The LTA Program offers the following courses: LTA 121 Introduction to Library Science; LTA 210 Library Materials; LTA 212 Technology for Libraries; LTA 214 Cataloging and Classification; LTA 230 Library Public Services; LTA 232 Reference and Information Services; LTA 250 Children's Library Services; LTA 252 Administration of the School Library Media Center; LTA 276 Supervised Field Practicum I; LTA 278 Supervised Field Practicum II; LTA 299 Special Topics in Library Science.

LTA 121 Introduction to Library Science
An introduction to the history of libraries and various types of libraries. Provides an overview of the library field including library processes, services, personnel and organization. Introduces basic types of library materials and bibliography preparation. Explores the Library Technical Assistant career. Prerequisite: Language proficiency. 3 credit hours.

LTA 210 Library Materials
Library collection development is examined in the context of various types of libraries and patrons to provide a solid background in developing a collection that is suitable for its clientele. Criteria and sources for policy development and materials selection of print, non-print, and special collections are explored. Prerequisite: LTA 121. 3 credit hours.

LTA 212 Technology for Libraries
An introduction to technology in all library departments: circulation, technical services, reference, and administration. Networking, the Internet and connectivity are highlighted. Technology planning is explored. Prerequisite: LTA 121 and CIT 120. 3 credit hours.

LTA 214 Cataloging and Classification
Practical preparation for a role as a supervised copy cataloger using basic theories, practices, tools, and techniques. Emphasis is on descriptive cataloging of book and non-book materials with AACR2 Rev. and MARC format. Introduction to classification using Dewey Decimal Classification. Subject cataloging with primary emphasis on Library of Congress Subject Headings and secondary emphasis on Sears Subject Headings. Prerequisite: LTA 121. 3 credit hours.

LTA 230 Library Public Services
An overview of the principles and practices of providing public service to patrons in all types of libraries. Exploration of public service functions including circulation, reference, copyright, interlibrary loan, reserves, readers' advisory services, information literacy instruction, programming, displays, shelf maintenance, and library security. Prerequisite: LTA 121. 3 credit hours.

LTA 232 Reference and Information Services
Print, electronic, and Internet reference sources are explored. The Reference Department is described in the context of public services. Interpersonal skills in working with patrons are emphasized. Prerequisite: LTA 121. 3 credit hours.

LTA 250 Children's Library Services
The context and audience for Children's Library Services -- children who are infants through young adults, caregivers, and teachers -- are examined. Evaluation and selection of children's materials in collection development are covered through discussion and exercises. Hands on approaches are used in the exploration of programming and technology for children's library service. Networking opportunities are discussed. Grant writing is introduced. 3 credit hours.

LTA 252 Administration of the School Library Media Center
An introduction to the mission of the school library or media center and the role of the Library Information Specialist. Library resources (print and electronic), collection development, reading promotion, information literacy and technology are all examined. School library standards, particularly in Illinois , and evaluation of services are explored. Prerequisite: LTA 121. 3 credit hours

LTA 274 Workplace and Supervisory Skills for the LTA
An overview of the principles and practices of the library management and supervision. Exploration of workplace skills such as relationships with library governing boards, library vision, mission and goals, leadership roles for LTAs, management of resources, personnel and projects, and library policies. Exploration of the supervisory and training role of LTAs in the library workplace. Prerequisite: LTA 121. 3 credit hours.

LTA 276 Supervised Field Practicum I
Supervised observation and directed practice of paraprofessional experience in appropriate academic, special, school, or public libraries. Projects of benefit to the student and to the cooperating library are arranged. Progress toward satisfactory completion is regularly monitored by the LTA Department Chair or designated LTA faculty and the supervising librarian. Students maintain brief descriptive logs. This course is primarily for students pursuing the Certificate in the Library Technical Assistant program. Prerequisite: 21 LTA hours and permission of the LTA Department Chair. 2 credit hours.

LTA 278 Supervised Field Practicum II
Supervised observation and directed practice of paraprofessional experience in appropriate academic, special, school, or public libraries. Projects of benefit to the student and to the cooperating library are arranged. Progress toward satisfactory completion is regularly monitored by the LTA Department Chair or designated LTA faculty and the supervising librarian. Students maintain brief descriptive logs. This course is primarily for students pursuing the Certificate in the Library Technical Assistant program. Prerequisite: 21 LTA hours and permission of the LTA Department Chair. 3 credit hours.

LTA 299 Special Topics in Library Science
Special topics in the field of library science which are outside the existing curriculum will be developed. Courses will provide an opportunity for in-depth study of topics pertinent to both technical and public services in public, school, academic or special libraries. This course may be repeated up to four times without repeating any given topic. 1-3 credit hours.