graduate program in Library and Information Science, provide excellent networking opportunities with information professionals and an opportunity to work as part of a team with information professionals, see the type of research tools they use, the internal clients they serve as well as overall library operations.

If you are serious about pursuing a career as an information professional, I’d encourage you to join professional associations and start attending programs in your area without delay. The library world is actually quite small and the sooner you can start meeting your future colleagues, participating in professional associations, conferences, etc., the better.

Always remember that when applying to any position, you must carefully read the job description and address the requirements and responsibilities of that position accurately with relevant work experience. It is a mistake to think that addressing the needs of a potential employer in a detailed cover letter is enough-it is not.