Find the list of online programs accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). Accreditation is necessary; hiring managers look for this on an applicant's resume. About 20 library science programs are accredited and offer 100 percent online programs. Other programs offer part face-to-face and part online degree programs. Use the search on the ALA website to choose which option you would like, and it will list the schools that fit.
Research each school program to see where you can get the best online education. Look at where they fall on the U.S. News and World Report guide. This is not of the highest importance, but seeing how other people evaluate the program may help you evaluate it yourself.
Check out the format of the online degree programs that are left on your list. Make sure they give you enough flexibility to fit the program into your schedule. Online programs use a myriad of different formats to teach, including chat rooms, message boards, course management systems and e-mail. Figure out the formats from which you will learn most effectively, and choose your programs accordingly.
Choose a focus or a career path that you would like to pursue. Just like with a traditional library science degree program, programs offering a degree in library science online have certain specialties. Some have programs that excel in archives and records administration, others concentrate more on the technical aspect of information services. Choosing a school that offers the right concentration for your career path will help you make the most out of your graduate degree.